food
Cherries
NOT RECOMMENDED
Cherry flesh is safe in small amounts, but the pits, stems and leaves contain cyanide and can cause obstruction.
What to do
Contact your vet if your dog ate pits, stems or leaves, or is showing symptoms.
When to contact a vet: Emergency vet attention if your dog has trouble breathing, dilated pupils, or signs of obstruction.
Symptoms to look for
- difficulty breathing
- dilated pupils
- red gums
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- lethargy
- gut obstruction signs
Why
Cherry pits, stems and leaves contain cyanogenic compounds that release cyanide when chewed or crushed. The flesh is not toxic in small amounts, but the sugar content is high. The main risks are cyanide poisoning from chewed pits and gut obstruction from swallowed whole pits. Maraschino cherries are high in sugar and preservatives.
- Substances of concern
- cyanide, sugar
- Safer parts
- {"flesh without pit"}
- Parts to avoid
- {"cherry pits",stems,leaves,"maraschino cherries"}
- Preparation
- Remove pits and stems if sharing a small amount of flesh.
- How much matters
- A few pitted cherries are usually safe; pits and stems are the danger.
- Severity
- Moderate to severe
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlPrimary authoritative — Plant toxicity
- Pet Poison HelplinePrimary authoritative — Plant toxicity
Information reviewed against recognised veterinary and animal-safety sources. Source organisations are independent of Is It For Dogs unless otherwise stated.
Last reviewed 6 September 2026 · next review due September 2027.
Safety classifications are based on available expert and veterinary information. Individual dogs may react differently, particularly dogs with allergies, existing health conditions or specific dietary requirements.
Important: Is It For Dogs provides general information about the safety of foods, plants, drinks, ingredients and other items around dogs. Our information is based on sources we consider reliable and is intended to help dog owners make informed decisions. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified veterinary professional. Read more
Dogs can react differently depending on their size, age, health, allergies, medications, the amount consumed and other circumstances. An item classified as Safe is not necessarily suitable for every individual dog.
If your dog has eaten something potentially poisonous or dangerous, has eaten an unknown substance, or is showing concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Do not induce vomiting or give your dog medication unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.