Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes? ⚠️ Caution Needed

Ripe, red tomatoes are generally safe for dogs in small amounts. The ripe flesh of a tomato contains beneficial nutrients including vitamins A, C, and K, potassium, and the antioxidant lycopene. However, the green parts of the tomato plant — including stems, leaves, and unripe green tomatoes — contain solanine and tomatine, glycoalkaloid compounds that are toxic to dogs. As tomatoes ripen, these toxic compounds decrease to negligible levels in the flesh, making ripe tomatoes safe.

The following parts of the tomato plant are toxic to dogs: Green unripe tomatoes — contain higher concentrations of solanine and tomatine. Stems and vines — contain the highest concentration of toxic compounds. Leaves — toxic, can cause significant GI distress. The root system and flowers. If you grow tomatoes in your garden, fence the plants to prevent your dog from accessing the toxic plant parts. Even cherry tomato vines can be tempting for dogs to chew on.

If your dog ate green tomatoes or tomato plant parts, watch for: gastrointestinal distress (vomiting, diarrhea), loss of appetite, drowsiness and lethargy, confusion and weakness, slow heart rate (bradycardia), dilated pupils, and excessive drooling. Symptoms typically appear within a few hours of ingestion. While rarely fatal, large amounts of green tomato or plant material can cause serious illness requiring veterinary treatment.

To safely share tomatoes with your dog: Only use ripe, red tomatoes — never green. Remove all stems, leaves, and the green calyx (the star-shaped part where the stem attaches). Cut into small, bite-sized pieces. Serve plain — no salt, seasoning, or sauces. Avoid tomato sauce and ketchup (contain onion, garlic, sugar, and salt). Start with a small amount to check for sensitivity. Limit to a few small pieces as an occasional treat.

No, dogs should not eat tomato sauce, ketchup, or most tomato-based products. Tomato sauce typically contains garlic and onion (both toxic), high sodium levels, sugar, and various spices. Ketchup contains high sugar and vinegar. Pizza sauce and pasta sauce are particularly dangerous due to garlic and onion content. Plain, cooked tomato puree without any additives could be used in small amounts, but there is little reason to do so.