Can dogs eat tomato? Everything you need to know
Can dogs eat tomato?
Yes, dogs can eat tomato. A small amount of ripe tomato is not toxic for dogs.
Only feed your dog the flesh of ripe tomatoes. Remove the leaves and stems from the tomato before giving it to your dog, as these contain a toxic substance called solanine that can be harmful to dogs if ingested.
Is tomato good for dogs?
Tomato flesh is a safe snack for dogs when eaten in moderation. Tomatoes are highly nutritious and packed with a variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. However, tomato is part of the nightshade family of plants, which contain some compounds that can be harmful to dogs if ingested in larger amounts. They can cause stomach upset and can also affect the nervous system.
How to feed a dog tomato
- Choose a fully ripe tomato
- Remove the leaves and stem
- Cut up the tomato flesh into bite size pieces or slices
- Feed a few pieces to your dog
- Or, freeze tomato slices until firm for a refreshing summer treat
- Or, add a few pieces of tomato to your dog’s regular food
How much tomato can my dog eat?
Dogs should be given tomato in moderation, taking the dog’s size, activity level and overall health into consideration. Also consider all the other treats, including fruit and vegetables, that your dog may eat or have eaten that day, as these should comprise only 10% of your dog’s overall diet.
Some dogs may be more sensitive to tomato than others, and may suffer stomach upset after eating it or from eating too much of it. If this happens to your dog, it’s best to avoid feeding them tomato and to contact your vet for further advice.
The nutritional benefit of tomato for dogs
- Vitamins A, C & K, which can help boost the immune system, vision and overall health
- Fibre, which is important for digestive health
- Potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health
- Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can help prevent cellular damage
Tomato recipes for dogs
Cheese and tomato biscuits
Ingredients:
- One ripe tomato, diced
- One cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
Other requirements:
Baking tray, baking paper
Method:
- Mix together the diced tomato and shredded cheese in a bowl.
- Use a spoon to place small scoops of the mixture onto the lined baking tray 2 to 3 cm apart and flatten them to biscuit size with the back of the spoon.
- Bake in the oven at 170°C for around 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and cool completey before giving one or two to your dog.
- Store the remainder in an airtight container.
The risks of dogs eating tomato
Giving your dog tomato may cause a stomach upset, especially if your dog is not used to it. Always introduce a new food slowly and monitor for any signs of allergies or other ill effects. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, you can try feeding just a little tomato to see if it causes any reaction.
Note that the leaves and stem of the tomato contain a substance called solanine, which can be toxic to dogs in large amounts.
Too many treats in your dog’s diet can cause health problems over the long term, including obesity and diabetes. Treats, including healthy ones like tomato, should only comprise 10% of your dog’s diet, and are best avoided altogether in dogs that are overweight, diabetic and/or on a prescription diet. Always consult your vet for nutritional advice if you are unsure.
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