Can Dogs Eat the Skin of a Cherry? A Safe Treat or Hidden Risk?
Cherries are a summertime favorite for many, but pet owners often wonder if their canine companions can enjoy them too. While the juicy flesh of a cherry contains beneficial nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, the rest of the fruit—including the pit, stems, and leaves—can pose serious health risks to dogs. But what about the skin? Let's explore whether or not dogs can safely eat cherry skin and the precautions pet owners must take.
Understanding the Composition of a Cherry
A cherry is made up of the following parts:
- Flesh: The edible, juicy part that humans usually enjoy.
- Skin: A thin layer that encases the flesh.
- Pit: A hard stone at the center, which contains small amounts of cyanide compounds.
- Stems and Leaves: Parts of the cherry plant also containing cyanogenic compounds that are toxic to pets.
Is Cherry Skin Safe for Dogs?
The skin of a cherry is not inherently toxic to dogs. It is a natural part of the fruit, similar in texture and risk level to the skin of grapes or apples (excluding the seeds). Cherry skin contains fiber and antioxidants, which can be beneficial in small amounts. However, the problem arises with the associated parts of the cherry.
Because cherry skin is tightly bound to the flesh of the fruit, giving your dog unprepared cherries still poses a significant risk from the pit, as well as any remaining stems or leaves. Therefore, while cherry skin alone is not harmful, access to it typically occurs only when a dog is given whole cherries—which is not recommended.
Potential Risks of Feeding Cherries to Dogs
- Cyanide poisoning: The pit, stems, and leaves contain cyanogenic compounds. If ingested in large quantities, or if the pit is chewed and broken, these can release cyanide, leading to poisoning.
- Choking hazard: The pit can block the airway, especially in small dogs.
- Intestinal blockage: Cherry pits may lodge in a dog’s intestines, causing vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain.
- Added sugars and preservatives: Maraschino and canned cherries are often loaded with sugars and chemicals, which are unhealthy for dogs and should be avoided.
Safe Ways to Feed Cherry Flesh to Dogs
If you want to offer your dog a small cherry treat, follow these important guidelines:
- Choose plain, fresh or frozen cherries.
- Wash thoroughly to remove pesticides or residues from the skin.
- Remove the stem, leaves, and most importantly, the pit.
- Cut the cherry into small pieces, including the flesh and skin, for easier chewing and digestion.
Remember: Cherry flesh (and skin) should be offered sparingly and only as an occasional treat.
Recommended Serving Sizes
- Extra-small dogs (2–10 lbs): 1 cherry (de-pitted), 2–3 times per week
- Small dogs (11–20 lbs): up to 2 cherries
- Medium dogs (21–50 lbs): up to 3 cherries
- Large dogs (51–90 lbs): up to 4 cherries
- Extra-large dogs (90+ lbs): up to 5 cherries
Symptoms of Overconsumption or Toxicity
Watch for these symptoms if your dog has consumed cherries containing pits, stems, or leaves:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation or bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Bright red gums or dilated pupils (cyanide poisoning)
- Collapse or labored breathing
If any of these symptoms occur,
contact a veterinarian immediately, especially if multiple cherries were consumed or you've noticed your dog chewing on pits.
Safer Fruit Alternatives for Dogs
While cherry skin is safe in itself, the dangers associated with whole cherries often outweigh the small benefits. Fortunately, there are lots of dog-safe fruits with fewer risks:
- Blueberries
- Strawberries (tops removed)
- Apple slices (without seeds)
- Banana
- Watermelon (de-seeded, no rind)
- Carrots
- Pumpkin
- Zucchini
- Cucumber
General rule: Treats should never be more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
Tips for Dog Owners
- Store cherries out of your dog’s reach.
- Clean up any cherries dropped on the floor or in the yard if you have a cherry tree.
- Educate family members on the risks of feeding whole cherries to dogs.
Conclusion
Can dogs eat cherry skin? Technically, yes—
as part of the cherry flesh and only if meticulously prepared with all hazardous parts removed. However, due to the multiple risks associated with the rest of the cherry, many veterinarians recommend skipping them altogether in favor of safer, more convenient fruits. If you choose to share cherries with your dog, do so in moderation and always put their safety first.
