Are Cherries Good For Dogs?

Cherries are delightful little treats for us. Are they good for dogs too?

The answer to that it’s sorta. Let us explain how: The issue doesn’t lie in the flesh itself. It lies in other parts such as the pits, stems, and leaves. The fruit is highly nutritious and supports canine health. They are excellent sources of Vitamins A, C, K, along with nutrients such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Cherries also contain crucial antioxidants.

Dangers of cherries

Did you know that cherry pits, leaves, and stems contain cyanide? This is a toxic substance used by trees to deter animals from eating them. Luckily, it exists only in small amounts and should not cause an issue when a moderate amount is eaten.

If too many cherry leaves are eaten by a dog, cyanogenic glycoside combines with enzymes in the body which activates the formation of the poisonous agent. This retards the ability of cells to use oxygen to generate energy from food. The result is a form of asphyxiation.

Signs of cherry poisoning include:

• Deep red guns
• Abnormally dilated pupils
• Respiratory issues

If you notice any of these signs, contact your vet immediately as these may be fatal.

Cherry pits can become a serious choking hazard and can even lead to intestinal obstruction. This can also lead to cracked teeth and mouth and throat lacerations. This will often present itself in symptoms such as a change in attitude, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or absent bowel movements.

Safety

You can feed cherries to your dog safely by cutting the flesh into bite-sized pieces. The flesh has an insignificant amount of cyanide which makes it safe for your dog. When feeding cherries, remember moderation is key. You should also try to feed your dog only fresh cherries since canned and preserved cherries have high sugar content.