Can dogs eat cherries?

Caution

Not recommended. Cherry plants contain cyanide, with the exception of the fleshy fruit around the seed, so pits and stems are the concern.

Also searched as: cherry, cherry pits, maraschino cherries

If your dog has eaten pits or a large amount of cherries, contact your vet.

When it is a problem

AKC says that, apart from the fleshy fruit around the seed, cherry plants contain cyanide and are toxic to dogs. Keep pits, stems and leaves away, and do not let a dog eat fallen fruit.

Sources

American Kennel Club: Fruits and vegetables dogs can and can't eat checked 8 October 2026 With the exception of the fleshy fruit around the seed, cherry plants contain cyanide and are toxic to dogs.

Last reviewed 9 October 2026. How we check foods

This is general information, not veterinary advice. If your dog ate something concerning, contact your vet or a poison helpline immediately.