Are Tomatoes Poisonous to Dogs?

The toxic compounds in tomatoes:

• Solanine
• Tomatine (glycoalkaloids)

If your dog ate tomatoes, watch for:

• •Hypersalivation
• •Inappetence (loss of appetite)
• •Severe gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea)
• •Depression
• •Weakness / lethargy
• •Dilated pupils
• •Slow heart rate
• •Stumbling / disorientation (with larger ingestions of green plant material)

Can dogs eat ripe red tomatoes?

Yes, in moderation. The ASPCA states that ripe tomato fruit is non-toxic. Feed only small amounts of plain, fully ripe (red) tomato with the stem and any green parts removed. The acidic fruit can still cause mild stomach upset in some dogs, so start small.

Why are green tomatoes and tomato plants dangerous for dogs?

The green parts — unripe fruit, leaves, stems, and vines — contain the glycoalkaloids solanine and tomatine, the plant's natural toxic defenses. These can cause hypersalivation, severe GI upset, weakness, dilated pupils, and a slowed heart rate. Dogs with access to a vegetable garden are most at risk.

Is tomato sauce, ketchup, or pasta sauce safe for dogs?

No, avoid these. Prepared tomato products frequently contain onion and garlic (both toxic to dogs), plus high salt and sugar, and some sugar-free items contain xylitol, which is highly toxic. Stick to plain ripe tomato flesh if you want to share tomato with your dog.

• ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Tomato Plant
• Pet Poison Helpline — Tomato Plant

Last updated 2026-06-25