Can dogs eat tomatoes?

Caution — ripe red only, no green parts or leaves

Ripe red tomato flesh is fine for dogs in small amounts. Green tomatoes, leaves, and stems contain solanine and are toxic.

The full picture

Tomatoes are nightshades and contain solanine — but ripe red tomatoes have very little. The toxin concentrates in unripe green tomatoes, leaves, and stems, which can cause real toxicity if eaten in quantity. A few bites of ripe red tomato are fine for most dogs. Bigger cautions: tomato-based sauces usually contain onion and garlic (both toxic), and tomato plants in gardens are a risk if dogs chew leaves or unripe fruit. Keep dogs out of the veg patch.

Risks to watch for

  • Solanine poisoning from green parts
  • Stomach upset
  • Hidden onion/garlic in tomato sauces

Potential benefits

  • Vitamin C, lycopene — but not worth deliberately feeding

Safe portion size

A few small pieces of ripe red tomato flesh occasionally.

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Safer alternatives

  • Cucumber
  • Red pepper strips
  • Carrot

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Related foods

Potatoes caution Bell peppers yes Ketchup caution
Written and reviewed by
The Can My Dog Eat editorial team

Every food page is cross-checked against UK veterinary sources including the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), the Animal PoisonLine, PDSA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual before publication. We do not accept paid placements from brands. If you spot an inaccuracy, please let us know — we take errors seriously and correct them quickly.

Spot an error? Report it

Checked against UK veterinary guidance — see our editorial standards and source list. If your dog has eaten something and you need urgent advice, call a vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000.

Important: This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different, and individual factors (age, breed, health conditions, medications) can change what's safe. If in doubt, always contact your vet — or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 in the UK.