Tomatoes are a household favourite, being a core component in all of our burgers, salads, and our favourite condiment, ketchup. Its sweet and satisfying taste gives a bit more colour to our food. But when talking about our dogs, can they share in the fun? Can dogs have tomatoes?

Can Dogs Have Tomatoes

Dogs can have tomatoes, but it’s essential to ensure they are ripe and given in moderation. Ripe tomatoes are generally non-toxic to dogs and can be a tasty treat. However, the green parts of the tomato and the unripe tomato itself are toxic. These parts include the stems and leaves, and these have substances called solanine and tomatine. These can be toxic for dogs, especially in large amounts. Solanine and tomatine can cause a variety of symptoms if ingested in significant quantities. This is why it’s important to make sure that the tomatoes you give are ripe and prepared properly.

Benefits of When Dogs Have Tomatoes

Tomatoes offer several health benefits when dogs have tomatoes moderately. These benefits can help improve your dog’s overall health and happiness. A good treat such as a juicy tomato can be a good option for your dog, especially if you know all the benefits that come with it. Here are the benefits when dogs have tomatoes:

Vitamins

Vitamin A

When dogs have tomatoes, they can get good amounts of Vitamin A. This vitamin is crucial for keeping your dog’s vision in a good state. This allows them to be more active during the day and not have trouble in the dark. Vitamin A also improves your dog’s immune system, which keeps their bodies safe and reactive to any potential threat.

Vitamin A is also a good contributor to good heart, lung, and kidney function. It keeps these organs and many more healthy and effective, keeping their functions at an optimal level. A good amount of Vitamin A also helps support cell growth and fetal development. This ensures healthy growth for the baby while keeping the mother dog’s body healthy.

Vitamin B9

Folate contributes greatly to DNA synthesis and repair. The vitamin also contributes to cell division and in producing white and red blood cells for your dog’s body. It is particularly important for pregnant dogs as it supports fetal development. Folate also aids in preventing anaemia and promotes overall cellular health. A deficiency in folate can lead to issues such as fatigue, impaired growth, and compromised immune function.

Vitamin C

Acting as an antioxidant, Vitamin C helps protect cells from damage by free radicals. It also supports the immune system, which helps create protective barriers for your dog against diseases. Vitamin C also keeps your dog’s collagen level in good condition, which is important for skin, cartilage, and bones. By doing so, it promotes healthy skin and joints for your dog. 

Although dogs can synthesise their own Vitamin C, additional amounts when dogs have tomatoes can help boost their immune response, particularly during times of stress or illness. Vitamin C is also imporant in the process of absorbing iron from plant-based foods, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood levels.

Vitamin K

This vitamin mainly supports bone health and blood clotting. Vitamin K lends a big hand to maintaining bone density and strength while also playing a role in preventing excessive bleeding when your dog has wounds. This allows these wounds to heal quickly and more effectively. In addition to tending to your dog’s wounds, Vitamin K also supports cardiovascular health in your dog.

Minerals

Potassium

When dogs eat tomatoes, potassium is an important mineral they can absorb. Potassium contributes greatly to maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. Potassium also supports heart health by keeping your dog’s blood pressure at a good level. Adequate potassium levels are also essential for preventing muscle weakness and maintaining optimal organ function.

Antioxidants

Lycopene

Lycopene is responsible for the tomato’s red colour. This powerful antioxidant has been shown to help your dog reduce its chances of getting prostate cancer and heart disease. Lycopene also supports skin health by protecting against UV damage and removing any free radicals in your dog’s body, which allows it to have a reduced risk of contracting chronic diseases.

Fibre

Essential for digestive health, dietary fibre helps keep good bowel movements for your dog. This also helps prevent constipation and maintain a good, healthy weight for your dogs. Promoting a feeling of fullness can help you manage your dog’s weight and keep it from eating too much food. Fibre also aids in stabilising good sugar levels and cholesterol levels for your dog.

How Many Tomatoes Should Dogs Have

When giving your dogs tomatoes, it’s important to monitor how much you can give depending on their breed and size. Here is a simple guide on how much tomatoes your dog can have:

Small Dogs

When giving tomatoes to small dogs, make sure to give only 2 to 3 small pieces of tomatoes. These tomatoes must be small and given in small amounts so as not to overwhelm your dog's diet. Tomatoes can be acidic, and only a small amount should be taken to prevent any digestive issues. Some of these dogs are Pugs, Pomeranians, Beagles, and Basenjis.

Medium Dogs

When it comes to medium-sized dogs, such as Border Collies and Basset Hounds, dogs can have tomatoes in four to five pieces. While this may seem too little, this amount is sufficient as a treat for your dogs. 

Large Dogs

Large dogs can handle more tomatoes due to their bigger size. Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Saint Bernards, and Newfoundlands can have more tomatoes in five to six small pieces. Make sure these pieces are free from the green parts of the tomatoes since big dogs can also be affected by solanine and tomatine.

Potential Risks When Dogs Have Tomatoes

While tomatoes can be healthy, they also pose some risks to your dogs. Understanding the threats to your dog’s health is important to knowing what foods they can eat. When it comes to tomatoes, they also have their fair share of risks for dogs, even with all the benefits they provide. Here are the potential risks when dogs have tomatoes:

Solanine and Tomatine Poisoning

Solanine and tomatine are found in unripe tomatoes and in the green parts of the plant.  These compounds can be dangerous when taken in high amounts. Symptoms of solanine and tomatine poisoning include:

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• Lethargy

• Weakness

• Tremors

• Seizures

• Increased heart rate

• Stomach pain

Solanine and tomatine poisoning can affect your dog’s nervous and digestive systems, so it’s crucial to make sure to keep the green parts and unripe tomatoes away.

Allergic Reactions

Some dogs may be allergic to tomatoes. Allergic reactions can be noticed in signs such as swelling, itching, difficulty breathing, and weakness. If you notice your dog has any of these symptoms, stop feeding them immediately and consult us. At Noble Vet Clinic, we take extra care when it comes to your dog’s allergies. Visit us, and we’ll help your dog get better. 

Stomach Issues

Eating too many tomatoes and their seeds can cause stomach upset, diarrhoea and vomiting. While ripe tomatoes are safe, too much can be dangerous. Tomatoes have malic acid, which can irritate your dog’s stomach and lead to discomfort for your dog.

How To Prepare Tomatoes for Dogs

Preparing tomatoes for your dogs is an important part of ensuring they eat food that is safe and nutritious. When dogs eat tomatoes, they can get lots of nutritional benefits, but these benefits can only be obtained when you prepare and serve them properly. To safely prepare tomatoes for your dog, follow these steps:

1. Choose Ripe Tomatoes

Ensure the tomatoes are fully ripe and red. Avoid feeding unripe tomatoes to your dog. When dogs eat unripe tomatoes, they can be exposed to solanine and tomatine. In addition, avoid any green parts, as they contain solanine. Ripe tomatoes have lower levels of this toxin and are safer for your dog to consume.

2. Wash Thoroughly

Clean the tomatoes properly to remove any chemicals or pesticides. Washing also removes dirt, debris, and bacteria. These foreign bodies can have harmful effects on your dogs. Cleaning the surface helps give safe food to your dog.

3. Remove Stems and Leaves

Remove all the green parts. These are the stems and leaves, which have solanine and tomatine. Small amounts of these compounds can be concerning for your dog’s health.

4. Serve in Small Amounts

Start giving small pieces first. Moderation is key to avoiding any potential issues. Small amounts will help prevent any gastrointestinal upset and allow you to monitor your dog for any adverse reactions.

Conclusion

Dogs can have tomatoes as long as they are ripe and given in moderation. Tomatoes can offer several health benefits, including vitamins A, C, and K, antioxidants like lycopene, and dietary fibre. However, it’s crucial to avoid the green parts of the plant and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions. If you have any concerns or notice any symptoms of solanine or tomatine poisoning, contact us immediately. Always introduce new foods gradually, and you can safely include tomatoes as a healthy addition to your dog’s diet.