Can Dogs Eat Dried Cherries? A Vet’s Summary

Dried cherries may contain added sugars and preservatives, but can dogs eat dried cherries?

Giving dried cherries to dogs is not advised. Cherries have pits and stems that can be dangerous to dogs, even though the fruits themselves include some vitamins and nutrients. Dried cherries might also contain additional sugars, preservatives, or other ingredients that are bad for canines. Dogs are toxic to cyanide, which is found in cherry pits and can cause major health problems. Additionally, the pits may cause intestinal blockages or present a choking hazard.

Let’s dive in:

Benefits of dried cherries for dogs

Although there are certain nutrients in cherries that are good for humans, it’s vital to remember that there isn’t much proof to back up the claim that dried cherries are particularly good for dogs’ health. Giving cherries to dogs fresh or dried carries some potential risks.

You should exercise caution when giving your dog dried cherries for the following reasons:

• Dogs cannot withstand the cyanide found in cherries, including the pits themselves. Cherry pit ingestion can cause major health problems and, in severe situations, even be fatal.
• Like many other dried fruits, dried cherries can cause choking hazards for dogs, particularly small breeds.
• Additional Ingredients: Sugars, preservatives, and other ingredients that are inappropriate for dogs may be added to dried cherries. Overindulgence in sugar can exacerbate health conditions like obesity and dental decay.
• Digestive Problems: Some dogs may experience diarrhea or stomach discomfort due to the high fiber content of cherries.

When thinking about adding fruits to your dog’s diet, it’s usually safer to go with fruits that are reputed to be dog-safe and high in nutrients. Some examples are watermelon (seedless and rindless), blueberries, strawberries, and apples (without seeds or cores). Before adding new foods to your dog’s diet, always check with your veterinarian to make sure they are suitable and safe for your pet’s health.

How to safely give dried cherries to dogs?

Giving dried cherries to dogs is generally not advised because of the possible risks of cherry pits, choking hazards, additional ingredients, and digestive problems. Nevertheless, after speaking with your veterinarian, if you still want to add a tiny quantity of dried cherries to your dog’s diet, follow these recommendations:

• Eliminate Pits And Stems: Make sure the dried cherries are pitted and stem-free. Dogs are toxic to cyanide, which is why cherry pits should be removed to avoid any possible harm.
• Cut Into Small Pieces: To lessen the chance of choking, particularly for smaller dogs, if you choose to give your dog dried cherries, cut them into bite-sized pieces.
• Limit Quantity: As a special treat, only serve a tiny number of dried cherries occasionally. Because fruits contain natural sugars and fiber, eating too much of them—even without pits—can upset your stomach.
• Keep An Eye Out For Reactions: After giving your dog dried cherries, observe any negative effects. See your veterinarian right away if you observe any symptoms of discomfort, digestive problems, or strange behavior.
• Select Unsweetened And Unsulfured: Try to find dried cherries that are both unsweetened and unsulfured. Dogs should not consume added sugars or sulfites as they may be harmful to them.

Recall that individual dog sensitivities can differ and that not all dogs respond to foods in the same way. It’s important to exercise caution and introduce new foods one at a time. See your veterinarian to make sure the treats you’ve chosen are safe and appropriate for your dog’s health and wellbeing before making any big dietary changes.

Will dried cherries make a dog sick?

Dogs may become ill from dried cherries for several reasons, so proceed with caution:

• Dogs are toxic to cyanide, which is found in cherry pits. Cherry pit consumption, even in tiny amounts, can have detrimental effects on one’s health.
• Like many other dried fruits, dried cherries can be dangerous for small dogs to choke on. Dried cherries have a shriveled texture that some dogs may find difficult to chew and safely swallow.
• Additional Ingredients: Sugars, preservatives, and other ingredients that are inappropriate for dogs may be added to dried cherries. Overindulgence in sugar can exacerbate health conditions like obesity and dental decay.
• Digestive Distress: Some dogs may experience diarrhea or stomach discomfort because of the high fiber content in cherries.

Get in touch with your veterinarian right away if you observe any signs of illness, distress, or unusual behavior in your dog after it has consumed dried cherries. It’s critical to understand the possible dangers of giving dogs particular foods and to err on the side of caution when adding new items to their diet. After speaking with your veterinarian, if you would like to give your dog a fruit treat, think about safer options like blueberries, strawberries, or apple slices (without seeds or cores).

A Vet’s Summary

It is imperative that you speak with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new food, including dried cherries. Veterinarians can offer individualized advice because they are familiar with your dog’s unique medical history, dietary requirements, and potential sensitivities.

Veterinarians generally advise against giving dried cherries to dogs because of the potential choking hazard, added sugars, and upset stomach that can result from cherry pits. Because cyanide can be toxic to dogs, its presence in cherry pits is especially concerning.

 Probiotics have similar health benefits to humans that they can have for dogs. Live bacteria and yeasts, or probiotics, are good for the gut flora and digestive system in general. They can boost the immune system, facilitate nutrient absorption and digestion, and help preserve a balanced population of good bacteria in the digestive tract.

Your veterinarian can advise you on safe choices and proper serving sizes if you’re thinking about adding fruits to your dog’s diet. Dogs can safely consume blueberries, strawberries, and apple slices that are devoid of seeds and cores. To protect your pet’s health, always heed the advice of your veterinarian.

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