Last Updated: 22/09/2026
Can Dogs Eat Tomato?
Can dogs eat tomato? Ripe flesh is fine in small amounts, but the plant and some sauces aren't. Here's what to know.
Author: Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 2 minutes - short read
Tomatoes have a bit of a mixed reputation in the pet world, and it's easy to see why - the answer depends on which part of the tomato, or the jar, you're talking about.
Ripe, red tomato flesh is generally safe for dogs in small amounts. The green parts of the plant, including unripe tomatoes, leaves and stems, aren't, because they contain natural toxins called solanine and tomatine. Tomato sauce and ketchup carry a separate risk again, mostly because of what else is in the bottle.
Can dogs eat tomato?
Yes, a small amount of ripe, red tomato flesh, including cherry tomatoes, is fine for most dogs as an occasional treat, one of many human foods that are safe for pets in moderation. Tomatine levels drop right off as tomatoes ripen, which is why ripe flesh is considered non-toxic while the green plant isn't1.
Keep it plain, no stalk, leaves or seasoning, and cut cherry tomatoes in quarters for small dogs so they're not a choking hazard.
Is tomato sauce bad for dogs?
Yes, tomato sauce, ketchup and pasta sauce are best kept away from dogs, but not really because of the tomato. These often contain onion, garlic, salt and sugar, and some 'sugar-free', diet or niche keto ketchups contain xylitol, a sweetener that's toxic to dogs even in small amounts. Unlike in humans, it causes a massive insulin spike in dogs, leading to a severe blood sugar crash (hypoglycemia) and potential liver damage. Severe, life-threatening effects can develop within 30 to 60 minutes of ingestion.
"Tomato" and "tomato product" aren't the same question. A dog getting into a jar of pasta sauce is a different, often more serious, situation than eating a slice of fresh tomato.
Check out our full rundown of foods to avoid for dogs if you want to check anything else before you feed it.
Can dogs eat tomato plants?
No. Dogs shouldn't eat any part of the tomato plant, including unripe green tomatoes, leaves and stems. Like other toxic plants for dogs, tomato plants contain toxic compounds, specifically solanine and tomatine, sitting at much higher levels in the green parts than in the ripe, red fruit.
What are the signs of tomato poisoning?
Clinical signs are using confined to gastrointestinal upset such as hypersalivation, vomiting and diarrhoea, however a very large ingestion can lead to more serious effects though this is unusual. Ingestion of a tomato-based product that contains xylitol can cause vomiting, weakness, wobbliness, collapse, or seizures - immediate veterinary attention is critical.
We'd also recommend calling your vet if your dog's eaten a meaningful amount of a tomato plant, or a tomato-based sauce even if it doesn't contain xylitol, as it may contain other toxic inredients. Our pet first aid basics guide is worth bookmarking for situations like this. When in doubt, a quick call often costs a lot less than waiting to see how things play out.
Ripe, red tomato flesh is a safe, occasional extra for most dogs in small amounts. The plant itself isn't safe, and it's a genuine risk for dogs with veggie patch access. Tomato sauce and ketchup carry their own risks too, usually from onion, garlic or xylitol.
References
ASPCA Animal Poison Control. "Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Tomato Plant." Accessed 22 September 2026. aspca.org
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Tue 22 Sep 2026
Written by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)
Veterinarian
Dr. Gillian graduated from the University of Sydney in 2005 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science. She worked in a number of small animal clinics, before joining the Pet Circle Vet team in 2020. Dr. Gillian has special interests in ultrasonography, surgery and behaviour. Her favourite part of being a vet is being an advocate for the animals. She loves helping owners to make the best, evidence-based decisions for their pets, and seeing the beautiful bond that people have with their fur-babies.
