One of the most misguided beliefs ever is that dogs cannot eat vegetables! Of course, feeding your dog table scraps is not usually a good idea, even though some leftovers are totally safe for dogs, but only some.

Being one of the closest carnivores to humans, dogs used to be treated as predators, they always had their share of the meat.

Nowadays, dogs became more like a family than just “Animals”, and so dogs’ diets changed considerably to a more homemade diet.

In this post, we will start with Tomatoes, an essential component in most of our meals. So, can dogs eat tomatoes? Let’s find out.

Tomatoes, a Fruit or a Vegetable?

Are tomatoes a fruit or a vegetable? Scientifically speaking, Its origins as nightshade plants make the distinction difficult. For nutritionists tomatoes possess different qualities that enable them to be classified under both mentioned categories. However, for dog owners, tomatoes can be a health hazard.

Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes?

Yes, dogs can eat tomatoes just fine, the quality and quantity don’t count, however, we always advise moderation. Raw feeders are strongly advised to add tomatoes to their dogs’ diet.

For more information about the Raw dog, diet checks out our detailed guide on switching to the raw dog diet. If you feed your dog kibble or wet dog food, you can also introduce tomatoes as a supplementary element or even a treat.

Nutritional Profile of Tomatoes

Humans and animals can share a lot of foods, Tomatoes are one of them.

According to whfoods.com, 180 grams of tomatoes contain the following nutrients:

33% Vitamin C: helps in the protection against immune system deficiencies, cardiovascular disease, prenatal health problems, eye disease, and even skin wrinkling.

24% Biotin: Protect Against Cancer, important enzymes. It works as a co-factor for sulfite oxidase, which is necessary for metabolism, Fights Inflammatory and Autoimmune Diseases,  helps prevent liver damage,  helps prevent liver damage, accelerates the removal of certain toxic substances.

16%  vitamin K: improved insulin sensitivity, reduced risk of cancer, and improved heart health. promote proper blood clotting and keep the bones strong

12% potassium: Boost Heart Health, Decrease Cramps, Reduce Risk of Stroke, Alleviate High Blood Pressure (Hypertension), Lower Cellulite Appearance, Proper Food Processing, and Growth.

12% Copper: Cures Arthritis, Ensures Proper Growth, Regulates Melanin Production, Skin Care, Brain Stimulant, Co-enzymatic Reactions, Absorption of Iron & Sugar, Increases Energy Production, Improves Thyroid Health, Reduces Cholesterol Levels,

In addition to all of the above, Tomatoes still contain manganese, fiber, vitamins A, B6, B3, B1, E, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, Choline, Protein …

When it comes to antioxidants, tomatoes are one of the best options to avoid diseases like cancer, oxidative stress, and weight-related issues. Being rich in Vitamin K, tomatoes are a very good option if your dog’s family has cancer past (dog mommy had cancer).

Tomatoes Intoxication in Dogs

Tomatoes are safe for dogs, However, tomatoes plants are one of the toxic things that can harm your dog. The tomato plant in general with its vines, leaves, and stems is considered to be the primary source of Tomatine, Solanine, and Atropine. These three substances in tomato plants are highly toxic and can greatly affect your dog’s health, may even cause death!

The toxic substances are found in the green parts of the tomato plants, hence, the unripened tomato, whether it is red or green. Nevertheless, the ripened tomato is less dangerous for dogs, considering average consumption of course!

Symptoms of Tomato Toxicities in Dogs

Tomato plants produce Tomatine, Solanine, and Atropine which are highly toxic for dogs. high doses of such substances can poison the dog and cause several serious illnesses like diarrhea, vomiting, drowsiness, abnormal heart rate, gastrointestinal upset… Etc.

Tomatine or what’s called Lycopersicon cannot be digested properly by the dog’s stomach which may result in diarrhea that can be treated with medicine. However, Atropine is the one you should worry about. This latter can cause paralysis and cardiac arrest! If you notice any symptoms of fatigue like sleeping a lot or lack of movements, weakness, shakiness, then you might consult your veterinarian because without the appropriate treatment your best friend may and will most likely die eventually!

The portion of the dose differs from one dog to another. Usually, big dogs take a longer time and larger quantities to get poisoned, but small poppies can be poisoned by a couple of bites from the tomato plant!

We can not deny the fact that tomato is healthy for dogs; it strengthens the bone structure and prevents cancer, however, with rational consumption. Hence, pay attention to what your dog eats, especially if you walk it close to gardens.

How can you Feed your Dog Tomatoes?

There is no exact science regarding food, it’s usually a matter of relevancy and moderation. Furthermore, nutritionists advise the following:

1. 1. For big dogs, the perfect portion is 2 average tomatoes per week.

   2. For small poppies, 1 average tomato per week is sufficient.

   3. Tomatoes should be cut into small pieces without the green leaves because they are the part that contains toxic substances.

   4. The owners can give their dogs cooked or uncooked tomatoes as long as it is cut into small pieces.

We hope that we helped you figure out if Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes. Your best friend is a very sensitive creature that needs your attention, care and love all the time, and these late qualities can be the best precaution that saves your pet from a major sickness.