Suspect poisoning? US: ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 · UK: 01202 509 000 · Severe symptoms → nearest emergency vet now.

What happens if my dog nibbles tomato leaves from the garden every day over several weeks?

Dogs · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

This is a serious risk and you should prevent it immediately. Tomato leaves and stems contain solanine and tomatine, which are toxic. Repeated daily exposure, even in small amounts, allows these toxins to accumulate and can lead to chronic poisoning. Signs may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, or confusion over time. There is no safe level for regular consumption. Contact your vet for advice and take steps to fence off or remove access to the tomato plants to protect your dog.

Tomato leaves & stems — Food safety facts

Do not feed · Dogs · full breakdown on the linked food page

The fruit is fine, but the leaves and stems contain solanine and tomatine.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Do not feed), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Tomato leaves & stems should not be given to dogs at all. Even a small amount can do harm, so there is no portion small enough to be safe.

Do not induce vomiting and do not give milk or oil to “dilute” it. Note the food and roughly how much was eaten, then call your vet or a pet poison hotline and follow their advice on whether to bring the pet in straight away.

Tomato leaves & stems has no place in everyday feeding: keep the rest of the day's food unchanged after this and watch the next walk and the stool that comes with it.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Tomato leaves & stems food facts page.

Open the full food page: Tomato leaves & stems food facts →