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My 8 kg dog loves pitted cherries and I've been giving him one or two every day for weeks. Is long-term feeding safe?

Dogs · Food safety

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

Short answer

Daily cherries are not ideal. The flesh itself is safe as long as pits, stems, and leaves are completely removed — those parts contain cyanide compounds. But feeding cherries every day means extra sugar and fiber that can gradually cause loose stools, weight gain, or dental issues. Stick to an occasional treat — one or two cherries once or twice a week max. Always inspect each cherry carefully before giving it, and watch for any digestive changes. Call your vet if you notice persistent soft stools or other concerns.

Cherries (pits removed) — Food safety facts

Feed with care · Dogs · full breakdown on the linked food page

The flesh is safe, but pits, stems and leaves contain cyanide compounds. Always pit them first.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Feed with care), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Cherries (pits removed) is not poisonous to dogs, but it is easy to over-feed. Rich fat, salt or seasoning can bring on vomiting or diarrhoea within a day, and repeated large portions are a recognised trigger for pancreatitis.

If it ate some before you noticed, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness or a painful, swollen abdomen over the next 24 hours. A one-off small amount in a healthy adult usually passes with water and rest; repeated exposure, a puppy or kitten, a senior, or a pet with an ongoing illness is a reason to call your vet the same day.

Why these cautions matter

Stone-fruit pits and some seeds release cyanide when crushed, and quite apart from that they are a choking and blockage hazard.

Cherries (pits removed) can turn up now and then, but not as a daily habit: keep the rest of the day's food unchanged and watch the next walk and the stool that comes with it.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Cherries (pits removed) food facts page.

Open the full food page: Cherries (pits removed) food facts →