Why
The stems, leaves and unripe fruit contain solanine. The AKC says ripe tomato flesh is generally safe but recommends skipping tomatoes altogether.
What to do instead
- If your dog grabs a ripe cherry tomato, there is usually no need to panic.
Safer swaps from the same group: carrots, celery, cucumbers, green beans.
Watch out for
- Keep dogs away from tomato plants in the garden.
- Watch for drooling, vomiting or weakness after eating green parts.
If your dog ate tomatoes
- Note how much your dog ate and when, and keep any packaging.
- Call your vet, an emergency clinic, ASPCA Animal Poison Control ((888) 426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Other vegetables: quick answers
| Food | Verdict | Short answer |
|---|---|---|
| Asparagus | Avoid | Not unsafe, but not worth it. Asparagus is tough raw and loses most of its value when cooked soft. |
| Mushrooms | Avoid | Store-bought mushrooms are generally fine, but wild mushrooms can be deadly. |
| Broccoli | Small amounts | Yes, in small amounts. Cooked florets are easiest on the stomach. |
| Brussels sprouts | Small amounts | Yes, a few cooked sprouts. Expect gas. |
| Corn | Small amounts | Yes, off the cob. The cob can cause a dangerous blockage. |
| Peas | Small amounts | Yes, plain green peas in moderation. |
| Potatoes | Small amounts | Yes, plain and fully cooked, as an occasional extra. Never green or raw. |
| Spinach | Small amounts | A little is safe, but spinach is not a top choice for dogs. |
Rules for any new food
- Plain is the rule: no salt, butter, oil, onion, garlic, sugar or sweeteners. Most of the danger in human food comes from what is added to it.
- Keep all treats under 10% of your dog's daily calories (WSAVA). The rest should come from a complete dog food.
- Check labels for xylitol, raisins, chocolate and macadamia nuts, which turn up in baked goods, snacks and spreads.
- If your dog has a health condition, such as diabetes, pancreatitis or kidney disease, ask your vet before adding any new food.
Frequently asked questions
Are tomatoes safe for dogs?
Best avoided. Ripe flesh is generally safe, but the green parts of the plant contain a toxin.
What should I do if my dog ate tomatoes?
Most dogs are fine after a small amount, but watch for vomiting, diarrhea or unusual behavior and call your vet if anything worries you.
Sources
Checked October 17, 2026. We are a reference, not a vet: if in doubt, call yours. How we check.