Are Canned Tomatoes Safe for Dogs?
Veterinary pet-care sources including the American Kennel Club and PetMD explain that ripe tomato flesh is not classified as toxic to dogs. When tomatoes are fully ripe, the compounds associated with toxicity are present at much lower levels.
Canned tomatoes, however, are discussed with greater caution. Veterinary literature consistently points to added sodium and processing as the main concerns with canned tomato products. In addition, the ASPCA notes that parts of the tomato plant and unripe tomatoes contain substances that are toxic to dogs.
For these reasons, canned tomatoes are generally placed in a caution category.
Why Canned Tomatoes Can Be a Problem for Some Dogs
Main factors of concern
- Added salt, commonly present in canned tomatoes and noted as a concern in veterinary nutrition sources.
- Tomatine, a compound found in higher concentrations in unripe tomatoes and plant parts, which the ASPCA classifies as toxic to dogs.
Portion size and dog size
Veterinary articles note that tolerance varies between individual dogs, but processed foods with added salt are broadly described as more likely to cause issues than plain foods.
Preparation differences
Veterinary sources distinguish between fresh, ripe tomatoes and canned tomato products, with processing and added ingredients being the primary difference.
Signs Reported When Dogs React Poorly to Tomatoes
Veterinary sources commonly associate tomato-related problems with:
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
More serious signs
- Weakness or tremors, associated in toxicology references with ingestion of unripe tomatoes or plant material
Ingredients or Additives to Watch For
- ❌ Added salt (frequently present in canned tomatoes)
- ❌ Onion or garlic (often included in canned tomato products; classified as toxic to dogs)
- ⚠️ Herbs or seasonings (which may irritate the digestive tract)
Puppies vs. Adult Dogs
Veterinary sources indicate that puppies may be more sensitive to digestive upset and toxic exposures. Concerns related to unripe tomatoes, plant material, and salt apply to both puppies and adult dogs.
Other Common Variants of Tomatoes
Fresh Ripe Tomatoes
Veterinary pet-care articles generally describe ripe tomato flesh as non-toxic when stems and leaves are removed.
Unripe Tomatoes
Veterinary toxicology sources associate green or unripe tomatoes with higher levels of tomatine and increased risk.
Tomato-Based Products
Veterinary references note that sauces and canned products may contain added salt, sugar, or onion-based ingredients that raise additional concerns.
Dog-Friendly Alternatives Mentioned in Pet-Nutrition Sources
- Plain carrots
- Green beans
- Plain pumpkin
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This FAQ summarises themes appearing in veterinary pet-care articles.
It is informational only and not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
Are canned tomatoes toxic to dogs?
Veterinary sources state that ripe tomato flesh is not toxic, but canned tomatoes may pose risks due to added salt and ingredients.
Why are tomato plants dangerous for dogs?
The ASPCA explains that tomato plants and unripe tomatoes contain tomatine, a compound associated with toxicity in dogs.
Are fresh tomatoes safer than canned tomatoes?
Veterinary articles distinguish fresh ripe tomatoes from canned products, with processing and additives being the main concern.
Source Reference
This page compiles information from publicly accessible veterinary and pet-safety resources, including:
-
American Kennel Club (AKC) — “Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes?”
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-tomatoes/ -
PetMD — “Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes?”
https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-tomatoes -
ASPCA — “Tomato (Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants)”
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/tomato
This page is informational only and does not constitute veterinary or medical advice. Readers are encouraged to review the cited sources directly.
