Tomatoes are rich in valuable vitamins and are often used in everyone‘s diet. It is probably one of the most popular vegetables that is eaten cooked, raw, stewed or even in the form of a sauce. However, what is healthy and delicious for humans, does not necessarily have to be good for dogs either. In this article we will talk about tomatoes for Australian Shepherd dogs and whether dogs are allowed to eat them.
Can Australian Shepherd Dogs Eat Tomatoes? Dogs can basically eat tomatoes, but it need to be overripe. However, dogs are only allowed to eat small amounts of it. Tomatoes belong to the nightshade family and contain solanine, which is toxic to dogs. Green tomatoes and green spots on them are particularly high in this toxin. Therefore, only feed tomatoes from which you have removed the stalk and all green areas.
Tomato Benefits For Dogs
These fleshy fruits, commonly used as vegetables, are low in calories, with only 18 calories per 100 grams of tomatoes and no fat and cholesterol. When giving small amounts to the dog, tomatoes are also a good source of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber and other plant-based ingredients.
Tomatoes are rich in:
- Vitamin C, which protects the skin from the harmful effects of the environment and maintains the elasticity of the skin
- Vitamin A, which support dog‘s vision
- Potassium, which improves heart function and maintains the circulatory system
- Fiber, which helps for with digestion
- Lycopene, which may reduce the risk of heart disease and promote strong bones
- Beta-carotene, which supports cognitive abilities
In general, cooked ripe tomatoes free of the stems, leaves, and skin are safe to eat, but you should always consult your veterinarian before sharing human foods with your dog.
Potential Dangers of Tomatoes For Australian Shepherd Dogs
As mentioned, tomatoes can be given, but in very small quantities. Now let‘s talk about the reasons for that.
Tomatoes are nightshade plants, which contains not only food plants, but also ornamental plants. Nightshade plants contain the toxic solanine. This compound is mildly toxic and can cause dangerous symptoms in dogs. However, it should be noted that the substance is mainly found in unripe tomatoes and in the green parts of the plant. But, as the ripeness progresses, the solanine content decreases significantly. So if you want to give the dog a bite of tomato, it should be ripe, without any green spots. Because the green areas contain a particularly large amount of solanine. This substance is also present in unripe tomatoes before they become ripe and red.
Therefore, the following rule applies to dogs: quantity matters. If there is a small portion of tomatoes in the feed, then nothing will happen to the dog. Even if a dog steals a small tomato, it won‘t be that bad right away.
However, the dog should not eat tomatoes often. Poisoning from overeating tomatoes is rare in dogs, but can occur if uncooked and unripe tomatoes are eaten. And solanine poisoning is really unpleasant. This can even endanger the dog‘s life. Poisoning may include cramps, diarrhea, vomiting and signs of paralysis.
If you notice signs of tomato poisoning in your dog, you should see a vet!
How To Give Tomatoes To Australian Shepherd Dogs
If you get confirmation after talking to your veterinarian that you can sometimes feed your dog tomatoes, the next step is to make sure you have selected ripe red tomatoes from which the stems, leaves, vines and skin have been removed.
Only give the dog ripe or overripe tomatoes. It is safest to cook the tomato and then peel it. Serve them to your dog without any additives such as spices or salt as they can be harmful to dogs.
Also choose a reliable source, such as supermarket or a healthy food store. This way you will be sure that the tomatoes are not sprayed with any chemicals and there will be no pesticides and herbicides that can cause your dog to get sick.
Dogs And Tomato
Products that contain tomatoes, such as sauces, soups, or juices, can be unhealthy for dogs, mostly because they often contain salt, sugar, artificial flavors, or other harmful ingredients. If is best if you do not feed your dog these products. But we will talk more broadly below.
Can Dogs Eat Tomato Sauce
No, you shouldn‘t give your dog a tomato sauce, as they often contain a variety of additives that aren‘t good for dogs. Additives, such as onions, garlic, salt and so on, which are not suitable for dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Tomato Soup
Soup also shouldn‘t be given, as it usually contains additives. It‘s best to stick to fresh tomatoes that you prepare yourself.
Can Dog Eat Tomato Plant
Tomato plants are the place where most of that toxic salonine. Therefore you should never give your dog to eat tomato plants. Maybe even best way would be to hide the tomato garden so that he does not come up with idea to try taste it without asking your permission.
Can Dog Eat Tomato Paste
If it is plain tomato paste, you can safely give it to the dog in small quantities. It has less value than fresh tomatoes, but still a good source of antioxidants.
Can Dog Eat Tomatoes Skin
It is better to peel the skin, to make it easier to digest. In addition, this will protect against chemicals that may be sprayed on the tomatoes.
Can Dogs Eat Sweet Tomatoes
Dogs can safely eat sweet tomatoes in moderation. Of course, follow the tips above, but one other sweet tomato a week won‘t hurt.
Can Dogs Eat Cherry Tomatoes
Yes, as long as these cherry tomatoes are red and ripe, they are safe to eat for dog in moderation.
Can Dogs Eat Green Tomatoes
No, you should avoid giving green tomatoes due to salonine.
Can Dogs Eat Red Tomatoes
Red tomatoes are safe for the dog. Make sure to wash them properly, follow the tips above, and you can occasionally give it for your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Canned Tomatoes
It is better to avoid giving canned tomatoes. First off all, they are less nutritious, and during canning proess, they lose some vitamins. And the main reason is the way they are produced, and various additives unsuitable for dogs can also be used. It is best to choose fresh vegetables.
Can Dogs Eat Chopped Tomatoes
No, this is also not suitable for dogs, as chopped tomatoes are usually high in sodium and other additives.
Can Dogs Eat Grilled Tomatoes
Yes, dogs can eat grilled tomatoes, but make sure they are without any additives, spices or salt.
Are Dogs Allergic To Tomatoes
This may sound unusual, but each dog is individual and it is possible that some dogs will be allergic to even small amounts. In this case, the dog should not eat even the smallest amount of tomatoes. An allergic reaction may occur, such as coughing, difficulty breathing, sneezing or swelling. If a dog has eaten a small piece of tomato and develops such symptoms, it is quite clear that he is allergic to tomatoes. In this case, even when buying feed, you should make sure that it does not contain tomatoes.
Some dogs have health issues like acid reflux or gastrointestinal issues that tomatoes can make worse. It‘s always best to consult your veterinarian before introducing any new foods to your dog.
Final Thoughts
Dogs can eat tomatoes in reasonable amounts, but there are a few things to consider as they are not completely safe.
Tomatoes are members of the nightshade family that contains salonine, which is toxic to dogs. Unripe green tomatoes, stems and leaves contain salonine the most. That‘s why you should only use overripe red tomatoes.
To give the dog a tomato, first remove the leaves and stalk, then cook or boil the tomato. Then remove the skin to be safe. The most important thing to keep in mind is that you should only feed your dog tomatoes in small amounts. According to source, one large or two smaller tomatoes per week is good.