Dog eating cherries

Question
We have a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, 8 years old, who eats the cherries that fall off our large cherry tree.  Is this dangerous?  I am not sure of the quantity of cherries he is eating.  Thanks!

Answer
Suzanne,

Interesting question! I did some research and found when I googled "Cherries dogs" that numerous recipes for cherry dog biscuits came up as well as joint supplements with cherries as an ingredient.  I went to the website for the ASPCA and searched their poison control center and they didn't have anything for cherries, but I did find cranberries.  According to the ASPCA at this time there is not evidence to support either safety or danger for cranberries, but the same was said for grapes 10 years ago and now it is found grapes are in fact toxic to dogs.

Here's a link: http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=pro_apcc_ask_peoplefood

So my recommendation is not to let your pet have cherries, they do have pits, which even though are small may still cause a problem.  I would watch for vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy which would indicate a problem.  If any of those symptoms appear I would go to the vet ASAP.

Hope that is helpful,

Laura