Tomatoes aren’t without their risks for dogs. However, when served in the right way, there’s no reason why they should do any harm. Make sure the fruit is ripe, washed thoroughly, not salted, and has all the greenery removed. Feed your pet like this in small amounts, and they should hopefully reap all the benefits without any consequences. Here are the main benefits and risks of feeding tomatoes to your furry friend.
Potentially poisonous
Tomato is part of the nightshade family, something you might already be familiar with. These types of plants can be poisonous. Luckily it’s the flowers and stems that pose the danger, rather than the fruit itself. Still, you should be careful not to give your dog too much of it.
High in fiber
Like it or not, you have to be invested in your dog’s bathroom habits. After all, if you don’t want them to go into the house, you need to know that they’re doing their business when you take them outside, right? If this is an issue, there might be insufficient fiber in their diet. You can improve that by feeding them treats like tomatoes. This fruit is full of fibrous content, so it helps keep your pet’s digestion in good condition.
Mental health issues
If your pet does seem down, it could be tomatoes that are to blame. One of the more significant symptoms of tomato poisoning is depression. Although several factors might influence this, if you're feeding your dog tomatoes, it might be worth stopping for the time being. Other potential symptoms include muscle weakness, abnormal heart rate, and constant salivating.
Rich in vitamins
Nutrition? Check. Fiber? Check. Vitamins? Also, check. Tomatoes contain both vitamin A and C, meaning they can potentially do great things for your dog’s health. This includes better eyesight and healthier skin, two benefits that can help your pet avoid serious problems in the future. That’s good for your bank balance because it means you’re less likely to have to fork out on expensive vet bills.