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Last medically reviewed: 2026-05-22
Is Tomato Plant (Leaves and Stems) Toxic to Dogs?
Tomato plants (leaves, stems, and unripe green tomatoes) contain tomatine and solanine, glycoalkaloids that are toxic to dogs. Ripe red tomatoes contain very low levels and are generally safe, but the green parts of the plant can cause serious gastrointestinal and cardiac symptoms. If you suspect your dogs has ingested tomato plant (leaves and stems), contact your veterinarian or nearest emergency vet clinic immediately.
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If your Dogs ate Tomato Plant (Leaves and Stems), you need to act fast. This emergency kit has everything vets recommend — before you need it.
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| Toxic? | Severity | Time to Onset | Commonness | Urgency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | Moderate | 2-8 hours | Common (garden exposure) | Urgent |
The Toxic Principle
The dangerous compound in Tomato Plant (Leaves and Stems) is Tomatine and Solanine (glycoalkaloids).
Tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum) are members of the nightshade family. The green parts contain tomatine, a glycoalkaloid that disrupts cell membranes and inhibits cholinesterase. Solanine, another glycoalkaloid, causes similar effects. Concentrations are highest in leaves, stems, flowers, and green unripe fruit. As tomatoes ripen, tomatine is rapidly metabolized and red ripe fruit contains negligible amounts. The plant also contains atropine-like compounds that can cause anticholinergic effects.
How Much Is Dangerous?
The risk depends on your dogs's weight and the amount ingested.
| Pet Weight | Dangerous Amount | Expected Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Small dog (under 10 lbs / 4.5 kg) | A few leaves or small green tomatoes | Severe |
| Medium dog (25-50 lbs / 11-23 kg) | Several leaves or stems | Moderate |
| Large dog (50-90 lbs / 23-41 kg) | Significant plant material | Mild |
| Any size dog | Ripe red tomatoes | Safe |
Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms of tomato plant (leaves and stems) poisoning in dogss typically progress through these stages:
Early Signs
2-6 hours- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
Progressive
6-12 hours- Weakness
- Confusion
- Dilated pupils
- Slow heart rate
- Tremors
Severe (rare)
12-24 hours- Severe cardiac arrhythmia
- Respiratory depression
- Seizures
- Coma
- Death (very rare)
Don't Let This Happen to Your Dogs
You just read what tomato plant (leaves and stems) does to dogss. The symptoms. The suffering. The $100–$1,500 vet bill. The question is: are you prepared if it happens again?
Get the Emergency Kit — Be Ready →What to Do Right Now
- 1 Remove your dog from the tomato plants and remove any plant material from their mouth.
- 2 Call your veterinarian for guidance — most cases are mild but need monitoring.
- 3 Rinse your dogs mouth if they were chewing on leaves.
- 4 Note how much plant material was consumed.
- 5 Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy over the next 12 hours.
- 6 If symptoms develop or a large amount was eaten, get to a vet clinic.
Treatment and Recovery
Most cases of tomato plant ingestion are self-limiting and require only supportive care. For significant ingestions, treatment includes inducing vomiting (if recent), activated charcoal, IV fluids for dehydration from vomiting/diarrhea, and anti-emetics. Cardiac monitoring is needed if large amounts were ingested. Prognosis is generally excellent with supportive care.
Estimated Cost
$100 – $1,500
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat ripe tomatoes?
Yes, ripe red tomatoes are safe for dogs in moderation. The toxic glycoalkaloids are present primarily in green, unripe fruit and the leaves/stems of the plant. Ripe tomatoes contain only trace amounts.
What if my dog ate tomato leaves from my garden?
Most dogs who nibble a few tomato leaves will experience only mild GI upset. However, larger amounts can cause more serious symptoms. Call your vet with details about how much was eaten.
Are cherry tomatoes dangerous?
Ripe cherry tomatoes are safe. The danger is from the plant itself (leaves, stems) and unripe green tomatoes of any variety.
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Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, contact your veterinarian or nearest emergency vet clinic immediately. This page was last reviewed on 2026-05-22.
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