Can Yorkies eat cherries?

The flesh of a ripe cherry is safe for a Yorkie in tiny amounts, but cherries demand careful prep. The pit and stem must come out first. A cherry stone is a genuine choking and blockage risk for such a small dog, and — like other stone-fruit pits — it contains compounds that release cyanide, so it should never be chewed or swallowed. Once pitted and de-stemmed, the flesh is fine, but it's sugary, so one or two is the ceiling. Skip anything canned, jarred, or in syrup.

What Yorkie owners need to know

• Always remove the pit and stem — both are hazards, and the pit contains cyanide-producing compounds.
• Only give the flesh, and only one or two cherries' worth for a tiny dog.
• Avoid canned, jarred, or maraschino cherries — they're loaded with sugar or syrup.

How preparation changes the answer

Safe preparation

• Wash the cherry, pull off the stem, and remove the pit completely.
• Cut the pitted flesh into small pieces sized for a tiny mouth.
• Offer just one or two cherries' worth of flesh as an occasional treat.

Nutrition at a glance

Possible benefits

• Antioxidants and vitamin C in a small, sweet bite.
• High water content adds a touch of hydration.
• A naturally sweet treat some small dogs enjoy in strict moderation.

Risks & things to watch

• The pit is a choking and blockage hazard and contains cyanide-producing compounds.
• Sugary flesh can loosen stools or add calories a tiny dog doesn't need.
• Canned or syrup cherries have far too much sugar.

If your Yorkie ate too much

A little extra cherry flesh may cause soft stools. If your dog swallowed a pit, or shows choking, vomiting, or belly discomfort, call your vet promptly.

Frequently asked questions