Can Dogs Eat Tomatillos? A Pet Parent’s Guide to Safe Snacking

Picture this: You’re dicing fresh tomatillos for a zesty salsa, and your pup trots over, nose twitching, begging for a taste. Those bright green orbs look harmless—maybe even healthy. But as a responsible pet parent, you pause. Are tomatillos safe for dogs?

It’s a common question. With so many human foods trending as “healthy” treats for pets, it’s hard to keep up. Tomatillos, a staple in Mexican cuisine, are packed with vitamins and fiber, but they also belong to the nightshade family—raising red flags for some pet owners.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: Are tomatillos safe? What benefits (if any) do they offer? What risks should you watch for? And when in doubt, what healthier alternatives can you offer instead? Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

1. Can Dogs Eat Tomatillos? The Short Answer
2. Nutritional Benefits of Tomatillos for Dogs
3. Potential Risks to Watch For
4. How Much Tomatillo Is Safe for Dogs?
5. Healthier Alternatives to Tomatillos
6. FAQ: Your Tomatillo Questions Answered
7. Conclusion: Enjoy Moderation, Consult Your Vet

Can Dogs Eat Tomatillos? The Short Answer

Yes, dogs can eat tomatillos in small, occasional amounts—but with caveats.

Tomatillos ( Physalis philadelphica ) are not toxic to dogs, according to the ASPCA and other veterinary sources. However, they’re not a “superfood” for pups, either. Think of them as a sometimes treat, not a dietary staple.

The key here is moderation. A few slices of ripe, plain tomatillo are unlikely to harm most dogs, but overfeeding or serving them with added ingredients (like salt, onions, or garlic) can lead to problems. Plus, some dogs may have sensitive stomachs that react poorly to new foods.

Nutritional Benefits of Tomatillos for Dogs

Tomatillos are more than just a tangy addition to your tacos—they’re loaded with nutrients that could offer minor benefits to your dog, though it’s important to note that most dogs get all the vitamins and minerals they need from a balanced commercial diet. Still, here’s what makes tomatillos stand out:

1. Vitamin C

Tomatillos are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune health and collagen production (important for healthy skin, joints, and blood vessels). While dogs produce their own vitamin C, extra amounts from food can help reduce inflammation and support recovery from illness or injury.

2. Vitamin K

Vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting and bone health. A deficiency can lead to excessive bleeding or weak bones, so a small boost from tomatillos (which have about 11% of the daily human requirement per 100g) might benefit dogs with absorption issues—though again, this is rarely necessary for healthy pups.

3. Fiber

Fiber aids digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and supporting gut bacteria. Tomatillos have about 2.6g of fiber per 100g, which can help prevent constipation in dogs. Just don’t overdo it—too much fiber can cause loose stools!

4. Potassium

Potassium helps regulate heart function, muscle contractions, and fluid balance. Tomatillos contain around 200mg of potassium per 100g, which is similar to bananas (a popular dog treat). For dogs with kidney issues, potassium levels need careful monitoring, but for healthy dogs, a little extra is harmless.

The bottom line: Tomatillos have nutrients that might support your dog’s health, but they’re not essential. They’re best served as a fun, occasional snack, not a replacement for their regular food.

Potential Risks to Watch For

While tomatillos aren’t toxic, they’re not risk-free. Here are the biggest concerns to keep in mind:

1. Solanine (Nightshade Family Risk)

Tomatillos belong to the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which includes tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants. Many nightshades contain solanine, a toxic compound found in leaves, stems, and unripe fruit.

Good news: Ripe tomatillo fruit has very low solanine levels. The real risk lies in the husk, stems, or leaves—which are not meant for consumption. If your dog chews on the plant (e.g., from your garden), they could ingest solanine, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or tremors.

Pro tip: Always remove the papery husk and stems before feeding tomatillos to your dog.

2. Stomach Upset

Like any new food, tomatillos can irritate your dog’s digestive system. Symptoms of stomach upset include:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Gas
• Loss of appetite

This is more likely if your dog eats a large amount or has a sensitive stomach. Start with tiny portions (e.g., 1-2 slices for a small dog) to test tolerance.

3. Choking Hazard

Whole or poorly chopped tomatillos can pose a choking risk, especially for small dogs. The fruit is firm and round—if swallowed whole, it could get stuck in your dog’s throat. Always slice tomatillos into small, bite-sized pieces before serving.

4. Sugar and Added Ingredients

Tomatillos themselves are low in sugar (about 1-2g per 100g), but they’re often used in salsas, sauces, or dips loaded with salt, onions, garlic, or sugar. These additives are dangerous for dogs:

• Salt: Causes sodium ion poisoning (symptoms: excessive thirst, urination, seizures).
• Onions/garlic: Destroy red blood cells, leading to anemia.
• Sugar: Contributes to obesity, diabetes, and dental decay.

Never feed your dog tomatillos mixed into sauces, salsas, or cooked dishes. Stick to plain, raw (or lightly steamed) tomatillos.

5. Pesticides

Conventionally grown tomatillos may have pesticide residues, which can irritate your dog’s stomach or, in large amounts, cause toxicity. Always wash tomatillos thoroughly under running water, or opt for organic to reduce this risk.

How Much Tomatillo Is Safe for Dogs?

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories—and tomatillos are no exception. Here’s a rough guide based on your dog’s size:

Important notes:

• Avoid if your dog has health issues: Skip tomatillos if your dog has diabetes (due to natural sugars), kidney disease (potassium sensitivity), or a history of digestive problems.
• No daily treats: Tomatillos should be an occasional snack, not part of your dog’s regular routine.
• Monitor for reactions: After feeding, watch for 24 hours for signs of stomach upset. If symptoms occur, stop feeding and consult your vet.

Healthier Alternatives to Tomatillos

If you’re looking for safe, nutrient-dense treats, these options are better than tomatillos:

1. Blueberries

Low in calories, high in antioxidants (vitamin C, resveratrol), and a favorite among dogs. They support brain health and reduce inflammation.

2. Carrots

Crunchy, low in calories, and high in fiber and vitamin A (great for eye health). Raw or steamed, they’re a perfect teeth-cleaning snack.

3. Green Beans

Packed with fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and几乎 no calories. Serve raw or steamed (no salt) for a filling treat.

4. Pumpkin (Plain, Canned)

Rich in fiber and beta-carotene, pumpkin helps with both diarrhea and constipation. Avoid pie filling (sugar!)—opt for plain, unsweetened pumpkin.

5. Apples (No Seeds/Core)

High in fiber and vitamin C. Remove seeds (contain cyanide) and core before serving.

These alternatives are lower in risk, higher in nutrients, and widely recommended by vets.

FAQ: Your Tomatillo Questions Answered

Q: Can dogs eat raw tomatillos?

A: Yes, raw tomatillos are safe in small amounts—just remove the husk, wash thoroughly, and slice into small pieces. Cooking isn’t necessary, but lightly steaming can make them easier to digest for sensitive dogs.

Q: Is the tomatillo husk toxic to dogs?

A: The papery husk itself isn’t highly toxic, but it’s tough to digest and may contain trace amounts of solanine. It can also cause intestinal blockages if swallowed. Always remove the husk before feeding.

Q: My dog ate a whole tomatillo—should I worry?

A: Probably not, but monitor for 24 hours. A whole tomatillo may cause mild stomach upset (diarrhea, vomiting) or a choking risk if not chewed. If your dog is small or shows severe symptoms (e.g., lethargy, inability to keep food down), call your vet.

Q: Can dogs have tomatillo salsa?

A: No! Salsa often contains onions, garlic, salt, or spices—all toxic or harmful to dogs. Stick to plain tomatillos only.

Q: Are there any dogs who should never eat tomatillos?

A: Yes. Dogs with diabetes (sugar content), kidney disease (potassium), or digestive disorders (risk of upset) should avoid tomatillos. Always check with your vet first if your dog has health issues.

Conclusion: Enjoy Moderation, Consult Your Vet

Tomatillos can be a safe, tangy treat for your dog—if served in small, plain portions, with the husk removed, and as an occasional snack. They offer minor nutritional benefits but come with risks like stomach upset or choking if not prepared properly.

Remember: Your dog’s primary diet should be a balanced, vet-approved food. Treats—including tomatillos—are just the cherry on top (or, in this case, the salsa on the taco).

When in doubt, ask your vet. They know your dog’s health history and can help you decide if tomatillos are a good fit.

Here’s to happy, healthy snacking—for both you and your pup!

References

• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). “Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants.” aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants
• American Kennel Club (AKC). “Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes?” akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-tomatoes
• VCA Hospitals. “Foods Toxic to Dogs.” vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/foods-toxic-to-dogs
• PetMD. “Human Foods Dogs Can and Can’t Eat.” petmd.com/dog/nutrition/human-foods-dogs-can-and-cant-eat