Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
dog safety reference
Is Black Cherry safe for dogs?
Prunus serotina
Prunus serotina is a native North American tree known for its dark, edible fruit and foliage that contains cyanogenic glycosides. Ingestion of any part of the plant, particularly the leaves and seeds, can be hazardous to pets.
Black CherryPrunus serotinaRum CherryWild Black Cherry
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Deciduous tree
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs — toxic. Black Cherry leaves, stems, and pits contain cyanogenic glycosides that release cyanide when crushed in the mouth, with wilting branches after pruning or storms being especially dangerous. Dogs that swallow a whole pit usually pass it; the real risk is when they chew leaves or crack pits open.
What to watch for
Bright-red gums (turning bluish as poisoning progresses), dilated pupils, rapid panting or difficulty breathing, drooling, vomiting, watery eyes, and obvious anxiety or excitement that gives way to weakness, staggering, collapse, muscle spasms, and seizures.
Time window
High-dose ingestion can produce signs within minutes and death within 1–2 hours; smaller doses may not show signs for up to 24 hours. Dogs that reach treatment quickly typically recover within a day or two with supportive care.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or the ASPCA APCC (888-426-4435) immediately on any suspicion. If your dog is panting hard, gums look bright-red or blue, or you see staggering or collapse, drive to the nearest emergency vet now — cyanide is treatable but only with prompt antidote and oxygen.
First aid at home
Per Pet Poison Helpline, do not delay transport to wait out symptoms and do not induce vomiting at home without first speaking to a poison control specialist or veterinarian. Bring a sample of what was chewed (leaves, twigs, or pits) so the vet can confirm the dose.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline.
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Excessive drooling, vomiting, labored breathing, weakness, and potential seizures.
Escalation note
The plant material can cause cyanide poisoning, which is life-threatening. Immediate veterinary intervention is required if your dog consumes any part of this tree.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Black Cherry is listed as toxic to cats and dogs due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides.
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