Sloe berries are toxic to dogs and must be strictly avoided. Sloe berries contain cyanogenic compounds that release cyanide when metabolised, along with other toxins. The berries may be attractive to dogs, especially if fallen on the ground near hedgerows or wild areas. Symptoms of sloe berry poisoning can include drooling, tremors, breathing difficulty, seizures, and in severe cases, coma or death. If your dog has eaten sloe berries, this is a veterinary emergency requiring immediate treatment. Prevention is the best approach: keep dogs away from sloe bushes and remove any fallen berries from areas where dogs have access.
Why Sloe Berries Should Be Avoided
Raw sloes are very astringent and mildly toxic; processed (e.g. in gin) are obviously off-limits too.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Sloe Berries
Monitor your dog for vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, or loss of appetite. If symptoms develop, contact your vet.
Use the Emergency Risk ToolCommon Mistakes
Watch out: Owners with country properties or who walk near hedgerows may not realise sloe berries are toxic. The pretty blue-black berries can be attractive to curious dogs. Some assume berries that birds eat are safe for dogs, which is false. Do not leave fallen sloe berries on the ground where dogs can forage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sloe berries safe for dogs?
No. Sloe berries are toxic due to cyanogenic compounds.
What makes sloe berries dangerous?
They release cyanide when metabolised, plus other toxic compounds.
What symptoms develop if a dog eats sloe berries?
Drooling, tremors, breathing difficulty, seizures, and potentially coma or death.
What should I do if my dog ate sloe berries?
Contact your vet immediately. This is a medical emergency requiring urgent treatment.
How can I protect my dog from sloe bushes?
Keep dogs away from hedgerows where sloe bushes grow. Remove fallen berries promptly.
Scientific References
- Lumeij JT (2009). Ethanol poisoning as a differential diagnosis in a hunter's dog with tetraplegia PMID: 20055025