Not Safe
Not SafeVet Reviewedplant

Not Safe for Dogs

Medium dog serving: never

Key warning: all parts of all nightshade plants — berries leaves stems

Can Dogs Eat Nightshade Berries? No — Potentially Fatal Toxicity

This food is NOT safe for dogs. Keep it away from your pet.

Deadly nightshade and other nightshade plants are extremely toxic to dogs. They contain solanine and atropine causing severe neurological and cardiac symptoms. Even small amounts of berries can be fatal.

Warning Signs & Symptoms

Solanine and atropine toxicity: dilated pupils, rapid heart rate, disorientation, seizures, respiratory failure, coma, death. Berries are especially attractive and dangerous.

If Your Dog Ate This

Call vet or ASPCA Poison Control 888-426-4435 if significant amount consumed.

What to Avoid

all parts of all nightshade plants — berries leaves stems

Preparation & Serving

Call vet or emergency animal hospital IMMEDIATELY. This is a life-threatening emergency.

Did you know?

Deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna) gets its name from the Italian bella donna meaning beautiful woman — Renaissance women used diluted extracts to dilate their pupils which was considered beautiful. Belladonna extract is still used in ophthalmology for pupil dilation. The plant was used by assassins in ancient Rome and the name Atropa comes from Atropos the Greek fate who cut the thread of life.

Portions & nutrition

Serving (small dog)
never
Serving (medium dog)
never
Serving (large dog)
never
Calories (per 100g)
0
Safe frequency
Never

Source

Source: ASPCA

What You Need to Know

Deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna) and bittersweet nightshade are found in gardens and wild areas. The berries are attractive to dogs but extremely toxic. All parts of the plant are dangerous. This is a genuine life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary care. Black nightshade berries are less toxic but still dangerous.

Not sure what to do next? Read our emergency guide What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic

Want to know what other dangers are hiding in your home?

Take the 60-second kitchen safety quiz to find out your dog's risk score.

Take the safety quiz

Related Foods

Stay in the loop

Get new food safety guides, vet tips, and alerts delivered to your inbox.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making dietary changes for your pet.