Can Dogs Eat Oranges? Health Benefits & Safety
Can Dogs Eat Oranges? Health Benefits & Safety. Oranges are a juicy, orange-colored fruit that are chock-full of vitamin C and many other treats for humans and our dogs too. Ranging from supersweet (navel) to sour (clementines), you may need to experiment with several types of citrus to determine your dog’s preference. Be sure to only give your dog the fruit, however — never the skin, rind or seeds (below).
Are Oranges Safe for Dogs?
A symbol of prosperity and longevity, this aromatic and ubiquitous citrus fruit is edible for humans, puppies, and adult dogs.
Benefits to health
Oranges contain high levels of vitamin C, a great immunity builder for humans (and dogs). The fruit also contains:
- Fiber (good digestion and heart health)
- Potassium (helps regulate many of the body’s functions)
- Phosphorus (helps build bones and teeth)
- B vitamins (essential for many cellular processes)
Refer to your vet if your dog has any health conditions, like diabetes, as oranges have moderate to high sugar levels.
Can Oranges Be Bad for Dogs?
Can Dogs Eat Oranges? Health Benefits & Safety. The biggest concern with feeding oranges to dogs is their sugar content. Oranges have natural sugars, and that is why oranges are so attractive to dogs and human beings too.
Sugar is equivalent to calories, therefore, the owners of obese dogs can use a low-calorie treat for them. Dogs with diabetes should not be fed oranges since it will lead to an increase in their insulin levels.
The owner of the pet also has to make sure that there are no seeds left on the orange. Orange seeds contain trace amounts of a toxic chemical known as cyanide. Even giving a dog a few orange seeds is not much of a risk, but one is better off removing them from the orange first before it’s served.
Also, there is a lot of acid in citrus, and this will upset the stomach and bring tummy troubles such as vomiting or diarrhea. Try only a single piece of orange a day. Wait and see. If you do not observe any side effects, pet owners can start adding a little more.
Can Dogs Eat Orange Peels?
Can Dogs Eat Oranges? Health Benefits & Safety. No. Orange peels, to dogs, are only good if you provide them the pulpy portion of orange. Just like orange seeds, orange peels may also contain poisonous chemicals in them which will destroy dogs.
Orange peels are also tough on a dog’s digestive system. In serious situations, orange peels have been found to lead to blockage that can be surgically treated. ToCan Dogs Eat Oranges err on the side of caution, peel the orange, seeds and the white stuff on the inside of the orange.
Are Oranges Good for Dogs?
While some dogs resent the acidity of this fruit, orange fruit is safe and full of vitamin C, along with a wham of potassium and fiber.
Since dog foods are nutritionally complete, your pet isn’t requiring supplements of any of these nutrients. If your pet begs for this tasty treat, though, oranges can be enjoyed in moderation.
Are Oranges Bad for All Dogs?
Can Dogs Eat Oranges? Health Benefits & Safety Though all dog breeds, whether they are young or old, and either large or small, may eat oranges safely, there are certain canine health conditions for which oranges must be avoided.
For instance, diabetic or obese dogs must not be administered oranges. While oranges’ natural sugar is not necessarily bad, it will affect the blood glucose level of diabetic dogs and may lead to excessive calories when taken in excess.
The natural sugars and acidity in oranges may sometimes upset a dog’s stomach. When offering orange for the first time, keep the portion very small. Dogs with a sensitive digestive system should avoid oranges altogether.
Can Puppies Eat Oranges?
Yes, puppies are allowed to eat oranges, but they can be more susceptible to GI upset than adult dogs. Due to this, only give your puppy a very little bit of orange. Similar to adult dogs, peel and seed the orange first.
Fruits and vegetables toxic to dogs
There are several fruits and vegetables that must always be avoided when feeding your dog:
- wild mushrooms, toadstools or fungi – button or white mushrooms should always be cooked
- onions, leeks, chives and garlic
- grapes and raisins
- tomato leaves, stems or unripe young tomatoes
- green potatoes, potato leaves and stems
Find out what to do if your dog is poisoned through our information on poisonous foods to dogs.
How many oranges can my dog have?
Can Dogs Eat Oranges? Health Benefits & Safety Even though some dogs love oranges, others dislike the citrus scent and bitter taste. Before offering oranges to your dog, peel, pith, and seeds them first. Use the 90/10 rule with treats: 90% full, quality dog food and 10% extras or treats. For orange, give only 1-3 slices at a time based on your dog’s size. Let them acclimatize slowly and see their response.
Can orange juice be drunk by dogs?
No, dogs should not drink orange juice. Orange juice is highly acidic and laden with sugars that are hard on a dog’s digestive system and give them stomach upset. Water is typically the best drink for canines.