Can dogs eat oranges?
Can dogs eat oranges?
Dogs can eat a variety of different foods, including fruit. But that doesn't mean all fruit is suitable for our four-legged friends. What about oranges - are dogs allowed to eat oranges?
The short answer: Yes, dogs can eat oranges. This citrus fruit is not toxic to dogs and most dogs can eat a few slices without getting into trouble. As with any human food, it depends on how much you give your dog, as overdosing can lead to digestive and other health problems. Also, dogs suffering from certain diseases should keep their paws off this fruit.
What are the benefits of oranges for dogs?
Oranges are not only safe and delicious for dogs, this citrus fruit has some health benefits too! Oranges are a good source of fibre and contain lots of vitamin C, which can boost your dog's immune system and help him ward off potential health problems. While it's true that dogs produce vitamin C on their own, it can't hurt to give them an additional source. If your dog is frequently stressed or engaged in extreme activities, his liver may not be able to synthesise vitamin C, so eating oranges can significantly improve his well-being.
If your dog is overly stressed or engaged in extreme activities, his liver may not be able to synthesise vitamin C, so eating oranges can significantly improve his well-being.
If your dog is overweight, an orange is a wonderful alternative to fattening dog treats. A few slices of this fruit will provide him with a sweet treat that won't have a negative impact on his diet.
Can eating oranges be dangerous for dogs?
Dogs should avoid orange peels. They are not particularly dangerous to dogs, but they are difficult to digest and can cause unpleasant (and messy) indigestion.
If your dog is eating too many oranges, watch out for these signs and consult your vet if you are concerned about your dog's symptoms:
Stomach upset:
For some dogs, oranges have too much sugar and can cause digestive or stool problems.
Diabetes complications:
Dogs with diabetes should stay away from this sugary fruit as it spikes blood sugar levels.
Danger of choking:
Dogs can have problems swallowing oranges if they are not prepared properly. If there are still seeds or peels attached to orange slices, these should be removed to prevent a choking hazard.
Congestion:
In the worst case scenario, your dog may accidentally eat an orange peel, causing a blockage in their digestive tract. This could require immediate emergency surgery
Can puppies eat oranges?
Yes, puppies can eat oranges, but they may be more susceptible to gastrointestinal upset than adult dogs. For this reason, it is recommended that you only offer your puppy a very small amount of oranges. As with adult dogs, the peel and seeds should be removed.
Can dogs eat orange peel?
No. Dogs should not eat the peel of the orange, the white coating on the flesh of the orange or any other part of the plant. It is important to remove all traces of the peel, pith and seeds as these parts may contain toxic compounds.
How much orange can my dog eat?
When it comes to oranges, it's best to err on the side of caution. It may be that some dogs have a natural aversion to the tart smell and overwhelming citrusiness of oranges.
One cup of orange slices contains about 17 grams of sugar and four grams of fibre. Due to the high sugar content, you should make sure that this fruity snack only accounts for 10% of your orange-loving dog's daily calorie intake.
When eating orange slices, you should make sure that your dog only eats 10% of the daily calorie intake.
As with all sugary fruits and vegetables, oranges are not a good choice for dogs with diabetes.
Can dogs drink orange juice?
No, absolutely not. Orange juice is not suitable for dogs. The juice - even if it is natural - is a concentrated source of the sugar and citric acid from the fruit. Since dogs do not need the vitamins in oranges, orange juice will not help them. Water is the best drink to keep your dog hydrated and healthy.
How should I introduce oranges to my dog?
Take it slow. Try feeding a single section to see his reaction. In general, most dogs don't like citrus fruits, as these fruits tend to have a bitter taste.
Also, citrus fruits contain a lot of acid, which can cause diarrhoea or vomiting. Try one orange section a day. Wait and observe. If you don't notice any signs of side effects, you can continue. Just be careful not to feed too much.
Can dogs eat other citrus fruits?
It depends. Tangerines are a citrus fruit that dogs can eat, but feed them sparingly and only the fleshy part. Like oranges, they contain a lot of sugar and calories. Lemons, on the other hand, are so acidic that they should be avoided. To keep your dog healthy, you should always read up on any fruit or food before giving it to your dog.
What about clementines and tangerines?
Mandarins and clementines both belong to the mandarin group and the same rules apply to these fruits as to oranges. Your dog can eat clementines and mandarins as long as you peel them first and watch the amount you give him. Clementines and mandarins are the same group of fruits.
Clementines and tangerines tend to be sweeter, so you should be careful with dogs who should not eat foods that spike blood sugar. Only give these fruits to dogs that have no health problems. Never feed more than half a fruit to a smaller dog and a whole tangerine or clementine to larger dogs.
