Although there are some human foods including fruits and vegetables that can't be shared with dogs because they are toxic, many fruits are safe for dogs to eat. It's fun to share snacks with your dog, but what about citrus fruits? Is it safe for dogs to eat orange slices?
Can my dog eat oranges?
The American Kennel Club (AKC) explains that in small and limited amounts, oranges are a safe treat for dogs to eat. Oranges are naturally juicy fruit and the fleshy part of the fruit is safe for dogs to eat, but you will want to be cautious when eating oranges and sharing them with your dog. It's best to keep oranges as an occasional treat for your dog. The sweetness of oranges is part of what makes them such a popular fruit for people but that high sugar content can be unhealthy for dogs. The AKC notes that a stomach upset can result in dogs who eat too much sugar.
Video of the Day
Although some dogs will seemingly eat anything, many dogs won't be a fan of oranges. The tartness of the citrus fruit won't be attractive for most dogs. If you are curious to see what your dog thinks of oranges, be sure that you remove the peel, seeds and white under the skin of the orange peel before feeding the fleshy part to your dog. If your dog does like oranges you'll want to limit how much orange you feed your dog and keep oranges as an occasional treat. The AKC recommends if you are sharing oranges with your dog that they make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake.
Are oranges healthy for dogs?
Oranges are a good source of vitamin C, and like with people, vitamin C can be beneficial for dogs as it supports their overall immune system. The AKC explains that oranges also contain fiber and potassium, which are both good for your dog's overall health. Additionally, oranges are low in sodium, so for dogs who enjoy a fruity snack, orange slices or parts of orange slices can make a great occasional healthy treat for your dog.
Are there any hazards of feeding oranges to dogs?
If you are going to feed your dog oranges, it's important to closely limit how many orange segments you allow them to have, to prevent your dog from getting an upset stomach. The biggest issue around feeding oranges to dogs is that the parts of the orange that most of us humans don't eat, specifically the seeds and peel, should be kept away from dogs. The peel of oranges is particularly of concern because if dogs eat them the peels can lead to blockages or obstructions which if serious could require surgical intervention. Like with any other new treat, only give a small piece to start to see how your dog reacts, and if you have any concerns, consult with your veterinarian.
In conclusion
Although most dogs won't be that excited to eat oranges, in limited quantities they are safe for dogs to eat. If you are planning to share an orange citrus snack with your dog, only offer the fleshy part of the fruit to your dog. Oranges are high in vitamin C which is good but also high in sugar which can lead to stomach upsets so limit how many orange pieces you allow your dog to eat. When eating oranges, keep orange peels and seeds away from your dog, as the peels can be both a choking hazard and result in a blockage or obstruction. If you are concerned that your dog has eaten orange peels, consult with or your veterinarian for support.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.