Can Dogs Eat Oranges?

Dogs are an awesome part of our lives. Apart from the security they provide, they are also man’s best friends. Feeding your dog, the right nutrition is essential in that it promotes good health and growth. Have you ever peeled an orange, and while eating, a thought came to your mind, and you got tempted to share a piece of orange with your lovely dog, but before you did, the question of whether can dogs eat oranges maybe kept you from sharing your orange with him? Well, you could be wondering if oranges are safe for dogs. Yes, dogs can eat oranges. Oranges are not only nutritious to your dog. So, feed your dog with a nice treat of oranges today. According to AKC.org, oranges are fine for canines to eat, but they may not love strong-smelling citrus fruits. Oranges are rich in vitamin C, fiber and potassium and the juicy flesh of these fruits are tasty treats for dogs in small quantities. Veterinarians recommend tossing the peel and proving your pet with the flesh of the oranges minus the seeds. Orange peels are rough to the digestive systems of dogs.

How much is too much for dogs?

While feeding your dog oranges, be careful not to give too much, as it may result in doing more harm than good to the dog. Start by consulting with your veterinarian if it is okay to treat your dog with oranges and how much to feed it on a given day or time. You can start slowly by introducing a slice or two of an orange a day and observe how your dog takes it. Have a habit of peeling the orange and removing the seeds before feeding the dog, don’t give too much as it may cause indigestion issues, leading to costly treatment. According to Pet Cube, some dogs can be allergic to limonene, a chemical found in orange peels. Therefore, you should take caution while introducing oranges to your dogs’ diet for the first time.”

The importance of feeding dogs with oranges

Oranges have high fiber, potassium and are an awesome source of vitamin C. However, many people tend to argue why one should feed their dog with oranges for Vitamin C when dogs can produce vitamin C independently. Vitamin C is crucial, and since even much of it cannot harm your dog, why not go ahead. According to the American Kennel Club, supplementing your dog with vitamin C is essential as it helps in reducing inflammation and cognitive aging. Vitamin C, fibers, and potassium offer other health benefits to your dog, like promoting a good digestive system and reducing the intake and absorption of natural sugars. Oranges are a healthy treat to dogs, especially if he has weight issues. Consider adding a piece of orange to your dog’s diet instead of adding other treats that add more sugar.

Can oranges be harmful to dogs?

Note that oranges are not harmful to dogs when fed in moderate potions. However, if you feed your dog with too many oranges, they might end up doing him more harm than good. As mentioned earlier, before you start feeding your dog with oranges, it is essential to consult with a vet because oranges can be harmful to dogs with some underlying conditions like diabetes and overweight problems. When feeding your dog an orange, keep checking their behavior; stop giving him the orange if you notice negative changes. If you touch his tummy after feeding him and he moves away or acts unusual, it’s time to see the vet and find out what could be the problem. Dogs with certain health conditions should avoid eating oranges. According to Pet MD, pet owners should not feed oranges to dogs that have diabetes or obesity. The natural sugar in oranges is not inherently harmful, but it can impact the levels of blood sugar in dogs with diabetes, and if fed in large amounts, can contribute to excess calories. The sugar found in oranges and their acidic nature may also cause stomach upset in certain dogs. Also avoid feeding oranges to dogs with sensitive gastrointestinal systems. All the treats you offer your dog, including oranges should not make up more than ten percent of the daily caloric intake of a pet. Therefore, adjust meal portions in the right manner.

Can I feed a whole orange to my dog?

First and foremost, don’t feed your dog with the whole orange. The peels of oranges are not good for your dog’s digestive system. They might cause dehydration, stomach upset, and in worst cases, vomiting and diarrhea. Peel off the orange and remove the white part and the seed before feeding your dog. Slice the orange into small pieces and let the dog enjoy the delicious fresh juice of the orange.

What happens if a dog swallows a whole orange?

Do not panic if you ever come across or your dog swallows a whole orange or peels. This might not harm them; however, it is not healthy to swallow a whole orange. Give them time and observe their reaction after swallowing. Some dogs will have no problem passing out the orange with time. If the dog develops any funny characteristics or uneasiness, contact your vet for assistance and check up to see how the issue might be resolved for your dog to be safe. If any symptoms persist or last a day, it is good to rush in for help. If you notice any of the signs below, take caution before it is too late. Look out for:

• Vomiting
• choking
• Drooling
• Moodlessness
• Diarrhea
• Stomach upset

Do all dog breeds eat oranges?

Yes, all dog breeds can eat oranges. However, their size and breed might determine the number of oranges slices or segments to intake. For large breed dogs, their capacity to eat an orange will not be the same as the small breeds, as their digestive systems vary. For smaller dogs, it is good to note their daily calories intake and sugar intake as oranges have high levels of natural sugar. Avoid feeding oranges daily and occasionally give them a snack or a treat. Puppies can be fed oranges, too but compared to adult dogs, they are highly likely to have stomach upsets from the oranges; thus, check out the quantity you are feeding them.

Orange juice or give it fresh?

Orange juice is not harmful to your dog, is it recommended not to feed it as the juice will have more sugar and acidity.