Can Dogs Eat Oranges? What You Need to Know

Is it OK to treat your dog to some fresh orange?

If you are not sure whether oranges are as good for canines as they are for us humans and how to safely feed your dog with these juicy citruses, then read on.

First of all, you can rest assured that oranges are not toxic for dogs. If it is prepped and given in the appropriate form and quantity, orange can become a very healthy treat for any pup.

Remember to speak with your vet before adding new human foods, including oranges, to your dog, especially if it has medical issues.

Most fruits are good for dogs, but only when eaten in moderation.

Small dogs should eat smaller orange pieces than larger dogs. And you should always remove the rind and the seeds before feeding an orange to your pup.

How can oranges be beneficial for the dog’s health?

These juicy citruses are packed with vitamin C. This antioxidant helps keep the cells healthy and boosts the dog’s immune system. Oranges also are natural sources of potassium, iron, and fiber. Plus, they are low in sodium, unlike other dog treats and scraps, which we are tempted to give to your pups.

Thanks to their vitamin C, oranges are especially beneficial for anxious or highly active canines that sometimes cannot produce sufficient amounts of this essential nutrient themselves.

When can oranges be harmful to canines?

Although they are an excellent source of healthy vitamins, minerals, and fiber, oranges, like most other fruits, are high in sugar content. So, overeating oranges, especially in smaller breeds, can lead to a spike in blood sugar. This is particularly bad for pups that are overweight or those who have diabetes.

Related: Can Dogs Drink Orange Juice? All You Need to Know

Too much of the natural sugar in oranges can also lead to digestive problems such are nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Another potential risk of giving oranges to dogs comes from feeding them with the parts that can cause choking or bowel obstructions. So, you should always remove the orange rind, the white lining, and the seeds and feed the dogs with the flesh of the fruit only. It would be best to cut the flesh into manageable pieces, especially for smaller animals. To stay safe, you may want to buy seedless navel oranges for your pup.

When introducing oranges to your dog’s menu, start with very small quantities. After that, monitor your pet for any adverse reactions, including digestive problems or allergic reactions.

Related: How much should I feed my dog? Factors to consider

So, should I give my dog oranges?

These delicious juicy fruits can be very beneficial for the health and wellbeing of your dog. But only when prepped properly and when fed in moderation.

To eliminate the guesswork about whether and how many oranges to give your dog, you should ask your veterinarian or nutritionist. They will determine whether your pup will benefit from this fruit and how much is safe to eat. This depends on the health and weight of your dog.

Have you tried feeding your fur baby with oranges? What were the results?