Can Dogs Eat Oranges?
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NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new foods, especially “people foods.” What might be OK for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on prescription diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet unless your veterinarian tells you it’s fine to do so.
Known for their vitamin C, oranges are a favorite fruit for many people. But when it comes to sharing food with pets, it’s important to know what’s safe and what’s not. So, can dogs eat oranges without concern?
In moderation, yes. Dogs can enjoy the fleshy part of oranges, as well as other varieties like tangerines, clementines, and mandarins, as long as they’re prepared correctly.
Here’s a closer look at the benefits of oranges, the potential risks, and how to safely include them in your dog’s diet.
Key Takeaways
- Dogs can eat oranges in moderation. The fleshy part is safe, but remove the peel, pith, and seeds first.
- Oranges provide some nutritional benefits. They contain vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants, but these are not essential because commercial dog food is already balanced.
- Not all dogs should have oranges. Because of their sugar and acidity, avoid giving oranges to dogs with diabetes, weight issues, or sensitive stomachs.
Can Dogs Have Oranges?
Yes, dogs can have oranges in moderation. Stick to the flesh, which is safest, and avoid the peel, pith (the white part), and seeds, which can be harder to digest and cause stomach upset.
Choose only plain, fresh orange slices rather than processed citrus products, which often contain added sugar or artificial ingredients.
If you’d prefer not to prepare oranges at home, you can also find store-bought dog food that include oranges as an ingredient. A few highly rated options include:
Are Oranges Good for Dogs?
While oranges aren’t an essential part of your dog’s diet, the fruit does have some nutrients that can benefit dogs in small amounts. Here are some of the top benefits of oranges for dogs:
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They have plenty of vitamin C. Vitamin C can support immune health and help reduce oxidative stress. Most dogs make enough vitamin C on their own, but a little extra from food isn’t harmful.
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They contain some fiber. The flesh of the orange provides dietary fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements and support gut health.
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They offer potassium for muscles and nerves. This electrolyte plays a key role in muscle contraction and nerve signaling, helping your dog stay active and healthy.
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They’re rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants, like flavonoids and carotenoids, may help protect cells from damage and support your dog’s overall health.
Because commercial dog food diets are nutritionally balanced, your dog should not require supplementation of any of these nutrients. But if your furry friend begs for this sweet treat, oranges can be enjoyed in small quantities.
Are Oranges Bad for Dogs?
Like all people foods, oranges should be given in moderation. While the fleshy part is safe for most dogs, there are a few risks to watch for:
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They have relatively high sugar. While the natural sugar in oranges is not inherently bad, it can affect the blood sugar levels of dogs with diabetes and can lead to excess calories if fed in large amounts. Do not feed oranges to dogs who are overweight or diagnosed with diabetes.
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Too many may upset the stomach. The acidity and sugar can cause digestive issues, including diarrhea or gas, especially in dog with sensitive stomachs.
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The peels and seeds are unsafe. Orange peels are tough to digest and can cause intestinal blockages, while the oils may irritate the stomach. Always remove the peel and seeds before serving.
How Many Oranges Can a Dog Eat?
Treats, including dog-safe fruit like oranges, should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. The rest should come from a well-balanced dog food.
Here are some general guidelines for safe feeding portions based on your dog’s weight and breed size. Consult with your veterinarian if you have questions about your dog’s diet.
| Dog Size | Serving Size | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Extra-small dogs (2–10 pounds) | 1/2 orange segment | 1–2 times per week |
| Small dogs (11–20 pounds) | 1 orange segment | 1–2 times per week |
| Medium dogs (21–50 pounds) | 1 1/2 orange segments | 1–2 times per week |
| Large dogs (51–90 pounds) | 2 orange segments | 1–2 times per week |
| Extra-large dogs (91+ pounds) | 2 1/2 orange segments | 1–2 times per week |
How To Safely Feed Oranges to Dogs
If you’re ready to feed your pup oranges, you’ll want to prep the fruit first:
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Wash the oranges thoroughly.
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Peel them.
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Remove any seeds.
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Cut them into small pieces.
Once that’s done, there are many ways you can safely serve up this citrus treat:
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As a snack: Use the portion guide and offer a plain orange segment.
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As a food topper: Mix chopped or blended oranges into your dog’s usual food.
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Frozen in a KONG toy: Blend orange pieces, stuff into your a KONG toy, and freeze.
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In a fruit smoothie: Blend oranges with bananas and blueberries. Serve in small amounts or freeze.
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Mixed with yogurt: Combine orange with plain, sugar-free, and xylitol-free yogurt.
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As popsicles: Put the fruit-yogurt mixture into an ice cube or popsicle tray and freeze. You can even use a bully stick as the popsicle stick.
Can Dogs Have Other Types of Citrus?
While ripe oranges, tangerines, and clementines are safe for dogs in moderation, it’s best to avoid other citrus fruits, like grapefruits, lemons, and limes. These are too acidic and can be irritating to your dog’s stomach.
If you want to share other safe fruits with your pup, try:
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Bananas
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Blueberries
You can also find commercial dog treats that feature fruit as a key ingredient. Some popular options include:
Can Dogs Eat Oranges FAQs
Can dogs eat tangerines?
Yes, dogs can eat tangerines in moderation. Like oranges, they’re high in sugar, so keep portions small and avoid giving them to dogs with diabetes or weight concerns.
Can dogs eat mandarins?
Yes, mandarins are safe for dogs to eat. Make sure they’re peeled, seedless, and fed in small amounts as an occasional treat.
Can dogs eat orange peels?
No, dogs should not eat orange peels or seeds. The peel is difficult to digest and could lead to intestinal obstruction. It also contains oils that can upset your dog’s stomach, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and possibly dehydration. Always peel the orange and remove seeds before feeding it to your dog.
Can dogs have orange juice?
While orange juice is non-toxic to dogs, it’s not recommended as a treat. Orange juice is high in sugar and very acidic.
Can puppies eat oranges?
Yes, puppies can eat oranges. But because puppies are more likely to have an upset stomach than adult dogs and are more sensitive to the high acid content, extra care is warranted. Only offer a tiny piece at first and be sure to remove the peel and seeds.
