Sep 13, 2024
Dogs can eat oranges, but with all kinds of foods, these should only be given in moderation. These tangy and juicy fruits are good for dogs, bringing in essential nutrients and vitamins that help them become healthy and happy. On hot, sunny days, these fruits can also become refreshing snacks to help them continue their adventures!
Are Oranges Safe for Dogs?
Oranges are generally safe for dogs, and they pose no threat to their health. However, proper feeding is needed to make sure your dog does not eat anything that should not be eaten, such as seeds and fruit peels. Here are some reminders for when dogs eat oranges:
What Orange Parts Can Dogs Eat?
Orange Fruit
The fruit or flesh of the orange is the safest part to eat, as it also gives the most benefits. It’s full of nutrients and water, giving your dog a boost in nutrition from a single bite.
Orange Peel
The skin or peel of the orange is very dangerous for dogs to consume. This is very hard to digest and can cause choking and other digestive issues. The skin can also have trace pesticides when not washed properly, which can become dangerous for your dog.
Orange Seeds
Like many other fruit seeds, orange seeds can have cyanide in them, which can be dangerous when taken in large amounts. In addition to this, the seeds can block your dog’s gastrointestinal tract, leading to more health problems.
Which Dogs Can Safely Eat Oranges?
Most dogs can enjoy oranges without a problem, but some dogs with certain health conditions should avoid them:
Diabetic Dogs
Because oranges have high amounts of sugar, dogs with diabetes or problems with their blood sugar content should avoid oranges, as they could cause blood sugar spikes. Make sure to ask the vets for foods your diabetic dogs can eat.
Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
The acidity in oranges may upset the stomachs of dogs that are prone to digestive issues. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, it’s best to introduce oranges slowly and monitor their reaction.
What Nutrients Do Oranges Give Dogs?
Just from this small orange fruit comes a variety of benefits your dog can receive, even from a single treat. Here are the nutrients your dog can get from this juicy and refreshing fruit:
Vitamin C
Oranges are great sources of vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that helps strengthen your dog’s immune system. It helps keep free radicals from entering and destroying your dog’s body, and it reduces oxidative stress. This is especially beneficial for dogs experiencing health issues or stress.
While dogs naturally produce their own Vitamin C, supplemental sources can be helpful in certain situations, such as when they’re sick or under physical stress.
Other great sources of Vitamin C you can pair with oranges are strawberries and spinach. However, remember that these should only be given moderately to prevent excessive sugar intake.
Fiber
The fiber content in oranges helps a lot in healthy digestion, allowing your dog’s body to regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. Fiber is especially useful for dogs who need a little extra digestive support or those who are on weight management plans. Fiber-rich foods help dogs feel fuller longer, reducing their urge to overeat.
Other sources of fiber include potatoes and carrots. These foods are a great addition to your dog’s main meal, as they can complement its protein intake.
Potassium
Oranges are also a good source of potassium, an important electrolyte that helps maintain healthy muscle and nerve function in dogs. Potassium supports proper heart and muscle activity, making it an essential part of your dog’s diet. It also helps regulate fluids in the body, which is important for hydration and overall health.
If you’re looking for other great sources of potassium, bananas and potatoes, have good amounts. They also have good amounts of fiber, so you can hit two needs at once!
Calcium
Calcium is a great way to keep your dog’s teeth and bones strong. By doing so, you’ll be able to help them explore more with fewer injuries. It also plays a huge part in keeping muscle function, heart health, and blood clotting. Calcium is especially important for puppies and older dogs to support healthy bone development and maintenance.
Oranges provide a small boost of calcium, though not as much as some other foods. If you’re looking for foods with greater amounts of calcium, broccoli and small amounts of cheese are good options.
Water
Dogs need to stay hydrated, especially during playtime. Oranges are composed of about 86% water, which makes them a refreshing snack for your dog, especially during hot weather or after exercise. Good practice of healthy hydration helps clean your dog’s urinary tract, aids in digestion, prevents heat stroke, and improves overall well-being.
Besides oranges and water, cucumbers and watermelons are good sources of water for your dog. Mix them up so you can mentally stimulate them in the process!
How to Safely Feed Oranges to Dogs?
Now that we’ve covered both the benefits and risks of feeding oranges to dogs, it’s important to know how to serve them safely. When done correctly, oranges can be a fun and healthy treat for your dog. Our vets will guide you on foods you can give your dog. But in the meantime, here’s a guide on how to safely add oranges to your dog’s diet:
Start with Small Portions
When introducing any new food to your dog, it’s best to start with a small amount to see how they react. Offer small amounts, like one or two pieces of a seedless orange, to check if your dog likes the fruit.
If your dog enjoys the taste and has no negative reactions after a few hours, you can offer oranges occasionally as a treat. Avoid overfeeding them with oranges to control their blood sugar content.
Remove Seeds and Fruit Peel
The most important part of giving oranges to dogs is to safely prepare them. Dogs eat these fruits directly without knowing which is which. This is why it’s important to remove the seeds and fruit peels before feeding your dog.
The orange peel is super tough, which can cause choking and gastrointestinal issues, while the seeds may contain small amounts of harmful compounds and can also pose a choking hazard.
Peel the orange completely and remove all seeds. Cut the flesh into bite-sized pieces to make it easy for your dog to chew and swallow.
Monitor Your Dog
Some dogs may have sensitive stomachs, and even a small amount of orange could cause issues. After giving your dog a piece of orange for the first time, monitor their behavior for the next 24 hours.
Common symptoms of digestive upset and issues include diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, or excessive gas. If you notice any of these signs, stop feeding oranges and consult our vets immediately.
Consider Your Dog’s Size and Health Condition
Your dog’s size and health condition will help you determine how much orange is appropriate for them. Small dogs and puppies should only be given very small portions, while larger dogs may be able to handle a bit more.
Additionally, dogs with health problems, such as diabetes or digestive sensitivities, should avoid oranges altogether. Here are a few tips:
Small Dogs
For puppies and small dogs, such as Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and Beagles, try giving only a single piece of orange. Avoid giving more, as an orange’s sugar content is high.
Medium Dogs
For medium-sized dogs, such as Pit Bulls, Basset Hounds, and German Shepherds, about two pieces should be good for them. It’ll be a good treat to give after a sweaty playtime and will be a good way to bond.
Large Dogs
Large dogs, such as Saint Bernards and Newfoundlands, can have two or three pieces of a seedless orange. If their stomachs react, reduce this number to two and continue monitoring your dog.
Offer as a Fun Treat
You can make the experience of giving your dog oranges more enjoyable by making it a fun treat. Take the pieces of small oranges and create something fun with them. Here are a few ideas you can do:
Fruit Smoothie
Oranges can be mixed with other healthy fruits, such as strawberries, bananas, and other fruits, to make cold and refreshing smoothies for your dog. However, be sure not to add any sugar as the sugar content of these fruits is already high.
Frozen Oranges
Open up an orange and remove the seeds. Next up, separate the orange slices and freeze them up in the freezer. Once they are ready, give only one or two pieces and save the rest for the next treat.
Food Pair
Oranges can also be given together with your dog’s main meal. This adds a new texture and flavor, which most dogs love.
Ice Cream or Yogurt
Blend the oranges with plain, sugar-free, and xylitol-free yogurt or ice cream. This combination makes the treat more interesting and gives your dog a mental boost.
Conclusion
Oranges are great ways to give your dog a sweet and refreshing treat. Because they have good amounts of Vitamin C, fiber, potassium, calcium, and water, these juicy fruits can boost your dog’s immune system, support digestion, and help keep them hydrated.
With their every meal, let’s keep our dogs excited. If you want to know more about what your dogs can eat, just contact our clinic so we can provide the help you need.