Can Dogs Eat Oranges?

Dogs can eat oranges, and they can be a pretty good snack for them! They are juicy, tasty, sweet, and easy to digest. But, like with all citrus fruits, it’s important that you don’t overdo it. No matter how sweet they are, oranges are still a bit acidic and can upset your dog’s stomach.

Table Of Contents

Are oranges good for dogs?
Can dogs eat orange peels? Are they toxic to dogs?
- What about orange seeds, are they toxic?
If oranges are okay for dogs, can dogs drink orange juice?
When not to give your dog oranges
FAQs

Unlike some really sour citrus fruits like lemons and limes, oranges are sweet and easier on the stomach, so your dog can enjoy them a bit. Similar to how dogs can eat tangerines and even grapefruit, dogs can have some oranges—but always without the peel!

Are oranges good for dogs?

It’s hard to say, as dogs don’t need too much fiber or extra sugar from fruit, but oranges are safe for dogs and can be a good snack. Good snacking means that you give your dog healthy foods but not more than 10% of the time, as 90% of their diet should be their dog food, which has balanced macronutrients.

Anything more than 10%, even when it’s low-calorie fruit like oranges, is not recommended.

Oranges are a good source of vitamins and minerals and also very hydrating, so your dog may enjoy them as a treat after a walk or run. Oranges are high in:

Vitamin C – dogs actually don’t need vitamin C from food, as they make their own in the liver, but it’s still good to know that oranges are high in vitamin C and antioxidants that help with overall health and immune support.

Potassium – this is an important mineral that maintains good heart and kidney health, and it also plays a role in muscle function.

Fiber – oranges are rich in fiber, which helps us feel fuller for longer, supports a healthy gut microbiome, and supports healthy bowel movements. But be careful; dogs don’t need too much fiber in their diet!

Can dogs eat orange peels? Are they toxic to dogs?

Dogs shouldn’t eat orange peels. They aren’t toxic, but they are incredibly hard to chew and digest. As they taste very bitter, it’s highly unlikely your dog will eat a whole orange with the peel, but you should still be careful.

While not toxic, orange peels can upset your dog’s stomach and make digestion difficult. They can even cause internal blockage and gastrointestinal upset. You can expect some bloating, gas, and difficulty pooping, but this is usually temporary.

What about orange seeds, are they toxic?

Orange seeds are not toxic, as they don’t contain cyanide like apple or cherry pits, so if your dog swallows some, you don’t need to worry about that. The main problem with orange seeds—if you have a small dog—is that there’s a possibility they could choke, but the seeds are pretty small, so it’s unlikely. When your dog eats orange seeds, they will pass through their system undigested, and that’s it.

If oranges are okay for dogs, can dogs drink orange juice?

No! Dogs can’t drink any fruit juice, especially orange juice, which is basically sugar and acid! It’s super hard for them to digest, as orange juice is very acidic and will upset their stomach.

Also, when you strip out the fiber and make juice, you’re left with just sugar, which has a different effect than when dogs eat oranges, as fiber slows down sugar absorption.

If your dog somehow drinks some of your orange juice, don’t worry, but don’t give them any on purpose.

When not to give your dog oranges

If your dog has a sensitive stomach, you shouldn’t give them any oranges or other acidic fruit. Some dogs may have sensitive stomachs and could experience gastrointestinal upset (like diarrhea or vomiting). You know your dog well, so give them what they like and can handle, and don’t worry about missing out on anything—they get their nutrients from their dog food!

Another thing that can upset your dog’s stomach is a lot of sugar! Healthy dogs can eat oranges, but if your dog has a medical condition, please don’t give them any fruit without talking to your vet first. Keep in mind that too much sugar can cause obesity or diabetes, so it’s your job to make sure that your dog doesn’t eat too much.

Love, life, and fur forever!

FAQs

Can dogs eat cutie oranges?

Yes, dogs can eat cutie oranges just like regular ones. Cuties are sweet mandarins, which are safe for all healthy dogs in small amounts. When you share them with your dog, make sure to peel them, remove seeds if you can, and give them a small amount so they don’t overeat.

Can dogs eat blood oranges?

Yes, dogs can eat blood oranges, but they may not like them very much. They are full of antioxidants and a bit acidic, so they can be a little intense on your dog’s stomach.

Can dogs eat halo oranges?

Yes, dogs can eat halo oranges, another type of mandarin, just like cuties! These are sweet, seedless, and super juicy. Similar to regular oranges or tangerines, just make sure to give your dog a small piece so they don’t overeat.