Can dogs eat Oranges?

Are oranges healthy for dogs?

Yes, oranges have a lot of health benefits for pooches because they’re packed full of vitamins and are low in fat and calories.

That said, they’re high in natural sugars and could cause stomach upset if fed too often, or in too large a quantity. Some dogs don’t like the smell of citrus and may turn their noses up - if this happens, it’s very common, so not a cause for concern.

What are the health benefits of oranges?

Let us talk you through the health benefits of oranges for dogs.

• Vitamin C - An immunity booster and great for reducing inflammation.
  
  
• Vitamin A & Vitamin B - For healthy skin, coat and vision - as well as boosted metabolism and brain function. 
  
  
• Burst of antioxidants - Protect your dog from harmful free radicals, and could help reduce the chance of cancer and other diseases.
  
  
• Fibre - For boosting gut health, digestion and firmer poops.
  
  
• Potassium - Maintains proper heart and kidney function and aids muscle contractions.
  
  
• Low in calories - For a juicy, healthy treat that can boost hydration in your dog.

Can puppies eat oranges?

You can feed a puppy a small amount of orange, but be sure it’s an easily munchable piece without any seeds or peel. 

Their small tummies are still developing and will be sensitive, so too much orange may cause stomach upset. Introduce orange slowly to your pup, and discontinue feeding if they have any untoward effects like diarrhoea or gas. 

When are oranges unsafe for dogs?

Oranges can be unsafe for dogs if they still have peel attached, seeds, or tough bits that your dog can choke on. This especially applies to smaller dogs. Too large a quantity of orange can also cause stomach upset in pooches, so only feed them one or two slices a day. 

Of course, if your dog’s allergic to orange or citrus fruits, then they’ll be very unsafe for them to eat. If you’ve not fed your pooch any orange flesh before, give them a small amount and monitor their reactions for a few hours before giving them any more.

Are oranges harmful to dogs?

No, oranges aren’t harmful to dogs. They can cause digestive problems if fed in large amounts (don’t drop a couple of oranges in your dog’s bowl, for instance), and you shouldn’t feed your dog orange peel. 

The seeds can also be a choking hazard. But so long as the orange is prepared correctly, it can be great as a healthy snack.

Can oranges make dogs sick?

Oranges are generally harmless to dogs, but can make them sick if:

• They’re allergic to orange
  
  
• You’ve fed them too much orange
  
  
• The orange had the peel still attached
  
  
• Seeds or pips in the orange may be a choking hazard
  
  
• The orange was spoiled or past its best
  

Can dogs eat oranges safely?

Yes, dogs can eat oranges - just make sure to prepare it well. It should be a ripe, fresh orange, with all peel, tough bits and seeds removed. Only feed a dog a slice or two in one sitting.

How much orange can dogs eat?

The amount of orange a dog can safely eat depends on the dog’s size, breed and age. In general, a small amount is always best - ideally, a slice or two of orange a day and no more. Too much orange can cause digestive issues as the fruit is high in natural sugars.

What kinds of oranges can dogs eat?

There are many different types of oranges, and parts of an orange, so let’s go into which are safe for dogs to munch on.

Can dogs eat orange peel?

No, never feed your pooch orange peel. Not only is it tough and hard to digest (and not very tasty), a piece of orange peel may be a choking hazard or in serious cases, an intestinal obstruction. 

What’s more, the oils in the peel can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, and dehydration. Some orange peel could have toxic compounds present or traces of pesticides. Stick to only feeding the orange flesh with pith and pips removed.

Can dogs drink orange juice or squash?

No - orange juice is way too sugary for a dog to consume. There’s no reason to feed them orange juice in any form, not freshly squeezed, from concentrate or as a squash.

Can dogs eat satsumas?

Giving your dog a slice or two of satsuma won’t cause them any harm and can be a nutritious, bite-sized snack full of vitamins. Satsumas are full of vitamin C, great for immune function, and dietary fibre. They’re also low in calories. Be sure to remove all seeds and peel from the satsuma, and only feed small pieces.

Can dogs eat mandarins?

Yes, dogs can eat small amounts of mandarin oranges. Be sure to remove seeds and peel and give them bite-sized pieces. Don’t go overboard with the portion size, as this can cause stomach issues - but in small amounts mandarin can provide dogs with a burst of citrussy vitamins.

Can dogs eat tangerines?

Dogs can eat tangerines as a healthy, juicy snack - so long as it’s only a slice or two in one serving. Be sure to remove the seeds, peel and chop into bite-sized pieces, and your pooch will receive health benefits such as Vitamin C, dietary fibre and antioxidants.

Can dogs eat blood oranges?

Yes, blood oranges can also be a juicy snack for your dog that has many health benefits. Just like with other oranges, be sure to prepare it safely; peel and seeds removed, and in a small portion (just one or two slices) to avoid your pooch getting a stomach upset.

Conclusion

• In summary, oranges have a host of health benefits for a dog as they’re high in vitamins, fibre and water content. They can be included as part of a healthy, rounded diet for your dog.
  
  
• It’s crucial to prepare the orange safely for your dog to eat - remove the peel, pith and seeds and cut into small pieces. Never feed your dog orange peel.
  
  
• Introduce oranges in small portions to your dog - don’t feed more than one or two slices a day. This is because oranges are high in natural sugars and can cause stomach upset in large amounts.
  
  
• Oranges can exacerbate existing health problems. Don’t feed oranges to your pooch if they have diabetes, for instance. Consult your vet if you aren’t sure.

What other fruits can dogs safely eat?

If you like the thought of oranges as a healthy snack for your pooch, you might like the following alternatives.

• Apples are a high-fibre fruity snack for dogs that can boost gut health and digestion.
  
  
• Watermelon is another juicy, sweet treat for dogs that, like oranges, can hydrate them on hot days.
  
  
• Pumpkin is a nutrient-rich fruit for pooches, and tastes delicious either on its own or as a grain-free dog food with pumpkin.

If you’re looking for healthy treats and foods for your dog, our healthy dog treats are packed full of nutritious ingredients to satisfy your pooch in both body and mind.