Yes, dogs can eat oranges in moderation. Some people may think that oranges are not suitable for dogs to eat because they could cause kidney failure. However, there is no conclusive evidence that oranges are bad for your dog. Consult your vet before introducing any food to your pet.
Table of Contents
What is an Orange?
Orange is a citrus fruit often eaten as a breakfast or as a dessert. It has a round shape, and it is easily peeled. Orange belongs to the Rutaceae family. This family is also known as the Citrus family, which includes over 400 genera and 7,500 species. The color of orange can vary from yellow to red, depending on how ripe it is.
Other fruits of the Citrus family are lemons, limes, grapefruit, kumquats, and pummelos.
Nutritional facts
An orange weighing 131 grams provides
Nutrition
Values
Calories
61.6
Fat
0.16 grams
Potassium
237 milligrams
Carbohydrate
15.4 grams
Sugar
12.2 grams
Protein
1.23 grams
Are Oranges Safe for Dogs?
Yes, oranges are safe, but in limited amounts.Oranges can boost the immune system due to their small amounts of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber content.
On the other hand, dogs aren’t toxic to oranges, but their digestive system isn’t designed to process large quantities of them because of their acidity and sugar content. Avoid feeding oranges to diabetic dogs.
Many dog owners have heard that citrus fruits might be dangerous for dogs to eat. The reason is that the acid in the fruit could cause damage to a dog’s digestive system. So, it’s not completely safe, and you should consult your vet before feeding them any fruits or vegetables.
Certain fruits, such as lemons and limes, have more sugar than other fruits, making them more dangerous.
Parts of oranges that are unhealthy
Seed: You should avoid feeding your dog the seeds, as they can cause gastrointestinal problems.
Pith: You should avoid feeding your dog the pith, as it can cause various issues.
Peel: You should avoid feeding your dog the peel, as it can cause digestive problems.
The skin: You should avoid feeding your dog the skin, as it can cause digestive issues.
The juice: You should avoid feeding your dog the juice, as it can cause digestive problems.
Dogs love oranges, but it can be challenging to get them to eat them. So, dog owners should feed their pets bite-sized pieces for easier consumption.
Why are Oranges Good for Dogs?
In general, oranges can be suitable for your dogs if they have healthy immune systems and no allergies. In addition, oranges are good for dogs to eat because they are rich in vitamin C and other necessary nutrients. Some dogs may have trouble with citrus fruits, and it is best to introduce them gradually over time.
It is a fact that dogs love eating oranges. But, do you know that oranges contain vitamin C, which helps fight off infections and strengthen your immune system? It also contains antioxidants that help with cancer prevention. And finally, it has a lot of beta carotene, vital for healthy skin and eyes.
Here are some benefits of feeding oranges to your dog:
1. Excellent Source of Dietary Fiber
Orange is the most popular fruit globally, and it’s good for many things. First, they are healthy, sweet, and juicy fruits. It has a lot of dietary fiber that is important for your health.
Oranges are a great source of dietary fiber as they contain mostly insoluble fiber. This type of fiber is vital for the health of the digestive system. In addition, this type of fiber can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. Vitamin C
Oranges contain plenty of vitamin C. This vitamin is essential for healthy skin, immune system, and teeth. It also helps with the prevention of scurvy. Vitamin C is also crucial for collagen production, which helps keep the skin healthy and robust. Collagen is also an essential protein for healthy bones and teeth. In addition, Vitamin C fights against the free radicals that cause cancer.
Vitamin C reduces the severity of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, it enhances iron absorption and fights against anemia.
Also, Vitamin C slows down age-related macular degeneration (AMD), leading to vision loss. Above all, it lowers blood pressure and cortisol, the stress hormone, ensuring your pet’s heart health.
3. Vitamin A
Oranges also contain vitamin A, an essential vitamin for your dog’s eyes. This vitamin is vital for healthy vision and your dog’s skin.
4. Vitamin B-6
Oranges are also a great source of Vitamin B-6, essential for a dog’s nervous system. It is also necessary for healthy skin and coat.
5. Healthy Bones
Oranges are also a good source of vitamin K, which is vital for healthy bones. It is also a good source of calcium.
6. Great Source of Carotenoids
Oranges are a great source of beta-carotene, an essential carotenoid for your dog’s eyes.
7. Healthy Treat Alternative for Overweight Dogs
Oranges are an excellent source of fiber, and it is a great treat for overweight dogs. Also, oranges are low in calories and can help control weight when fed in moderation.
8. Keeps Your Dog Active
Oranges are a good source of potassium, necessary for a dog’s heart. They are also a great source of magnesium, which is vital for developing bones and teeth.
Other benefits of feeding oranges to your dog include:
Oranges will keep your dog’s coat shiny and healthy.
It will give your dog a natural energy boost because of the fruit’s vitamin C and vitamin A.
Oranges can help prevent intestinal worms in dogs.
It is an antioxidant-rich food for your dog’s health. Antioxidants reduce inflammation and help in fighting against diseases.
Also, it contains pectin, which can help keep your dog’s teeth clean.
Oranges have high water content that keeps your dog hydrated.
The nutrients found in oranges are essential for a well-balanced diet that promotes a healthy digestive system.
Why are Oranges Bad for Dogs?
You shouldn’t give your dog too much fruit in general. Moderation and portion size are essential. For example, you should only provide your dog a wedge or two of orange at a time and watch for any side effects.
If your dog has an under-active thyroid, you should avoid giving them oranges, as they may cause problems.
Giving a dog too much fiber can cause digestive problems. Oranges are a fiber-rich food. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or digestive issues, start with a small piece and watch how much you feed him.
Oranges naturally contain sugars. Healthy dogs are rarely affected by this. However, if your dog has diabetes, even a tiny amount of sugar could cause an adverse reaction, so oranges may not be a good treat for him.
Fruit that has been treated should also not be given to your dog. Pesticide-sprayed oranges are a good example.
Types of cooking methods that make oranges bad for dogs
1. Grilling
It would help if you didn’t grill oranges because the high heat will kill the nutrients in the fruit.
2. Baking
Baking can be a great way to preserve fruit. However, when baking, the high heat will destroy the nutrients in the fruit.
3. Boiling
You should avoid boiling oranges, as the high heat will destroy the nutrients in the fruit.
How Many Oranges to Feed Your Dog?
Quantity
Oranges are pretty juicy and very nutritious, but they also have many calories. It is not unusual for an adult dog to eat between 1.5 and 2 pounds of oranges a day.
Frequency
A dog with a healthy diet and exercise program will usually eat 3 to 4 pounds of oranges a day.
How to Serve Oranges to Dogs?
It would be best if you only fed your fresh dog oranges, not canned or frozen ones. This is because canned or frozen oranges can be very hard to digest. Fresh oranges can be given to dogs as a treat or a healthy snack.
Things To Look For while feeding oranges to a dog
Orange should be ripe and not too hard.
The fruit should not be too big.
If it’s going to take more than one piece of fruit to fill the entire dog’s mouth, you should break it into half first, so that your dog does not choke on the peel of the orange.
The treats you give your dog (including fruit like oranges) should never exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake, so make sure to adjust portion sizes accordingly.
The average small dog does not need to eat more than two sections of a medium-sized orange, while the average large dog can eat four.
Here are Some Orange Serving Ideas
Dogs can be fed orange slices instead of whole oranges, which are easier to digest.
You can also feed oranges to prevent skin conditions such as mange, ear mites, and other allergies.
Giving your dog frozen oranges is an excellent way to provide healthy snacks, especially if you have an overweight dog.
Feeding your dog oranges as a treat is a perfect way to reward your dog when he has done a fantastic job.
What if My Dog Ate Oranges?
Dogs can eat oranges in moderation. However, some dogs may face these harmful consequences after consuming them.
The harmful consequences the dog faces after consuming oranges are:
Orange peels can be difficult for the digestive system to break down, causing indigestion in the stomach.
Some dogs are allergic to oranges.
Oranges are high in acid content, which can cause damage to the teeth.
Uncut oranges can pose a choking hazard for dogs.
Oranges can cause diarrhea or constipation.
Suppose your dog accidentally or consciously eats large amounts of oranges. In that case, he exhibits the following symptoms:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Weakness
Lethargy
Behavioral changes
Depression
Drooling
Intestinal obstruction
Muscle tremors and spasms
Gastrointestinal issues
Digestive problems
Take your dog to the vet if his condition worsens after orange consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How will a dog react if it eats an orange?
Your dog may develop digestive issues and an upset stomach if he eats too many oranges.
2. Is it safe for dogs to eat orange peels?
Orange peels are not toxic to dogs, but the fruit’s outer skin, which is difficult to digest, should permanently be removed before giving your pet oranges.
Dogs are not allowed to drink that little glass of sunshine. Despite being non-toxic to dogs, orange juice is high in sugar and very acidic. So, it is not recommended as a treat.
4. Can Puppies Eat Oranges?
Yes, puppies can eat oranges in moderation.
Final Thoughts
There is a great debate whether or not it is healthy to feed oranges to dogs.
Some say that oranges are bad for dogs because they contain a lot of sugar, while others argue that they are good for your dog because of the Vitamin C. On top of that, some say that feeding oranges to a dog can lead them to obesity and various health problems.
There is no conclusive evidence on either side, but experts argue that it is best if you follow your vet’s advice when you decide whether or not to provide your pet with fresh fruit and vegetables.
