Yes, in very small quantities, according to veterinarians.
Oranges are full of healthy vitamins and nutrients like potassium and fiber. and low in sodium, which makes them a healthy snack if given in limited amounts: maybe one or two segments a day. This fruit is also full of vitamin C, which can benefit your dog’s immune system.
Are Oranges Good for Dogs?
Yes, again! The fleshy parts of oranges come loaded with nutrients that are good for your dog. These nutrients include:
Potassium: This mineral is essential for kidney function. Potassium also boosts heart, muscle, and digestive health for dogs.
Fiber: When it comes to digestive health, fiber helps dogs maintain a healthy balance within the gut. It also regulates the bowels and supports colon health while supporting reduced inflammation.
Vitamin C: Dogs synthesize vitamin C in their livers and don’t usually need it in their diet. That said, foods rich in vitamin C can be good for dogs. This is because the antioxidants within help promote a healthy immune system.
All these nutrients can benefit your dog in the right amounts.
When Are Oranges Bad for Dogs?
Peels and leaves aside, oranges can be bad for dogs if they eat too much.
Like many fruits, oranges contain a reasonable amount of sugar, which can lead to diabetes and may cause some gastrointestinal issues for your pup when consumed in high amounts.
Limit your dog’s daily consumption to one or two wedges from a peeled orange, and that should keep him from experiencing these issues.
As always, when introducing a new kind of food to your pet, it’s a good idea to feed your dog a small amount of an orange slice first. Then monitor him closely to make sure it agrees with his stomach.
If he seems to enjoy it, feel free to reward him with a larger tasty orange treat—but avoid overindulgence, as too many treats can lead to weight gain and obesity.
Besides, a little extra vitamin C for you wouldn’t hurt.
How Many Oranges Can Dogs Eat?
The size and breed of your dog may also affect how their body digests oranges.
A Husky or German Shepherd might be able to have two or three segments of orange with no problem, but a smaller breed like a Yorkie or Pomeranian would probably have an upset stomach if they ate that amount.
Also, the same amount of oranges would make up a much higher proportion of a smaller dog’s daily calorie and sugar intake compared to a larger dog.
All of the treats you give your dog (including any fruit such as oranges), should never make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake, so make sure to adjust meal portions accordingly.
Here are some general guidelines for safe feeding portions based on your dog’s weight and breed size. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian if you have questions about your dog’s diet.
- Extra-small dog (2-20 lbs.) = ½ orange segment
- Small dog (21-30 lbs.) = ½ orange segment
- Medium dog (31-50 lbs.) = 1 orange segment
- Large dog (51-90 lbs.) = 1-2 orange segments
- Extra-large dog (91+ lbs.) = 2 orange segments
Although oranges are not toxic to dogs, eating too many can cause an upset stomach because of the high sugar and citrus content. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms of an upset stomach:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite or loss of appetite
- Looking uncomfortable
- Licking their lips
- Gulping due to nausea
How to Feed Dogs Oranges in a Safe and Healthy Way
Before feeding your dog an orange, remove the skin and seeds, as these can cause an upset stomach. The white pith inside the peel may also be difficult for your pup to digest.
If you want to feed your pup oranges, you can create a pureed version of the fruit by blending orange segments without additional ingredients. This puree can easily be added to their regular food or used as a special treat.
Alternatively, you can also buy dehydrated oranges from pet stores or online retailers, which have been specially designed for animal consumption. These treats provide all the same nutritional benefits of fresh oranges and a crunchy texture that most dogs enjoy!
Always remember to monitor your pup when giving them something new so that you know how their body is responding to the food. Oranges are generally safe for dogs, but since every animal is different, it’s best to start with small amounts and adjust accordingly.
Also, make sure not to give them too many oranges as this could lead to an overload of Vitamin C, potentially leading to adverse health effects if consumed in excess.
