Why
The flesh of an orange is not toxic to dogs. Oranges provide vitamin C, potassium and fiber, although most dogs already get what they need from a balanced dog food. Many dogs are put off by the strong citrus smell, which is fine.
The peel is the main concern. It is tough to digest and can cause an intestinal blockage, and its oils can irritate the stomach. The ASPCA lists the orange tree as toxic to dogs because the skins and plant material contain essential oils and psoralens, though it notes that the fruit itself is edible. Oranges also contain sugar and acid, which can cause diarrhea if a dog eats too much.
What to watch out for
- Peel, which can cause a blockage or stomach irritation
- Seeds, which are hard to digest
- Diarrhea or gas from the sugar and acid
- Sugar content for dogs with diabetes or weight problems
- Orange juice, which is high in sugar and very acidic
How to serve it
- Peel the orange, remove the seeds and pull off as much of the white pith as you can.
- Offer one segment, or half a segment for a small dog, cut into small pieces.
- Keep discarded peels in a closed bin your dog cannot open.
- Stop if your dog gets loose stool or seems uncomfortable.
How much?
A small dog can have half an orange segment and a large dog one or two segments, once or twice a week.
Mandarins, tangerines and other citrus
Mandarins, tangerines and clementines are piled high in many homes during the winter and around Lunar New Year. PetMD says these are safe in moderation if they are peeled, seedless and given in small amounts. They are sweet, so they count toward the treat allowance just like oranges.
Not all citrus is a good idea. PetMD advises avoiding lemons and limes, which contain high amounts of citric acid and compounds such as limonene and linalool, especially in the peel. Grapefruit is also too acidic to recommend.
My dog ate orange peels
Orange peels are tough, and a dog that pulls a pile of them out of the trash can swallow more than its stomach can easily handle. The oils in the peel can cause vomiting and diarrhea. A large amount of peel can also form a blockage, especially in a small dog or one that gulps its food.
Call your vet if your dog ate a lot of peel, if it is small, or if it keeps vomiting, refuses food or seems to have belly pain. Do not try to make it vomit at home unless your vet tells you to.
Orange juice and orange-flavored foods
PetMD notes that orange juice is non-toxic to dogs but is not recommended as a treat because it is high in sugar and very acidic. Without the fiber of the whole fruit, it is easy for a dog to take in a lot of sugar quickly.
Orange-flavored candy, jelly and drinks add even more sugar, and some sugar-free versions contain xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs. Check the label before you share any orange-flavored snack.
Common questions
Are oranges good for dogs?
Yes, as an occasional treat. The flesh of an orange is not toxic to dogs. Oranges provide vitamin C, potassium and fiber, although most dogs already get what they need from a balanced dog food.
Are oranges bad for dogs?
Not in sensible amounts. The main thing to watch: peel, which can cause a blockage or stomach irritation.
Are dogs allowed to have oranges?
Yes. Peel the orange, remove the seeds and pull off as much of the white pith as you can.
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List – Dogs.
- PetMD. Can Dogs Eat Oranges? Benefits, Risks, and Feeding Tips.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicology section.
- American Kennel Club (AKC). “Can Dogs Eat…?” article series.
If your dog has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. Do not wait for symptoms. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).