Yes, dogs can enjoy oranges and other fruits like them, like clementines and tangerines. In fact, these can be a dog’s favorite, special treats. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that can benefit their nose-to-tail health. But, as with all “people food,” moderation is key. While oranges offer a ton of nutritional benefits and can be hydrating during hot summer months, these fruits are also naturally high in sugar. For all dogs, regardless of size, sugar can be detrimental to their health long-term. So, you should always feed your dog a moderate serving.
But how much should you give your dog? Can your dog enjoy oranges every day? Are there any other fruits better suited for a dog’s diet? Should you add oranges to your pet’s kibble or let them enjoy this fruit as a stand-alone treat?
In this article, we’ll answer the most common questions about whether dogs can eat oranges. We’ll cover how much your dog can safely have, how to serve oranges to them, and whether they should enjoy this fruit every day. (Spoiler alert: Oranges aren’t recommended in your dog’s daily diet.)
Key Takeaways
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Oranges can be a healthy, hydrating treat for dogs.
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Give oranges in moderation, peeled, and free of seeds, and pith.
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Serving size depends on your dog's weight.
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Oranges shouldn't be a daily food.
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Avoid orange juice and other store-bought orange-based products.
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Puppies can have small amounts after transitioning to solid foods.
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Always consult your vet before introducing new foods, especially for dogs with health issues.
How Many Oranges Can Your Dog Have?
Before you dish out a whole, uncut orange, you’ll want to peel the citrus fruit and tear it into slices. All dogs, regardless of size, should consume an entire orange in one sitting. This is naturally too much sugar for them to ingest at once and may result in an upset stomach.
Once you’ve peeled back the orange’s skin, try to remove all seeds and pith (the fibrous, white strings). These parts of the orange can be detrimental to your dog’s health, and they’re best avoided.
After you have just the fleshy part of the orange in hand, here’s a helpful serving guide for your dog based on their weight.
Extra small dogs (2-20 pounds): ½ of an orange piece
Breeds in this range include Dachshunds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Rat Terriers, and Yorkies.
Small dogs (21-30 pounds): ½ of an orange piece
Breeds in this range include Cocker Spaniels and Bull Terriers.
Large dogs (31-90): One orange piece
Breeds in this range include Border Collies, American Staffordshire Terriers, Australian Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers.
Extra-large dogs (90+ pounds): Up to two orange pieces
Breeds in this range include Bullmastiffs, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Saint Bernards.
If your dog is new to oranges, let them sniff the slice out first. New foods may not always sit right in your dog’s tummy. So, after they enjoy this treat, keep an eye on them. Look for signs of an upset stomach. You can always start off with a smaller serving to see if your dog naturally gravitates toward this fruit. If oranges just aren’t their thing, dogs also love a wide range of other fruits, like apples, strawberries, watermelon, and blueberries. But remember, moderation is key.
Are Oranges Good for Dogs?
For humans, oranges offer a ton of nutritional benefits outside of their tasty, citrus flavors. And they can deliver these same benefits to your dog. With their vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, oranges give your dog a natural boost of healthy compounds.
What Nutrients Are in Oranges?
Some key nutrients in oranges are:
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Vitamin C
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Potassium
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Fiber
Can Dogs Eat Orange Juice?
Sadly, one of our favorite morning drinks, orange juice, should not be in your dog’s diet. Orange juice contains a heavy helping of sugars, preservatives, and additives that can be detrimental to your dog’s health. It’s best to stick with just fresh, peeled oranges.
Can Your Dog Eat Oranges Every Day?
While your dog may love the idea of oranges every day, this isn’t great for their long-term health. We always recommend pet owners follow the 90/10 Rule when giving their dogs treats. 90% of your dog’s diet should consist of “dog food,” either kibble or homemade dog food. 10% of their diet can consist of treats and “people food.” And unfortunately, oranges fall into that last category. So, make sure that only 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake is from dog treats, like oranges.
Can Puppies Eat Oranges?
Yes, puppies can eat oranges in moderation and after they’ve graduated to harder foods.
Are Oranges Bad for Dogs?
Oranges can be healthy, but they’re also high in natural sugars. For many dogs, especially overweight and diabetic dogs, natural sugars can be harmful. To see if it’s safe for your dog to eat oranges, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian before changing their diet.
Do Oranges Help With Your Dog’s Immune Health?
While oranges offer numerous immune-boosting benefits, this fruit might not go far enough. If you’d like to strengthen your dog’s immune system, check out our Immunity Dog Chews, made with natural adaptogens and antioxidants for nose-to-tail health.
More FAQs About Dogs & Oranges
Can dogs eat orange peels?
Dogs should not eat orange peels, seeds, or pith (the fruit’s white fibrous strings). When you’re preparing oranges for your dog, make sure to only give them the main, fleshy part of the fruit.
Can dogs eat tangerines?
Yes, dogs can eat tangerines, but make sure to prepare them like you would an orange: peel off all the skin, take out the seeds, and remove the pith.
Can dogs be allergic to oranges?
Yes, believe it or not, some dogs can be allergic to oranges and other kinds of fruits. If you’re worried about your dog’s allergies, it’s best to consult your veterinarian.
Can dogs eat clementines?
Yes, dogs can eat clementines, but make sure to prepare them like you would an orange: peel off all the skin, take out the seeds, and remove the pith.
Can dogs eat apples?
Yes, dogs can eat apples, and most dogs love this crunchy fruit! Just make sure to remove the core and seeds before serving apples to your dog.
