Can Dogs Eat Orange Peels? A Vet’s Opinion

Orange peels are the thick, bumpy outer layer of an orange fruit that can be used in cooking, cleaning, and aromatherapy. But can you feed orange peels to your dog?

It may be tempting to feed your dog orange peels, but it’s not a good idea. The high acidity and essential oils in orange peels can cause digestive issues. Ingesting large amounts of orange peel may also cause blockages in the digestive tract or choking hazards. It’s best to avoid giving orange peels to your dog and stick to feeding them dog-appropriate foods.

Let’s dive in:

Benefits Of Orange Peels For Dogs

Orange peels contain specific vitamins and minerals; some studies have suggested they may benefit humans. However, there are no proven benefits of feeding orange peels to dogs. Orange peels contain the following vitamins and minerals:

• Vitamin C: This antioxidant is vital for maintaining a healthy immune system, which is essential for fighting off infections and diseases. It can also promote healthy skin and coat, as it helps produce collagen, a protein crucial for maintaining the strength and elasticity of the skin.
• Vitamin A: This vitamin is essential for maintaining good vision, as it helps to keep the eyes healthy and can improve night vision. It also plays a role in supporting the immune system, which helps dogs fight off infections and diseases. Vitamin A is also essential for maintaining healthy skin and coat, as it helps to keep the skin moisturized and can reduce the risk of dry, itchy skin.
• Calcium: This mineral is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It is essential for puppies, as their bones are still developing and need plenty of calcium to grow strong and healthy. Adult dogs also need calcium to maintain the strength of their bones, which can help prevent fractures and other bone-related injuries.
• Potassium is essential for regulating blood pressure and supporting healthy heart function. It also plays a role in maintaining healthy muscles and nerves, which are essential for normal movement and coordination.
• Fiber: This nutrient can help promote healthy digestion and bowel movements. It adds bulk to the stool, which can help prevent constipation and promote regularity. It can also help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of certain health conditions, such as obesity.

As stated before, Giving orange peels to your dog is not recommended. Some of the risks associated with giving it to your dog are:

• Digestive Issues: Orange peels are high in fiber and difficult for dogs to digest, especially if they consume a significant amount. This can lead to digestive problems, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach upset. Dogs with sensitive stomachs or pre-existing digestive issues may be particularly susceptible to these problems.
• Obstruction or Choking: Orange peels can be challenging for dogs to chew and swallow. This can lead to choking hazards or blockages in the digestive tract. These blockages can be life-threatening and require immediate veterinary attention.
• High Acidity: Orange peels are acidic, irritating a dog’s digestive system. This can be particularly problematic for dogs with sensitive stomachs or pre-existing digestive issues.
• Essential Oils: Orange peels contain essential oils that can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large amounts. These oils can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal problems. Some dogs may also have an allergic reaction to these oils, which can cause itching, redness, and other skin problems.
• Psoralen Toxicity: Orange peels contain psoralen, a compound that can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large amounts. Psoralen is a photosensitizing compound which can cause skin irritation and increased sensitivity to sunlight. This can result in skin damage, blisters, and other skin problems. Psoralen toxicity can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal problems.

How To Safely Give Orange Peels To Dogs

Giving orange peels to dogs is generally not recommended, as they can pose several risks to their health. However, if you still want to give your dog a small amount of orange peel as a treat, here are some guidelines to follow to minimize the risks:

1. Remove as much of the white pith as possible: The white pith of the orange peel contains high levels of psoralen. Therefore, it’s best to remove as much of the white pith as possible before giving the peel to your dog.
2. Cut the peel into small, bite-sized pieces: Cutting the orange peel into small, bite-sized pieces can make it easier for your dog to chew and swallow. This reduces the risk of choking or blockages in the digestive tract.
3. Limit the amount of orange peel you give your dog: Orange peels are high in fiber and can be difficult for dogs to digest. Limiting the amount you give to a small piece or strip as a treat is best.
4. Watch for any signs of digestive problems: After giving your dog a small piece of orange peel, watch for any signs of digestive issues, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach upset. If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, stop giving them orange peels and consult with a veterinarian.

 

Will Orange Peels Make A Dog Sick?

Yes, orange peels can make a dog sick if ingested in large amounts or if the dog is particularly sensitive to them. Orange peels are high in fiber, which can be difficult for dogs to digest, leading to digestive problems. Furthermore, orange peels contain psoralen, a compound toxic to dogs if ingested in large amounts. Psoralen can cause skin irritation and increased sensitivity to sunlight, resulting in skin problems. Moreover, the acidity of orange peels can also irritate a dog’s digestive system.

Can Dogs Eat Orange Peel’s Variations?

Feeding any variations of orange peel to dogs, including dried, candied, or cooked orange peels, is not recommended. These orange peels can be more difficult for dogs to digest and may contain higher sugar levels or other additives, which can harm dogs. Cooking or processing the orange peels can also destroy some beneficial vitamins and minerals, making them less nutritious for your dog. Therefore, it’s best to avoid feeding your dog any variations of orange peels.

Vet’s Summary

While orange peels contain vitamins and minerals that benefit humans, they are not recommended for dogs due to the high acidity and essential oils that can cause digestive issues. Feeding large amounts of orange peel may also lead to blockages in the digestive tract or choking hazards. Prolonged exposure to psoralen in orange peels can also lead to digestive problems, photosensitivity, and other health issues in dogs. However, if you still want to give your dog a small amount of orange peel as a treat, it’s best to remove as much of the white pith as possible, cut the peel into small, bite-sized pieces, and watch for any signs of digestive problems. As with any new food, it is best to consult a veterinarian before adding orange peels to your dog’s diet. It is also recommended to give probiotic supplements to your dog. Probiotics can benefit dogs by promoting digestive health, reducing inflammation, and improving immune function.

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