Dog Ate Orange Peels: What Should I Do?

Do you fall into the category of people who infinitely like fruits? Is orange your favorite? Then, it is for sure that it forms a significant part of your platter. Right? So, do you have a pet at home who never misses the opportunity to peep at your plate the moment you have a bite of oranges?

Do you fall for his innocent looks and indulge in giving him pieces of oranges from your plate each day? Now, you must note that all that is safe for you may not be safe for your dog.

So, can dogs eat oranges, their seeds, and the peels? Well, let us read on to get answers to these questions.

What are the Hazards of Oranges for Dogs?

Before moving to the orange peels, let us analyze the hazards oranges may cause to dogs, if any.

So, can dogs eat oranges? Rather than answering this question with a yes or a no, it is safe to say that oranges aren’t toxic for dogs. But that doesn’t mean it is entirely safe. Oranges are moderately high in sugar, with 17.2 grams in one big orange. So, eating too many oranges could trigger gastrointestinal upset in your dog. It will even result in obesity in the long run, mainly if your dog eats oranges quite often, along with other foods high in calories.

If you decide to introduce oranges to your pup, you must do that slowly and eventually. Check if their stomach can adjust to the oranges well or not. If yes, give them the same in moderate amounts once in a while upon consulting the vet.

When you feed your dog oranges, remove the seeds and peels. The seeds contain cyanide in small amounts that could pose harm to dogs. The seeds might even result in a choking hazard.

How Much of Oranges Can Dogs Eat?

Orange are citrus fruits packed with Vitamin C, fibers, and minerals like manganese, potassium, and phosphorus. If your dog’s digestive system can adjust to this fruit well, give him a segment or two of oranges daily or once every two days. For pups, the quantity should be lesser.

The dog’s size should also be considered when feeding dogs oranges. The amount that is okay for big dogs will not fit in for small dogs.

However, when your dog reacts unusually to oranges, you should refrain from feeding him the fruit further. It would help if you remembered that treats shouldn’t make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily intake.

Can My Dog Eat Orange Peels?

Now that we know oranges aren’t toxic to dogs and can be given to them in moderation. So, let’s understand if dogs can eat the peels of oranges. Just like oranges, the orange peels aren’t toxic to dogs. But, orange peels are challenging to digest since they are high in fiber and have a tough texture.

Eating in large amounts could result in a choking hazard or even lead to intestinal blockage. In severe cases, surgery might be needed to take the peels out of your dog’s digestive system. So, it’s better to prevent giving orange peels to your dog. In this way, you could avoid any unpleasant occurrences.

My Dog Ate Orange Peels! What Should I Do?

When you have identified that your dog has eaten orange peels, there are certain things that you can do from your end to prevent further damage.

1. Remove the Source

When you spot your dog picking up the orange peels from the floor, your plate, or the trash can and savoring them, the first thing to do is to remove them from your dog’s sight. In this way, your dog cannot eat any further. Also, keep your dog away, perhaps in another room, when clearing the mess.

2. Watch Out Your Dog’s Symptoms

This is another essential thing to do. If your big dog ate one or two peels, he shouldn’t have many problems. However, eating the same amount of orange peels may prove hazardous for a small dog. So, after you have identified that your dog has eaten orange peels, observing his symptoms closely for at least 12-24 hours is essential.

In most cases, your dog could suffer from gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea and vomiting, which should resolve in a day. However, if your dog shows other signs of discomfort and doesn’t seem to be in the best of health, do not delay in contacting a vet.

Also, watch out for choking hazards in dogs. If your dog has eaten increased amounts of orange peels, he will show these symptoms:

• Excessive coughing
• Increased drooling
• Gagging a lot
• Increased salivating
• Pawing at his mouth

When you see these symptoms in your dog, do not delay in taking him to the vet.

3. Talk to the Vet

Your dog will mostly be fine upon consumption of the orange peels. Yet, for your mental peace, you could always speak to the vet when you have identified that your canine ingested the peels.

You can do this even if your dog looks fine and shows no alarming signs. But, in case your dog’s vomiting doesn’t stop even after a day, or he looks pale and lacks energy, then contacting a vet is of utmost importance.

How to Stop My Dog Eating Orange Peel?

The soothing and strong aroma of orange and its peels will attract your dog instantly. So, the best way to stop your dogs from getting at the orange peels is to put them into the trashcan right away after eating the oranges. Also, ensure that there aren’t any leftovers on your plate or the floor.

Does your dog habitually roam around the house and put anything he finds on the ground straight into his mouth? When your dog is bored and doesn’t have much to do throughout the day, he often resorts to such activities. So, when you keep him engaged in some activity, he will be less inclined to other distractions.

FAQ’s

Conclusion

Because of their ample nutrients, fresh fruits and vegetables play a significant part in a dog’s diet. When it comes to the citrusy orange, it may not be the best option for your canine, yet giving it to them at times in measured amounts will not hurt their digestive system too much. However, preventing your dog from nibbling peels and seeds is always a safe option.