Yes, Dogs can eat tangerines, but only in moderation due to their high sugar content. Tangerines are a safe and healthy treat for dogs since they are packed with vitamins and minerals to support their immune system and overall health.
However, there are some things to consider before feeding tangerines to your pup. Keep reading to learn more about whether dogs can eat tangerines and how to feed them safely.
Can Dogs Eat Tangerines Safely?
The good news is that tangerines are not toxic to dogs. Tangerines are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can be beneficial for your dog’s health. Here are some of the nutrients found in tangerines:
- Vitamin C – Boosts immunity and acts as an antioxidant.
- Potassium – Important for fluid balance and nerve transmission.
- Folate – Plays a role in cell growth and red blood cell production.
- Fiber – Promotes digestive health.
However, tangerines do contain natural sugars. While the sugar content is not as high as other fruits, too much can cause gastrointestinal upset in some dogs. It’s also important to avoid feeding dogs the rind and seeds of the tangerine, as they can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
Overall, when fed in moderation, tangerines are a safe, healthy treat for dogs. But there are some precautions to take.
Benefits of Tangerines for Dogs
When fed in moderation, tangerines can provide the following benefits for your dog:
- Immune system support – The vitamin C in tangerines acts as an antioxidant and can boost your dog’s immune system health.
- Supports digestion – The fiber and water content in tangerines helps promote good digestion and bowel movements.
- Hydration – The high water content in tangerines helps keep your dog hydrated. That is especially beneficial for older dogs or dogs who don’t drink enough water.
- Healthy skin and coat – Vitamin C plays a role in collagen production, which is needed for healthy skin and a shiny coat.
- Weight management – Tangerines are low in fat and calories, making them a healthy treat option for dogs who need to lose weight.
So, while tangerines should only be an occasional treat, they do provide important vitamins, minerals, and nutrients dogs can benefit from.
How Much Tangerine Can Dogs Eat?
When feeding tangerines to your dog, moderation is key. Too much can cause gastrointestinal upset. Here are some serving guidelines to follow:
- Small dogs – No more than 1-2 segments 1-2 times per week.
- Medium dogs – 2-4 segments 2-3 times per week.
- Large dogs – 4-5 segments 2-3 times per week.
Always start with small amounts to see how your dog tolerates tangerines. Monitor your dog after feeding for any vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, which could signal that the tangerine caused an upset stomach.
Tips for Feeding Tangerines Safely
Follow these tips for safely feeding tangerines to your dog:
- Completely remove the rind and seeds first, as they can cause intestinal blockage if swallowed whole.
- Cut tangerine segments into small bite-sized pieces to prevent choking.
- Introduce slowly and in small amounts to avoid stomach upset.
- Keep an eye on your dog when feeding to be sure they are chewing thoroughly.
- Avoid feeding too many high-fiber foods/treats together.
- Make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water.
- Don’t give dogs tangerine juice, as the high sugar content can cause diarrhea. Only feed the fleshy fruit itself.
- Wash the outer peel first before peeling to remove any pesticides.
Following these tips will ensure tangerines are a safe, healthy, and delicious treat for your pup. Just be sure to feed in moderation.
Signs of Tangerine Intolerance in Dogs
Most dogs can enjoy tangerines safely and in moderation. However, some dogs may have an intolerance. Signs of tangerine intolerance can include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Increased gas or abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
If your dog shows any of these signs after eating tangerines, discontinue feeding and see your veterinarian if symptoms persist. Dogs with sensitivities may do better with lower-acidity fruits like bananas or apples instead.
Can Puppies Eat Tangerines?
Puppies under one year old should avoid tangerines. Young puppies have a higher risk of intestinal blockages since their digestive systems are still developing. The seeds and rind pose a choking hazard.
Wait until your puppy is at least 1 year old before introducing tangerines. Start slowly with a few segments at a time. Monitor for any digestive upset.
For younger puppies, stick to milder fruits like bananas, blueberries, and melon. Once your pup is older, tangerines can be added as an occasional treat in moderation.
Can Dogs Eat Tangerine Peel?
While the flesh of tangerines is safe for dogs to eat, you should avoid feeding them the peel. Tangerine peel is difficult for dogs to digest and can cause gastrointestinal blockages or upset stomachs due to its oils, citric acid, and fibrous texture.
Feeding the peel risks side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some dogs may try to eat the peel when you give them tangerine segments. Be sure to peel the tangerine completely before feeding it to avoid this.
If your dog swallows a small amount of peel, monitor them closely for signs of stomach upset.
Can Dogs Eat Tangerine Seeds?
Inside every tangerine are small black seeds. You may wonder if dogs can safely eat tangerine seeds or if they should be avoided.
It’s best to remove the seeds before feeding tangerines to dogs. While a few seeds likely won’t cause issues, larger amounts could lead to intestinal blockage or abdominal surgery.
Tangerine seeds pose a risk because:
- They are small and easy to swallow whole by mistake. Dogs need to chew seeds thoroughly to digest them safely.
- They contain oils that can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
- The fibrous seed casings can clump together inside the intestines.
- Dogs can’t digest plant matter as well as humans.
If your dog already swallowed a few small seeds, monitor them for signs of digestive upset like vomiting or constipation. Make sure they are still eating, drinking, and pooping normally.
Allergies and Reactions
While tangerines are safe for most dogs, some may have an allergy or negative reaction. Here are some signs of tangerine allergies or intolerances in dogs:
- Itching, hives, or skin irritation around the mouth – This indicates a food allergy. The proteins in tangerines may trigger an allergic response in sensitive dogs.
- Vomiting or diarrhea – Some dogs may experience stomach upset from too much tangerine fiber or sugar. Diarrhea that contains blood or mucus is a concern.
- Increased gas or flatulence – The fiber and sugars in tangerines may cause excess gas in some dogs.
- Loss of appetite – An allergy, intolerance, or overindulgence can make dogs unwilling to eat more tangerines.
- Fatigue or lethargy – Allergic reactions or stomach upset can cause dogs to become tired and low energy.
If your dog shows any allergic symptoms after eating tangerines, stop feeding them immediately. Seek veterinary attention if symptoms are severe.
FAQs on Can Dogs Eat Tangerines
Can Dogs Eat Tangerines?
Dogs can safely eat tangerines but it’s better to avoid eating tangerines as the high sugar and acid content can upset their stomach and cause digestive issues.
Are Tangerine Peels Safe For Dogs?
It’s best to avoid giving tangerine peels to dogs as they can be difficult for them to digest and may result in stomach upset.
Can Dogs Have Tangerine Juice?
While small amounts of tangerine juice are generally safe for dogs, avoid excess consumption as it can lead to diarrhea or digestive discomfort.
What Are The Potential Health Benefits Of Tangerines For Dogs?
Tangerines can be a great source of vitamins and antioxidants for dogs when given in moderation, promoting a healthy immune system and supporting overall well-being.
Final Verdict
Dogs can eat tangerines safely and gain benefits when fed in moderation. Tangerines provide key vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water. They make a tasty, nutritious treat for dogs.
However, moderation is key; only feed your dog a few tangerine segments at a time, 1-2 times per week. Always remove the rind and seeds first and monitor your dog for signs of digestive upset. Avoid feeding too much due to the natural sugars. Puppies should wait until at least 1 year old to try tangerines.
