Key Takeaways
- Can dogs eat tangerines? Tangerines are safe for dogs to eat and have numerous health benefits, including being a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Tangerines can cause stomach upset in dogs if they eat too much, so it’s important to feed them in moderation.
- Tangerine seeds are toxic to dogs due to the content of cyanide and pose a choking hazard for smaller dogs and puppies.
- Dogs can have tangerine juice as long as it is pure without any additional sugar or preservatives.
Health Benefits of Tangerines for Dogs
So, can dogs eat tangerines? First, let’s take a look at some health benefits:
- Tangerines are an excellent source of fiber, which can help dogs have better digestion. Fiber works by giving the stool bulk, which makes it easier for food to pass through the digestive tract.
- Antioxidants included in tangerine peel may benefit dogs with inflammation by preventing the synthesis of inflammatory chemicals.
- Tangerines contain vitamin C and other elements that can help dogs have healthier skin and coats. Collagen, a protein that the body naturally produces and aids in maintaining good skin, depends on vitamin C for its synthesis.
- Tangerines are a fruit with few calories, therefore dogs trying to reduce weight might still benefit from them. One tangerine contains only about 35–45 calories!
- Especially on a hot day, tangerines’ high water content might assist dogs in staying hydrated.
Risks of Feeding Dogs Tangerines
Now let’s talk about the risks when feeding your dog tangerines:
- Like all fruits, tangerines contain sugar. Too much sugar, even natural sugar, can lead to weight gain and other health problems in dogs, such as the development of diabetes in canines.
- Tangerine peel can be harmful to dogs if ingested in large quantities. It may cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Tangerines can cause gastrointestinal distress in puppies, as their digestive systems are not fully developed.
- Citrus fruit like tangerines are highly acidic, which can upset a dog’s stomach. So, if your dog has never eaten a tangerine before, start by feeding him only a small piece and see how he reacts.
- As well as this, tangerines may interact with certain medications, such as those used to treat heart conditions or high blood pressure. If your dog is taking any medication, talk to your vet before giving him tangerines.
Which Variety of Tangerines Is Best for Dogs?
There are four common types of tangerines:
- Satsuma;
- Honey Tangerine;
- Mandarin;
- Clementine.
Each type of tangerine has its own unique flavor and sweetness. The Satsuma is the most common type of tangerine. It has a smooth skin and is seedless. The Honey Tangerine is also seedless, but its skin is rougher than the Satsuma.
Mandarins are smaller than other types of tangerines, and their skin is loose. Mandarins are not as common as other types of tangerines, but they can be found in some grocery stores. Like all types of tangerines, mandarins are safe for dogs to eat.
The Clementine is a small tangerine that has a tart flavor and is seedless. All three types of tangerines are safe, but clementines are probably the best option because it has a tart flavor which most dogs enjoy.
Can Dogs Eat Tangerine Seeds?
Can dogs eat tangerines with seeds? Dogs should not eat tangerine seeds. Tangerine seeds are toxic to dogs due to the content of cyanide. When ingested, cyanide prevents the cells from using oxygen, which can lead to cell death. If a dog ingests enough tangerine seeds, it could be fatal.
Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in dogs include: weakness, rapid breathing, dilated pupils, collapse, and seizures. If your dog eats a tangerine seed, contact your veterinarian immediately. The seeds also pose a choking hazard for smaller dogs and puppies.
Can Dogs Have Tangerine Juice?
Yes, dogs can have tangerine juice. Tangerine juice is a good source of vitamin C for dogs, and it also contains other vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, potassium and magnesium. All of these nutrients are beneficial to dogs.
Tangerine juice is also a good source of antioxidants, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals – unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and lead to diseases such as cancer. However, make sure you only give your dog pure tangerine juice in a small amount, without any additional sugar and preservatives.
Can Dogs Eat Tangerines?
So, can dogs eat tangerines? Indeed, dogs can eat tangerines without becoming sick. Not only that, but dogs can also benefit greatly from them in terms of health! Vitamin C is crucial for the immune system and is present in tangerines. Antioxidants found in them can aid in shielding the body against cell deterioration.
Editor’s Note
Still, you should monitor your dog’s fruit intake. Any citrus fruit consumed in excess can upset a dog’s stomach. As a result, give your dog tangerines in moderation and always seek advice from your vet if you have any concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Tangerines Toxic to Dogs?
No, tangerines are not toxic to dogs. Tangerines are safe for dogs to eat in moderation. Although they have a very sweet taste, the sugar and acid content of tangerines mean that they should only be fed as an occasional snack or treat.
How Much Tangerine Can I Give My Dog?
The amount of tangerine that you can give your dog depends on the size and breed of your pet. A good rule of thumb is to provide no more than a few sections at a time; roughly one or two pieces per 10 pounds.
What Fruit Is Poisonous to Dogs?
There are some fruits that can be toxic to dogs if eaten in large quantities. These include grapes, raisins, and currants which can cause kidney damage. Avocados, macadamia nuts, and certain types of citrus fruits are also toxic to dogs.