PupkeeperCaution
Can dogs eat citrus fruits and peels? Caution
Caution. A bite of citrus fruit usually causes only mild stomach upset, but peels, seeds and plant parts contain oils that irritate dogs.
Citrus fruits and peels and dogs: key facts
- Verdict
- Caution · Watch at home
- What it can do
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression or low energy and skin irritation.
- How to serve
- Avoid lemons and limes. If you share orange, give only small pieces of peeled, seedless flesh.
- What to do now
- Remove any remaining peels, fruit or plant parts. All steps
- Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control, AKC. Reviewed 9 October 2026.
What should I do if my dog ate citrus fruits and peels?
- Remove any remaining peels, fruit or plant parts.
- Watch for vomiting, diarrhea or unusual tiredness.
- Call your vet if your dog ate a lot of peel or plant material, or vomits repeatedly.
Don't
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
How to give it safely
Avoid lemons and limes. If you share orange, give only small pieces of peeled, seedless flesh.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Depression or low energy
- Skin irritation
Why
Citrus stems, leaves, peels and seeds contain citric acid and essential oils, and lemons also contain psoralens. Larger amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea and depression.
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Lemon
- AKC: Can Dogs Eat Oranges?
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.