A sweet and juicy mandarin orange is a delicious and refreshing treat that many of us regularly enjoy. But is it OK to share mandarins with our precious furry friends too? Can dogs eat mandarins, or are they toxic to dogs?
Can dogs eat mandarins?
You’ll be happy to hear that yes, dogs can eat mandarin oranges! However, mandarins or any other type of orange must be prepared correctly before they are fed to dogs.
Mandarins contain some great health benefits for dogs, as well as being a delicious and refreshing treat. Let’s take a look at how to safely feed mandarins to dogs, so they can enjoy this delicious fruit regularly!
What are the health benefits of mandarins?
Mandarins are very high in vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. This super-vitamin is also a powerful antioxidant, helping to slow down cellular aging and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Mandarins contain moderate levels of fiber, which is good for maintaining digestive health. They are a great source of potassium and their water content can help to keep your dog hydrated on a hot day.
These juicy fruits also contain slow-release natural sugars, ideal for giving your dog an energy boost on a long walk.
What should I be aware of when offering mandarins to my dog?
Whilst mandarins are not toxic to dogs, it is advisable to feed them in very small quantities. A whole mandarin may cause digestive upsets due to the high sugar content, so stick to no more than one or two segments per day.
If you notice any abdominal discomfort after your dog has eaten mandarin segments, it would be best to avoid feeding them again in the future. Some dogs are less tolerant to the acidic juice in mandarins than others.
The seeds and peel of mandarins are difficult for dogs to digest, so these should be removed and not fed to your dog. Larger chunks of citrus fruit peel can also cause a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract.
Not all dogs will enjoy the taste of orange, so don’t be surprised if your canine friend turns its nose up at this juicy treat!
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