Can Dogs Eat Grapefruit?
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Though your dog is much more likely to show interested in breakfast foods like bacon and eggs, a curious pup might take some interest in your sliced grapefruit. But can dogs eat grapefruit safely, or should you stick to other dog-safe fruits?
Is Grapefruit Safe for Dogs?
Whether grapefruit is safe for your dog depends on which part of the fruit you’re dealing with.
Grapefruit flesh is not toxic and considered safe for dogs. But eating large amounts—or, for some sensitive dogs, eating any amount at all—might upset a dog’s intestinal tract due to the large amount of citric acid in grapefruit.
However, a grapefruit’s peel, rinds, and seeds are toxic to dogs because they contain a compound called psoralen, so these should never be given to your pet. Eating this toxin can lead to kidney failure, excessive sensitivity to light, and GI problems. Make sure any grapefruit your dog eats is restricted to the fruit’s flesh.
To keep your dog safe, it’s best to avoid feeding them grapefruit altogether. Grapefruit for dogs offers no nutritional benefits, and the risk of toxicity just isn’t worth it.
My Dog Ate Grapefruit. What Do I Do?
If your dog eats grapefruit flesh, it’s generally safe to monitor the situation at home. But if she isn’t feeling well or shows signs of gastrointestinal distress (such as a reduced appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea), call your veterinarian.
But if your dog eats grapefruit peels, rinds, or seeds, there is much more cause for concern. Along with being toxic, the rind can cause an intestinal blockage. If you are eating grapefruit, dispose of these extras in a place where your pooch can’t get into them by accident. Call your veterinarian right away if your dog eats any of these grapefruit parts.
If your dog eats grapefruit flesh, it’s generally safe to monitor the situation at home. But if your dog eats grapefruit peels, rinds, or seeds, there is much more cause for concern.
What To Feed Your Dog Instead
There are many dog-friendly vegetables and fruits that, when properly prepared, are much safer for your pup to eat. Instead of grapefruit, consider sharing:
You can also offer your pup plain, lean meats such as chicken or turkey that have been cooked to human consumption standards. Always talk to your veterinarian before adding anything new to your dog’s food bowl.
