Fruits are considered to be among the best sources of nutrition. For both animals and humans, fruits are safe. If you have a dog, you’ve probably fed them fruits and wondered if it was safe for them.
Here we are talking about tangerines. Some people consider tangerines and oranges to be the same, but in reality, they are not. Therefore, if you are thinking of feeding your dog with tangerines, you can consider it, but do so in moderation only.
High quantities of tangerines can lead to some problems because they are high in sugar, which is bad for dogs. Furthermore, we suggest you go through this whole post till the end because here we’re sharing everything about tangerines so that you can make up your mind whether you’re ready to feed your dog with them or not. Let’s get started!
Can Dogs Eat Tangerines?
Tangerines are a safe option for dogs, but it is important to be sure about their quantity because they have high sugar content and are not meant for dogs.
High sugar content indicates high-calorie content in food, which means its consumption will lead to obesity. Therefore, whenever you are feeding your dog tangerines, always consider the 10% rule (Tangerines should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.). The 10% rule is always helpful in feeding dogs with high-calorie foods.
Is the Vitamin C in Tangerines Safe for Dogs?
Vitamin C is a safe option for dogs. It has an antioxidant effect, which helps build up a dog’s immunity system. But high quantities of vitamins are responsible for causing cell damage. Therefore, be sure of the quantity you are feeding them. Also, sometimes high vitamin consumption is responsible for causing kidney stones too. Thus, be sure to maintain an adequate quantity of food before feeding it to them.
Tangerines have high nutritional content: Along with the taste and Vitamin C, tangerines are also loaded with different nutrients, including folate, Vitamin B6, potassium, beta-carotene, thiamine, and so on.
Is There Any Similarity Between Tangerines and Oranges?
Understand that oranges and tangerines are cousins in their fruit family. Some traits are similar, but understand that both of them are different. Therefore, always consider both food items individually.
Difference Between Tangerines and Oranges
The major distinction is related to size. Tangerines are smaller and flattened, whereas oranges are quite large. Additionally, tangerines are pocket-sized snacks, but one cannot consider oranges to be the same. Also, oranges have seeds, whereas tangerines do not have seeds.
After ripening, the texture of oranges is usually firm, while tangerines have a softer one.
Does Introducing Tangerine to A Dog’s Diet Cause Any Problems?
Yes, the introduction of tangerines to the dog diet is responsible for causing some health-related problems. It is an acidic fruit with high sugar content. Well, the problems that your dog may suffer from include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Obesity
- Constipation
- Gastric issues
- Skin allergies
Is There Any Dog Breed that Cannot Have Tangerines?
If you have a sensitive dog breed or notice that your dog easily gains or loses weight, avoid feeding them tangerines.
Tangerines are high in sugar and calorie content, which contribute to weight gain as well. Along with these two problems, there are chances that your dog may not like its taste and vomit it out. Therefore, if your dog is quite specific about their food, do not introduce such food items to them.
Note: Experimenting with dog food is not a good idea. Thus, rely on quality dog food only to keep him safe and avoid such health conditions.
How to Feed A Dog with Tangerines?
There is a proper procedure to follow when it comes to feeding tangerines to your dog. Well, it is as follows:
- First of all, wash the tangerines and remove the seeds.
- After removing the peel, remove the white pith.
- After removing the pith, you can simply feed your dog the pulp.
Note: It is advisable to remove the pith or skin of tangerines because they have many essential oils that are toxic to dogs. If your dog has it, it may suffer unnecessary health issues.
How Much Tangerine Is Safe for Dogs to Eat?
As we have suggested, tangerines in moderation are safe for dogs. Well, one slice or two slices is enough. Do not think of feeding your four-legged friend a whole bag of tangerines. High quantities are not safe for them in any case.
Also, if you have a large dog breed, there is a chance that they can have a full tangerine and will not show any such effect either.
What Other Fruits Can I Feed My Dog Apart from Tangerines?
Many different fruits are safe for dogs, and you can also feed them regularly. Consider the following fruits:
You can also check out our post on various fruits that dogs can eat.
Frequently Asked Questions about Can Dogs Eat Tangerines
Can Tangerine Consumption Cause Behavioral Changes in Dogs?
There are chances that tangerine consumption may cause a behavioral change in your dog. If you have a susceptible dog who is not capable of digesting such things, there is a possibility that some changes may be noticed.
Can I Feed My Dog with Tangerine Juice?
Feeding a dog with tangerine juice is somewhere safe and somewhere not. Well, if you are feeding them a minimal quantity, it will not cause any problems, but high amounts are not safe for them either.
Can I Feed Puppies with Tangerines?
Yes, tangerines are safe for dogs. However, keep in mind that your dog is in a developmental stage and may not like it. If you notice your dog is refraining from eating it, you will understand that they do not like the taste of it.
Is It Safe to Feed Dogs Frozen Tangerines?
Frozen tangerines are not advisable for dogs as they are quite hard, and your dog may not be able to chew them properly. Also, these can make your dog sneeze. Thus, be sure the tangerines are at room temperature when feeding them to dogs.
The Takeaway from All This
Tangerines are a safe option for dogs, but in moderation only. Therefore, you must monitor your dog when you have fed it for the first time. Also, be sure not to feed them regularly because, due to their high sugar content, it is responsible for causing weight gain and can make your dog diabetic as well.
However, if you have a sensitive dog breed, do not consider such food items for them and rely on dog food only.