Read time: 2 mins
12 Sep 2024
While we might love the refreshing zing of grapefruit, it’s not quite the same for dogs. In this article, we’ll dive into whether grapefruit is safe for dogs and what you should do if your pooch has indulged in this citrusy snack.
Yes, grapefruit can be harmful to dogs.
While grapefruit isn't outright toxic like chocolate or certain nuts, it's far from pup-friendly.
The problem lies in compounds found in the grapefruit such as psoralens and oils. Even small amounts can lead to some unwanted side effects. A nibble of grapefruit may not lead to an emergency vet visit, but it's best to keep this fruit out of paws’ reach to avoid any tummy troubles, or worse.
You might be thinking, "If the fruit itself isn't great, what about the juice?" The answer, unfortunately, is also no.
Grapefruit juice is a concentrated form of all the things that can upset your pooch's stomach. Not only does it still contain those pesky psoralens, but it’s also packed with acidity and sugars that can irritate their digestive system.
The high acidity can cause gastrointestinal distress like vomiting and diarrhoea. On top of that, the sugar content could contribute to longer-term issues like weight gain or dental problems.
If your dog managed to sneak a bite of grapefruit, you might notice them showing some signs of discomfort.
Common symptoms of grapefruit ingestion include:
Vomiting and diarrhoea are the most common signs that your dog’s body is rejecting the grapefruit.
Excessive drooling can happen as their mouth reacts to the fruit's acidity.
If the grapefruit has affected their digestive system, your dog might seem more tired than usual.
In rare cases, grapefruit can make dogs more sensitive to sunlight, thanks to the psoralens.
If your pooch only had a tiny taste, they might be just fine with a bit of extra care, but if they’ve eaten a larger amount, it’s best to contact your vet for advice. Always better to be safe than sorry, right?
There are plenty of safer fruit options that can satisfy your dog’s taste buds without causing any issues. Some options include:
Packed with antioxidants, these little berries are a great low-calorie snack.
Crunchy and sweet, just make sure to remove the core and seeds, which can be harmful.
A potassium-rich treat in moderation, perfect for a bit of variety in your dog's diet.
Full of hydration, but be sure to remove the seeds and rind.