Click to Skip Ahead
Dogs and humans are different. While we both require vitamin C for good health, humans cannot synthesize the vitamin themselves, whereas healthy dogs create all the vitamin C they need, and they do not usually need it in their diet, unless recommended by a vet.
So, can dogs drink orange juice? Although not typically harmful or toxic, due to the high concentration of sugar and acid, it is not recommended that we give dogs orange juice. If your dog has stolen a sip of your OJ — don’t panic!
Read on for more details about the dos and don’ts of orange juice as it relates to your canine.
The Health Benefits of Orange Juice For Humans
Orange juice is considered a healthy drink for humans when consumed in moderation. Although it is packed with vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system, it is also high in sugar. If the juice contains pulp, the fiber in orange juice also helps with gastrointestinal and digestive health. However, plain orange juice is actually low on fiber.
However, as healthy as orange juice is for humans, this isn’t necessarily the case for dogs. Yes, dogs require vitamin C, but not from their diet as we do. But their bodies produce it naturally. This means that feeding your dog vitamin C offers very few health benefits, and water is the only source of hydration a dog needs.
Can Dogs Drink Orange Juice? Health Concerns
As well as being an unnecessary addition to your dog’s diet, orange juice attracts some health concerns that mean it should not be given to your dog in any volume, other than a few accidental or sneaky sips out of your glass.
- Highly Acidic – Orange juice is highly acidic. This can pose several concerns. In the short term, overly acidic food can cause gastric upset. This means vomiting and diarrhea, which can also cause genuine problems for your dog, including dehydration.
- Sugary – Orange juice is high in sugar. Dogs that consume a lot of sugar put on weight quickly, while obesity can predispose to certain health issues like diabetes and an increased risk of breathing, urinary and joint problems.
What to Do if Your Dog Has Had Orange Juice
Orange juice is not considered healthy for dogs, and it can be quite irritant for their digestive tract. If your dog drinks a large amount of orange juice (which is unlikely due to the strong acidic taste), they may suffer from vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy and diarrhea. Some dogs may subsequently drink more water as they will experience thirst due to the fluid loss from vomiting and diarrhoea. Keep a close eye on your dog and if the signs of gastrointestinal distress aren’t subsiding, or are getting worse, they require veterinary attention. Generally speaking, orange juice in small amounts is not toxic, but it has no benefits.
Alternatives to Orange Juice for Dogs
If you are looking for a sweet treat for your dog, you can try something like carrots. Carrots are healthy and, while they do contain some natural sugars, they contain far less than is found in orange juice and other fruit juices. Carrot juice is also available, but it contains far too much sugar, in comparison to fresh or lightly cooked carrots However, dogs suffering with diabetes or underlying digestive health issues may need to stay away from sugar completely and will need to follow their vet’s advice on proper nutrition.
In general, however, dogs do not need any special drinks or liquids to rehydrate. Pure and simple water will give them all the liquid they require unless they are ill.
If your dog is dehydrated and showing mild signs, you can try something like Pedialyte. This replaces lost electrolytes, rehydrates the body, and is safe for your dog. If the signs are bad, or they continue to get worse, even after your dog has rehydrated with water or Pedialyte, you should seek veterinary help as soon as possible because dehydration can be deadly.
If you want to speak with a vet but don't want to leave home, you can head to PangoVet.com. It's our online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the advice you need for your dog — all at an affordable price!
Is Orange Juice Safe for Dogs?
Orange juice is safe for dogs in very small amounts, so if your dog has had a sip, there is no need to worry. However, there are minimal health benefits, if any, because your dog is capable of producing vitamin C themselves. There is usually no reason to supplement this vitamin in your dog’s diet and you should make sure they always have fresh water offered.
Related Read:
- How to Stop Diarrhea in Dogs: 6 Vet-Approved Home Remedies
- Can Dogs Eat Protein Powder? Vet-Approved Facts & Risks
Featured Image Credit:Â pixel2013, Pixabay
