Can Dogs Eat Grapefruit?

Not everyone likes grapefruit, including me, and that’s fine because of its specific taste.

If you or another family member is eating grapefruit and your doggo is around, you may wonder if you can give a bit of it, right?

In this guide, you will find the answer to the question Can dogs eat grapefruit, nutritional information, and much more.

Can Dogs Eat Grapefruit?

Grapefruits aren’t the best choice you can make when choosing which fruit is good for dogs. Although they contain lots of vitamins and minerals that are good and beneficial for dogs, it will be better if dogs avoid eating them.

Three whole grapefruits and two halves are put on a wooden table outside

Why?

Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are citrus fruits. They contain different amounts of citric acid. But lemons and grapefruits are higher in citric acid than oranges, and because of that, oranges are safe for dogs if given in moderation.

But that doesn’t go with grapefruits and lemons. They should be avoided as their consumption can lead to serious digestive problems.

Why Dogs Shouldn’t Eat Grapefruits?

Dogs shouldn’t eat grapefruits as they are high in citric acid. This high concentration of citric acid can irritate the stomach of the dog. It can cause loose stool, vomiting, bloating, etc.

But it’s very likely your dog to not even try to eat this fruit as dogs don’t like the bitter taste in food – for them, it means something negative – mostly even poisonous and this comes from their animal instinct.

You should expect such a reaction from dogs when they are offered to eat fruits that high in citric acid.

The flesh of the grapefruit is very acidic but not toxic while the rind contains natural essential oils that can be toxic to dogs. That’s why it’s better if this fruit isn’t given to dogs and if you have some doubt that your dog consumed any part of the fruit, contact your vet immediately.

Can Dogs Eat Grapefruit: Vitamin C

There is an interesting fact that dogs can produce their own vitamin C. That’s why it’s good if we don’t give them foods that are high in vitamin C often as they can overdose with it.

Most mammals, including dogs, can synthesize enough ascorbic acid for their requirements, and ascorbic acid may be reversibly oxidized to dehydroascorbic acid in the body, indicating that it is a dispensable nutrient for these species.

This quote is from the research of the National Library of Medicine of the United States done in 2006. The research is actually done for dogs with a portosystemic shunt but they compare the synthesis of vitamin C in healthy dogs and dogs with the portosystemic shunt (PSS).

Vitamin C is synthesized in the liver of dogs and is very important for dogs as it keeps the immune system strong and prevents diseases.

Can Dogs Eat Grapefruit: Nutritional Benefits

Although grapefruits are very rich in vitamin C and antioxidants they aren’t needed for dogs if they have a balanced and nutritional diet. As you already got know dogs don’t need extra vitamin C if they are healthy and can synthesize it. They need it only if they can’t synthesize it.

And dogs should be getting enough antioxidants from their food or if you want to give them a bit more then you can choose a better fruit like pineapple, kiwi, nectarines, and many more.

What Can Happen If My Dog Ate Too Much Grapefruit?

If your dog ate too much grapefruit it may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal upset. It’s very possible for your dog to develop toxicity. That’s why it’s best to contact your vet when you notice what amounts were eaten or if your dog had the rind of a grapefruit.

A laying sick dog in a vet clinic

Grapefruit Toxicity

Grapefruit toxicity can happen if your dog had eaten the rind, seeds, or pith of the grapefruit. This toxicity can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, kidney issues, photosensitivity, etc.

If you notice any changes in your dog or if it is having some issues like not eating enough then you should seek vet help immediately.

Can Dogs Eat Grapefruit’s Skin?

The skin of the grapefruit is toxic to dogs as it contains high amounts of natural essential oils. If you find that your dog had eaten grapefruit peels then you should call your vet immediately.

3 Reasons to Avoid Giving Grapefruit to Your Dog

  • Grapefruits are rich in citric acid: The flesh of this fruit contains high amounts of citric acid which aren’t toxic but can lead to an upset stomach.
  • High in natural essential oils: The rind of grapefruits contains natural essential oils which are toxic to dogs.
  • Choking hazard: The rind and the seeds are a potential choking hazard.
A picture of grapefruit on top of which is a no sign

Interesting Facts About Grapefruits

  1. Grapefruits are the only citrus fruit that originated in the Americas.
  2. It is a cross between the pomelo and the orange.
  3. The grapefruit was originally called “the forbidden fruit”.
  4. Jamaicans coined the term “grapefruit” because the fruit grew in bunches like grapes.
  5. Half of a grapefruit contains the total amount of vitamin C your body needs in one day.
  6. Grapefruit has 92% water – more than almost any other fruit.

Let’s Sum It Up

Grapefruits aren’t safe for dogs as they contain high amounts of citric acid which can lead to digestive issues and the rind of the fruit is toxic as it contains natural essential oils.

Comment down below if you have given your dog grapefruit and how it reacted. But if you are wondering whether to give or not – please don’t do it.

Did you find ‘Can dogs eat grapefruit’ interesting? You can also check out our other articles as well.

Can Dogs Eat Figs?

Can Dogs Eat Pears? Benefits and Risks

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Desislava Asenova
Desislava Asenova

Desi is a dog-lover and proud parent to Daisy, her sweet and sassy Chihuahua. She's always been fascinated by the different diets and eating habits of different animals, and she's especially interested in how food affects a dog's overall health and happiness.

When she's not busy writing about dog food, Desi enjoys pampering Daisy with long walks and playtime in the park. She's also an avid home cook and loves coming up with new recipes for her and Daisy to try out together. She's excited to share her passion for dog food and help other pet owners find the best food for their fur babies.

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