Can Dogs Eat Grapefruit?
Better not. Grapefruit flesh isn't especially toxic, but it's very acidic and bitter, and the peel, seeds and plant contain essential oils and psoralens that irritate the stomach and skin. It offers nothing that makes up for that.
Why it's dangerous
The ASPCA lists grapefruit among plants toxic to dogs because of its essential oils and psoralens. These compounds are concentrated in the peel, the white pith, the seeds and the leaves, much less in the flesh, and they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and, on contact with the skin, irritation or sun sensitivity.
The flesh is mostly water, citric acid and a bitter taste that most dogs refuse; in larger amounts it can cause stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea. There's another reason not to give it: in people, the furanocoumarins in grapefruit change how the body processes many medications. Data in dogs is scarce, but if yours is on long-term medication (for example, cyclosporine for skin problems), this isn't the time to experiment. If you're looking for a fruit with vitamin C, a few orange or tangerine segments are a better choice.
Is any amount safe?
No amount is recommended. A peeled segment that someone drops usually causes nothing more than mild discomfort in a medium or large dog; what you need to avoid is the peel, the seeds and large amounts.
Risks
- Peel and seeds: essential oils and psoralens
- Acidity: vomiting and diarrhea
- Possible interaction with medications
- Mouth or skin irritation if they chew the peel
- Sweetened grapefruit juice and sodas
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my dog eats grapefruit?
If it was one segment of flesh, most likely nothing will happen, or they'll have mild discomfort or soft stools. If they ate the peel or a large amount, they may vomit, have diarrhea or seem lethargic. Call your vet if symptoms last more than a few hours or if your dog takes daily medication.
Can dogs eat citrus fruits?
It depends on the fruit. A few orange or tangerine segments, peeled and seedless, are well tolerated as an occasional treat. Lemon and grapefruit are better avoided: they're very acidic and their peel concentrates essential oils and psoralens. In every case, never the peel.
Is grapefruit juice bad for dogs?
A lick isn't an emergency, but don't give it to them. Juice concentrates the acidity, often contains sugar and is the form with the most furanocoumarins, compounds that interfere with many medications in people. For hydration, water; for a fruit treat, watermelon or melon are better.
General information reviewed against veterinary sources. If your dog has eaten something that worries you, call your vet or a 24-hour emergency vet right away, without waiting for symptoms.