Humans enjoy limes in everything from desserts to drinks. They’re also fantastic sources of vitamin C. Limes might be good for us to eat, but is it safe to share limes with your dog?
Are Limes Safe for Dogs?
It’s best to not feed limes to dogs. “Limes are not toxic to dogs, but dogs do not like the taste or smell of limes,” advises Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC. He then notes that their extremely sour flavor makes them unappealing to dogs.
Are Limes Bad for Dogs?
Limes are high in citric acid. In large amounts, citric acid can cause gastrointestinal upsets for dogs or even central nervous depression and loss of coordination. If your dog eats large amounts of limes, consult your veterinarian right away.
The skin of limes is of particular concern. Similar to other citrus fruits like lemons, lime rinds and their essential oils are dangerous for dogs. If you are cooking with lime or squeezing them, make sure you dispose of the rinds in such a way that prevents your dog from eating them. Similarly, if you live in an area of the country where limes grow, do not encourage your dog to play with fallen fruits.
Can Dogs Have Lime Juice?
Can dogs have lime juice? No. Lime juice is extracted from the fruit’s flesh in its concentrated form; limes themselves in that concentration should not be given to dogs.
In addition, limes are often combined with a lot of sugar, which can lead to obesity if consumed. The squeezed rinds of limes can also be a choking hazard or cause an obstruction. Instead of offering limes, consider sharing safer fruits, such as apples, bananas, blueberries, cranberries, and oranges, in moderation.