Reasons Why Dogs Shouldn't Eat Lemons

Written and verified by the veterinarian and zootechnician Sebastian Ramirez Ocampo

Last update: 19 March, 2024

Because of the close relationship we have with our dogs, it’s normal to be tempted to share certain foods with them. However, sometimes, we don’t take into account the negative effects they can have on their health. In this regard, dogs shouldn’t eat lemons because they contain essential oils and psoralens, which are toxic for these furry ones. Find out all the details in the following article!

Why shouldn’t dogs eat lemons?

According to the American Kennel Club, some components of lemons can be toxic for dogs. This organization, which is in charge of keeping pedigree records as well as promoting canine health and welfare in America, specifies that two harmful elements can be identified:

• Essential oils: They constitute 0.1 to 1 % of the dry weight of the plant. They’re a mixture of aromatic substances responsible for giving the smell to the fruits. They’re stored in the pericarp of this citrus fruit and in its peel.
• Psoralens: This a photoactive substance that, when in contact with UV rays of sunlight, becomes a melanogenic and cytotoxic agent (toxic against cells).

In the case of dogs, lemon peel can cause dermatological problems because it contains psoralens.

What happens if a dog eats a lemon?

If a dog happens to eat some lemon, the effects can be variable. In reality, it’ll depend on the amount of fruit a pet consumes. As the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) warns, symptoms of lemon toxicity in dogs may include the following:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Depression
• Dermatitis
• Reddening of the skin

Considering that toxic elements are found in the entire fruit, both the consumption of the peel and the pulp can be harmful. Also, because of the size of lemons, some dogs may consume the whole lemon, resulting in possible intestinal obstruction.

It’s also important not to give lemon water to your dog.

This is because the high concentrations of citric acid increase the risk of gastrointestinal problems, such as vomiting and diarrhea.

What should I do if my dog eats a lemon?

First of all, if lemon juice has landed on your pet’s skin, you should prevent it from going outside so that psoralens aren’t activated by sunlight. This will minimize the risk of injury to the dermis.

After this, it’s not a good idea to try to counteract its effects with home remedies. Instead, if your pet has consumed a considerable amount, it’s crucial that you visit a veterinarian. However, it’s important to emphasize that a simple lick won’t be enough to generate illness in a dog.

Can I use this fruit for other purposes?

Although dogs shouldn’t eat lemons, this fruit isn’t entirely an enemy of dogs. According to some studies, lemon has antiparasitic properties.

For example, a study by Cebu Doctors University in the Philippines reported that 100% concentrated lemon extract is as effective against the flea Ctenocephalides canis as the commercial shampoos used for the control of these ectoparasites.

In line with this, an article in the journal Parasitology Research states that lemon is one of the natural elements that work to control fleas in dogs. To use it for this purpose, the steps are as follows:

1. Squeeze about three lemons and dilute them in a liter of water.
2. Spread the mixture all over the animal’s body, being careful not to get it in their eyes or muzzle.
3. Leave to act for about 10 minutes.
4. Brush and wash with plenty of water.

During the procedure, the dog shouldn’t be exposed to sunlight.

Does this mean dogs shouldn’t eat any citrus fruits?

These fruits aren’t highly recommended for dogs due to their levels of citric acid and other elements mentioned above. However, although dogs shouldn’t eat lemons, it’s possible to give them tangerines or oranges. The conditions for doing so are that these should be offered in small quantities and shouldn’t exceed 10% of a dog’s diet.

It’s important to remember that a dog’s body is very different from that of human beings, and its nutritional requirements don’t demand a high percentage of fruits and vegetables. These can be given as a treat, as a source of hydration, or on occasion, if you want to share with them.

Similarly, a study in the journal Malaysian Society of Applied Biology reports the effectiveness of orange peel preparations in controlling the tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus.

In any case, dogs should only be given the pulp, as their digestive system doesn’t digest citrus peels, stems, or seeds very well.

Strawberries, apples, or pears, on the other hand, may be a better choice as a source of vitamin C and antioxidants for pets. Just be careful to remove the seeds, and don’t overdo it.

What other foods aren’t recommended for dogs?

Lemon is only part of a long list of foods that are strictly forbidden for canines. In fact, a publication in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science clearly states some of them:

• Onions, garlic, leeks, and chives: These plants, belonging to the genus Allium spp, have toxicological compounds known as organosulfoxides. When consumed, dogs may suffer from oxidative hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells).
• Grapes, raisins, and currants: Although their toxicity process is unknown in dogs, there’s evidence that they produce serious kidney failure. Even in small quantities, they cause irreversible kidney damage.
• Macadamia: The consumption of only 20 grams is enough for a small dog to develop symptoms such as depression, vomiting, ataxia, tremors, and abdominal pain.
• Methylxanthines: This group of alkaloids, found in different foods such as coffee, tea, guarana drinks, or chocolate, produce alterations in the central nervous system, such as increased heart rate.

Be sure to watch what your dog eats

As you’ve been able to observe, there are several reasons why dogs shouldn’t eat lemons. Apart from the fact that their taste isn’t at all pleasant to the palate of canines, their nutritional contributions are minimal compared to how harmful they can be.

Instead, you can opt for safer fruits, such as apples or pears. However, if you happen to have some unused lemons, you can use their juice as a flea repellent in case your dog has fleas. That said, it’s your duty to make sure your dog doesn’t eat any lemon in order to avoid inconveniences.