The Internet is full of videos of attempting to feed lemons to dogs. Well, it is a fact that many dogs dislike the taste of lemon. Another fact is that citrus fruits are not good for canines, as their seeds, peel, and pith are likely to irritate the digestive system of dogs. However, this is true only if the dogs consume them in large amounts. So, why would you still think of giving lemons to dogs?
Well, lemons have many beneficial uses beyond recipes. While citric acid in lemons is harmful if given in more than normal quantities, it is beneficial to dogs in a few practical ways. So, is this much enough to persuade you to give lemons to your dogs?
Are Lemons Safe for Dogs?
A straightforward answer is “Yes” but in small quantity! It is common to mix lemon juice with fresh water and give it to dogs, which is perfectly safe. Dogs can eat lemons without being exposed to any risk of toxicity.
Although some sites state that lemons are harmful to dogs, several online sites of vets claim that lemons are not harmful to dogs but are toxic to them when consumed in excessive amounts. According to a vet of the University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine, lemons are not dangerous practically unless consumed in big quantities.
Until today, the worst thing ever happened to a dog after ingesting an excessive quantity of lemons was gastrointestinal upset and problematic digestive system trouble. It is true that lemons have some level of acid but it is not harmful to canines. The worst it can do in them is one of the aforementioned health issues.
Well, this does not mean that you can unhesitatingly feed your dog as many lemons as you like. This is because the two issues are powerful enough to pose other health risks. Thus, the bottom line is that consuming in moderate quantities is fine, as it keeps these risks away.
If you are planning to add lemon juice in the drinking water of dogs, it is essential to be careful of not adding too much. If you put too much, your dog is likely to avoid drinking that water. Obviously, this is something that you do not want. After all, water is indispensable even for dogs.
You will find some vets strictly forbidding lemon water. This is because they feel it is too acidic for their digestive system. In short, dogs do not naturally drink or demand such water. Thus, it is highly recommended to consult your vet to know the exact quantity of lemon water to be given. It should be even kept in mind that the overall water quantity required daily differs as per the weight, age, and breed.
Moreover, giving lemon juice in its natural form to a dog is likely to give the pet an extremely sour experience. To avoid this, you may consider adding some sugar in that water. Well, this shall give a much better taste just as a lemonade. However, giving this drink frequently is not a good idea due to the high level of acidity.
How Lemons are Beneficial for Dogs?
While there are hardly any nutritional benefits, lemons for dogs have a very big benefit. This is the remarkable ability to act as a flea repellant, and that too, a natural one. This is something that dog owners commend, especially when they are unable to use a flea collar. Lemons are most effective at this job.
Practically, there are several flea repellent sprays in the market for canines, which claim to act as effective as lemons. However, in reality, this claim hardly proves to be true. This is why many dog owners are motivated to go for a Do-It-yourself (DIY) strategy to think of a truly effective flea repellent, which is similar to lemon juice.
Well, the bottom line is that adding some lemon juice to water and spraying this mix onto the skin of your dog keeps fleas away. This is especially a common practice during the spring. This season is the time when these insects are in plenty in the surroundings due to which you often see your canine itching.
This home spray is better than those harmful collars or de-wormers, a few of which some come with instruction of washing your hands, post use. Using them for a prolonged period is likely to result in serious sickness in your best pet. You can learn about the dangers of these chemical repellents from your vet.
Is your dog having a bad breath? If yes, then giving a mix of lemon juice and water can help you treat it naturally. This is another benefit of giving lemons to dogs although it should be in moderate quantity.
Another benefit comes from the fact that lemon juice is ideal for eliminating or healing stains. In dogs, lemon juice heals tear stains. For this point, you may come across two contradictory opinions of vets. Several vets are not likely to confirm this benefit, as they think lemons are just too acidic. However, at the same time, there are owners who have reported to get rid of these stains on dogs using lemon juice.
Again, it is wise to consult your vet about the stains and its removal strategy, as it is not that easy to remove them although lemon juice can do the trick. It is essential to note that adding lemon juice near the dog’s eyes is going to be harmful to them.
Can Dogs Have Lemon Peel?
Lemon peel might be beneficial for humans but not for dogs or puppies. Dogs should not be given the peel in any form and through any means. The reason is truly genuine. Lemon peels are not only futile in terms of nutritional or health benefits but are also risk imposers for dogs.
These peels can lead to gastrointestinal blockages, as the digestive systems of dogs cannot easily or nicely digest them. So, if you are planning to give lemon to your dog, ensure that you pull out the peel. This will ensure a safe side for your dog.
