Can dogs eat lime? Limes, just like lemons, are very high in citric acid so your dog should not eat them. All citrus fruits contain essential oils and a chemical compound that are toxic to dogs. The fruit can cause digestive problems.
These particular citrus fruits contain the essential oils limonene and linalool, as well as a phototoxic compound known as psoralens. While these substances are safe for human consumption, they are toxic to dogs.
What is Lemon and Lime Poisoning?
The fruits of the lemon and lime trees are well-known additions to food and drink in the human world but can be a danger to our pets. Lemons and limes, like other citrus fruits, contain the essential oils limonene and linalool, as well as a phototoxic compound known as psoralens.
Although a small amount is unlikely to pose a serious threat, it can cause gastrointestinal upset. Ingestion of larger quantities of these fruits, or the trees that they grow on, can cause more serious distress, though this is uncommon as dogs do not find these fruits palatable.
Both lemon (citrus limon) and lime (citrus aurantifolia) trees produce phototoxic compounds called psoralens as well as linalool and limonene. Although safe for humans, these substances are potentially toxic to canines in large amounts.
Symptoms of Lemon and Lime Poisoning in Dogs
Symptoms of poisoning from citrus fruits like lemons and limes are caused by a combination of the phototoxic compounds known as psoralens and the essential oils limonene and linalool.
- Cold limbs
- Collapse
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Lethargy
- Liver failure
- Loss of coordination
- Low blood pressure
- Photosensitivity
- Rash or skin irritation
- Sudden death
- Tremors
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Diagnosis of Lemon and Lime Poisoning in Dogs
If you catch your pet consuming any type of citrus plant, signs and symptoms combined with the identification of the plant may be sufficient to make an initial diagnosis. Your veterinarian will question you regarding factors that will help to choose the most effective treatment plan, such as the amount of plant material ingested, how long ago it was ingested, and what part of the plant was eaten. If the toxin is unknown because the ingestion was unwitnessed, a urinalysis, blood chemistry profile, and complete blood count will be needed in order to determine which toxin is causing the distress.
Any skin interaction will be noted, and any vomit or stools will be analyzed for toxins as well. Neurological testing to measure your pet’s reflexes and coordination may also occur during the diagnostic appointment. These evaluations are done in an attempt to pinpoint the specific areas of the nervous system that have been affected.
Treatment of Lemon and Lime Poisoning in Dogs
Any parts of the skin that have been exposed to the oil of the citrus plant should be washed immediately removed using a mild soap and clean water. Limonene and linalool are included in several dog shampoos as a fragrance and therefore, should be avoided when removing citrus oil. It is not always advised to induce vomiting as breathing the oil into the lungs can be harmful.
Gastric irrigation will be performed on the patient to physically remove as much of the toxin from the digestive system as possible. Activated charcoal will then be administered to prevent any further absorption of the toxic compound into the bloodstream.
There is no antidote for either the psoralens or the essential oils, so treatment is generally supportive beyond decontamination. This can include IV fluids for dehydration as well as mixtures of electrolytes and sugars to adjust for any imbalances that might develop. If your dog is having difficulty breathing, oxygen will be provided, and anti-seizure medications may be administered if tremors become acute.
Recovery of Lemon and Lime Poisoning in Dogs
Prognosis is typically good as the poisoning symptoms only last a few hours, however, ingestion of essential oils including lemons and limes can have a direr outcome. Dogs that require gastric lavage and are recovering from anesthesia may have coordination difficulties and confusion until the sedatives have fully cleared the patient’s system.
Cases of photo toxicity have developed with citrus poisoning, and your pet should be sheltered from sunlight for around 48 hours after treatment to prevent skin reactions. Your veterinarian will most likely recommend regular monitoring of blood chemistry levels for your pet after any type of poisoning, particularly in relation to liver and kidney functionality or impairment.
What Other Citrus Fruits can dog have?
Limes and lemons have the same psoralen compound in their peels, so no lemons either.
But apparently, oranges are different and are okay in moderation.
The only caveat for the orange is to watch out for feeding your furry friend too much due to high sugar content.
What If Only Their Skin or Fur Had Exposure to Lime?
You will need to treat your pup if there has been skin exposure to the toxins in limes or lemons.
The skin can absorb the toxin. This causes skin rashes, so be sure to give them a bath with soap and water after exposure.
What About the Health Benefits of Vitamin C?
Yes, vitamin C is essential for your pup. Your dog can’t have just any source of vitamin C or they’ll end up developing diarrhea instead of getting the benefits of the mineral.
While it is true that dogs can produce their own vitamin C, it is beneficial to make sure they are getting enough.
Here’s why…
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Vitamin C is really good for curbing allergies in your pup as well as gives a boost to his immune system. Vitamin C helps fight toxins, bacteria and viruses.
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Other benefits include providing a vital antioxidant for your dog that helps keep their coat shiny and lustrous. A boost of Vitamin C and Vitamin E maintains your dog’s youthful appearance.
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Vitamin C helps in the production of collagen, a vital tissue that helps in joint and bone health for dogs. Also, enough collagen in the body prevents your dog from developing hip dysplasia, spinal issues or degenerative joint disease.
What Vitamin C Rich Alternatives ARE Ok for My Dog?
- Acerola powder
- Asparagus
- Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale (avoid feeding these foods to hypothyroid dogs)
- Camu-camu powder
- Green pepper
- Kiwi
- Mango
- Oranges (beware of amounts due to possible stomach upset)
- Papaya
- Parsley
- Peas
- Pineapple (limit amounts due to possible stomach upset)
- Red pepper
- Sweet Potatoes
What fruits and vegetables can I feed my dog instead?
Dogs are omnivores, meaning they can eat meat or plant-based food. In fact, most dog kibble is a combination of meat protein and vegetable matter. One way you can enrich your dog’s diet is by adding extra fruits and vegetables on top of their kibble.
This can be especially beneficial for dogs suffering from weight problems or diseases, like diabetes. With that said, your canine companion can enjoy the taste and nutritional benefits of a large variety of different fruits and vegetables. Some of the healthiest fruits and veggies for dogs include:
Apples
Yes, dogs can eat apples. Apples are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber for your dog.
They are low in protein and fat, making them the perfect snack for senior dogs. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core first. Try them frozen for an icy warm weather snack.
Bananas
Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They’re high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper.
They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but bananas should be given as a treat because of their high sugar content, not part of your dog’s main diet.
Blueberries
Yes, dogs can eat blueberries. Blueberries are a superfood rich in antioxidants, which prevent cell damage in humans and canines alike.
They’re packed with fiber and phytochemicals as well. Teaching your dog to catch treats in the air? Try blueberries as an alternative to store-bought treats.
Cranberries
Yes, cranberries are safe for dogs to eat. Both cranberries and dried cranberries are safe to feed to dogs in small quantities.
Whether your dog will like this tart treat is another question. Either way, moderation is important when feeding cranberries to dogs, as with any treat, as too many cranberries can lead to an upset stomach.
Cucumbers
Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers. Cucumbers are especially good for overweight dogs, as they hold little to no carbohydrates, fats, or oils and they can even boost energy levels.
They’re loaded with vitamins K, C, and B1, as well as potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin.
Cantaloupe
Yes, cantaloupe is safe for dogs. Cantaloupe is packed with nutrients, low in calories, and a great source of water and fiber.
It is, however, high in sugar, so should be shared in moderation, especially for dogs who are overweight or have diabetes.
Mango
Yes, dogs can eat mangoes. This sweet summer treat is packed with four different vitamins: A, B6, C, and E. They also have potassium and both beta-carotene and alpha-carotene.
As with most fruits, just remember to remove the hard pit first, as it contains small amounts of cyanide and can become a choking hazard. Mango is high in sugar, so use it as an occasional treat.
Oranges
Yes, dogs can eat oranges. Oranges are fine for dogs to eat, according to veterinarians, but they may not be fans of any strong-smelling citrus.
Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, and in small quantities, the juicy flesh of an orange can be a tasty treat for your dog. Vets do recommend tossing the peel and only offering your dog the flesh of the orange, minus any seeds. Orange peel is rough on their digestive systems, and the oils may make your dog literally turn up their sensitive nose.
Peaches
Yes, peaches are safe for dogs to eat. Small amounts of cut-up fresh or frozen peaches are a great source of fiber and vitamin A, and can even help fight infections, but just like cherries, the pit contains cyanide.
As long as you completely cut around the pit first, fresh peaches can be a great summer treat. Skip canned peaches, as they usually contain high amounts of sugary syrups.
Pears
Yes, dogs can eat pears. Pears are a great snack because they’re high in copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. It’s been suggested that eating the fruit can reduce the risk of having a stroke by 50 percent.
Just be sure to cut pears into bite-size chunks and remove the pit and seeds first, as the seeds contain traces of cyanide. Skip canned pears with sugary syrups.
Pineapple
Yes, pineapple is safe for dogs to eat. A few chunks of pineapple is a great sweet treat for dogs, as long as the prickly outside peel and crown are removed first.
The tropical fruit is full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme that makes it easier for dogs to absorb proteins.
Raspberries
Yes, dogs can eat raspberries. Raspberries are fine in moderation. They contain antioxidants that are great for dogs. They’re low in sugar and calories, but high in fiber, manganese, and vitamin C. Raspberries are especially good for seniors dogs because they have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help aging joints.
However, they do contain small amounts of xylitol, so limit your dog to less than a cup of raspberries at a time.
Strawberries
Yes, dogs can eat strawberries. Strawberries are full of fiber and vitamin C. Along with that, they also contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth as he or she eats them. They contain sugar, so be sure to give them in moderation.
Watermelon
Yes, dogs can eat watermelon. It’s important to remove the rind and seeds first, as they can cause intestinal blockage, but watermelon flesh is otherwise safe for dogs. It’s full of vitamin A, B-6, and C, as well as potassium.
Watermelon is 92 percent water, so it’s a great way to help keep your dog hydrated on hot summer days.
Broccoli
Yes, broccoli is safe for dogs to eat in very small quantities and is best served as an occasional treat. It is high in fiber and vitamin C and low in fat.
However, Broccoli florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause mild-to-potentially severe gastric irritation in some dogs. Furthermore, broccoli stalks have been known to obstruct the esophagus.
Brussels sprouts
Yes, dogs can eat Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that are great for humans and dogs, alike.
Don’t overfeed them to your dog, however, because they can cause lots of gas. Cabbage is also safe for dogs, but comes with the same gassy warning!
Carrots
Yes, dogs can eat carrots. Carrots are an excellent low-calorie snack that is high in fiber and beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A. Plus, crunching on this orange veggie is great for your dog’s teeth (and fun).
Celery
Yes, celery is safe for dogs to eat. In addition to vitamins A, B, and C, this crunchy green snack contains the nutrients needed to promote a healthy heart and even fight cancer. As if that wasn’t enough, celery is also known to freshen doggy breath.
Green beans
Yes, dogs can eat green beans. Chopped, steamed, raw, or canned – all types of green beans are safe for dogs to eat, as long as they are plain.
Green beans are full of important vitamins and minerals and they’re also full of fiber and low in calories. Opt for low-salt or no-salt products if you’re feeding canned green beans to your dog.
Peas
Yes, dogs can eat peas. Green peas, snow peas, sugar snap peas, and garden or English peas are all OK for dogs to find in their bowl on occasion.
Peas have several vitamins, minerals, and are rich in protein and high in fiber. You can feed your dog fresh or frozen peas, but avoid canned peas with added sodium.
Spinach
Yes, dogs can eat spinach, but it’s not one of the top vegetables you’ll want to be sharing with your pup.
Spinach is high in oxalic acid, which blocks the body’s ability to absorb calcium and can lead to kidney damage. While your dog would probably have to eat a very large amount of spinach to have this problem, it might be best to go with another vegetable.
Fruits and Vegetables that are NOT safe for Dogs
While there is a range of fruits and veggies that are safe for your dog to consume, some varieties can also be toxic. Some of the most popular fruits and veggies that you should avoid feeding your dog include garlic, onion, mushroom, avocado, and rhubarb.
If you are unsure if your pet should be eating something, make sure you ask one of our vets, and we will be happy to answer any questions regarding your pet’s health and nutrition.
Avocado
No, dogs should not eat avocado. While avocado may be a healthy snack for dog owners, it should not be given to dogs at all.
The pit, skin, and leaves of avocados contain persin, a toxin that often causes vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. The fleshy inside of the fruit doesn’t have as much persin as the rest of the plant, but it is still too much for dogs to handle.
Cherries
No, dogs should not eat cherries. Except for the fleshy part around the seed, cherry plants contain cyanide and are toxic to dogs. Cyanide disrupts cellular oxygen transport, which means that your dog’s blood cells can’t get enough oxygen.
If your dog eats cherries, be on the lookout for dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and red gums, as these may be signs of cyanide poisoning.
Grapes
No, dogs should never eat grapes. Grapes and raisins (dried grapes) have proved to be very toxic for dogs no matter the dog’s breed, sex, or age.
In fact, grapes are so toxic that they can lead to acute sudden kidney failure. Always be mindful of this dangerous fruit for dogs.
Tomatoes
No, dogs should avoid tomatoes. While the ripened fruit of the tomato plant is generally considered safe for dogs, the green parts of the plant contain a toxic substance called solanine.
While a dog would need to eat a large amount of the tomato plant to make him or her sick, it’s better to skip tomatoes all together just to be safe.
Asparagus
No, dogs should not eat asparagus. While asparagus isn’t necessarily unsafe for dogs, there’s really no point in giving it to them. It’s too tough to be eaten raw, and by the time you cook it down so it’s soft enough for dogs to eat, asparagus loses the nutrients it contains.
If you really want to share a veggie, something more beneficial is probably best.
Mushrooms
No, dogs should avoid mushrooms. Wild mushrooms can be toxic for dogs. While only 50-100 of the 50,000 mushroom species worldwide are known to be toxic, the poisonous ones can really hurt your dog or even lead to death.
Washed white mushrooms from the supermarket could be OK, but it’s better to be safe than sorry; skip the fungi for Fido altogether.
Onions
No, dogs should never eat onions. Onions, leeks, and chives are part of a family of plants called Allium that is poisonous to most pets, especially cats.
Eating onions can cause your dog’s red blood cells to rupture, and can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea. Poisoning from onions is more serious in Japanese breeds of dogs like Akitas and Shiba Inus, but all dogs are very susceptible to it.
Human Foods That Can Be Fatal to Dogs
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is often used to sweeten candy, chewing gum, toothpaste, and baked goods. While deemed safe for human consumption, it can be deadly for dogs.
Eating foods that contain xylitol can lead to a sudden and significant drop in a dog’s blood sugar
Initial symptoms often show up within 30 minutes of consumption and include vomiting, weakness, depression, difficulty moving, coma and seizures. Eventually, xylitol can lead to liver damage and death.
Coffee, Tea and Other Caffeine
Caffeine is naturally found in coffee, tea, cocoa, and guarana, a South American plant. It is also often added to soft drinks and medications. Caffeine can speed the heart rate and stimulate the nervous system in dogs.
Within two to four hours of consuming caffeine, dogs may experience restlessness, excessive thirst, a lack of bladder control, vomiting, and diarrhea.
If dogs ingest too much caffeine, they can experience abnormal heart rhythm or lung failure, which can ultimately lead to death.
Grapes and Raisins
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Grapes and raisins can be extremely toxic to dogs.
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They can cause rapid kidney failure, which can ultimately be fatal.
Alcohol
Alcohol is found in various products, including alcoholic beverages and perfumes mouthwash, paint, varnish, and various cleaning products. While occasional alcohol consumption is safe for humans, dogs cannot tolerate it, even in small amounts.
Symptoms usually develop within an hour after consumption and include tiredness, depression, and lack of muscle coordination, low body temperature, poor breathing, vomiting, and diarrhea.
If a dog consumes too much alcohol, it can result in lung failure, seizures, coma, and even death.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains the stimulant chemicals theobromine and caffeine, both of which are very difficult for dogs to metabolize. If a dog eats chocolate, it can cause stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
These symptoms can also progress to more serious problems like heart attacks, internal bleeding, muscle tremors, seizures, and death
Salt
Eating too much salt could lead to a condition known as salt poisoning or water deprivation in dogs. This can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors, fever, and seizures. It may even be fatal in severe cases.
What to Do If your Dog Eats a Harmful Food
The best way to ensure your dog doesn’t eat anything harmful is to keep these foods out of reach. To minimize the risk, make sure that you don’t leave these foods on countertops or tables, in purses, or in other places where your dog could access them.
If you know your dog has ingested something toxic, consult your veterinarian immediately or call the pet poison hotline.
Treatment will vary depending upon your dog’s symptoms and the type of food they were exposed to. You should never treat or medicate a dog unless a licensed veterinarian advises you to do so.
Summary
The fruits of the lemon and lime trees are well-known additions to food and drink in the human world but can be a danger to our pets.
Frequently Asked Questions 
1- What happens if a dog eats a lime?
Eating large amounts of limes can cause serious issues for your dog, especially the peel which contains essential oils. Along with digestive upset, vomiting, and diarrhea, consuming large amounts of essential oils via lime peels can lead to poisoning.
2- Can lime juice hurt dogs?
Certain citrus fruits, such as lemons and limes, contain essential oils as well as a substance called psoralens in them, both of which are poisonous for dogs and can cause gastrointestinal distress and even liver failure. Most dogs find lemons highly repulsive and that is one of the reasons they act so odd around them.
3- Does lime help with dog ■■■■?
Lime, which can be used to help dissolve dog ■■■, can be placed on dog ■■■ right in the yard and it only takes a few days for this to happen.
4- Does lime neutralize dog urine?
Incidentally, the pH, or acidity, of the urine isn’t the cause of the damage. Therefore, sprinkling the damaged areas with dolomitic lime or trying to change the pH of the urine won’t help. If a dog’s urine is less concentrated, her urine will be less damaging, but most ways of causing this are not good for the dog.
5- Will lime make my dog sick?
No. For one thing, dogs don’t enjoy the taste of sour citrus fruits like limes and lemons. More importantly, limes are toxic to dogs. Contact with or consumption of any part of the lime — leaves, peel, or fruit — can cause illness.
6- Can I spray my dog with lemon juice?
Mix a solution of equal parts of lemon juice and water in a spray bottle. Before taking your dog outside for a walk, spray his coat with the lemon juice solution. Mix it into a paste and rub it onto your dog’s coat in the problem areas. Let it sit for up to ten minutes before rinsing thoroughly from your dog’s fur.
7- Can I put lemon in my dogs water?
A Bit of Lemon Juice in Your Puppy’s Water – a Refreshing Drink. Lemon juice is known to be naturally refreshing. So a bit of lemon juice in your puppy’s water can help her recover from fatigue and keep her sprightly. Lemon juice also helps to counter bad breath.
8- Is it bad to leave dog ■■■■ in the yard?
It is dangerous to leave dog ■■■■ laying around your lawn or any other area because, although the ■■■■ itself will break down and decompose with time, the pathogens it contains can stick around for much longer.
9- Can dogs walk on grass with lime?
Lime pellets work to raise the pH of acidic soil because they are highly alkaline – this means that direct contact between the skin and the pellets can be irritating. If you can, wait for a hard rain to dissolve the pellets into the soil before allowing your dog out onto the lawn, or water the lawn thoroughly.
10- Can dogs have popcorn?
Plain, air-popped popcorn is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. Buttered popcorn or popcorn with other toppings is not safe for your dog regularly, although eating a few dropped pieces here and there probably won’t hurt him.
Conclusion:
The fruits of the lemon and lime trees are well-known additions to food and drink in the human world but can be a danger to our pets. Lemons and limes, like other citrus fruits, contain the essential oils limonene and linalool, as well as a phototoxic compound known as psoralens. Although a small amount is unlikely to pose a serious threat.
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