Dogs are curious about all kinds of things, but especially what you’re eating! If your dog sees you eating something like lemon, he may beg for it. Or your dog may try to lick it when you’re not looking! But what happens if a dog licks a lemon?
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Has your dog licked a lemon? Are you worried the lemon will make your dog sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be concerning when your dog does something like this.
In this article, we’ll take a look at lemons and whether or not they can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What are Lemons?
Lemons are citrus fruits that have a bright yellow color and an oval (or football) shape. They’re famous for their sour juice, which can be used in a wide range of recipes for foods, desserts, and drinks.
There are many types of varieties of lemons; however, in North America, the Lisbon or Eureka lemons are the most common. The juice and rind of the lemons can be used in many recipes. Slices of lemon are also served as a garnish in different types of dishes or beverages.
While humans can safely enjoy lemons, what about dogs? What happens if a dog licks a lemon?
Lemons & Dogs
The good news is that lemons are not deadly for dogs. However, the compounds found in lemons can make a dog sick. These include psoralen and lemon oils. What’s more, dogs usually don’t like things that taste sour.
The psoralens found in lemons are also found in other citrus fruits. They are most concentrated in the skin and seeds of the lemon. What’s more, because lemon juice is very acidic, it’s possible that a dog’s skin could be burned. He may also develop digestive tract issues from the juice.
So, while it’s not deadly for a dog to lick lemons, it’s really not good for him, either.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Lemon Ingestion in Dogs
Even licking a lemon could cause the following symptoms:
- Panting
- Drooling
- Back hair on edge
- Dilated pupils
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
So, if your dog has licked a lemon and shows any of these symptoms, then be sure to call the vet. And be sure to call your vet if your dog develops any signs of an allergic reaction. It is possible for dogs to be allergic to lemons and other citrus fruits.
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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