Can dogs eat grapefruit?
No, it's best not to feed grapefruit to dogs. The flesh isn't toxic, but its high citric acid can upset a dog's stomach, and the skin and rind are toxic to dogs because of their essential oils.
Updated:
Why
The ASPCA lists the grapefruit plant as toxic to dogs because of essential oils and psoralens, while noting that the fruit is edible and that the skins and plant material cause the problems. AKC says the flesh isn't toxic but is best avoided, partly because of its high citric acid, and that the skin and rind are toxic because of their natural essential oils. PDSA lists grapefruit as unsafe because it is very acidic. We use 'not recommended' because the flesh itself is not toxic, while the skin and rind are the danger.
Signs to watch for
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Depression (low energy, seems down)
- Skin irritation
What to do
If your dog ate grapefruit skin or rind, call your vet or an emergency vet clinic right away. If it ate a large amount of the flesh, contact your vet too.
Questions and answers
What if my dog ate grapefruit peel?
Call your vet or an emergency vet clinic right away. The skin and rind are toxic to dogs because of their essential oils.
Related foods
All foods: What can dogs eat?Sources
- Can Dogs Eat Grapefruit? — American Kennel Club, Sassafras Patterdale (updated 2025-07-31)
- Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Grapefruit — ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Safe fruit and veg for dogs — PDSA (no date)
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic dog: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.