Can dogs eat limes?
No, it's best not to feed limes to dogs. The fruit itself is not toxic, but lime rinds and their oils are dangerous for dogs, and the acid can upset the stomach. Most dogs dislike the taste and smell anyway.
Updated:
Why
The ASPCA lists the lime 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 limes are not toxic but advises against feeding them, and PDSA lists them as unsafe because they are very acidic. In large amounts, citric acid can cause stomach upsets and even depression of the nervous system and loss of coordination. Lime juice is concentrated and shouldn't be given to dogs. We use 'not recommended' because the flesh is not toxic, while the rind, oils and large amounts are the danger.
Signs to watch for
- Tiredness, lethargy
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite
- Signs of a blockage in the gut
- Trembling or shaking
- Excessive drooling
What to do
If your dog ate a lot of limes, watch for these signs and contact your vet right away. Throw away rinds where your dog can't reach them, and don't encourage it to play with fallen limes.
Questions and answers
Can dogs have lime juice?
No. Lime juice is a concentrated form of the fruit's flesh, so it shouldn't be given to dogs.
Related foods
All foods: What can dogs eat?Sources
- Can Dogs Eat Limes? — American Kennel Club, Sassafras Patterdale (updated 2025-08-08)
- Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Lime — 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.