Safety guide

Is Lime safe for dogs?

Use with caution

Best avoided — like lemon, the acidic flesh and oily peel cause stomach upset and irritation.

Limes are much like lemons for dogs: the acidic flesh can cause stomach upset, and the peel contains essential oils and psoralens that are irritating and can trigger vomiting and diarrhoea. Most dogs reject the sour taste. A small lick is unlikely to harm, but there is no nutritional reason to offer it, so lime is best avoided.

Symptoms to watch for

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Drooling
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy or light sensitivity (with large peel/oil ingestion)

What to do immediately

  1. 1Remove the lime and any peel from reach
  2. 2Offer fresh water
  3. 3Withhold food briefly if the stomach is upset
  4. 4Monitor for vomiting or diarrhoea

When to call your vet

Call your vet if your dog ate a large amount of peel or pith, or has persistent vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy.

Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control · VCA Animal Hospitals

For guidance only — this doesn't replace veterinary advice. When in doubt, contact your vet.

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