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Is playing with a lemon safe for my dog? Will it upset their stomach?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

is playing ball with a lemon bad gut my dog?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 5th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is not necessarily bad but I would be concerned about the possibility of your pup being able to swallow one hole causing an obstruction. Also, lemons can cause gastrointestinal upset including vomiting, diarrhea and inappetence. I would recommend not using a lemon for this purpose. Good luck and have a great day!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 2nd, 2016

    I would not give Bruno a lemon to play with, he should be playing with dog toys only. The lemon isn't toxic, but the peel, pith, and seeds can cause stomach irritation. In addition, if he ate the lemon whole, there is a risk of GI obstruction. I wouldn't give this to him for play.

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