Hedge apples are not poisonous to dogs, but they can be a choking hazard. If you have a dog who is prone to chewing on things, it’s best to keep hedge apples out of reach.
Introduction
Hedge apples, also known as osage oranges, are a type of fruit that grows on trees in the Osage genus. These fruits are not actually related to oranges, but get their name from their orange-like color and appearance. Hedge apples areNative to North America and have been used for centuries by Indigenous peoples for everything from building materials to medicine.
The Osage Orange tree is a popular choice for hedges and privacy screens because of its dense growth habit. The tree can grow up to 50 feet tall and produces round, green fruits that are about the size of a tennis ball. While the hedge apple fruit is not poisonous to humans, it can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. If you suspect your dog has eaten a hedge apple, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
What are hedge apples?
Hedge apples, also known as osage oranges, are the fruit of the Osage-orange tree. The scientific name for this tree is Maclura pomifera. It is a deciduous tree, meaning that it sheds its leaves annually. The Osage-orange tree is native to the central United States but can also be found in parts of Canada, Mexico, and China.
Are hedge apples poisonous to dogs?
Hedge apples are not poisonous to dogs, but they can cause gastrointestinal upset if eaten in large amounts. Hedge apples contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which are converted to cyanide when metabolized. These compounds can cause vomiting and diarrhea if consumed in large quantities. If you think your dog has eaten a hedge apple, contact your veterinarian.
How do hedge apples affect dogs?
While the hedge apple is not poisonous to dogs, it can cause stomach upset if ingested in large quantities. The most common side effect is vomiting, so it’s important to monitor your dog if he or she has eaten hedge apples. If you have any concerns, contact your veterinarian.
How can I keep my dog safe from hedge apples?
If you have hedge apples on your property, it’s important to take precautions to keep your dog safe. Hedge apples are not poisonous to dogs, but they can cause gastrointestinal upset if eaten in large quantities. If you think your dog has eaten a hedge apple, watch for signs of vomiting or diarrhea and contact your veterinarian if they occur.
To prevent your dog from eating hedge apples, remove any fallen fruit from your property and keep an eye on your dog when they are outside. If you have a hedge on your property, trim it regularly to prevent the fruit from getting too close to the ground.
Conclusion
From what we can tell, the answer is no—hedge apples are not poisonous to dogs. However, as with any new food you introduce to your dog, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and feed them in moderation. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health, please contact your veterinarian.
Resources
Below are some articles and websites that provide more information on the topic of are hedge apples poisonous to dogs:
-https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/are-hedgehogs-poisonous-to-dogs/
-“Do Hedgehogs Carry Disease?” https://www.thesprucepets.com/do-hedgehogs-carry-disease-1237101
Hedgehogs can carry a range of diseases that might be harmful to both pets and people, including salmonella, binucleate cells, and ringworm.
-“Are Hedge Apples Poisonous?” https://www.whattoexpect.com/womens-health/what-to-know/hedgehog-bites.aspx#:~:text=Hedge%20apples%2C%20the%20fruit%20of,not%20considered%20toxic%20to%20humans.&text=But%20if%2C%20by%20some%,ingested%2C%20it’s%20not poisonous.
About the author
I’m a pet owner and pet lover. I have two dogs, a cat, and a hedgehog. I’ve done extensive research on all things pets, from nutrition to behavior.
