Reviewed By Joana Garrido DVM
Yes, dogs can eat apples; apples are packed with health-boosting nutrients, including beta-carotene, folate, and calcium. However, on the downside, the fruit presents some hazards that dog owners need to be aware of.
Learn how to prepare apples to avert any health risks from happening to your furry companion.
Are apples good for dogs?
Yes. Apples are packed with nutrients that bring many health benefits to dogs. Here are some great nutritional perks that the fruit offers:
- Full of vitamins and minerals
Apple contains several nutrients that help keep your dog healthy. It’s a good source of vitamin A, calcium, and phosphorus. The vitamin C and antioxidants found in apples are known to help dogs with degenerative diseases, such as hip dysplasia recover. - Promotes dental health
Apples have malic acid that helps keep your dog’s teeth clean. It also freshens your dog’s breath. - Helps in managing weight
Apples are low in calories but high in dietary fiber. This supports your dog’s gastrointestinal health and promotes good digestion. Moreover, it makes a delicious treat for dogs on weight control diets. Older dogs. - Helps maintain healthy skin and coat
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in apples keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy and glossy. - Boosts the immune system
Antioxidants such as catechin, chlorogenic acid, phloridzin, and quercetin are found in apples. It aids in safeguarding the body against free-radical damage and diseases such as cancer.
What kinds of apples can dogs eat?
All varieties of apples are safe for dogs to eat, from Red Delicious to Granny Smith. However, some dogs tend to be allergic to apples. Whilst it only affects a small percentage of canines, it is best to watch out for signs of allergic reactions the first time you introduce apples to them.
Can dogs eat apple seeds?
Beware of apple seeds as they contain small amounts of cyanide. This toxic substance can cause hypoxia or inadequate oxygen delivery to a dog’s body.
It would take the ingestion of many apple seeds to cause cyanide poisoning. Of course, it also depends on the size of the dog. Common signs of cyanide poisoning include:
- Breathing difficulties
- Shock
- Dilated pupils
- Panting
- Reddish mucus membrane
If your dog has eaten a few seeds, he will most likely be safe. With that said, it is always better not to take any risks. So don’t give your dog a whole apple. Make sure to remove the seeds before you feed the fruit to him.
Can dogs eat apple cores?
No, the apple core is not safe for dogs to eat. It is firm and hard, which can make it difficult for dogs to chew. The apple core as well as the stem are considered choking hazards and may cause gastrointestinal obstruction if swallowed.
Can dogs eat apple skin?
Yes, dogs can eat apples with the skin on. The apple skin contains nutrients that are good for dogs, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. However, keep the serving to a minimum. Too much apple skin may cause an upset stomach.
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, peel off the apple skin for easier digestion and remove the core before serving.
Can puppies eat apples?
Yes, puppies can eat apples provided that they are supervised. Compared to adult dogs, pups have more sensitive stomachs. So, if you have a puppy that hasn’t eaten apples before, you may need to monitor him closely and start with a small slice first.
Can dogs eat applesauce?
Dogs can eat applesauce, but it is not recommended. Most store-bought applesauce has added sugar that can harm your dog’s health.
Processed apple products like apple chips, apple juice, and other apple-flavored products are not recommended as they can affect a dog’s digestive system.
How much apples can a dog eat?
Treats, including fruits, should only make up no more than 10% of a dog’s diet. Therefore, apples should be given in moderation. 1-3 apple slices are enough. Avoid feeding your dog too much fruit, resulting in stomach upset or diarrhea.
How to Safely Serve Apples to Your Dog
If your dog loves apples, he can still have his favorite treat. Just follow the safety measures below before serving.
- Consider choosing organic apples as they are less exposed to pesticides.
- Wash apples thoroughly to get rid of any bacteria, dirt, or chemicals.
- Slice each apple but do not peel them. The skin is high in fiber and a great source of antioxidants.
- Remove the core and all seeds.
- Apple slices can be stuffed inside an interactive food-dispensing toy like the Kong Wobbler.
Paw-Licking Apple Dog Treats That You Can Try
Now that it’s clear that dogs can have apples, do you want to take your apple dog treats to a new level?
Here are two delectable apple recipes you can make for your furry buddy.
Crunchy Apple Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 apple, peeled, cored, and finely shredded
- 2 cups whole oats
- 2 cups white rice/ all-purpose / tapioca flour
- 4 tablespoons water or vegetable stock
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl and form them into a dough.
- Roll out the dough.
- Using a cookie cutter, cut out various shapes for the cookies. If you don’t have one, feel free to create your own design.
- Put the cookies together on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake for at least 10 minutes. If you want crunchier cookies, turn off the oven and leave them inside for another 30 minutes.
- Allow them to cool before serving them to your dog. Leftover cookies can be stored in a seal-tight container.
Sweet Apple-cicles
What you’ll need:
- Blender
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Ice cube tray
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 2 apples peeled, cored, and finely shredded
- Water
Directions:
- Place all the ingredients in the blender. Add a splash of water. Let it blend until it has a liquid consistency.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray.
- Let it freeze until hard, and serve it to your pooch.