Can dogs eat apples? The short answer is yes. Dogs can eat apples and all kinds of them, too. Apples contain many nutrients to boost your furry friend’s health. So, let’s discuss adding apples to your dog’s diet.
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Can Dogs Have Apples?
Are apples safe for dogs to eat? Yes, this fruit is safe for your furry friend to consume. There are many nutritional benefits of this snack for your pup. In addition, apples can also help their teeth.
Apple Nutritional Facts
Apples are chock-full of nutrients for both humans and canines.
According to Healthline, one raw, unpeeled apple contains the following:
| Apple Nutrition | Amount in Grams |
|---|---|
| Calories | 52 |
| Carbs | 13.8 grams |
| Fat | 0.2 grams |
| Fiber | 2.4 grams |
| Protein | 0.3 grams |
| Sugar | 10.4 grams |
| Water | 86% |
In addition, this fruit contains many other vitamins and minerals for your pup to enjoy.
What Are The Benefits Of Feeding Dogs Apples?
Apples can do wonders for your dog’s overall health if given to your dog in moderation and properly.
As with all human food, apples should be given to your dog in small quantities. Too much can make them sick.
However, apples do provide a lot for your canine companion.
Vitamins And Minerals
Apples contain vitamins A, C, and K. Together, they help boost many parts of your dog’s functional system.
For example, vitamin A helps keep a lot healthy, such as their vision, reproductive system, bone health, and immune system.
In addition, vitamin C gives their whole immune system a good boost.
Finally, vitamin K prevents blood clotting and coagulation.
Minerals such as calcium, phosphorous, and potassium are also included in apples.
A good dose of calcium boosts your dog’s overall bone structure and growth. In addition, it also helps with their immune system.
Phosphorous does the same. However, this mineral also regulates the body’s pH levels and keeps your doggo hydrated.
Potassium supports many functions, including the kidney, heart, muscle, and digestive systems.
Low Calorie And High In Fiber
Apples don’t contain many calories, so it’s a great quick snack now and again. They should still be given in moderation, but you won’t need to worry about your dog eating too much and possibly gaining weight.
On the other hand, this fruit is high in fiber. Fiber is prebiotic that helps your dog’s gastrointestinal system.
Of course, too much fiber can give your dog diarrhea. But, in moderation, this tasty treat ensures your pup stays regular.
Great Source Of Hydration
Did you know apples are about 86% made up of water?
Apples are an excellent source of water for your pup. So, if they’re not feeling well or dehydrated, munching on a few apple pieces will help.
Also, this fruit will make a great snack on a hot summer day.
Supports Teeth
Finally, apples can help keep your dog’s breath fresh. The apple skin, in particular, acts as a toothbrush, which gets rid of plaque.
Of course, apples should not replace brushing teeth, but it’ll help.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Feeding Dogs Apples?
Luckily, there aren’t too many disadvantages to providing apples to your pup. However, as with most things, apples should be given in small quantities and moderation.
However, apples are high in sugar. Too much sugar isn’t suitable for anyone, let alone dogs.
If your doggo consumes too many apples, the sugar content may cause digestive issues, such as an upset stomach, diabetes, and possibly cancer.
Of course, if your dog has diabetes already, you should keep them away from apples.
Parts Of The Apple Your Dog Can And Can’t Eat
Now that we know how wonderful apples are for your doggo, which parts of the apple can they consume safely?
| Part of the Apple | Safe for your Dog? |
|---|---|
| Apple Flesh | Yes |
| Apple Skin | Yes |
| Apple Core | No |
| Apple Stem | No |
| Apple Seeds | No |
Everything a human can eat on an apple is the same that dogs can consume. On the other hand, humans don’t eat the stem, core, or seeds; neither should your dog.
These parts of the apple are too hard to chew and may be a choking hazard or cause an intestinal blockage. Also, there’s no nutritional value in these parts.
A Note About Apple Seeds
Unfortunately, apple seeds are poisonous to dogs. They contain cyanide, which obstructs oxygen flow to the body.
If your pup accidentally gets one or two seeds, they should be okay. However, consumption of a large number of seeds can cause cyanide poisoning.
Should that happen, symptoms of cyanide poisoning include the following:
- Brick-red mucus membranes
- Dilated pupils
- Difficulty breathing
- Excessive panting
- Shock
If you notice these symptoms in your dog, bring them to the emergency vet immediately, as this could result in death.
How Many Apples Can Dogs Eat?
One or two slices of apple are enough. Moderation and small quantities are key.
Too many apples can cause your doggo to get sick. For example, they’ll get diarrhea, constipation, or vomit.
Remember the 90/10 rules. 90% of your dog’s diet should be their commercial dog food brand. The other 10% should be dog-friendly treats and dog-safe people food.
So, even when giving them one or two slices, it should only be done once or twice a week.
Keep in mind your dog’s size and weight. Large dogs, such as a Great Dane, will be able to eat more than small dog breeds, such as a Chihuahua.
For example, large dogs can handle eating apples twice a week, while it might be best to provide apples to your small dog only once a week.
How To Feed Your Dog Apples
Before feeding apples to your pup, talk to your veterinarian. Make sure it’s a good idea and get their approval.
If the vet says, it’s okay, start small. Try giving your dog a bite of an apple and monitor how they react.
For instance, your pup may love the taste, but the fruit might not agree with their system.
On the other hand, it’s unlikely, but it’s possible that your dog is allergic to apples.
So, start with small pieces and monitor your furry friend for the day. If everything seems to work well and your dog enjoys it, you can try giving them a little more the following week.
How To Prepare Apples For Your Dog
When providing apples to your dog, always make sure that the apple is well prepared for your doggo to consume.
First, wash the apple thoroughly. Whether you buy organic apples or have an apple tree in your yard, you should always wash the apple well.
Then, you can peel the apple skin off. This step is optional. The apple skin is good for your dog and can help with their teeth. However, it can be tough to chew, and your dog may prefer not to eat the skin.
So, peel it off if your doggo doesn’t like it. Otherwise, the skin can stay on.
Then, remove the core, stem, and seeds from the apple.
Once everything is removed, cut the apple into bite-sized pieces or small slices.
Finally, you can feed apples to your dog as an occasional treat, training treats, or place a few pieces on top of their dinner as a meal topper.
Apple-Flavored Dog Treats
If you want to add apples to your dog’s diet, but are afraid to give them the fruit, then you can try dog treats.
Many dog treats on the market use apples as the main ingredient.
For example, these apple and yogurt treats are tasty.
Or, if you want to throw meat in the mix, your dog may enjoy these apple sausage treats.
On the other hand, if your dog likes something sweeter, these apple and cinnamon treats are a good choice.
Dog-Friendly Recipes That Include Apples
Alternatively, you can make homemade dog treats and flavor them however you want. You can create your apple-flavored recipe or check out some of the ones below.
For example, these apple and peanut butter treats are a delightful snack for your pup.
These apple dog treats are quick to make.
Finally, these apple and carrot treats are full of great ingredients.
Question Corner: FAQs About Dogs Eating Apples
If you want to know more about dogs and apples, read through the frequently asked questions below.
Can Dogs Eat Apple Juice?
While apple juice is mainly apples and water, your dog shouldn’t drink apple juice. It often has added sugars and no fiber. So, your pup has no nutritional value, which could make them sick.
Can Dogs Eat Apple Chips?
Technically, yes. Dogs can eat apple chips. These are dehydrated apples, but that also means the nutrients from the fresh apple are lost. The water content is gone, there’s no fiber, and more sugar is added. So, it’s best to stay away from these, too.
Can Dogs Eat Apple Pie?
No, they cannot eat apple pie. The pie contains extra sugar, pie crust, and spices, such as nutmeg, that are not safe for dogs to consume.
Can Dogs Eat Applesauce?
Some applesauce is okay for dogs. However, most contain added sugar, which isn’t good for your pup. You can make homemade applesauce, but it might be best to stick with a regular slice of apple.
Can Dogs Eat Apples With Skin?
Yes. The skin is optional and will depend on what your dog likes and dislikes. However, the skin is a great option to leave on since it’ll help your dog’s teeth.
Can Dogs Eat Apples With Peanut Butter?
As long as the peanut butter doesn’t contain xylitol, then yes. You can add a dollop of peanut button to a slice of apple.
Can Dogs Eat Apples Whole?
No. First, a whole apple is too much for them. A large dog should only eat about half a medium-sized apple. Also, if they eat it entirely, the stem, core, and seeds are still there. None of these are safe for your pup to consume.
Can Dogs Eat Different Types Of Apples?
Yes, they can. Whether Granny Smith or Cortland, your dog can eat all kinds of apples. Some apples are sweet while others are tart. So, try a few types with your pup and see which type is their favorite.
Can Puppies Have Apples?
Yes, puppies can eat apples. However, most of their diet should come from dog food or mother’s milk. Make sure they develop well before trying other foods and discuss it with your vet.
Can Senior Dogs Have Apples?
Yes, apples may help your senior dog since it’s a great source of vitamins and minerals. Sometimes, it’s easy for senior dogs to dehydrate, so giving them a few pieces of apple will help keep them hydrated.
Should You Give Your Dog Apples?
The short answer is yes. Dogs can eat apples, and they’re good for them, too. However, remember to ask your vet about it first and only give apples in moderation. Otherwise, your dog will enjoy this tasty snack (and it’s good for them, too).
Rachel Poli is a content writer and author, but her real job is being a stay-at-home pet mom. Her zoo currently consists of a dog, a cat, two turtles, and two fish tanks. She’s also an avid pet sitter for a few local families, caring for various animals.
After realizing how little information there is for pet sitters on the internet, Rachel decided to start her own animal website. She strives to educate pet parents and pet sitters about the overall care of our furry friends.