I don’t know about you, but whenever I sit down to eat an apple my dogs turn their puppy dog eyes on me begging for a piece as well. Both of them have mastered the sad, pitiful look that is difficult to say no to.
But is sharing my apple with them a good idea? Can dogs have apples as a treat?
The quick answer is yes, dogs can enjoy the taste of a good apple just like we can. Apples even have a few benefits for dogs just like they do for us humans.
But, while they can eat apples there are a few things to watch out for like the seeds and core of the apple. And too much of a good thing is still too much, so feed apples to your dog in moderation.
Can Dogs Have Apples?
Yes, your dog can enjoy apples!
Always consult your veterinarian before giving your dog new foods.
Benefits of Apples for Dogs
Apples are a fantastic source of essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. They are also packed with fiber, especially in the peel, which can support your dog’s digestive health. Additionally, apples contain antioxidants that contribute to overall wellness.
Feeding apples to your dog as a treat can even help keep their teeth clean and freshen their breath.
Risks of Giving Apples to Dogs
The main risk with giving your dog apples to eat is with the seeds of the apple and the apple core.
Apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide and consuming too many seeds can lead to cyanide poisoning in your dog.
Besides the risk of eating the seeds, the core of an apple can also be a choking hazard for your dog.
The best way to reduce this risk is to not give your dog the whole apple. Cut it into slices and give them only the slices and keep the seeds and core out of their reach.
Other Potential Issues With Apples for Dogs
Apples can cause an upset stomach and diarrhea in some dogs. For some dogs, it may be any amount of apple and for others, it can be just when they have too much apple.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a clear-cut amount of how much apple each dog can have. Luna can have a small piece of apple and be fine, but if I give her more than one slice she gets gassy.
And I’m not talking about minor gas, I’m talking about clear-the-room gas.
Morgan, on the other hand, can eat the same amount of apple as Luna and be perfectly fine even though she is a quarter of the size.
If you have any concerns about giving your dog apples, or if they have a history of food sensitivities or allergies, it’s best to discuss it with your vet before introducing a new food to them.
Safe Ways to Feed Apples to Dogs
Feeding apples to your dogs can be a healthy and delicious treat for them. However, it’s essential to take some precautions as certain parts of the apple can pose risks to your pet. Here are some safe ways to add apples to your dog’s diet:
Cut or Chop the Apple
Before giving an apple to your dog, always remove the core and seeds. Apple seeds contain a small amount of cyanide, which can be harmful to your dog if consumed in large quantities.
To avoid any choking hazards, cut or chop the apple into bite-sized pieces to make it more manageable for your pet to eat.
Additionally, always wash the apples to remove any chemicals or pesticides that may be on the apples.
Make Applesauce
Another safe way to feed apples to your dog is by making applesauce. Homemade applesauce for dogs is easy to make with just some apple slices and a little bit of water.
Make sure to let it cool before serving to your dog. You can serve it by itself or use it as a dog food topper when you feed your dog.
Just make sure to treat it as a treat and give it in moderation.
Dog Treats Made with Apples
Besides being a great treat on their own, apples are great ingredient to use in homemade dog treats. Here are a few recipes made with apples or applesauce that my dogs love:
Homemade Oatmeal Applesauce Dog Treats
Frequently Asked Questions
How much apple can I give my dog?
You can share apples with your dog, but moderation is essential. It’s best to limit the amount of apple you give your dog to just a few slices a day with smaller dogs getting less that larger breeds.
Can dogs have apples with skin?
Yes, dogs can enjoy apples with the skin on. Apple peels are fine for dogs to eat as long as they are on the apple but they can get stuck in your dog’s teeth. For those with a sensitive stomach peeling the apple may make it easier for them to digest.
Are any apples poisonous to dogs?
No particular apple variety is poisonous to dogs, but the apple seeds and core can be harmful. Apple seeds carry cyanide, which can cause serious problems if your dog ingests a large quantity. Remove the seeds and core before feeding apples to your pet.
Can dogs eat green apples?
Both red and green apples are safe for dogs to eat. Green apples, like Granny Smith, tend to be more tart than red apples which may affect how much your dog enjoys them.
Can dogs have applesauce?
Dogs can eat unsweetened applesauce, as it is simply pureed apples with no additives. However, avoid giving them applesauce with added sugar or other flavorings. Always check the label and opt for natural, unsweetened varieties if you choose to share applesauce with your dog.
Can dogs eat dried apples?
Dried apples are safe for dogs, as long as they do not contain any added sugars, preservatives, or other harmful ingredients. Dried apples contain all the nutrients and sugars of fresh apples but without the water content. They should be served in small amounts to prevent stomach upset.
Can dogs have apple juice?
No, dogs cannot have apple juice. Apple juice has too much sugar and may contain other ingredients that are not good for dogs and can lead to health issues like stomach upset and weight gain.
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