Apples can be a healthy addition to a dog’s diet as they contain calcium, fibre and vitamins A, C and K which all contribute to good canine health.
Dogs can eat apples, but there are some things you should know before feeding them to your dog. Apples are full of nutrients that can be beneficial to your dog’s health, but there are some dangers to look out for such as the core and seeds. Apple pips contain cyanide and can prove harmful in larger quantities. It’s best to remove the core which contains the pips and cut the apple into slices to avoid any risk of choking hazard.
With any food you feed your dog, moderation is key as too much can cause gastrointestinal upset. But, served correctly, apples are a healthy treat that your dog will find refreshing and tasty.
Some notes on feeding apples to dogs
They are an affordable, low-calorie snack full of valuable nutrients which are great for dogs, making them a good choice of snack or reward during training.
They’re low in protein and high fibre, which is good for your dog’s digestive health and make them a good choice for dogs who have restrictive diets that don’t allow for high protein or fat. This might be especially good for senior dogs or dogs with certain illnesses. Apples as treats can also be good for dogs with bad breath!
As noted before, the seeds and core of the apple aren’t for eating (you wouldn’t want to eat them either!) and while too many seeds might cause problems, if your dog inadvertently eats a few it’s nothing to worry about. We all remember the old wives’ tale that our granny used to tell us about a tree growing inside us from swallowing a seed! No need to worry about it!
Apple cores are more coarse than the flesh of the apple, so they can stick in or grate your dog’s throat when swallowed, so always get rid of the core before serving the treat.
Most fruits are high in sugar, so again, moderation is key! The sugar content can be problematic for dogs who suffer from diabetes, so consult your vet before feeding apples to your dog. And just like humans, consuming too many sweet things can result in an upset tummy, so a rare treat is better.
Dogs can be allergic to different foods just like humans, so if you see any signs of a reaction from your dog, then stop serving them apples. These might include:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Swelling
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
If you spot these symptoms, consult your vet as soon as possible. It’s always good to chat to your vet before feeding your dog new foods, particularly if they have any medical conditions.
Ultimately, apples can be a great treat for your dog, either mixed in with their regular meals or as a tasty snack. There are numerous recipes online for homemade dog treats that use apples in the recipe too!
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