Are Apples Safe for Dogs?

For years we’ve been told, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” That’s because apples are loaded with beneficial vitamins and minerals that support our health. But what about our dogs? Are apples safe for dogs or are they toxic?

The quick answer is, yes, dogs can safely eat apples, but there are some guidelines and considerations. So let’s dive into those now:

Can Dogs Eat Apples?

So are apples safe for dogs to eat? Yes, they are actually a wonderful source of fiber, which can help those dogs with constipation issues and those who need help maintaining a healthy weight. In addition, apples also contain beneficial vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium and antioxidants.

Chewing on apple slicecs can also help your dog keep her choppers clean and bright. Though feeding your dog apples should NOT take the place of regular professional cleanings. 

How Many Apples Can Dogs Safely Eat?

Apples are fairly low in calories but do contain quite a bit of sugar. So it’s never a good idea to let them eat an entire apple. While one or two slices can safely satisfy your dog’s craving for a sweet crunch, offering too much can lead to an upset stomach and diarrhea. 

As always, we recommend speaking with your veterinarian before adding any new food to your pup’s diet. Your vet can tell you exactly how much apple is safe based on your dog’s age, weight and overall health.

How to Safely Feed Your Dog Apples

It’s a good idea to peel the apple as the skin is often waxed and full of pesticides. Once you peel the apple, you can simply cut into cubes or thin slices. It really depends on how big your dog and his/her mouth are. 

The key is to offer only bites and slices of apple that are easy for your pup to ingest. Never toss an entire apple to your dog as the seeds can make them sick and the apple core poses a choking risk.

Dehydrated Apple Chips as an Even Crunchier Snack

While fresh apples are awesome, you can make an even crispier/crunchier treat by dehydrating the apple slices. This can be done easily in a food dehydrator. You can also slow roast apple slices in the oven at 200 degrees for 2-3 hours until they become brown and crispy. 

You can also do a quick Google search for dog-friendly apple recipes to access even more apple treat ideas!

Can Dogs Eat Applesauce?

Yes, dogs can safely eat plain applesauce! But you’d be better off just putting your apples in a blender and making your own. Most store-bought applesauce will contain added sugars. If your store offers unsweetened applesauce, that can make a fun treat in moderation!

Here’s a fun summer treat: Freeze applesauce in ice cube trays and then offer one to your dog after a long walk. 

Can Dogs Eat Apple Pie?

No, you shouldn’t feed your dog apple pie. To start, there’s a lot of sugar in that pie, which is no bueno for your dog. Also, the crust contains a lot of fat, and that can potentially lead to acute pancreatitis, which can actually be deadly for some dogs. 

And as if those potentially harmful ingredients weren’t enough, many apple pies contain nutmeg, which is toxic to dogs. Ingesting too much nutmeg can lead to high blood pressure, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat and even seizures in dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Apple Cider Vinegar?

Yes! Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made from only apples and water and is safe for dogs to consume in moderation. ACV is high in antioxidant and antibacterial qualities. Plus, because it is acidic, it can help improve your dog’s digestion just as it can help yours! Adding a teaspoon of ACV to your dog’s water bowl is usually a good place to add this, but again, ask your vet what they recommend.

Final Thoughts

Are apples safe for dogs? Yes, they absolutely are, as long as you follow some simple rules. Only offer your pup a small amount of peeled and sliced apple. Never give the entire apple as the seeds and core can be problematic. Apple sauce is fine as long as it contains no added sugar. The Golden Rule is to watch out for products with too much sugar or fat, artificial sugars (xylitol is deadly for dogs), nutmeg and other preservatives, and you should be okay feeding in very small amounts. But leave the apple pie to humans!

Thinking About Pet insurance?

While pet insurance can’t keep the doctor away, it can help you pay those costly vet bills!

If you’ve been thinking about enrolling your pup into a pet insurance plan but weren’t sure which provider to go with, here are the top providers based on reviews from pet parents just like you:

References:

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-apples/

https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/can-dogs-eat-apples-grapes-potatoes-and-other-fruit-and-veg

https://www.rover.com/blog/can-dogs-eat-apples/

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.