Can Dogs Eat Apples?

Did you know Americans eat an average of 50.4 pounds of apples and apple products each year? That’s a lot of apples! You might be a fan of this crunchy red fruit, but not all human foods are safe for dogs. If you’re wondering whether your dog can eat apples, too, keep reading to find out.

Can Dogs Eat Apples?

Yes — dogs can eat small amounts of apple!

This low-calorie fruit actually has several health benefits for your canine friend, and eating an apple slice can even help clean your dog’s teeth and improve the smell of their breath. Keep portion sizes small, however, because too much apple can result in gastrointestinal upset.

Can Dogs Eat Applesauce?

Yes, dogs can eat small portions of applesauce.

Keep in mind, however, that applesauce has a lot of sugar — so try to find a brand that’s sugar-free and does not have artificial coloring or preservatives. You can also try making your own applesauce at home to eliminate any unwanted sugar.

Applesauce can be used as an ingredient in homemade dog treats, too. Just don’t feed a puppy applesauce, as their digestive system probably won’t be ready.

Can Dogs Eat Apple Cores, Seeds, or Skin?

Dogs should not eat the core of an apple because it is very firm and hard to chew; they might choke, or the core might cause gastrointestinal blockage if swallowed. This includes the stem as well.

Apple seeds are also a no-go — they contain cyanide, a poisonous substance. While your dog would probably have to eat a very large quantity of apple seeds to see any ill effects, it’s best to simply forgo apple seeds altogether.

The skin of an apple is safe for your pup to eat, but it’s not ideal because it can cause indigestion. While a few apple slices with the peel attached are okay, your dog’s stomach (and your carpet) will probably appreciate it if you peel the apple before feeding it to your dog.

Can Dogs Eat Apple Butter?

No, your dog should not eat apple butter. Apple butter is filled with sugar that your dog’s system can not handle.

Apple pie is also not a good idea, either. While most basic apple pie recipes probably don’t include any toxic ingredients, the large quantities of butter, sugar, and fat could make your dog sick. And some recipes call for nutmeg, which is a very dangerous spice for your dog to eat (causing hallucinations, increased heart rate, and seizures).

So while it’s okay to give your dog a few apple slices while you’re cooking, save the finished pie for the humans.

Can Dogs Have Apple Cider Vinegar?

Yes! Apple cider vinegar is safe for dogs and actually has a lot of benefits. ACV is made from just apples and water, and it has high antioxidant and antibacterial qualities. Plus, the acidic nature of ACV can help improve your dog’s digestion. You can add a teaspoon of ACV to your dog’s water bowl so he or she can reap the benefits.

Can Cats Eat Apples?

Is your cat jealous of your dog’s special treats? You may be wondering if your cat can safely eat apple, too — and the answer is yes.

As with dogs, however, make sure to feed your cat only the flesh of the apple and not the peel, seeds, or core. Cut the apple into very small pieces to make it easy to eat (and to make sure it doesn’t cause vomiting or diarrhea). And it’s best to stick with whole apples for your cat instead of applesauce. 

Health Benefits of Apples For Dogs

Apples carry several health benefits for humans and dogs alike. This fruit contains high quantities of the following:

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C helps reduce inflammation and improve your dog’s cognitive health.  

• Fiber: Fiber helps with digestion in addition to stabilizing your dog’s weight. A high-fiber diet can also aid diabetic dogs in managing their blood sugar.

• Calcium: Just like in humans, calcium helps dogs have strong teeth and bones, and also ensures that blood clots properly.

• Phosphorus: Phosphorus also helps strengthen and maintain your pet’s teeth and bones.

• Antioxidants: Antioxidants keep your dog healthy!

How Much Apple Can My Dog Eat?

One to three slices is a good rule of thumb. When you feed your dog an apple, make sure to cut the fruit into slices, making it easier to chew and eliminating the dangerous parts such as the seeds. Don’t forget to also wash the apple before serving it.

Dog-Friendly Apple Recipes

Try these dog-friendly recipes that include apples or applesauce as ingredients:

• Apple pretzels: This recipe from the American Kennel Club has just three basic ingredients — almond flour, an egg, and applesauce — and is an easy way to make some delicious pretzels for your pet.

• Gluten-free apple pie bites: This recipe from Rover.com makes delicious cinnamon apple cookies that are perfect for fall.

• Frozen apple slices: Keep things simple and chill some apple slices in the freezer; then give them to your dog as a fun summer treat. You can also freeze applesauce in ice cube trays.

Be sure to always consult with your vet before giving your pet new foods and treats – as they will know what is best for the overall health of your pet.

It’s handy to have pet insurance for those just-in-case scenarios if your dog gobbles up an apple core before you can get to it — get a free quote from PetFirst today.