Apples are known to have many health benefits. They are packed with vitamins A and C along with dietary fiber.
As dog owners, you always want to provide your pet with the healthiest food. But have you ever thought if can my dog eat apples?
Let’s find out in this article.
Is Apple Safe for Dogs?
Yes, apples are safe for dogs. With low calories and nourishing nutrients, apples are one of the best fruits for dogs. The fruit is low in protein and can be fed to dogs in moderation.
It contributes to the digestive health of your dog. It acts as a great food item for dogs with illnesses or controlled diets.
Apart from vitamins A and C, apples also contain calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. The fruit is well known for its antioxidant properties.
Apples also help in dental health and keep your dog’s breath fresh.
Can Apples Upset Your Dog’s Stomach?
The fruit itself is perfectly fine for dogs. However its seeds, stem, and core are not to be fed to dogs. Apple seeds pose a threat to dogs. The seeds are composed of a chemical called cyanide that disrupts the oxygen flow in your dog’s body. Cyanide poisoning occurs when a large number of seeds are consumed at a stretch.
Here are some symptoms to look for when your dog is affected due to cyanide poisoning.
Mucous membranes become brick red
Enlarged pupils
Troubled breathing
Shock and panting
The stem and core of the apple may also be difficult for your canine to eat. It can get stuck in the digestive tract leading to choking hazards.
Excess feeding of apples can result in high sugar intake, which is again not in the best interest of your pet. Plus, be wary of synthetic apple products as the chemicals and additives can harm your dog.
How to Feed Apples to My Dog?
Now that you know the answer to can my dog eat apples, you might be curious about the different ways to serve it. Here is what you need to know.
Washed
The best way to feed apples is to nicely wash, fully peel and cut the fruit into tiny chunks, lastly don’t forget to remove the seeds and the core to avoid any hazards.
If your dog has never tasted an apple before then introduce it gradually in small amounts.
Avoid the Core
Several pet parents often ask can dogs eat apple cores? Well basically, it is recommended to only feed the flesh and do away with the apple’s core.
The sturdy core is not easy to chew and may get trapped in your dog’s throat.
If your dog likes to have an apple core, monitor it throughout, though they will swallow it or try to chew the core down. Keep an eye for signs of choking that your canine buddy may if the core gets stuck.
Peels
Can dogs eat apples with skin, just the way we do? Apple peels are not the best treats, however if tiny bits of it are stuck to the slices. Some dogs like the taste of the apple skin and will lick it off the ground.
How Many Apples Can a Dog Have in a Day?
When you chalk down your dog’s diet you might be wondering about how much apple can I give my dog? The first thing you can do is consult the vet.
You must remember that an apple in your pet’s diet should only account for 10 percent of its daily calorie intake. Basically this means a few slices should do the needful.
Top Apple Recipes for Dogs
Tired of feeding apples to your dog in the same old fashion? Entice it with some mouth-watering apple treats. Here is all that you can make.
Ready in no time, this frozen apple delicacy is the perfect summer treat for your dog. It will help your dog cool down and enjoy the summers.
What Do You Need?
2 Apples
1 Cup Greek Nonfat Plain Yogurt
Water
Apple Pretzels For Dogs
Apple pretzels can be made in a breeze. Your dog will relish this three-ingredient delightful baked treat.
What Do You Need?
3 cups almond flour
1 egg
1 cup plain, unsweetened applesauce
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Dogs Have Apple Juice?
Dogs cannot drink apple juice because the sugar content and other ingredients can have a devastating impact on their health. Moreover it can lead to stomach upsets, diarrhea along with the sugar influencing weight gains. You should only stick with the fruit for it.
Can Dogs Have Apple Sauce?
Filled with fibers, vitamins, and minerals, applesauce is a good treat for your dog. When served in moderation, your dog won’t have any health issues. Although you should be careful about the packaging that comes with food additives, extra sugar, and preservatives. The best option here is to feed your dog organic apple sauce or make some at home without any extra sugar.
Can Puppies Eat Apples?
Apples are suitable even for your little pups. You might want to introduce it slowly to the puppy and check if its body adapts to it. Make sure the pieces cut are tiny.
Type Of Apples to Avoid For My Dog?
From tart flavored to sweet fruits, all kinds of apples are suited for dogs. And if you see your dog reacting adversely to a particular type, avoid feeding that and consult the veterinarian.
You are now fully aware that it is a big yes when someone asks can my dog eat apples? Apples offer a plethora of benefits to your dog that you should not miss out on.
A digital marketing expert by profession, Andrews is a gifted writer and animal lover at heart. A self-confessed "pawrent", Andrews is well-versed in all things dogs. He uses his years of experience of raising puppies into show-quality dogs to help guide first-time pet parents. He believes in spreading the joy that comes with being a dog dad and advocates more families to adopt pets.