Can Dogs Eat Apples?
Apples are the most popular fruit in America for us humans. But can dogs eat apples? Yes, dogs can eat apples just as long as they avoid the core and seeds.
Apples even offer some nutritional benefits for our pups, but they're still sugary treats so we'll never want to offer our dogs an entire apple. That can make them sick.
Here's everything else you need to know about why dogs can have apples:
Are Apples Good for Dogs?
In moderation, vitamin C-rich apples are excellent healthy snacks for dogs. The juicy fruits are an excellent source of fiber, which dogs need, just like us. They have carbohydrates, too, but less than some other sugar-packed fruits like bananas.
Generally, all kinds of apples are pretty safe for dogs to eat—red, yellow, and green apples alike (although your dog might not like the tartness of some green apples).
Can Dogs Eat Apple Cores?
No, dogs shouldn't eat apple cores. They're a choking hazard and that's where you'll find apple seeds, which can be dangerous for dogs.
According to Tina Wismer, DVM, DABVT, DABT, and senior director at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, apples do contain a very small amount of cyanide in the seeds, so don't make a habit of feeding whole apples. (Don't panic, though: Only large grazing animals, like horses, goats, and cows, might eat enough seeds to poison themselves, she says.)
How to Feed Apple to Your Dog Safely
It might sound obvious, but if you give a whole apple to your pup—even to large dogs—they may try to wolf it down and choke. It's usually best to feed your dog small apple pieces in moderation. Be sure to remove the core, the seeds, and the stem before you feed your dog apple.
As with any new fruit, vegetable, or food, introduce apples slowly to your dog. Some dogs enjoy the fruit, but others may be allergic or extra-sensitive to apples. To avoid upsetting a dog's stomach, remove the apple skin as well.
There are other reasons to steer clear of sugar-filled snacks like apples. If your dog is overweight, check with your veterinarian to see if a low-sugar vegetable like broccoli might make a better treat. Keep calories and extra fat in mind when considering baked goods that include apples—like apple pie—as well. They often include loads of added sugar and fat that can upset a dog's stomach or add to weight gain.
"Giving your pets foods that are safe for them to ingest is okay in small quantities," Wismer says. "Treats should only make up 10 percent of a pet's daily calories."
Other Fruits Dogs Can Eat Besides Apples
If you don't have any apples at home but still want to share a healthy snack with your pup, one of these nutritious fruits dogs can eat could be a good option.
Just be sure to read up on how to prepare the fruit safely and avoid the peel, stems, leaves, and pits. These are only generally safe for healthy dogs who don't have any underlying health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Always consult your dog's veterinarian before giving your pup any people food.
Just be sure to steer clear of grapes and raisins. Those are dangerously toxic to dogs.