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Pawrennial

Can dogs eat apples?

Yes, in small amounts.

Apple slices are a safe, crunchy treat for most dogs. Remove the core, seeds, and stem first, and keep it to a slice or two at a time.

Are apples good for dogs?

Apples contain vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, antioxidants, and fiber, most of it in the skin. They're low in fat, which makes them a better choice than many store-bought treats for dogs watching their weight.

Apple seeds and cores

Apple seeds contain a small amount of a compound that releases cyanide when chewed. A few swallowed seeds are very unlikely to harm a dog, but it's sensible to remove them. The bigger risk is the core and stem, which are tough and can cause choking or a blockage, especially in small dogs.

If your dog ate a whole apple core and starts vomiting, stops eating, or seems uncomfortable, call your vet.

How much apple can a dog have?

Treats should be no more than about 10 percent of your dog's daily calories. A medium apple has about 95 calories and plenty of natural sugar, so a whole apple is too much for most dogs. One or two slices is plenty, or a few small cubes for a small dog.

Too much apple at once can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea.

Ways to serve apple

  • Wash it, core it, and cut it into thin slices or small cubes
  • Freeze cubes for a cool summer treat
  • Plain, unsweetened applesauce in small amounts

Skip apple pie, apple crisp, and sweetened applesauce: they're high in sugar and fat, and some sugar-free versions contain xylitol.

Helpful tools and guides

Frequently asked questions

Can apple seeds kill a dog?

It would take a very large number of chewed seeds to cause cyanide poisoning, so a few accidentally swallowed seeds are very unlikely to cause harm. Still, remove the seeds and core before sharing apple, and call your vet if your dog ate a lot of cores.

Can puppies eat apples?

Yes. A small, peeled piece of apple is fine for most puppies. Introduce it slowly and watch for any stomach upset.

Should I peel apples for my dog?

You don't have to: the peel holds a lot of the fiber and nutrients. Peeling can make apple easier to digest for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Either way, wash it well first.

Sources

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Tools for your dog