Can dogs eat apples?

Quick takeaways about apples

• Chunks of apple make a great healthy snack for dogs.
• Apple pips contain traces of cyanide, which can be harmful to dogs.
• Avoid cooking and crab apples.

 

Including fruit in your dog’s diet provides your pooch with antioxidants, which are great for maintaining good health and fighting diseases.

And, apples are a great snack for your dog. They contain plenty of vitamins and are high in fibre, which can be good for your dog’s digestive system.

 

Are apples good for dogs?

Apples are a healthy treat for dogs. They’re low in calories but high in vitamins C and A and contain antioxidants. Plus, their high fibre content can help to support good gut health.

Dogs can eat apple skin and flesh – the skin is particularly nutritious.

Apple seeds, however, have a trace amount of cyanide which can be toxic to dogs. A few pips shouldn’t cause harm, but it’s best to steer clear.

 

What kinds of apples can dogs eat?

Some apples are better for dogs than others. All of the common varieties like Gala, Granny Smith and Pink Lady are safe. Green varieties are better than red apples as they have less sugar and more vitamin A.

Avoid cooking apples and crab apples, however. This is because they contain a toxic compound in their stems, seeds and leaves that produces cyanide.

If your dog eats these, it can cause an upset stomach or even cyanide poisoning.

 

How should I give apples to my dog?

Like other fruits, consider apples a healthy dog treat. Apples are high in sugar and fibre. Too much of either of these can cause diarrhoea, vomiting or an upset stomach.

Feed apples to your dog in moderation and as part of a nutritious, well-balanced diet. Stick to just the flesh of the fruit with the skin on.

Give your dog small pieces of apples or use blended apples that you can mix with other dog-safe fruits like blueberries.

You can use this in a kong, as a meal topper, or add to plain yoghurt and freeze for hot days.

 

Dogs and apples FAQs

Can dogs eat whole apples?

Don’t feed your dog whole apples. Pips contain a trace amount of cyanide so avoid these.

Steer clear of the stem too, as it may get caught in your dog’s teeth.

You’ll find most nutrients in the skin, so stick to feeding your pooch apple flesh with the skin on. Don’t forget to wash your apples thoroughly before feeding.

 

Can dogs eat dried apples?

Dogs can eat dried apples but in smaller quantities, as the dried fruit has more sugar than fresh.

Be mindful that store-bought dried apples often contain preservatives and added sugar which should be avoided.

 

Can dogs have apple juice?

Apple juice doesn’t offer the same health benefits as the fruit. Juice is high in sugar which can cause an upset stomach – best to avoid altogether.

 

Do apples pose any risks to dogs?

Don’t give your dog apple seeds or cooking apples as these all contain traces of cyanide. Apple cores are also a choking risk, especially for small dogs.

Cooked apples are fine to give your dog, but be mindful that shop-bought apple sauce or dried apples often contain additives which aren’t great for their health.

 

What should I do if I live near apple trees?

Your dog should be fine if they snaffle a fallen apple or two, but it’s a good idea to pick up fallen fruit before you let your dog explore.

Rotting fruit could also contain mould which is harmful for dogs.

Watch out for signs of discomfort, vomiting or diarrhea, and visit the vet if you’re worried that your dog has eaten too many apples.

 

Should I feed my dog more fruit?

Feeding your dog fresh fruit and veg is a good idea, and it’s easy to do this as part of a raw diet. Natures Menu nuggets, included in our personalised meal plans, have the perfect balance of raw meat, fruit and veg.

Research published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that dogs fed a meat and plant diet have higher levels of antioxidants than dogs given a meat-only diet.

 
Try our personalised meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients – including fresh fruits and vegetables – to help keep your dog healthy and happy.