Can dogs eat apples?
By Dr Rebecca MacMillan BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS
Yes! The good news is that dogs can eat apples, provided you offer them safely.
Apples are a readily available, crunchy snack for both people and dogs to enjoy. We’re going to look at the potential health benefits of apples, the best ways to serve them to your dog and the things you should avoid. We’ll also briefly explore the use of apple cider vinegar. Read on to find out more about this fruity treat.
#Are apples good for dogs?
Dogs are omnivores, meaning they can safely eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as meat and cereals. Apples are a non-toxic fruit that may offer the following health benefits for dogs:
##Fibre
Apples are a good source of fibre, which helps support healthy digestion. For some dogs, increasing fibre intake may improve stool quality and support with occasional anal gland issues. Fibre can also help dogs feel fuller for longer, which may be useful when managing weight.
##Vitamin C
Vitamin C supports the immune system and helps maintain healthy skin and connective tissue. Unlike humans (and guinea pigs), dogs can produce their own vitamin C, so they don’t need to get it from food in the same way we do. That said, a little extra in their diet won’t do any harm.
##Antioxidants
Apples contain antioxidants including quercetin, catechin, phloridzin and chlorogenic acid. In people, these are linked to health benefits and may help reduce the risk of certain conditions, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. However, more research is needed to confirm whether the same benefits apply to dogs.
##Low in calories
Apples can make a great low-calorie snack when enjoyed in moderation. Obesity is a big problem for dogs so making healthy choices will help to keep them in shape.
#Can I feed my dog apples?
Dogs can safely enjoy apples as an occasional treat, as long as they’re served plain. It’s best to chop the apple into slices rather than offering a whole one, to reduce any risk of choking.
Many dogs enjoy the crunchy, sweet taste of apples – but moderation is key. Fruit and veg snacks should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily diet. Too many extras can lead to nutritional imbalances and may cause an upset stomach.
Avoid giving your dog any processed apples. Apples stewed in sugar, baked in pies or fermented into alcohol can all be harmful. Make sure your dog doesn’t eat fallen apples that have started to rot or ferment – dogs are much more sensitive to the effects of alcohol than we are.
#Can dogs eat apple cores?
Apple cores are tough to digest – there’s a reason we don’t eat them, and the same goes for your dog. Small breeds are especially at risk, as the core could become lodged in the digestive tract. This can lead to signs such as pain, vomiting and lethargy. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove a blockage like this.
#Are apple seeds poisonous to dogs?
Apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide. A few seeds are very unlikely to cause any problems – especially as the seed needs to be chewed (rather than swallowed whole) for the cyanide to be released. However, if large numbers of seeds were eaten, they could potentially cause harm.
Signs of cyanide poisoning may include:
- Red mucous membranes
- Difficulty breathing
- Dilated pupils
- Collapse
While the risk of cyanide poisoning is extremely low, it’s still best not to offer apple seeds to your dog.
#Is apple cider vinegar good for dogs?
Apple cider vinegar is a fermented liquid made from apple juice. It’s commonly used in salad dressings, vinaigrettes and chutneys, and some people take it for its potential health benefits. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, antioxidants and probiotics. Some studies suggest it may help lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol, and support weight loss. There are also claims that it may help with acid reflux and support the immune system.
While some of the evidence looks promising, apple cider vinegar is certainly not a cure-all – and there’s even less scientific data on its use in dogs. That means we can’t say for sure whether it’s beneficial for them.
It’s always best to speak to your vet before offering apple cider vinegar to your dog. If you do choose to use it, make sure it’s properly diluted. It’s highly acidic and can cause problems if given neat. It should also never be applied to open wounds – and despite anecdotal claims, it’s not a reliable parasite preventative.
#Conclusion – can dogs eat apples?
Hopefully, we’ve answered your questions about dogs and apples! Let’s recap some key points:
- Apples are safe for dogs if served plain and unprocessed
- Always remove the core and seeds before offering them to your pet
- Apples may offer some health benefits but should only be given as an occasional treat
- Apple cider vinegar is not a cure-all and should be used with care
If you have any concerns about apple consumption or your dog’s health, it’s best to check with your vet. Otherwise, feel free to share a slice or two the next time you’re enjoying an apple!
