Can Dogs Eat Apples?

One of the most asked questions concerning our fur baby’s nutrition is “Can Dogs Eat Apples?” Though safe in most cases, there are a few things to consider before feeding your dog apples.

Apples!! So good! Most of us love them, and so do our dogs. But, like us humans (I assume everyone reading this is human), dogs can have sensitivities to different foods, including apples and other fruits. These sensitivities can vary by breed, age, and other individual conditions. The following paragraphs provide a few tips on best practices and some ways to incorporate apples into your pup’s diet.

Is it safe to feed your dog apples?

Good news! It is generally safe to feed your dog apples. However, like most fruits, apples have a high sugar content (approximately 20 grams of sugar for a medium apple).

If your dog has diabetes or any other blood sugar related condition, you should be cautious. If you’re unsure whether your dog has diabetes, click here to familiarize yourself with the common symptoms of diabetes. As always, if your dog has pre-existing health conditions it is best to consult your vet before feeding your dog anything out of the ordinary.

If your pup is not diabetic, excess sugar may still cause an upset stomach and bowel irritation. In addition to this, when apple seeds are chewed they release cyanogenic glycosides (bad stuff!) which creates cyanide. This cyanide can build up in your dog’s body over time and cause a number of other health issues. So quantity should be monitored. To best control the amount of sugar intake, we recommend feeding your dog apples in slices or small chunks.

What are the health benefits of dogs eating apples?

Apples offer many health benefits. One of the most noticeable benefits is an improvement in dental hygiene, as chewing the apple will actually help clean your dog’s teeth and improve their breath (you can thank me later!). Apples should  not replace your dogs regular dental care, but they definitely help. Additionally, apples have high amounts of Vitamin K, C, and A, which will aid in keeping your pup happy and healthy! And last, but definitely not least, apples are high in dietary fiber which helps with your dog’s digestive health.

So there may be some truth to the old saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.”

How to incorporate apples into your dog’s diet?

Good question! You can feed them raw apples (why complicate things?), make delicious homemade treats, or make a run to the local store and buy some premade treats. Here are a few popular alternatives:

Homemade Apple Treat Ideas

If you want to get creative and make your own apple dog treats, we have compiled a few popular recipes for you to try at home (you may even want to eat these delicious treats).

1. Homemade Apple Peanut Butter Treats: These apple dog treats are super easy to make and your dog will love them! Be sure you are getting peanut butter WITHOUT xylitol to keep your pup safe and healthy!
2. Homemade Apple Carrot Dog Treats: These apple carrot dog treats are a yummy and healthy treat for your pup. Be sure to use your favorite cookie cutter shapes to add a little pizazz to your treats.
3. Oat and Apple Pretzel Dog Treats:  Your dog will leap for joy when she tries these! This recipe offers a very healthy way to make your pup some apple based pretzels. Enjoy!

Best Store Bought Apple Treats

1. Grandma Lucy’s Organic Oven Baked Apple Dog Treats: These yummy apple treats are organic, U.S. made, and bear-shaped! Your pup is sure to love these all natural snacks.
2. Riley’s Organic Apple Bones Treats: These bone shaped treats are organic all natural ingredients and non-GMO to keep your pup happy and healthy. These are made of 100% human grade ingredients so watch out, you may find yourself snacking on them as well! 
3. Lucky’s Apple Ring Dog Treats: These treats are made from 100% dried Fuji apples that are hand picked, and sourced from U.S. farms. These treats are delicious. I’m sure your dog will think so too!  

Verdict

Apples are generally safe for dogs, but there are a few things to consider. As most fruits, they are high in sugar, so quantity should be monitored. Apples do offer health benefits, so working in a little apple to their diet, whether through treats or sharing a raw apple with your pup, will contribute to your dog’s happy and healthy life.

Let us know in the comments if you have any questions or comments. Thanks for reading!