Can Dogs Eat Apples? Exploring the Benefits of This Fruit

You’re crunching into a juicy apple, and suddenly, those puppy eyes are on you, full of curiosity and a touch of envy. The question pops into your mind: can dogs eat apples? The quick answer is yes, but there are some important considerations to take into account. Apples are packed with nutrients and fiber that can be beneficial for your pup’s health, but they also contain some elements you’ll need to be cautious about.

Can Dogs Eat Apples Fresh?

Fresh apples and apple peels add rich sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your dog’s diet. They also contain antioxidants, which can be beneficial for both humans and animals. Before you dive in, you may be wondering, ‘can dogs eat green apples?’ Or perhaps you’re wondering what types of apples your dogs can eat. What should you grab from the store?

Dogs can eat green apples or red apples; the type of apple doesn’t alter the nutritional benefits in most cases. The only difference is that green apples are more tart, whereas red apples tend to be sweeter.

Here’s what the average apple contains:

• Vitamin A: Helps maintain normal eye function and health and supports the immune system.
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant. Antioxidants have been shown to aid in the elimination of unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals.
• Fiber: Supports normal GI health and function and aids in reducing occasional loose stools due to environmental stress or changes in diet.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids are antioxidant compounds that support and promote long-term health. They’re recommended for dogs seven years or older to support and maintain proper body functions and overall good quality of life.
• Pectin: A type of soluble fiber that helps maintain a healthy digestive tract.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid that supports pets with seasonal allergies, helps maintain normal histamine levels, and provides support for seasonal skin allergies.
• Phytonutrients: Plant chemicals that protect against free radical damage.
• Natural Sugars (Fructose): Supports energy production.
• Water: Apples have a high water content, which can help keep your dog hydrated.
• Minerals: Such as calcium and phosphorus, help maintain strong bones.

Can Dogs Eat Apples To Help With Blood Sugar Regulation?

Apples are low on the glycemic index, which means they release their sugar slowly into the bloodstream, helping maintain blood glucose levels within a normal range. They also contain soluble fiber, which can help support blood sugar levels within normal ranges by helping support glucose metabolism.

Can Dogs Eat Dried Apples?

Yes, dogs can generally eat dried apples in moderation, as long as they are sugar free and devoid of any added preservatives, spices, or flavorings like nutmeg. Like fresh apples, dried apples are a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and various other nutrients. However, because dried apples are more concentrated than fresh apples, they also contain too much sugar and many calories, which means they shouldn’t be fed frequently.

Store Bought Apple Chips

While apples are generally considered safe for canine consumption, the suitability of store-bought apple chips for dogs warrants careful consideration. Commercially produced apple chips frequently contain additional ingredients such as sugars, preservatives, and spices, which could pose health risks to dogs.

If you are contemplating offering store-bought apple chips to your dog, it is imperative to scrutinize the ingredient list rigorously. Choose products devoid of added sugars, spices, and preservatives. Even with these precautions, it is advisable to administer such treats in moderation due to the concentrated sugar and fiber content in dried fruit, which could result in occasional discomfort if ingested in large quantities.

Can You Feed Your Dog Applesauce?

Dogs can generally eat unsweetened applesauce as long as it’s offered in moderation. Unsweetened applesauce offers the benefit of being easy to digest and is also a good source of essential nutrients. It can be particularly useful for older dogs or those with dental issues who may have trouble chewing hard foods.

Always check the label to make sure that the applesauce is truly unsweetened and doesn’t contain any added sugar or artificial sweeteners like xylitol. The natural sugars found in apples offer plenty of flavor. Unsweetened applesauce is used in our best calming chews for dogs in the Extra Strength Hemp Hearts as well!

Apples For Dental Health in Dogs

Apples can serve as a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet for several reasons, one of which is dental health. The texture of apple slices helps keep your dog’s teeth healthy and clean. Additionally, apples contain malic acid, an ingredient used in some dental products that promotes normal periodontal health.

Apples Good For Dogs as a Low-Calorie Treat

If you’re concerned about your dog’s weight, apple slices in moderation can be an excellent low-calorie treat alternative that supports proper weight management. Packed with vitamins A and C as well as fiber, apples offer health benefits without the high calorie count found in many commercial dog treats. Since apples are naturally sweet, many dogs find them highly palatable, making it easier for you to incorporate healthy options into their diet.

Apple Cores Are Toxic to Dogs

In order to safely feed apples, you need to know which parts of the apple are beneficial and which one is toxic to dogs. The most immediate concern is the apple’s core and apple seeds, which contain a form of cyanide that is toxic to dogs. Always remove the core and apple seeds before offering apple slices to your pet.

How to Serve Your Dog Apples

Serving apples to your dog can be a simple and enjoyable experience for both you and your pet if you follow a few key guidelines, including:

• Rinse with water: Always wash the apple thoroughly to remove any pesticides or chemicals that may be on the apple’s skin.
• Remove the core and apple seeds: Once cleaned, the apple should be cored and seeded, as the apple seeds contain a form of cyanide that can be harmful to dogs in large amounts. The core can also pose a choking hazard.
• Bite-size pieces: Cut the apple into bite-size pieces. If you have a small dog, be extra careful to cut the apple pieces you are offering into small enough pieces.

You can serve apple slices raw, or for a different texture, you can steam them until they are soft. Some owners like to freeze apple slices for a refreshing summer treat.

For dogs with sensitive teeth or older dogs, you can even puree the apple and mix it in with their regular food to make it easier to eat. This can also be a clever way to disguise medication.

How Much Apple Can a Dog Eat?

As with any other food, portion control is important. For a small dog, one or two slices would likely be sufficient. For a medium-sized dog, two to four slices should be okay. Larger dogs may be able to enjoy up to a whole small apple.  Always start with a small amount to see how your dog reacts.

Feed Your Dog DIY Apple Chips

Instead of purchasing apple chips for your dog from the store, make your dog’s apple chips at home. It’s not a difficult process, and it’s much healthier for your dog. Here are the steps:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature will dehydrate the apple slices without cooking them.
2. Prepare the apples: Wash the apples thoroughly. Core the apples and slice them into thin rings. You can leave the skin on, as it contains additional nutrients.
3. Arrange on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the apple slices on the sheet in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. The low heat will slowly dehydrate the apples.
5. Check and turn: After about 1 hour, flip the apple slices to ensure even drying.
6. Total baking time: The total baking time will be around 2-3 hours. The exact time will depend on if you cut thin slices or thick slices and the specific oven. You’ll know they’re done when the slices take on a dried but still pliable texture.
7. Cool down: Once you’re satisfied with the texture, remove the apple chips from the oven and let them cool down completely. This is an essential step, as cooling will further harden the chips.
8. Storage: Store the apple chips in an airtight container. They can last up to a week if stored correctly, although they are usually eaten much more quickly!

Calming Duck & Apple Chews With CBD

If you’re looking for a delicious apple-flavored treat for your dog, you may want to consider taking a look at Earth Buddy’s new Calming Chews for Dogs with Duck & Apple. They’re limited ingredient chews using duck as the first ingredient. Each calming chew also contains 5mg of full spectrum CBD for dogs. There’s even a COA from a third party laboratory to show exactly what the chews contain.

In addition to supporting normal digestive function, full spectrum CBD for dogs also:

• Help cope with external stresses
• May help curb destructive behavior
• Help reduce the effects of normal environmental stress
• Support coat health
• Provide supporting nutrients for the health of aging animals
• Ease joint stiffness due to normal daily exercise and activity
• Support behavior modification and training programs

The Ultimate Answer To Can Dogs Eat Apples

While apples can be a nutritious and tasty treat for dogs, they should be offered in moderation and should not replace a balanced diet. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your pet’s diet, and be mindful of any unique health issues your dog may have.

So the next time you’re enjoying an apple and your pup gives you that look, you can go ahead and toss them a slice—just make sure it’s prepared safely. If you want to share other fruits as a healthy snack, check with your vet to see if they are also safe for dogs. As a general rule, even if you’re offering healthy treats rather than human food, they shouldn’t go over 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

For further reading, we recommend: 

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9223382/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6051571/#:~:text=Chewing%20an%20apple%20does%20not,to%20that%20after%20tooth%20brushing
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5691708/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9992179/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7537661/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9321083/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC442131/