Should Dogs Eat Apples? Is It Safe?

You bite into an apple, and your dog is staring at you longingly. Before you break off a piece to share, you wonder: can dogs eat apples? Should dogs have apples at all? Being cautious about what you feed your dog, especially when it comes to people food, is a wise move when it comes to providing balanced nutrients for your dog.

Here's what you should know about feeding dogs apples, including tips for safety and moderation.

Can Dogs Have Apples?

The good news is: yes! Dogs can eat apples. Just like people, apples can be a healthy and tasty treat for your furry pup. Many dogs enjoy their crunchy sweetness, and since they are relatively low in calories, they can be a good option for dogs who are overweight. Of course, don't expect your dog to be able to bite into an apple like a person. But when prepared safely, many dogs enjoy apples as a yummy treat.

Are Apples Good for Dogs?

Apples are a great source of vitamins A and C, fiber, potassium and antioxidants. However, they should be given in moderation, just like any other treat. Dogs are omnivores, and they need protein to be healthy, so apples shouldn't make up too much of their daily food intake. While they are low in calories, apples are not calorie-free, so a few pieces to make your dog happy and let them feel involved is enough. Keep in mind that treats should be kept to no more than 10% of your dog's daily intake.

Risks of Feeding Apples to Dogs

There are a few non-nutritional risks to sharing apples with your dog. Don't toss your dog an entire apple, but cut it into pieces that are easy for your dog to munch on. This will help reduce the risk of choking and get rid of the seeds, which can be toxic. It's also best to stick with fresh apples, since some dehydrated or dried apples may have sweetener added and should be avoided. Many dogs prefer fresh apples for the crunch, and dried or dehydrated apples have a consistency dogs find less appealing, anyway.

Will Dogs Get Sick from Eating Apples?

Apples contain fiber, so an excessive amount of apples all at once can potentially cause an upset tummy, gas and possibly loose stool. This particularly applies to dogs who aren't accustomed to eating apples, then suddenly overdo it. Those who are used to eating apple are usually more capable of tolerating it.

Are Apples Bad for Puppies?

Puppies can have apples, and in fact, they make great training treats. However, just like with adult dogs, make sure they are cut appropriately. For puppies, this means pieces about the size of your fingernail (or smaller for tiny puppies).

Of course, puppies are growing and have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. So while apples make a great treat, the majority of your puppy's diet should be a well-balanced puppy food.

How To Safely Feed Your Dog an Apple

The most important thing about serving your dog apples is to cut them appropriately. First, remove the core. Then slice the apple into pieces that are easy for your dog to chew. Typically, a half-inch cube is a good size for most dogs. Small dogs may need smaller pieces (about the size of a pea), while big dogs can get marble-sized pieces or bigger. Make sure your dog is chewing it and not simply swallowing it whole, if possible.

One important consideration: many people combine apples with peanut butter. This is safe for your dog as well, but you are losing the low-calorie benefits of the apple by adding peanut butter, so keep this addition to a minimum. Some peanut butter brands also contain a sweetener called xylitol (also called birch sugar) that is toxic to dogs, so it's important to read the label on any peanut butter you share and stick with unsweetened options.

Can Dogs Eat Applesauce?

Dogs can eat applesauce, as long as it is unsweetened — sweetened applesauce is rather high in sugar. In fact, this special treat can be a great way to hide necessary medications for dogs who need them.

Can Dogs Eat Apple Seeds?

In large quantities, apple seeds can be toxic, since they contain a compound that turns to cyanide in the digestive tract. However, it takes a lot of apple seeds to produce a harmful amount of cyanide. If your dog accidentally gets a single apple seed, it's unlikely to cause any problems, but make sure you remove the core of the apple to avoid giving them seeds intentionally.

How Many Apples Can Dogs Eat?

The phrase "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" doesn't apply to dogs. But the answer to this question largely depends on breed. Small dogs can have a few small pieces of apple a day, while larger breeds can eat half of a large apple safely. As with all treats, it's important to give them in moderation (10% or less of their caloric intake) to ensure your dog is still getting the nutrition they need.

How Often Can Dogs Eat Apples?

If you eat an apple every day and want to share a few bites with your dog, that is ok. Sharing with your dog can be a great bonding experience for you both! Just make sure that you stick to a healthy amount and treat apples more like a treat than food.

Safe Snacking for Healthy Pups

Apples can be a safe and tasty treat when served thoughtfully — but like all good things, they're best enjoyed in moderation. As a pet parent, knowing what's safe (and what's better left off the menu) is one of the many ways you show love and care every day. When in doubt, checking with your veterinarian helps ensure your dog's food supports their health and happiness.

Dr. Karen Louis

Dr. Karen Louis owns her low stress veterinary clinic near St. Louis. When she's not helping dogs and cats live their best lives, she maintains her blog, VetChick.com, and is an award winning nature photographer.

Can Dogs Eat Apples?