Can dogs have apples

Sarah_Taufiq · June 4, 2021, 8:13pm

Can dogs have apples? Yes, dogs can have apples. Apples are an amazing source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber for your dog. They are low in fat and protein, making them the perfect snack for older dogs. There are some things you should know before you feed apples to your dog like you should remove the seeds and core first.

Apples are full of nutrients that can be beneficial to your dog’s health, but there are some dangers to look out for such as the cores and seeds. As with any good thing, moderation is the key because too many apples may cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs.

How Are Apples Good For Dogs?

Apples can be an economical, low-calorie snack full of important nutrients that are good for dogs, making them an excellent choice as a snack or reward during training, so long as they are served in moderation.

They’re low in protein and high in fiber, which can be good for digestive health and may make them a good choice for dogs who have restrictive diets that don’t allow for high protein and fat. This is especially helpful for senior dogs or dogs with certain illnesses.

They’re also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and phosphorus. The antioxidants contained in these fruits may help with warding off cancer and reducing the symptoms of joint disease.

Eating apples can improve dogs’ dental health and breathe, too.

Can Puppies Eat Apples?

Yes, puppies can eat apples, just like adult dogs.

When Are Apples Bad For Dogs?

The main things to watch for when feeding apples to dogs are seeds and cores.

The seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide, which is toxic. It would take quite a few seeds to cause any kind of cyanide poisoning, and if your dog swallows a few, it isn’t likely to cause harm. Even so, it’s not necessary to risk your dog’s health, so remove the seeds before you feed your dog apples.

Some suggest that stems may be dangerous, as well, so it’s best to remove stems, too. The core of the apple is firm and difficult for most dogs to chew. It may present a choking hazard or, if swallowed, cause gastrointestinal blockage.

Apples contain sugar, so serve them in moderation. The sugar content can cause problems for dogs who suffer from cancer or diabetes, which is another reason you should ask your vet before giving them to your dog. Additionally, too many apples can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea, even in healthy dogs.

Apple-flavored products or products that contain apples often have sugar, artificial flavors, or chemicals in them. Always read the labels before you feed your dog any human foods, and avoid added sugars, artificial sweeteners such as xylitol, or ingredients you’re unfamiliar with, as these can be toxic.

It’s best to choose organic apples, as many apples you find in the supermarket are coated with substances that make them shinier. Wash any fruits you buy because they can contain herbicides or pesticides.

Like most foods, there’s some risk that your dog may be allergic. Rarely, allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition.

If you see signs of an allergic reaction in your dog, including coughing, sneezing, swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms, stop serving your dog these fruits, and contact your veterinarian immediately.

Are Apple Seeds Poisonous to Dogs?

Apple seeds are poisonous to dogs and people alike. Apple seeds contain cyanide, a chemical that can cause hypoxia or lack of oxygen delivery to the body. Some symptoms include:

Symptoms

Brick-red mucus membranes

Dilated pupils

Difficulty breathing

Panting

Shock

Accidental consumption of small amounts of apple seeds shouldn’t cause cyanide poisoning. But eating large amounts of seeds or consuming a small amount regularly over time can cause cyanide poisoning.

Can apple seeds really kill your dog?

So here are the facts. The very bitter seeds of an apple do contain a compound called Amygdalin which when chewed or digested can convert into hydrogen cyanide. Cue hysteria. But before we all bite down on our own cyanide capsules out of panic, the important thing to look at is the amount of cyanide in apple seeds. It’s incredibly small. In fact, even if dogs do swallow an apple core where the seeds reside AND they’ve chewed the seeds to release the problem chemical then it’s still not enough cyanide to cause a problem.

In fact, a 10 kg dog (Cavoodle size) would need to eat around 1000 seeds to be poisoned. And with a standard apple containing about 10 seeds, that’s around 100 apples. For a Labrador, that increases to around 300 apples in order to have problems. That’s a lot of fruit and obviously, gut aches of extraordinary proportions would kick in before that time.

So while apple seeds have the scientific potential to cause a toxicity, the reality is the risk is extraordinarily small. In case you’re wondering, the same goes for us.

Can My Dog Eat Apple Peels?

Maybe. In small amounts. Apples themselves are an affordable, low-calorie treat for dogs. If you’re feeding your dog a few slices of apple, the peel shouldn’t be a problem. But large amounts of apple can cause digestive upset. Be sure to throw out the apple core and seeds before serving, and share apples in moderate amounts.

Are Apples Bad for a Dog’s Teeth?

Some people might ask if the sugars found in apples rot their dog’s teeth. The answer: It’s unlikely.

The water content in an apple will help wash away the sugar from inside the mouth, making apples relatively safe for teeth. The apple skins are a bonus, as they act as a toothbrush.

Can Dogs Have Apple Juice, Applesauce, or Apple Chips?

Other foods made from apples, like apple chips, applesauce, and apple juice, are less nutritious forms of apples and more problematic for teeth.

Apple chips are dehydrated, have added sugar, and have no fiber. Apple juice and applesauce may have water content, but they also have added sugar and no fiber.

These combinations can lead to enamel decay, weight gain,, and diabetes.

Are Some Dogs Allergic to Apples?

Dogs are primarily allergic to proteins in food. Apples have negligible amounts of protein. Therefore, although it is possible, dogs do not typically have allergies to apples.

How Should You Feed Apples To Your Dog?

Always ask your veterinarian before sharing human food with your dogs. Some dogs have medical conditions that may be worsened by consuming apples.

Once you have the okay from your veterinarian, make sure you wash any fruits you plan to serve to your dog, remove the stems, seeds, and cores, and cut them into bite-sized slices.

There are plenty of ways to serve apples to dogs. You can freeze and serve them as a refreshing summer snack. They can be mixed in with your dog’s food for a sweet treat, they can be smashed into homemade applesauce, or they can be blended with other healthy fruits to make a tasty smoothie.

There are plenty of dogs treat recipes online that include apples, so try out a few and see what your dog likes.

Fruits and Vegetables Your Pet Can Safely Eat

As humans, we all know how important fruits and vegetables are for our health. Abundant in vitamins, minerals, and fiber and low in calories, fruits and veggies are some of the most nutritious things that we can eat. It might also surprise you to know that some of these delicious and nutritious foods can also be beneficial to your pet’s health.

Although many of us like to share household food with our furry friends, not all human food is appropriate or safe for your pet to eat. To help you out, the experienced vets at Avondale Animal Hospital have put together this guide to fruits and veggies your pet can safely enjoy.

Fruits and Vegetables that are Safe for Dogs

Dogs are omnivores, meaning they can eat meat or plant-based food. In fact, most dog kibble is a combination of meat protein and vegetable matter. One way you can enrich your dog’s diet is by adding extra fruits and vegetables on top of their kibble. This can be especially beneficial for dogs suffering from weight problems or diseases, like diabetes. With that said, your canine companion can enjoy the taste and nutritional benefits of a large variety of different fruits and vegetables. Some of the healthiest fruits and veggies for dogs include:

Apples
Yes, dogs can eat apples. Apples are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber for your dog. They are low in protein and fat, making them the perfect snack for senior dogs. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core first. Try them frozen for an icy warm weather snack.
Bananas
Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They’re high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog’s main diet.
Blueberries
Yes, dogs can eat blueberries. Blueberries are a superfood rich in antioxidants, which prevent cell damage in humans and canines alike. They’re packed with fiber and phytochemicals as well. Teaching your dog to catch treats in the air? Try blueberries as an alternative to store-bought treats.
Cranberries
Yes, cranberries are safe for dogs to eat. Both cranberries and dried cranberries are safe to feed to dogs in small quantities. Whether your dog will like this tart treat is another question. Either way, moderation is important when feeding cranberries to dogs, as with any treat, as too many cranberries can lead to an upset stomach.
Cucumbers
Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers. Cucumbers are especially good for overweight dogs, as they hold little to no carbohydrates, fats, or oils and they can even boost energy levels. They’re loaded with vitamins K, C, and B1, as well as potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin.
Cantaloupe
Yes, cantaloupe is safe for dogs. Cantaloupe is packed with nutrients, low in calories, and a great source of water and fiber. It is, however, high in sugar, so should be shared in moderation, especially for dogs who are overweight or have diabetes.
Mango
Yes, dogs can eat mangoes. This sweet summer treat is packed with four different vitamins: A, B6, C, and E. They also have potassium and both beta-carotene and alpha-carotene. Just remember, as with most fruits, remove the hard pit first, as it contains small amounts of cyanide and can become a choking hazard. Mango is high in sugar, so use it as an occasional treat.
Oranges
Yes, dogs can eat oranges. Oranges are fine for dogs to eat, according to veterinarians, but they may not be fans of any strong-smelling citrus. Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, and in small quantities, the juicy flesh of an orange can be a tasty treat for your dog. Vets do recommend tossing the peel and only offering your dog the flesh of the orange, minus any seeds. Orange peel is rough on their digestive systems, and the oils may make your dog literally turn up their sensitive nose.
Peaches
Yes, peaches are safe for dogs to eat. Small amounts of cut-up fresh or frozen peaches are a great source of fiber and vitamin A, and can even help fight infections, but just like cherries, the pit contains cyanide. As long as you completely cut around the pit first, fresh peaches can be a great summer treat. Skip canned peaches, as they usually contain high amounts of sugary syrups.
Pears
Yes, dogs can eat pears. Pears are a great snack because they’re high in copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. It’s been suggested that eating the fruit can reduce the risk of having a stroke by 50 percent. Just be sure to cut pears into bite-size chunks and remove the pit and seeds first, as the seeds contain traces of cyanide. Skip canned pears with sugary syrups.
Pineapple
Yes, pineapple is safe for dogs to eat. A few chunks of pineapple is a great sweet treat for dogs, as long as the prickly outside peel and crown are removed first. The tropical fruit is full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme that makes it easier for dogs to absorb proteins.
Raspberries
Yes, dogs can eat raspberries. Raspberries are fine in moderation. They contain antioxidants that are great for dogs. They’re low in sugar and calories, but high in fiber, manganese, and vitamin C. Raspberries are especially good for seniors dogs because they have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help aging joints. However, they do contain small amounts of xylitol, so limit your dog to less than a cup of raspberries at a time.
Strawberries
Yes, dogs can eat strawberries. Strawberries are full of fiber and vitamin C. Along with that, they also contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth as he or she eats them. They contain sugar, so be sure to give them in moderation.
Watermelon
Yes, dogs can eat watermelon. It’s important to remove the rind and seeds first, as they can cause intestinal blockage, but watermelon flesh is otherwise safe for dogs. It’s full of vitamin A, B-6, and C, as well as potassium. Watermelon is 92 percent water, so it’s a great way to help keep your dog hydrated on hot summer days.
Broccoli
Yes, broccoli is safe for dogs to eat in very small quantities and is best served as an occasional treat. It is high in fiber and vitamin C and low in fat. However, Broccoli florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause mild-to-potentially severe gastric irritation in some dogs. Furthermore, broccoli stalks have been known to cause obstruction in the esophagus.
Brussels sprouts
Yes, dogs can eat Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that are great for humans and dogs, alike. Don’t overfeed them to your dog, however, because they can cause lots of gas. Cabbage is also safe for dogs, but comes with the same gassy warning!
Carrots
Yes, dogs can eat carrots. Carrots are an excellent low-calorie snack that is high in fiber and beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A. Plus, crunching on this orange veggie is great for your dog’s teeth (and fun).
Celery
Yes, celery is safe for dogs to eat. In addition to vitamins A, B, and C, this crunchy green snack contains the nutrients needed to promote a healthy heart and even fight cancer. As if that wasn’t enough, celery is also known to freshen doggy breath.
Green beans
Yes, dogs can eat green beans. Chopped, steamed, raw, or canned – all types of green beans are safe for dogs to eat, as long as they are plain. Green beans are full of important vitamins and minerals and they’re also full of fiber and low in calories. Opt for low-salt or no-salt products if you’re feeding canned green beans to your dog.
Peas
Yes, dogs can eat peas. Green peas, snow peas, sugar snap peas, and garden or English peas are all OK for dogs to find in their bowl on occasion. Peas have several vitamins, minerals, and are rich in protein and high in fiber. You can feed your dog fresh or frozen peas, but avoid canned peas with added sodium.
Spinach
Yes, dogs can eat spinach, but it’s not one of the top vegetables you’ll want to be sharing with your pup. Spinach is high in oxalic acid, which blocks the body’s ability to absorb calcium and can lead to kidney damage. While your dog would probably have to eat a very large amount of spinach to have this problem, it might be best to go with another vegetable.

Fruits and Vegetables that are NOT safe for Dogs

While there is a range of fruits and veggies that are safe for your dog to consume, some varieties can also be toxic. Some of the most popular fruits and veggies that you should avoid feeding your dog include garlic, onion, mushroom, avocado, and rhubarb. If you are unsure if your pet should be eating something, make sure you ask one of our vets, and we will be happy to answer any questions regarding your pet’s health and nutrition.

Avocado
No, dogs should not eat avocado. While avocado may be a healthy snack for dog owners, it should not be given to dogs at all. The pit, skin, and leaves of avocados contain persin, a toxin that often causes vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. The fleshy inside of the fruit doesn’t have as much persin as the rest of the plant, but it is still too much for dogs to handle.
Cherries
No, dogs should not eat cherries. With the exception of the fleshy part around the seed, cherry plants contain cyanide and are toxic to dogs. Cyanide disrupts cellular oxygen transport, which means that your dog’s blood cells can’t get enough oxygen. If your dog eats cherries, be on the lookout for dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and red gums, as these may be signs of cyanide poisoning.
Grapes
No, dogs should never eat grapes. Grapes and raisins (dried grapes) have proved to be very toxic for dogs no matter the dog’s breed, sex, or age. In fact, grapes are so toxic that they can lead to acute sudden kidney failure. Always be mindful of this dangerous fruit for dogs.
Tomatoes
No, dogs should avoid tomatoes. While the ripened fruit of the tomato plant is generally considered safe for dogs, the green parts of the plant contain a toxic substance called solanine. While a dog would need to eat a large amount of the tomato plant to make him or her sick, it’s better to skip tomatoes all together just to be safe.
Asparagus
No, dogs should not eat asparagus. While asparagus isn’t necessarily unsafe for dogs, there’s really no point in giving it to them. It’s too tough to be eaten raw, and by the time you cook it down so it’s soft enough for dogs to eat, asparagus loses the nutrients it contains. If you really want to share a veggie, something more beneficial is probably best.
Mushrooms
No, dogs should avoid mushrooms. Wild mushrooms can be toxic for dogs. While only 50-100 of the 50,000 mushroom species worldwide are known to be toxic, the ones that are poisonous can really hurt your dog or even lead to death. Washed white mushrooms from the supermarket could be OK, but it’s better to be safe than sorry; skip the fungi for Fido altogether.
Onions
No, dogs should never eat onions. Onions, leeks, and chives are part of a family of plants called Allium that is poisonous to most pets, especially cats. Eating onions can cause your dog’s red blood cells to rupture, and can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea. Poisoning from onions is more serious in Japanese breeds of dogs like Akitas and Shiba Inus, but all dogs are very susceptible to it.

Human Foods That Can Be Fatal to Dogs

Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is often used to sweeten candy, chewing gum, toothpaste, and baked goods. While deemed safe for human consumption, it can be deadly for dogs.

Eating foods that contain xylitol can lead to a sudden and significant drop in a dog’s blood sugar

Initial symptoms often show up within 30 minutes of consumption and include vomiting, weakness, depression, difficulty moving, coma and seizures. Eventually, xylitol can lead to liver damage and death.

Coffee, Tea and Other Caffeine

Caffeine is naturally found in coffee, tea, cocoa, and guarana, a South American plant.

It is also often added to soft drinks and medications. Caffeine can speed the heart rate and stimulate the nervous system in dogs.

Within two to four hours of consuming caffeine, dogs may experience restlessness, excessive thirst, a lack of bladder control, vomiting, and diarrhea.

If dogs ingest too much caffeine, they can experience abnormal heart rhythm or lung failure, which can ultimately lead to death.

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins can be extremely toxic to dogs.

They can cause rapid kidney failure, which can ultimately be fatal.

Alcohol

Alcohol is found in a variety of products including alcoholic beverages, perfumes, mouthwash, paint, varnish, and various cleaning products. While occasional alcohol consumption is safe for humans, dogs cannot tolerate it, even in small amounts.

Symptoms usually develop within an hour after consumption and include tiredness, depression, and lack of muscle coordination, low body temperature, poor breathing, vomiting, and diarrhea.

If a dog consumes too much alcohol, it can result in lung failure, seizures, coma, and even death.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains the stimulant chemicals theobromine and caffeine, both of which are very difficult for dogs to metabolize. If a dog eats chocolate, it can cause stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.

These symptoms can also progress to more serious problems like heart attacks, internal bleeding, muscle tremors, seizures, and death

Salt

Eating too much salt could lead to a condition known as salt poisoning or water deprivation in dogs. This can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors, fever, and seizures. It may even be fatal in severe cases.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Harmful Food

The best way to ensure your dog doesn’t eat anything harmful is to keep these foods out of reach. To minimize the risk, make sure that you don’t leave these foods on countertops or tables, in purses, or in other places where your dog could access them.

If you know your dog has ingested something toxic, consult your veterinarian immediately or call the pet poison hotline.

Treatment will vary depending upon your dog’s symptoms and the type of food they were exposed to. You should never treat or medicate a dog unless a licensed veterinarian advises you to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions

1- Is it safe for dogs to eat apples?

Apples can be good for your dog as a treat. Apples is a source of fiber and carbohydrates. “Apples do have some Vitamin C, but dogs don’t require it. Since your dog is already eating a complete and balanced diet, apples won’t give him much nutritional help,” explains Dempsey.

2- Can dogs eat apples with skin?

Apples themselves are an affordable, low-calorie treat for dogs. If you’re feeding your dog a few slices of apple, the peel shouldn’t be a problem. But large amounts of apple can cause digestive upset. Be sure to throw out the apple core and seeds before serving, and share apples in moderate amounts.

3- Are bananas good for dogs?

Purina experts say yes bananas are a great treat for your pooch. Unlike other fruits, which may have toxic components, every part of a banana is safe for your dog to eat.

4- Is peanut butter good for dogs?

Most peanut butter is safe for dogs to eat, and in moderation, peanut butter can be an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, vitamins B and E, and niacin.

5- What dog food is killing dogs?

Midwestern Pet Foods expanded its recall of dry dog and cat food following reports that dozens of dogs died after eating the Sportmix dry kibble, the FDA said. A pet food recall is widening after the Food and Drug Administration announced that more than two dozen dogs died after eating Sportmix brand dry kibble.

6- Is a scrambled egg good for a dog?

They contain a range of essential fatty and amino acids, including lutein and Vitamin A, both linked to eye health. While raw eggs are not recommended for dogs, plain cooked eggs can be a great healthy treat for your dog, packed with protein and other nutrients they need.

7- Is rice good for dogs?

Safe: Cooked White Rice and Pasta. Dogs can eat plain white rice or pasta after it’s cooked. And, a serving of plain white rice with some boiled chicken can sometimes make your dog feel better when they are having stomach problems.

8- Can dogs eat tuna?

Tuna is not toxic to dogs, and a tiny amount will not cause mercury poisoning. If you own both a dog and a cat, make sure your pup isn’t eating the feline’s food, as wet cat food often contains tuna. Cats are also susceptible to mercury poisoning, so consider choosing a cat food made with other kinds of fish.

9- Are raw carrots good for dogs?

Raw and cooked carrots are healthy options for dogs and make a nutritious add-in to meals. While carrots are generally safe, it is important to cut whole carrots and even carrot sticks into bite-size chunks before feeding them to your dog. As a result, you will prevent choking, especially in small dogs.

10- Is chocolate bad for dogs?

Chocolate is poisonous to dogs mostly because of its theobromine content, which dogs are unable to metabolize effectively. If your dog eats chocolate, you should monitor them closely and seek veterinary attention if they show any symptoms, or if they are very young, pregnant, or have other health concerns.

11- Do dogs prefer cooked or raw meat?

And still, other dogs who just prefer their meals cooked, for whatever reason. For those dogs, lightly cooking the food is the best approach. Surveys from Darwin’s customers indicate that about a third cook their meals for their pets, and two-thirds feed raw.

12- Should dog eat white or brown rice?

Which is better: white rice or brown rice? Both white rice and brown rice are good for dogs. “Brown rice is brown because it still has the outer layers or hull and bran parts of the grain than white rice does,” Dempsey explains. That means it is more fibrous than white rice, and it also retains natural oils.

13- What are the top 5 healthiest dog foods?

Taste of the Wild Ancient Prairie.
Instinct RawBoost Mixers.
Orijen Original Dry Dog Food.
Organix Chicken & Oatmeal Dry Dog Food.
Zignature Lamb Limited Ingredient Canned Dog Food.
Freshpet Fresh From the Kitchen.
The Farmer’s Dog.
Only Natural Pet MaxMeat Air-Dried Dog Food.

14- What color dog food should you never buy?

First and foremost, they can’t see colors as humans do, and natural, non-colored dog food will be brown-colored after cooking. Any other color can be attributed to the artificial dyes of Red 40, Yellow 5 & 6, and Blue 2.

15- Can dogs eat bread?

Plain white or whole-grain bread is safe for most dogs to eat as an occasional treat. Before feeding your dog bread, make sure it doesn’t contain any extra ingredients, such as raisins, which could be potentially harmful.

CONCLUSION:

Apple slices make a delicious, healthy snack for your dog and can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh. However, the core of the apple and the apple seeds especially can be harmful to dogs. Apple seeds contain a small amount of cyanide which is released when they’re broken or chewed. Just swallowing a few apple pips is unlikely to cause your dog any harm, but it’s best to remove them and avoid the risk.