Why
Apples provide fiber and vitamins A and C, and they are low in fat. Many dogs enjoy the crunch.
Apple seeds contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when chewed. A few seeds are unlikely to harm a dog, but it is best to remove them, along with the tough core and stem, which can be a choking hazard.
What to watch out for
- Seeds and core: remove before serving
- Stomach upset from eating too much fruit
- Sugar content for dogs with diabetes or weight problems
How to serve it
- Wash, core and slice into pieces suited to your dog's size.
- The peel is fine for most dogs.
- Avoid apple pie, sweetened applesauce and apple products with added sugar or spices.
How much?
A dog can have a few apple slices at a time.
My dog ate a whole apple, core and all
One core swallowed by a medium or large dog is usually not a poisoning emergency. The seeds have to be crushed to release cyanide, and there are only a few in each apple. The more practical risk is the core itself, which can lodge in the throat or gut of a small dog.
Call your vet if your dog is small, if it ate several cores, or if it starts vomiting, gagging or refusing food. Do not try to make it vomit at home unless the vet tells you to.
Fallen apples and apple trees in the yard
The ASPCA lists the apple tree as toxic to dogs because its stems, leaves and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides. Dogs rarely eat enough leaves to be harmed, but a dog that spends autumn eating windfall apples can swallow a lot of cores.
Rotting apples bring two more problems. They can grow mold, and fermenting fruit can produce alcohol, which dogs handle poorly. A dog that seems wobbly or unusually dull after time under a fruit tree should see a vet. Rake up fallen fruit often during the season, and fence off the tree if your dog keeps going back to it.
Applesauce, apple chips and apple pie
Plain, unsweetened applesauce is fine in small spoonfuls, and some owners freeze it in a toy. Check that it has no added sugar or sweetener. Apple juice is mostly sugar and not worth offering. Apple-flavored dog treats vary a lot, so judge them by their ingredient list rather than the picture on the bag.
- Dried apple chips are concentrated sugar, and some are sweetened or fried.
- Apple pie adds butter, sugar and pastry, and the spice mix often includes nutmeg, which can upset a dog's stomach in larger amounts.
- Apple crumbles and cakes may contain raisins. Check before your dog gets a taste.
Common questions
Are apples good for dogs?
Yes, as an occasional treat. Apples provide fiber and vitamins A and C, and they are low in fat. Many dogs enjoy the crunch.
Are apples bad for dogs?
Not in sensible amounts. The main thing to watch: seeds and core: remove before serving.
Are dogs allowed to have apples?
Yes. Wash, core and slice into pieces suited to your dog's size.
Sources
Topic references
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List – Dogs.
General care and safety
If your dog has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. Do not wait for symptoms. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).