How 'Bout Them Apples? Can Dogs Eat Apples?

Can dogs eat apples?

Let’s be honest. Dogs CAN eat many things. Their normal everyday meal, something found in the yard, the bottom of our doors and furniture (we still love them).

But among the many things our furry friends can eat, we often wonder what they should. For instance—apples? Can dogs eat apples?

So many benefits—just like a computer

It doesn’t matter if it’s a Fuji, Gala or McIntosh, apples are just plain good for dogs. They’re low in calories and include a whole host of vitamins and nutrients including:

• Vitamin A-for the eyes, skin and hair

• Vitamin C-for improving cognitive health and preventing inflammation
• Vitamin K-for blood clotting and bone health
• Fiber-for digestion
• Calcium and phosphorus-for strong teeth and bones

Some pearly bites

Apples can also help clean your pup’s teeth (but watch out for the peel getting stuck in them). And it’s best not to use apples as a substitute for regular dental care and veterinary dental cleanings. That would be kinda like chewing gum instead of flossing.

The rotten side of apples

Apples are a great snack for dogs! Notice our Giant Schnauzers aren’t getting any longer. But we’d be speaking only in halve-truths if you wish to give your dog the whole apple.

Some parts of Red Delicious (and other apples) can produce problems. Read on for tips on how to feed your dog apple safely.

Bad seeds? Most definitely.

You’ll want to remove the apple seeds as they carry small amounts of cyanide and shouldn’t be ingested in large quantities. Chances are your furry friend won’t get into enough apples for this to be an issue, but don’t let them follow any tree-planting American Folk Heroes.

The core problem

Can dogs eat apple cores? The core is difficult for dogs to chew, swallow and digest. You should always remove the core before giving an apple to your dog.

An ap-peal for peels

The peel is rich in fiber and can help maintain a healthy weight, but it might result in some messy clean up. It’s your call, but if you do wish to leave the apple skin on, wash the outside to make sure it’s free of pesticides.

Sugar may make the medicine go down, but—

You’ll want to keep an eye on how much apple you give your dog. The average apple contains 19 grams of sugar, which could lead to long-term health risks like obesity and diabetes if given too frequently.

They don’t fall far from the Fruitables®

At Fruitables®, we fully endorse flipping your pup a slice every now and then, but if you're looking for a treat with a little apple flavor without any of the worry, try our Biggies™ Crispy Bacon & Apple dog treats. Or try our other apple offerings like Baked Pumpkin & Apple or Skinny Minis™ Apple Bacon. Your pup will surely love them. But not as much as they love you.