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Should You Feed Your Dog Apples? Here’s What You Need to Know

Feed apple to dogs?

 

When you’re enjoying a crisp, juicy apple, you might wonder: “Can I share this with my dog?” The short answer is yes, dogs can eat apples. But should apples really be in your dog’s diet? To answer this question, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of feeding your dog apples.


The Benefits of Apples for Dogs

Health benefits of apple

 

Apples are a healthy, low-calorie treat that can offer your pup several nutritional perks:

  • Fibre: They're chock full of fibre, especially in the peels, which helps dogs maintain a healthy weight while assisting with their digestion.

  • Vitamins A & C: Contribute to skin, coat, and immune health.

  • Potassium: Essential for proper muscle and nerve function.

  • Antioxidants: Help combat inflammation and support overall health.

Plus, most dogs enjoy the sweet, crisp taste of apples, especially when they are served fresh or even frozen as a summertime treat.


But There Are Some Things to Watch Out For

While apples are dog-friendly, not every part of the apple is safe:

  • Skip the core and stem: They’re tough, not very digestible, and could be a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs.

  • Avoid eating too many seeds: Apple seeds contain a very tiny amount of a cyanide precursor. While the seeds from one apple likely won’t harm a dog, it's best not to risk it.

  • Keep portions small: While apples are low in calories, they contain natural sugars, about 19 grams per apple. Therefore, it's advisable to offer them in moderation, such as a slice or two, to prevent digestive issues like bellyaches or diarrhea.

  • Always wash apples well to remove any pesticides or bacteria, and cut them into bite-sized pieces before sharing them with your pup. This aids in digestion and prevents choking.


How to Serve Apples to Your Dog

Slicing apples

 

Introducing apples into your dog's diet can be both simple and enjoyable! Here are some delightful ways to share the goodness of apples with your pup:


1. Apple Treats 

One of the easiest ways to treat your dog is by chopping apples into 1-inch pieces and ¼-inch thick slices. These bite-sized delights make for an irresistible snack!


2. Food Topper  

Give your dog’s meals a fruity twist by mixing chopped or blended apples into their regular food. This little addition can enhance their meal with flavour and nutrition!


3. Fruit Smoothie

Blend apple chunks with other dog-friendly fruits like bananas, blueberries, or strawberries for a delicious fruit smoothie. You can serve this as a special treat or use it as a topper for their food. For an added twist, freeze the mixture in your KONG toy for a later delight.


4. Fruit Popsicles

Pour your blended fruit and yogurt mixture into ice cube trays or popsicle mold, then freeze overnight. Voila! You’ve created tasty popsicles for your pup. For extra fun, use a dog treat or a bully stick as the popsicle stick!


5. Doggy Ice Cream

Freeze apple chunks overnight, then blend them with plain yogurt to whip up a delightful dog-friendly apple ice cream. Feel free to add other frozen fruits for even more flavour!


6. Dehydrated Apples

If you have a dehydrator, making dehydrated apple pieces at home is a fantastic option. Just remember, the sugars get concentrated, so offer these treats in moderation. It’s best to avoid store-bought dehydrated fruits, as they often contain added sugars and preservatives.


These creative and fun ideas not only keep your furry friend happy but also provide a healthy snack packed with flavour. Enjoy sharing these tasty treats with your beloved pup! Just make sure you’re using plain apples only, no caramel, chocolate, or baked goods.

 

Apple Alternatives: Other Dog-Friendly Fruits

If your pup isn’t a fan of apples, or can’t tolerate them, don’t worry. There are plenty of other tasty, nutritious options you can try:


Bananas

Bananas

 

Bananas are naturally sweet like apples and contain vitamin C, fibre, and potassium, a mineral that supports muscle and nerve health.


Benefits for dogs:

  • Great energy-boosting treat (in moderation due to natural sugar)

  • Excellent for heart health

  • Gentle on sensitive stomachs

  • Contains vitamin B6, which supports brain function


Serving tip:

Slice and serve fresh or mash into their regular food. Freeze chunks for a soothing summer treat.


Blueberries

Blueberries

 

Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, blueberries offer many of the same immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties as apples, but in a bite-sized form.


Benefits for dogs:

  • Supports cognitive function in older dogs

  • Support digestive health

  • Low in calories and sugar

  • Good for training due to their small size


Serving tip:

Feed fresh, frozen, or mix into a lick mat for enrichment.


Pears (seedless & coreless)

Pears

 

Like apples, pears are high in fibre, vitamin C, and natural sweetness, making them a nearly 1:1 substitute.


Benefits for dogs:

  • Pears are rich in calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin A, all important nutrients in a dog’s diet. 

  • Pears contain approximately 5 grams of dietary fibre per cup, which supports digestive health in dogs.

  • High water content for hydration


Serving tip:

Slice into bite-sized pieces, remove seeds and core and serve raw.


Quick Comparison Table


Fruits comparison table


So, Should You Feed Your Dog Apples?

Yes. Apples, when given in moderation and prepared correctly, make a delightful and nutritious treat for most dogs! They offer a fantastic alternative to processed snacks, packed with healthy fibre and nutrients that many dogs absolutely enjoy. What a great way to keep our furry friends happy!


As always, if your dog has a sensitive stomach or any existing health issues (like diabetes), chat with your vet before introducing new foods.


Not sure how to feed your dog apples but don’t want them missing out on the health benefits? Let Petzyo take care of it for you. Our premium Raw Royalty recipes already include apple as a key ingredient, meaning your pup gets the goodness of fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants without any prep work on your end.


References:


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