Can Dogs Eat Apples?
Yes, dogs can eat apples but there are some caveats. Apples are a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C. They also contain calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. However, apples should be given to dogs in moderation. The seeds and core of the apple can be harmful to dogs if ingested, so it is important to remove these before giving your dog an apple.
If you are looking for the best type of apple pick green apples like Granny Smith. We explain why in more detail below.
Below we explain more on:
1. The Benefits of Apples for Dogs
2. The Risks of Feeding Apples to Dogs
3. Fun ways to prepare apples for dogs
4. Types of Apples you can feed dogs
The Benefits Of Apples For Dogs
As mentioned before, dogs eat apples and apples are a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C plus they also contain calcium, phosphorus, and potassium.
Fiber in apples can help regulate a dog's digestive system, while the vitamins and minerals can boost their immune system and overall health.
Vitamin A is good for dogs because it helps to maintain healthy skin and coat. It also helps with the production of new blood cells and supports the immune system.
Vitamin C is important for dogs because it helps to support the immune system and protect against free radicals. It is also necessary for the production of collagen, which is important for healthy skin and joints.
Calcium is important for dogs because it helps to build and maintain strong bones. It also helps with muscle contraction and nerve function.
Phosphorus is important for dogs because it helps to build and maintain strong bones and teeth. It is also necessary for the proper function of kidney, muscles, and nerves.
Potassium is important for dogs because it helps to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. It also aids in muscle function and nerve transmission.
One of the other benefits to your dog's health from apples is that they can help clean your dog's teeth. The crunchy texture of apples can help remove plaque and tartar from your dog's teeth, keeping them healthy and strong.
The Risks Of Feeding Apples To Dogs
While apples are generally safe for dogs to eat, there are some risks that you should be aware of. The apple seeds and core of the apple can be harmful to dogs if ingested, so it is important to remove these before giving your dog an apple.
The seeds of apples contain amygdalin, which is a compound that breaks down into cyanide when digested. Cyanide is poisonous to both humans and animals, so it's important to make sure your dog doesn't consume any apple seeds.
The core of the apple also contains a small amount of cyanide, so it's best to remove this before feeding your dog an apple to be safe. Remember apples are good but the seeds are bad.
In addition, apples contain a sugar called fructose. While fructose is safe for humans to consume in moderation, too much can cause stomach upset in dogs.
If you're going to feed apples as part of your dog's diet, it's best to do so in moderation and avoid feeding them the apple skin as well because it can be a choking hazard. So make sure you prep your apple pieces before your dog is eating apples and you will have a great nutritious snack.
Treats like these should only ever make up a maximum of 10% of your dog's diet. Read more about how much to feed your dog here.
Fun Ways To Prepare Apples For Dogs
One of the best ways to feed your dog apples is to slice them up into small pieces or give your dog apple slices. You can then add them to your dog's food bowl or use them as a training treat. If you're feeling extra creative, you can even stuff a Kong toy or cover a Lickimat with slices of green apples and peanut butter for a delicious and healthy treat your dog will love.
Another fun way to serve apples to your dog is to make homemade apple sauce. Simply cook some green apples down until they're soft, then mash them. Think of an apple pie filling without any added sugar.
This sauce is perfect for spreading on dog lick mats because the thicker sauce can help hold other treats on the mat. On hot days you can also freeze the lick mat after spreading the sauce and treats so it will entertain your dog longer while also being a cool treat on a warm day.
Explore Raw & Fresh's range of Lickimats HERE.
Types Of Apples You Can Feed Dogs
So we know dogs eat apples and while all apples contain fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, the nutritional content of different types of apples can vary.
Can dogs eat red apples?
Red Delicious apples are a good source of fiber and vitamin C and higher levels of antioxidants but if you have the choice, then a green apple like a Granny Smith Apple will be a better option
Can dogs eat green apples?
Granny Smith apples are a good source of fiber and vitamin C like all apples but they also have higher levels of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin E and vitamin K compared to red apples.
So, if you're looking to give your dog the best apple option go with a Granny Smith Apple.
Looking For The Best Diet To Suit Your Dog?
Now we have answered "can dogs eat apples," we want to talk a little about our fresh food products to boost your dog's diet and your dog's health.
At Raw & Fresh we know what dogs eat and that's why we have become Australia's leading home delivered raw dog food provider supplying a range of meals and treats for your pets.
Raw cat & dog food can be purchased online at www.rawandfresh.com.au where you can customise your pet's diet and arrange refrigerated delivery straight to your door.
