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Can Dogs Eat Apples? What Pet Owners Must Know

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Can Dogs Eat Apples? What Pet Owners Must Know

Apples are one of the most popular fruits; they ranked among the top three fruits produced in the world because the demand is so high. That’s because they’re high in the following nutrients and minerals:

Can Dogs Eat Apples? | Innovet Pet
  • Insoluble and soluble fiber
  • Vitamin C
  • Calcium
  • Phosphorus
  • Phytochemicals such as pectin, catechin, quercetin, anthocyanin, and chlorogenic acid

So, it’s true that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. But does this go for dogs as well?

The answer is yes: apples are an excellent snack for your dogs! You just need to know how to prepare this delicious superfruit as a snack for your dog.

Here’s what you should know about letting dogs eat apples. 

Is It Safe for Dogs to Eat Apples?

Yes, it is safe to let dogs eat apples. It is not only a safe snack but also an inexpensive treat that tastes good to animals. If you have an overweight dog and are looking for a low-calorie treat, this is one of the best options you can get for your furry friend.

When sliced or cubed, you can use them as everyday treats or rewards during obedience training sessions with the puppies. That's a great way to reward your dog for behaving at the training session with something nutritious. 

However, there are some safety considerations before your pet eat apples:

Is It Safe For Dogs To Eat Apples? | Innovet Pet
  • You need to provide them with apples in moderation.
  • You also need to remove the apple seeds before you serve your dog. Apple seeds contain cyanide, which though in small amounts, is still poisonous to your furry friend. 
  • The core, which includes the seeds, is also a choking hazard for puppies and smaller dogs. 

Are Apples Beneficial for Dogs?

Apples are beneficial to your pet in many ways. Here are the most vital benefits if dogs eat apples:

Apples Are A Super-Food

Apples can be highly nutritious when fed to your furry companion as part of a regular diet. This superfruit is a source of vitamin C. It also contains low protein and fat levels, which can be highly beneficial to older dogs that struggle with a digestive system that’s sensitive to high protein and fat diets.

Dental Health

Apples are the best natural source of malic acid. Studies show that malic acid is a less stressful way to keep your dog's oral hygiene in top shape, compared to medication. Malic acid even improves saliva production. This not only prevents oral bacteria from overgrowing but also keeps your dog's teeth fresh.

Fights Inflammation

There's a reason why apple pomace, the leftovers after processing apples for juice, cider, or puree, is a critical component of soft hemp dog chews

The superfruit contains a wide range of antioxidants, such as:

  • Calcium
  • Quercetin
  • Phosphorus
  • Catechin
  • Chlorogenic acid
  • Phloridzin

These antioxidants fight free radical damage, which can lead to chronic illnesses such as cancer or debilitating joint diseases left in your pet’s body. These antioxidants also reduce inflammation from stress.

Aids Digestion

Apples are high in fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Foods that are high in fiber are great for your pet's digestive system and gastrointestinal health. 

The soluble fiber, also called pectin, allows your pets' body to absorb water quickly and create a gel in the intestines that slows down digestion and sugar intake into the dog's bloodstream.

This is useful if your furry companion has diabetes or is struggling with a bout of diarrhea. The insoluble fiber prevents constipation or bloating. Older pets should eat this superfruit regularly.

How Much Apple Can a Dog Eat?

As with any snack or meal you decide to feed your pet with, your pet should eat apples in moderation. Eating loads of apples can lead to a distressed stomach and diarrhea. You should ensure your dogs also don't have access to the fruit by themselves, so they don't eat the core and seeds.

Apples are also high in sugar, which can be an issue if your dog has diabetes or is suffering from any form of cancer, or is at risk of cancer. While there is still no strong link between sugar and cancer, some researchers have seen an indirect link between high sugar diets and obesity, which increases cancer risks in humans and pets. If your pet is at risk of cancer or has cancer or diabetes, speak to a vet before starting a diet containing this superfruit.

How to Safely Feed Your Dog Apples

Once you have gotten the green light from your vet, here's how to feed your dog with this superfruit safely:

How To Safely Feed Your Dog Apples | Innovet Pet
  • Have them washed with warm water.
  • Cut it open and remove the core and seeds.
  • Depending on how your dog prefers it, peel out the skin. In general, it's safer to feed slices without the skin. That's because the skin is the part most likely to cause a stomach upset.
  • Slice the snack up into cubes or thin slices.

You can also:

  • Freeze the cubes and give them to your pet to eat when the weather is hot. 
  • Grind the cubes into a puree and add it to its meals.

Conclusion

Feeding your dogs apples is an excellent way to boost their diet with nutrients. It is not only a nutritious meal, but they can fight inflammation and prevent gum disease. 

You only need to ensure they don't eat the seeds or overeat the skin to avoid poisoning or a stomach upset. Then, voila! Your furry companion has a wholesome snack they'll love.


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1 comment
  • Valerie

    Thank you. Good information. Please give information on other fruits and vegetables.

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