Apples are a healthy treat for your pet, in the same way they are for humans. You can feed your dog apples in moderation, however it’s not recommended to give them too many, and you should avoid giving them the core and pips.
Apples are highly acidic and high in fibre which is great for a dogs diet in moderation, but can lead to stomach pain and diarrhoea for your poor pooch if fed too liberally. As well as being high in fibre, apples are high in Vitamin A, C and E which are a great addition to your dog’s diet. Plus, apples are a natural breath freshener for your pet which is always a bonus!
Are apples harmful to dogs?
Generally, no. However apples can be harmful to dogs if they eat the core, so be sure to only feed your dog slices or chunks which are easy to eat and won’t include apple seeds. Apple seeds contain amygdalin, which is a form of cyanide and is poisonous if eaten in excess.
Whilst one or two seeds won’t kill your pet, the build up of cyanide in their system can be harmful over time. Therefore, it’s best to avoid giving them the core as this can make them unwell.
How can I feed my dog apples?
You can feed your pet apples in many ways. They are known to like the taste, so as a snack works perfectly. Your dog will love apples as a crunchy, sweet treat.
As mentioned above, be sure to take the core of the apple out as this can be both a choking hazard and be poisonous because of the seeds. You could also add apple into your dog’s normal meal to give them a nutritional boost.
If you’ve got more questions about your dog’s diet, then head over to our advice page for more tips. You can join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram – don’t forget to tag us @DogBuddyCo!