Apples are a great healthy snack for humans, but can dogs eat apples? They certainly can be! Apples are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins (like vitamin A and C), and antioxidants. They are low in calories but high in sugar, so it is best to keep apples as a snack rather than a regular part of your pet’s meal.
Can Dogs Eat Apple Skin?
Yes, dogs can eat apple skin! The skin is packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it beneficial for your dog’s digestion and overall health. Fiber helps regulate digestion and can keep your dog feeling full, which is especially helpful for weight management. However, you should wash the apple thoroughly to remove any pesticides or chemicals lingering on the surface. Organic apples are a great choice to minimize exposure to harmful substances.
Can Dogs Eat Apple Cores?
While the flesh of the apple is safe for dogs, it’s best to avoid giving them the core. Apple seeds contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when metabolized in large amounts. It would take a substantial amount of seeds to be harmful, but it’s better to be safe and take them out since they don’t have any benefits. The core itself can be a choking hazard, especially for smaller breeds. Always supervise your dog when trying new treats and eliminate any potential choking hazards.
Can Dogs Eat Applesauce?
Applesauce can be an excellent choice for a tasty treat for dogs, but it’s crucial to check the ingredients first. Store-bought applesauce often contains added sugars and preservatives that can harm your pet. Look for the ones with nice, short ingredient lists. It is easy to make applesauce at home; just avoid using sweeteners and spices such as cinnamon, which can upset a dog’s stomach.
Moderation is Key
While apples are a healthy snack, give them only in moderation. Too much fruit can lead to digestive upset or diarrhea in dogs. The general rule of thumb is treating apples as an occasional snack rather than part of a regular meal.
Small slices or a spoonful of applesauce are good starting points. Limiting treats to about 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake is a good guideline. Always observe how your dog reacts to new foods and adjust portions accordingly. Keeping treats limited helps ensure your dog maintains a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.
Creative Ways to Serve Apples
There are several fun and delicious ways to incorporate apples into your dog’s diet:
1. Frozen Apple Treats
Freeze apple slices for a refreshing treat on hot days. This not only keeps your dog cool but also adds an enjoyable crunch! You can even blend apple slices with a bit of water and freeze them in ice cube trays for a fun, hydrating treat.
2. Homemade Applesauce
To make homemade applesauce, peel and chop a few apples, cook them in a pot with a bit of water until they are soft, and then mash them to your desired consistency. You can even leave some chunks for texture! Allow the applesauce to cool before serving.
3. Apple and Greek Yogurt Mix
Combine diced apples with plain Greek yogurt for a creamy, nutritious treat. Greek yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics, promoting good digestion. This mix can be a perfect snack after a long walk or play session.
4. Apple Dog Biscuits
You can also bake homemade dog biscuits using applesauce as an ingredient. Combine whole wheat flour, oats, and applesauce to create a dough, roll it out, and cut out fun shapes. Bake until golden brown for a crunchy treat that your dog will love.
5. Use Apples as Enrichment
Use apples for healthy food enrichment opportunities. Adding diced apples or any of the above recipes to your enrichment toys or lick trays is a healthy alternative to many store-bought filler options.
Introduce Apples To Your Pet’s Diet Today
Apples are a great way to boost fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants in your pet’s diet. Apples are included in Steve’s Real Food BARF diets to contribute to a naturally complete and balanced diet with no synthetics added. Search on our Store Locator to find Steve’s Real Food near you!
