Fall means apple picking, farm stands and bowls of fresh fruit on the counter. If your dog watches every bite you take, you may wonder whether you can share. For most healthy dogs, plain apple slices can be an occasional treat. The key is in how you prepare them and how much you offer.
As with any new food, check with your veterinarian first, especially if your dog has diabetes, a sensitive stomach, a weight concern or any other health condition.
What to remove first
- The core. It is tough, fibrous and can be a choking hazard.
- The seeds. Apple seeds contain amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide when chewed and digested. A stray seed is unlikely to cause harm, but it is best to remove them.
- The stem and leaves. These also contain compounds best avoided.
Wash apples well to remove dirt and residue. Then cut them into slices or small pieces sized for your dog. Small dogs need small pieces, and dogs who gulp do best with thin slices.
How much is reasonable
Treats of any kind should make up only a small part of a dog’s daily food, so they do not crowd out a balanced diet. Apples contain natural sugar and fiber, and too much at once can cause stomach upset or diarrhea. Start with a slice or two and see how your dog does. Your veterinarian can help you figure out how treats fit into your dog’s overall diet.
Apple products to skip
Plain fresh apple is very different from many apple-flavored foods. Skip these:
- Apple pie, crisps and pastries, which contain sugar, fat and sometimes spices such as nutmeg
- Caramel apples and candy apples, plus the sticks they come on
- Applesauce with added sugar or sweeteners, especially xylitol, which is toxic to dogs
- Apple cider and juice, which are concentrated sources of sugar
- Fallen apples that have started to rot or ferment
That last one matters in orchards and yards with apple trees. Fermenting fruit on the ground can make dogs sick, and dogs who gorge on fallen apples can end up with a serious stomach upset. Keep an eye on your dog around apple trees and clean up dropped fruit regularly.
Fun ways to serve apples
- Use small apple pieces as training rewards on a fall walk.
- Freeze thin slices for a crunchy treat after a romp in the leaves.
- Tuck a few pieces into a food puzzle for a little enrichment.
If your dog shows vomiting, diarrhea, drooling or signs of discomfort after eating apples, or if they eat a large amount of cores and seeds, call your veterinarian for advice. Otherwise, a slice of fresh apple can be a simple, seasonal way to share the harvest.
