Dogs · Guide
Can Dogs Eat Apples?
Yes, plain apple slices make a good occasional treat for dogs. Here’s why the core and seeds should go, how to serve it, and which apple foods to skip.
Yes, dogs can eat apples. Plain, fresh apple flesh is a safe, crunchy treat for most dogs, as long as you serve it in small amounts and leave out the core, seeds, and stem.
Those parts are the only real problem. The seeds contain compounds that release cyanide, and the hard core can be a choking or blockage risk.
Why apples are okay for dogs
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), apples offer vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants, plus fiber, much of it in the peel. They’re also fairly low in calories, which makes a slice or two a lighter choice than many packaged treats.
Crunching on apple can help scrape your dog’s teeth a little, but it doesn’t replace brushing or professional dental cleanings. Bits of peel can also get stuck between teeth.
Apples do contain natural sugar, though. AKC notes a whole apple has about 19 grams of it, which is more than a dog needs in one sitting.
The parts to keep away from your dog
How worried should you be about a seed or two? AKC says a small number of apple seeds is unlikely to harm your dog. The concern is larger amounts, and the fact that there’s no reason to take the risk at all. Coring the apple first solves it.
The core itself is a separate problem. It’s hard and fibrous, and a dog who gulps one down could choke on it or end up with something stuck in the digestive tract.
How to serve apples safely
- Wash it well. Rinse and scrub the skin to remove dirt and any pesticide residue.
- Core it. Cut away the core, seeds, and stem completely.
- Slice it small. Thin slices or small cubes are easier to chew and safer to swallow.
- Consider peeling. The peel is fine, but AKC notes peeled apple is easier for dogs to digest.
- Start small. For a dog (or puppy) who’s never had apple, offer a single slice or cube and watch for an upset stomach or signs of an allergic reaction before making it a regular thing.
For a crunchy homemade treat, AKC suggests baking thin, cored apple slices at 200°F for about two hours until they’re crisp.
How much is too much?
Keep it small. AKC suggests a slice or two is plenty for most dogs. Too much apple can cause a bellyache or diarrhea.
Treats of every kind, apple included, should make up no more than about 10% of your dog’s daily diet, so the rest comes from their complete, balanced food.
Apple foods to skip
Plain fruit is the safe form. Many apple products aren’t plain:
- Apple pie and other desserts. AKC warns the added sugar and buttery crust are too much for dogs. Many recipes also use nutmeg, which can cause stomach upset in small amounts and much more serious problems in very large amounts.
- Sweetened applesauce. Plain, unsweetened applesauce in small amounts is fine. Skip versions with added sugar.
- Anything with xylitol. This sugar substitute shows up in some “sugar-free” baked goods, candy, and gum. The ASPCA warns it can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and possibly liver damage in dogs. Check the label on any sugar-free apple product before sharing.
What to do if your dog ate an apple core
If your dog swallowed a core, don’t panic. AKC says a small number of seeds is unlikely to cause harm, but the core itself is worth watching for, so keep a close eye on your dog over the next couple of days.
The Merck Veterinary Manual lists these signs of a possible blockage in the intestines:
- Vomiting, especially repeated vomiting
- Not wanting to eat
- Lethargy
- Belly pain or a swollen belly
- Diarrhea
A blockage can become life-threatening, so call your vet right away if you see any of these signs.
This matters most if your dog got into pruned branches, fallen leaves, or a compost bin full of cores. The ASPCA notes these plant parts are especially toxic as they wilt.
Other treats to try
Plain, cored apple slices are one of the easier fruits to share. Just don’t assume every fruit works the same way. A few are never safe, no matter how small the piece. Grapes and raisins top that list; see can dogs eat grapes? for why. For the full rundown, read our guide to foods that are toxic to dogs.