An apple a day supposedly keeps the doctor away. But are apples good for dogs, too? Can dogs eat apples at all? Let’s find out if you can give your pup this crunchy treat and how to do it safely.

Can Dogs Have Apples?

Yes, dogs can eat apples, as long as you follow some simple precautions. But can dogs eat green apples raw? Yes, all colors and varieties of apples are safe for dogs to eat. It’s the way they eat them that matters.

Apples are sweet, nutritious, and provide several health benefits for dogs. You can serve this fruit to your dog in moderation or as an occasional treat. The skin and white parts of apples are safe to eat. However, your dog should not eat the seeds or the core.

If your pup has already eaten the seeds, it’s likely fine. Apple seeds do contain trace amounts of cyanide that are released only when the seeds are chewed up. However, it would take a ton of apple seeds to poison a dog. We’re talking the seeds from a couple hundred apples! Apple cores can also be a choking hazard for dogs, which is another reason to avoid them. 

Are Apples Good for Dogs? 

Apples have a variety of natural health benefits for dogs. If you’re searching for the perfect healthy snack for your dog, apples may be the answer. 

Apples have natural vitamins and minerals that help the body thrive, including vitamin C and antioxidants. Apple skin is also fiber-rich to support digestion and promote dental health. An apple a day might not keep the vet away, but apples are definitely a good snack option. 

Dogs can’t brush their own teeth and it can be difficult to get them to cooperate while you brush for them. Don’t ditch the teeth brushing sessions – but an apple can improve dental health.

Can dogs eat green apples raw to improve dental health? When a dog chews on something hard, it can remove plaque in the same way a toothbrush might. Raw apples are hard enough to help remove build-up without damaging your dog’s teeth or gums. 

Are apples good for dogs with constipation? In addition to being a sneaky toothbrush alternative, apples also have a high water and fiber content. This keeps dogs hydrated while supporting healthier stools. 

The Drawbacks of Apples for Dogs

You do want to watch out for one thing when it comes to apples: this fruit has a high sugar content. For this reason, be careful and only serve apples in moderation. 

Can dogs have apples if they have diabetes? Don’t let the puppy eyes fool you. Dogs with diabetes or those on a prescription diet should not be fed apples or other fruits. You want to avoid spiking your pup’s blood sugar to unsafe levels. 

If you’re unsure about how apples can benefit your dog, consult your vet. They can determine if apples are safe for your pup based on their health history. 

How To Feed Apples to Your Dog 

Now you know dogs can safely eat apples, but there are many ways to prepare this tasty treat. Always remove the stem, core, and seeds before serving up some fresh slices. 

Here’s a quick tip for hangry dogs: freeze apple slices ahead of time so you can whip them out on a moment’s notice. This is a great way to plan and prevent apples from going bad. It’s also a rehydrating treat that can cool your dog down on a hot summer’s day. 

Can dogs eat applesauce? Absolutely – if your dog loves this fruit, try giving them all-natural applesauce. Choose an applesauce that’s free of preservatives or added sugar. This ensures that your pup is getting only the good stuff and none of the sketchy stuff.

Applesauce is particularly handy because you can freeze it in a treat toy or ice cube tray. Having it in a ready-to-eat form makes it much easier to feed apples to your dog. Frozen applesauce is also a great treat for training exercises.