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Can dogs eat apples?

Yes, apples are healthy for dogs. They contain vitamin A, vitamin C and fiber. Remove the seeds and stem, because apple seeds contain amygdalin, which the body converts to cyanide. Serve the apple sliced or grated. Apples help clean the teeth and make a low-calorie snack.

A happy dog with pointy ears sitting in a park, enjoying a whole apple next to a picnic basket.
Quick answer
  • Yes, dogs can eat apples
  • Always remove the seeds and core (cyanide)
  • Feed in small pieces, ideal as a snack

Yes, dogs can eat apples. Apples are a healthy snack with vitamin A, vitamin C and fiber. The seeds and core must always be removed, though, because they contain amygdalin, which the body breaks down into cyanide.

What apples do for dogs

Apples contain vitamin A and vitamin C, which strengthen the immune system. The fiber supports healthy digestion. During diarrhea, small amounts of apple can help firm up the stool again.

What to watch out for

The seeds, core and stem must be removed before feeding. Apple seeds contain amygdalin, a compound that releases cyanide in the body. Small amounts of seeds are not immediately fatal, but they should be avoided consistently. Cut the apple into small pieces to prevent choking.

The skin is safe for dogs. Just watch out for pesticides: when in doubt, wash or peel the apple.

How to feed apples

Cut apples into small pieces and offer them as a snack or as a treat during training. Keep the share of apple in the overall diet low: apples contain fruit sugar, which upsets digestion in large amounts. A few slices per day are no problem for most dogs.

Nutritional values and amount

100 g of apple contains about 52 kcal, 10 g of fruit sugar, 2.4 g of fiber, 4.6 mg of vitamin C and 107 mg of potassium. The fat content is 0.2 g.

Guideline by body weight:

  • Small dog (up to 10 kg): 1 to 2 thin slices per day
  • Medium dog (10 to 25 kg): 2 to 4 slices per day
  • Large dog (over 25 kg): up to half an apple per day

Apple pieces keep in the fridge for 1 to 2 days. Grated apple oxidizes quickly, so it is best prepared fresh and fed right away.

Quick check

Question 1 of 3

Why must apple seeds be removed before feeding?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can dogs eat apples with the skin?

Yes, the skin is safe for dogs and adds extra fiber. With conventionally grown apples, wash or peel them first to reduce pesticide residue.

Are apple seeds toxic for dogs?

Yes, apple seeds contain amygdalin, which the body breaks down into cyanide. Always remove the seeds and core completely before feeding the apple.

How much apple can a dog eat?

A few slices per day are safe for most dogs. Apples contain fruit sugar, so large amounts can upset digestion or lead to weight gain.

Can apples help with diarrhea in dogs?

Yes, in small amounts apples can help firm up the stool during diarrhea. Their fiber has a regulating effect on digestion.

Veterinarian Mag.med.vet. Emin Jasarevic

Written by

Veterinarian Mag.med.vet. Emin Jasarevic

Veterinarian & Medical Author

Mag.med.vet. (Veterinary Medicine)Practicing VeterinarianCo-Author of the Hunde Gesundheits Bibel

Veterinarian Mag.med.vet. Emin Jasarevic creates medically accurate articles and videos on animal health topics. He is co-author of the Hunde Gesundheits Bibel and ensures professionally correct content at Hundeo.

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