Can Dogs Eat Apples?

NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new foods, especially “people foods.” What might be OK for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on prescription diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet unless your veterinarian tells you it’s fine to do so. 

Can an apple a day keep the veterinarian away? Maybe not. But can dogs eat apples as part of a healthy diet? Yes, they can. 

Red Delicious, Honeycrisp, Gala, and Granny Smith—all varieties of apples that you’d commonly find at your neighborhood grocery store—are all fine to share with dogs, as long as you prepare them properly. 

However, there are a few parts of the fruit to avoid and some risks to keep in mind. Here’s what you should know about the benefits and potential downsides of giving apples to your dog. 

Can Dogs Have Apples?

Yes, dogs can have apples—and many pups love the sweet, crunchy treat.  

All varieties of apples are safe as long as you remove the core, seeds, and stem. The core and stem can be a choking hazard, and the seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide.  

Stick with fresh, plain apple slices or chunks, and avoid any apple-based foods with added sugar, spices, or artificial sweeteners. 

If your dog isn’t a fan of raw fruit, you can find apples in many store-bought dog treats. Here are some pet-parent-approved options:

Are Apples Good for Dogs?

Yes, apples are good for dogs in moderation, but not as a full meal. They’re best as a healthy snack or training treat. Some of the biggest benefits of apples are: 

• They’re a source of vitamin C. Apples provide a good amount of vitamin C, which helps support your dog’s immune health. That said, most dogs get all the vitamin C they need from a balanced diet. 

• They’re loaded with carbohydrates. The natural sugars and carbohydrates in apples can give your pup a quick energy boost, making them a tasty pre-play snack. 

• They’re high in fiber. The fiber content in apples can help with digestion, support regular bowel movements, and even help regulate blood sugar levels. 

• They’re low in calories and fat. Compared to processed treats and some other human foods, apples are a lighter option that won’t add a ton of unnecessary calories to your dog’s diet. 

Are Apples Bad for Dogs?

Apples aren’t bad for dogs, but there are some risks of sharing them with your pup. Here’s what to watch for: 

• The seeds contain cyanide. Apple seeds have trace amounts of cyanide, which can be toxic in large quantities. Your dog would have to eat a lot of seeds to have a problem—but it’s still better to be safe and remove the seeds before giving any apple slices to your dog. 

• The core can be a choking hazard. Apple cores can be tough and difficult to chew, which can make them a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs. 

• Too much sugar can be problematic. While the natural sugars in apples are fine in moderation, feeding too much can contribute to weight gain or upset stomach. Too much sugar in all forms can be dangerous for dogs with diabetes. 

• Diarrhea is possible. Like any new food, too many apples can give your dog diarrhea.  

How Many Apples Can a Dog Eat?

Although apples are a safe and healthy snack for dogs, any treats your dog eats should only make up 10% of their overall diet, while the other 90% should come from a well-balanced dog food. 

To help give you an idea of proper portion sizes, here are some general guidelines based on your dog’s weight and size. For reference, a piece is about 1-inch wide by ¼-inch thick. 

When giving your dog apples for the first time, start slowly and watch for any reactions, like diarrhea or upset stomach. If your dog tolerates the apples well, you can work up to the recommended serving size. 

If you have any questions or concerns about what’s right for your dog specifically, consult your veterinarian. 

How To Safely Feed Apples to Dogs

A little preparation goes a long way in making sure apples are safe and enjoyable for your dog. Here’s how to serve them properly: 

• Wash thoroughly. Rinse apples well to remove any dirt, pesticides, or residue. 

• Remove the core, seeds, and stem. These parts can be choking hazards and contain compounds that aren’t safe for dogs. 

• Peel if needed. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, peeling the skin can make apples easier to digest. 

• Cut into bite-size pieces. Small slices or cubes are easier for dogs to chew and can help reduce the risk of choking. 

Once the apples are properly prepared, here are some ideas for serving them to your dog: 

• As a snack: The easiest way to feed apples to your dog is by chopping them into small pieces and feeding them to your pup as a treat. 

• As a food topper: You can use apples as a food topper by chopping or blending them up and mixing them into your dog’s usual food. 

• Frozen into their KONG toy: Blend your apple pieces with some other dog-safe fruits like bananas, blueberries, and strawberries, put the mixture into your dog’s KONG toy, and freeze it overnight for a refreshing, cold treat. 

• Fruit yogurt: Blend apple pieces with plain, xylitol-free yogurt (xylitol is toxic to dogs). You can serve as-is, stuffed into a KONG toy, or frozen on a lick mat, like the Frisco Silicone Lick Mat, for extra fun. 

• Dehydrated apples: If you have a dehydrator at home, you can make dehydrated apple pieces. The sugar will be more concentrated per ounce, so feed them to your dog in small portions. Also, avoid any store-bought dehydrated fruits that contain extra sugar and preservatives. 

What Other Fruits Can Dogs Eat?

Apples aren’t the only fruit you can safely share with your pup. Many fruits are dog-friendly in moderation and can make great alternatives to processed treats. Some other options include: 

• Bananas 

• Blueberries 

• Cranberries 

• Mango 

• Peaches 

• Raspberries 

• Strawberries 

• Watermelon 

Instead of raw fruit, you can also give your dog the following fruity dog treats: