Can Dogs Eat Apples? Yes, in Moderation. But Skip the Seeds.

For dogs and their owners, the arrival of autumn brings many joys, from sharing long walks in the crisp air to romping around in piles of fallen leaves. This is apple season, too, so you may be wondering if the abundant fruit is a treat you can safely share with your dog. 

Apples are, in fact, an ingredient in many dog foods and treats. But what nutritional benefits does the fall favorite offer for our dogs? And what do pet owners need to know about the safest way to include apples into a dog’s diet? 

Here is everything you should consider before slicing off a corner of your apple and offering it to your pup.

Can dogs eat apples?

Dogs can eat apples. The fleshy part of the apple is considered safe either raw or cooked. Cut the apple into small pieces to make it easy to eat. 

It’s also a good idea to wash apples before sharing them with your dog to remove pesticides and bacteria.

Are apples good for dogs?

Apples may offer several health benefits to dogs, including high levels of vitamins A and C. Apples are also high in fiber and “phytonutrients.” Phytonutrients are anti-inflammatory compounds that studies suggest may benefit heart, bone, and gut health in dogs.

Another health benefit of apples for dogs is their low calorie count: A quarter cup of raw, chopped apple is just 14 to 16 calories. If your dog is overweight or at risk of obesity, apples are a good alternative to store-bought treats, which often stack on calories from fat. And because they’re high in fiber, apples can help make your dog feel full, so they’ll be less likely to beg for unhealthy treats.

Can dogs eat apple seeds or apple cores?

No, the seeds of an apple are toxic to dogs. Apple seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide, so if your dog gets ahold of several seeds, they could become sick. The stems and leaves of apples also contain cyanide, so avoid those as well.

Apple cores can also cause choking or intestinal obstructions. So don’t give these to dogs. Remove all seeds and the core from an apple before giving it to your dog. 

EXPERT PICKS: WHAT TO READ NEXT

• Skip these foods. Many dogs like to nibble on your table scraps. But not all human foods are safe for dogs. Make sure you never give your dog any of these toxic foods.

• Essential oils and dogs: If you want to diffuse your favorite essential oils, first check whether they’re harmful to dogs. Pass on these essential oils for sure.

• Pica in dogs: If your pup has a habit of eating inedible objects — like wood or plastic — they could have pica. Learn more about this condition in dogs and what causes it.

How often can you give a dog apples?

As safe as apples are for dogs, feeding them too much fruit can cause stomach aches or diarrhea. Some experts recommend no more than the equivalent of one or two slices per day. But keep in mind that your dog doesn’t need to eat apples every day.

Quiz: What human foods are safe for dogs?

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Written by:

Arlene Weintraub

Arlene Weintraub is a freelance writer with more than 25 years of experience as a journalist covering health, science, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. She was most recently an associate director and a health writer for APCO Worldwide, where she provided writing and communications consulting to hospitals, biopharmaceutical companies, scientific equipment makers, and health nonprofits.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM, is from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Princeton University for undergraduate studies. After a year of biology research at Duke University, he attended Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine.

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