Can Dogs Eat Apples? Health Benefits, Safety Tips and More

Delicious, low-calorie apples come in a wide range of flavors — from sweet Honeycrisps to sour Granny Smiths — giving you plenty of healthy snack options for your four-legged friend. We recommend doing a taste test with your pup to see which apple varieties they (and you) like the most. Don't be surprised if your dog likes them all!

Are Apples Good for Dogs?

A good source of fiber and vitamins, apples make a great addition to your dog’s diet — as long as you remove the core and seeds. Apples are a tasty treat for puppies and senior dogs alike, and with thousands of varieties worldwide (including more than 100 apple varieties produced in the United States alone¹), you’re sure to find one type of this fruit that your pup will enjoy.

Health benefits

Apples are a delicious and nutritious treat for your favorite furry pal. They are low in calories, high in fiber (good for digestion) and filled with antioxidants and vitamins. Vitamin A helps with vision and cell growth and supports the immune system, while vitamin C boosts immunity and works to repair tissue. Red apples may taste sweeter, but green apples — with less sugar and more vitamin A — are a particularly excellent choice for your dog.

Dental benefits

Apples are beneficial to a dog's teeth. The fruit contains malic acid, which gives apples their flavor and helps break down plaque, remove stains and increase saliva production for a healthier mouth. Vitamin C may help with plaque removal as well, and the chewing action can also help clean your dog’s teeth.

How Many Apples Can Dogs Eat?

Up to 10% of your dog's daily diet can be supplemented with healthy snacks, including fruits. One apple has around 100 calories, so a small dog may eat a couple of small pieces while a large dog may have up to half of a medium-sized apple.

What Happens if a Dog Eats Too Much Apple?

Apples, like many other fruits, contain fiber. If your dog ingests too much fiber (especially from the peels), they may experience digestive issues like diarrhea, gas or an upset stomach. This will likely resolve itself, but always call your veterinarian with any concerns.

Are Dogs Allergic to Apples?

Although apple allergies are not common in dogs, it's a good idea to offer a small amount to your dog at first and monitor for any reactions. If you notice vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy, discontinue feeding apples to your dog and contact your veterinarian.

How to Prepare Apples for Your Dog

Apples can be prepared for dogs in many different ways. If you want to feed your dog a piece of raw apple, wash the fruit well to remove any pesticides or residues. Always remove the core and seeds, and remove the peel if your dog is sensitive to fiber (there’s a higher concentration of fiber in the peel). Always cut the apple into small pieces to prevent your dog from choking.

Here are some alternative fun methods to offer apples to your dog:

• If your dog loves crunchy treats, you can make apple chips in the oven or dehydrator.
• Don’t forget about homemade applesauce. Make it without added sugar, and freeze it into small cubes for a cool summer treat.

Don't Feed Your Dog Apple Cores or Seeds

While apples are very healthy for dogs, it is essential to remove the core and seeds. Apple seeds contain cyanide, which is poisonous to dogs. If your dog eats the core and/or seeds, call your veterinarian right away.

CareCredit Credit Card Financing for Dogs

Taking good care of your pet's well-being from nose to tail is essential. Make sure to stay up to date on their regular checkups at the vet to help keep your pet happy and healthy for a lifetime of love. You can use your CareCredit credit card for pet care throughout the year for routine veterinary services as well as emergencies and surgeries.* Use our Acceptance Locator to find a veterinarian near you that accepts CareCredit.

CareCredit is there for you and your pet every step of the way; continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

In addition to pet care, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, cosmetic, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Dr. Kathy Wiederkehr (Wentworth) has been practicing veterinary medicine at pet care facilities in California since 2001. Most recently, she served as medical director of the VCA PetPoint Medical Center and Resort in Irvine. She is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and became board-certified as a diplomate in Canine and Feline Practice by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in 2010.