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Risks of Feeding Apples to Dogs
While apples are safe for your dog to eat, be sure to keep the seeds far, far away from them. The seeds contain a small amount of cyanide, a toxin, which can harm your dog in large doses. The tough apple core, and the stem, could also choke your dog. If your dog eats an apple core or seeds, you need to watch them for any signs of digestive trouble or blockage, like choking.
And remember, just because dogs love apples doesn’t mean that they can eat apple pie. The added sugar and golden crust that humans enjoy are too much for dogs. However, if your dog eats an apple pie that includes nutmeg, which includes a toxin called myristicin, they may experience problems, according to the Pet Poison Helpline. In small doses, nutmeg might cause mild gastrointestinal distress. In very large doses, it can cause hallucinations, high blood pressure, and seizures.
How to Prepare Apples for Dogs
Begin by washing and scrubbing your apples to remove any bacteria and germs. Some supermarket apples, like many other fruits and vegetables, are treated with pesticides, which makes rinsing them off especially important. Cut apples into slices or small cubes so that your dog can easily eat them. Peeling the apple will make it easier for your dog to digest.
The simplest way to prepare roasted apple chips for dogs is to bake thinly sliced (and cored) apple slices at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for two hours until completely crispy. You can also opt for dog treats that contain apples as an ingredient.
How Many Apples Can Dogs Eat?
Your dog may love crunching on apples, but don’t let them have too much. Eating an excess of apples can lead to your dog experiencing bellyache or diarrhea, so always serve them in moderation. Just an apple slice or two is enough to satisfy your dog’s cravings.
Puppies can also eat apples. If you haven’t given them apples before, start with a small amount, like a slice or small cube. Watch them to make sure they don’t have an allergic reaction. See if they experience any digestive problems. If your dog has problems, refrain from feeding them apples and contact a veterinarian as needed.
Can Dogs Eat Applesauce?
Yes, dogs can safely eat plain applesauce! However, applesauce generally includes added sugars, so always choose unsweetened applesauce and give it to them in moderation.
You can freeze applesauce in ice cube trays and share them with your dog after a long walk or on a hot summer day.
For humans, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” But, what about dogs? They can also enjoy these sweet, crispy treats in moderation. Most dogs love them!
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Are Apples Good for Dogs?
Apples are a great source of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants. They’re chock full of fiber, especially in the peels, which helps dogs maintain a healthy weight while assisting with their digestion.
Apples are a low-calorie treat. But since each apple has about 19 grams of sugar, a whole apple will likely be too much for your dog. Even so, apples are a great way to satisfy your dog’s sweet tooth (unlike some human foods, including chocolate, which can harm your dog).
The act of chewing an apple can also help clean your dog’s teeth, but apple peels may get stuck between their teeth. Eating apples shouldn’t substitute for regular dental care like daily brushings and regular veterinary dental cleanings.