Can dogs eat apples? And how much?

You bite into an apple and your dog stares at you intently? Good news: apples are among the fruits veterinarians name as a possible treat for dogs. You still need to know what to remove and how much to give. Here’s a simple guide, whether you offer fresh or dried apple.

Can dogs eat apples?

Yes, in moderation. Tufts University’s veterinary nutrition service lists apples among the fruits that can be used as treats, along with bananas and blueberries. According to the American Kennel Club, apples provide vitamins C and A, potassium and fibre, mostly in the peel.

Like any treat, apples don’t replace a complete and balanced diet. They’re an extra, in small amounts.

What to remove: seeds, core and stem

According to the ASPCA, apple seeds, stems and leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides, substances that can release cyanide. The flesh of the fruit isn’t the concern.

• Remove the seeds and core. The tough core can also cause choking or block the intestine.
• Remove the stem.
• Wash the apple before cutting it.
• Cut it into slices or small cubes, suited to your dog’s size.

Never give your dog a whole apple to gnaw on.

How much apple for my dog?

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) recommends that all treats combined make up less than 10% of a dog’s daily calories. Tufts’ nutrition service gives a benchmark: half a cup of chopped fresh apple provides about 30 kcal.

For a healthy adult dog, the WSAVA gives this daily maximum for all treats combined:

Dog’s weight	Maximum treat calories per day (WSAVA)
4 kg	24 kcal
10 kg	47 kcal
20 kg	79 kcal
30 kg	108 kcal

Start with one or two slices and watch: a sudden change in diet can upset some dogs’ stomachs.

Fresh or dried apple?

Both are possible. The difference is mostly water.

• Fresh apple contains a lot of water. It’s refreshing, but it doesn’t keep long once cut, and it browns quickly.
• Dried apple has lost its water. It’s easy to carry, keeps longer and can be given in small pieces. Because the water is gone, a small piece holds the calories of a bigger piece of fresh apple, so you give less.

Our apple slices are made from a single ingredient: dehydrated apple, made in Canada with ingredients from Canadian suppliers. They provide about 36 kcal per 10 g. For a 10 kg dog, about 13 g of apple slices equals their daily treat maximum, if it’s the only treat they get.

Dog’s weight	Anivéra apple slices, daily maximum (if no other treats)
4 kg	about 7 g
10 kg	about 13 g
20 kg	about 22 g
30 kg	about 30 g

These are maximums for a healthy adult dog. If you also give other treats, reduce the amount. Your veterinarian can help you adjust for your dog.

A few ways to offer it

• As a reward: a small piece after good behaviour. Our tips on positive reinforcement show you how.
• In a search game: hide a few pieces in a room and let them sniff them out.
• As a hiking snack: dried apple slips easily into a pocket.

Fruits not to mix up

Apples are fine, but some other fruits are not. Grapes and raisins can damage a dog’s kidneys, according to the ASPCA. Our guide to foods toxic to dogs has the full list.

In short

• Dogs can eat apples, in moderation.
• Always remove the seeds, core and stem.
• Keep all treats under 10% of their calories.
• Dried apple is handy but more concentrated: give less.
• When in doubt, ask your veterinarian.

Frequently asked questions

My dog ate an apple core. Is it serious?

A core can cause choking or block the intestine, and the seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides. Watch your dog and call your veterinarian at the first unusual sign, such as vomiting or difficulty breathing.

Is applesauce OK?

Only if it’s unsweetened, and in small amounts. Check the label: some “sugar-free” products contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Can a puppy eat apples?

Ask your veterinarian first. A puppy has specific needs for growth, and their food should remain the basis of their diet.

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This article provides general advice. It does not replace your veterinarian’s opinion.