Can dogs eat apples?
The full picture
Apples are a fantastic low-calorie, crunchy treat for dogs, and the act of chewing them can help clean teeth. They're high in fibre, vitamin A, and vitamin C. The important rule is preparation: the seeds contain amygdalin, which releases small amounts of cyanide when crushed. A couple of accidentally-eaten seeds won't hurt a dog, but regular seed consumption over time can build up. The core is also a choking hazard. Slice apples and remove seeds before offering. Any variety is fine — Gala, Braeburn, Pink Lady, Bramley (cooked is better for tart varieties).
Risks to watch for
- Cyanide from seeds in large amounts
- Choking on core
- Sugar content
Potential benefits
- High in fibre
- Vitamin A and C
- Helps clean teeth when chewed
- Low in calories
Safe portion size
A few slices for a small dog, up to half an apple for a large dog, as a treat.
How we keep this site free. Some links on this page take you to Amazon. We earn a small commission if you buy something — at no extra cost to you. We only recommend categories we'd genuinely use ourselves, and the editorial above is written first, products picked second. Full disclosure.