Pet ate something toxic? ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435
Tailwise

Fruit

Can dogs eat apples?

Yes Safe

Apple slices are a crunchy, low-fat treat with fibre and vitamin C. Remove the core and seeds first.

By Sam Okafor, CPDT-KAReviewed by Dr Elin Rosen, DVM ·
Photo: Picdrome Public Domain Pictures (CC0) via flickr

How much, how often

A few slices a day for a medium dog; keep treats under 10% of daily calories.

Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of the day’s calories. Work out your pet’s calories

Serving it safely

  • Wash and core the apple
  • Remove all seeds and the stalk
  • Cut into slices or small cubes
  • Skip apple sauce with added sugar or sweeteners

Dogs and cats, side by side

Dogs Safe

Yes. Apple slices are a crunchy, low-fat treat with fibre and vitamin C. Remove the core and seeds first.

How much: A few slices a day for a medium dog; keep treats under 10% of daily calories.

Cats In moderation

A little is fine. Cats get no real benefit from fruit, but a small piece of peeled apple without seeds will not harm them.

How much: A small cube or two.

Can cats eat apples?

The details

Apple seeds contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when chewed. A few swallowed seeds are not a concern, but it is sensible to remove the core. Frozen apple slices make a good cooling summer treat for dogs.

Questions owners ask

Can dogs eat apples?

Yes. Apple slices are a crunchy, low-fat treat with fibre and vitamin C. Remove the core and seeds first.

How much apples can a dog have?

A few slices a day for a medium dog; keep treats under 10% of daily calories.

What should I do if my dog ate apples?

A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.

Is apples safe for cats too?

A little is fine. Cats get no real benefit from fruit, but a small piece of peeled apple without seeds will not harm them.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: people foods to avoid
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual: food hazards
  3. WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines

Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts

More foods for dogs

One useful email a week

Seasonal safety alerts, one new guide and one quick answer. No spam, unsubscribe in a click.