We love our furry babies and one thing common among all dog parents is ensuring they eat healthy and nutritious meals. With a lot of information and advice available, there is often confusion about what to give and what not to give to our dogs.
Apple, for instance, is one of the best superfoods for humans, but is it safe for dogs too? Read on to find out!
Can dogs eat apples?
The answer is - why not? Veterinarians agree that apples are good for dogs. The crunchy sweet fruit is an ideal and tasty snack for dogs and contains beneficial nutrients to help them grow.
Benefits of apples for dogs
1. It is a nutrient-rich food
Apples are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals which are ideal for maintaining good health. They are a powerhouse of:
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Vitamin A - required for good vision and immunity
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Vitamin C - To boost the immune system and give a healthy skin
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Fibers - Required for good gut balance and maintaining a healthy weight
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Antioxidants - To reduce inflammation
2. It is a low-calorie snack
Apple is good for dogs and makes for a healthy low-calorie treat. It is ideal for all breeds of dogs, especially if you need to watch their calorie intake.
3. Maintains dental health
Chewing apple slices is not just a tasty treat but also helps in cleaning the dog’s teeth. The crunch in apples works as a mild and natural abrasive which helps remove tartar and plaque built up.
4. Boosts hydration
Apples are particularly great for dogs during hot weather or after a good run as they contain high water content, keeping their furry bodies hydrated.
How many apples should dogs eat?
While apples are good for dogs, it is important to note that you can't let the dog eat too many of them. When maintaining a healthy diet, moderation is the key. Tasty treats like apples should not exceed more than 10% of the daily calorie intake. Additionally, apples are high in sugar, so more than a few small pieces a day can do more harm than good.
If you are unsure of the calorie requirements of your little one, a diet calculator can come in handy. Knowing their ideal calorie requirements can help you determine their unique caloric needs and ensure they get the right balance of nutrients. It is also a great way to maintain a healthy dog weight and add years to their life.
Are apple seeds poisonous to dogs?
Apple seeds and cores should not be fed to dogs. The seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides which release a toxic substance, Cyanide, when chewed. Additionally, the hard core of apples poses a risk of choking and blockages. Make sure when feeding apples, you serve cut slices and remove seeds and core first.
Can dogs eat apple sauce?
Of course, dogs can eat applesauce. However, most applesauce contains added sugars which make them harmful for dogs. But a warm, homemade and unsweetened applesauce on a cold winter evening can be a good treat.
Do’s and don’ts of feeding apples to dogs
Even though apples are good for dogs, they should be served in moderation due to their high sugar content. Giving too many apples can cause diarrhoea or upset stomach. A small dog can have a few small slices as an occasional treat, for instance.
1. Introduce apples gradually
If your dog has never eaten apples before, make sure you gradually introduce apples to their diet to avoid adverse reactions or health issues. It is best to begin with a small piece and watch out for signs of digestive issues before increasing the quantity.
2. Refrain from processed apples
Processed apples and apple products contain added preservatives and sugars, which are clearly unhealthy for dogs. When feeding apples, always opt for fresh ripe ones. Not just apples, but a diet rich in real ingredients like carrots, peas, lamb, paneer, beans, and chicken can boost good heart health, make coats shine, build immunity, and enhance the dog’s eyesight.
3. Remove core and seeds completely
Since the core and seeds can pose health and choking risks for dogs, make sure these are removed and apples are cut into small slices before serving.
4. Do not feed the whole apple at once
An average apple contains 19g of sugar which is too much for a dog. Make sure you serve only a few pieces to satisfy their sweet cravings in a healthy way.
5. Wash the apples thoroughly
Before serving, make sure you wash and scrub the apples to remove any germs, bacteria or pesticides on the skin. You can also peel the skin before serving.
Conclusion
Introducing apples into a dog’s diet can be healthy and beneficial when done in moderation. Loaded with fibre and vitamins, apples are a powerhouse of good health and support immune health and digestion.
However, it is important to keep it as an occasional treat and portion control is practised. Knowing how to safely feed apples can ensure our furry babies enjoy all benefits without any risks or hazards.
Sources:
https://noblevetclinic.com/blog/can-dogs-eat-apples-benefits-and-hazards
https://colaskitchen.com/blog-posts/can-dogs-safely-eat-apples-benefits-and-precautions-to-consider
https://thepack.in/articles/can-dogs-eat-apples-risks-benefits-how-to-feed
