Dogs · Food safety
Can Dogs Eat Apples? Benefits, Risks and How Much to Give
Yes, dogs can eat apples in moderation. Apple flesh is safe for dogs and gives fibre and vitamin C in a low-calorie, low-fat treat. Always remove the core, seeds and stem first: the seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide, and the tough core is a choking and blockage risk. Wash the apple, cut it into small slices or cubes and keep treats under 10% of your dog's daily calories. Ask your vet first if your dog is diabetic.
| Safe for dogs? | Yes, the flesh (skin on or peeled), without core, seeds or stem |
|---|---|
| Good for | Fibre, vitamin C; low in calories and fat |
| How much | 1–2 pieces for tiny dogs up to 5–6 for giant breeds (see table) |
| Avoid | Seeds, core and stem; apple pie; sweetened applesauce; store-bought dried apple with added sugar |
| Ask your vet first if | Your dog has diabetes, a sensitive stomach or another medical condition |
Are apples good for dogs?
Apples are a crunchy, low-calorie treat. They contain vitamin C, fibre (mostly in the peel) and natural sugars, and they're lower in fat than many processed dog treats.
An apple is still a treat. A whole apple holds about 19 grams of sugar, which is too much for a dog in one go. Your dog's complete, balanced food should provide at least 90% of their daily calories.
How much apple can a dog eat?
Keep all treats under 10% of your dog's daily calories. The amounts below are a daily maximum for a healthy adult dog, using pieces about 1 inch wide and ¼ inch thick.
If it's your dog's first taste of apple, start with one small piece and watch for stomach upset.
| Dog size | Weight | Apple pieces |
|---|---|---|
| Extra-small | 2–10 lb (1–4.5 kg) | 1–2 pieces |
| Small | 11–20 lb (5–9 kg) | 2–3 pieces |
| Medium | 21–50 lb (10–23 kg) | 3–4 pieces |
| Large | 51–90 lb (23–41 kg) | 4–5 pieces |
| Extra-large | 91 lb+ (41 kg+) | 5–6 pieces |
How to give your dog apples
- Wash the apple well to remove dirt and pesticide residue.
- Remove the core, seeds and stem. Every time.
- Peel it for sensitive stomachs. The skin is safe for most dogs but harder to digest.
- Cut it into small slices or cubes so it's easy to chew.
- Serve it fresh, frozen or as a food topper, or stuff small pieces into a KONG with plain, xylitol-free yogurt.
Apple seeds, core and other risks
- Seeds. They contain trace amounts of cyanide. A few swallowed seeds are unlikely to harm most dogs, but always remove them.
- Core and stem. Tough and a choking hazard, especially for small dogs; large pieces can cause an intestinal blockage.
- Too much apple. Can cause diarrhoea, gas or an upset stomach.
- Apple pie and desserts. Added sugar, fat and crust, and nutmeg, which can make dogs ill.
- Applesauce. Only plain, unsweetened applesauce in small amounts. Avoid added sugar, spices and xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- Dried apple. Drying concentrates the sugar; offer smaller portions and skip shop-bought chips with added sugar.
Can puppies eat apples?
Yes. Once your puppy is eating solid food, offer one small slice or cube without seeds or core, then watch for any digestive upset. Introduce one new food at a time, and stop and call your vet if you notice a problem.
Frequently asked questions
Are apple seeds poisonous to dogs?
Apple seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide. A few swallowed seeds are unlikely to harm most dogs, but you should always remove the seeds and core before sharing apple.
Can dogs eat apple skin?
Yes, apple skin is safe for most dogs and holds much of the fibre. Peel the apple if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
How many apple slices can I give my dog?
From 1–2 small pieces a day for very small dogs up to 5–6 for giant breeds, keeping all treats under 10% of daily calories.
Can dogs eat green apples?
Yes. Green apples are safe in the same way as red ones, though some dogs don't like the tart taste.
Can dogs eat applesauce?
Only plain, unsweetened applesauce in small amounts. Avoid applesauce with added sugar, spices or artificial sweeteners such as xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
What if my dog ate an apple core?
One core is often passed without trouble, but it can cause choking or a blockage, especially in small dogs. Call your vet for advice and watch for vomiting, appetite loss or straining.
Sources
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different; ask your vet before changing your dog's diet, especially if your dog has diabetes, is overweight, or has a sensitive stomach.