Can Dogs Eat Apples?
Who among us does not like the taste of apple? The tangy but sweet-tasting fruits seem to be very refreshing on multiple occasions for humans. However, the question lies in whether to give it to your canine friends or not. This article will source essential insights regarding the fruit provision to dogs belonging to various age groups.
Can I Feed My Dog Apples?
The most straightforward answer to this question is yes; dogs are also allowed to eat apples just like humans. It acts as a low-calorie sweet treat that contains a high amount of Vitamin C, K, and A. In addition, its high fiber content keeps the gut of dogs healthy and functioning.
On the other hand, as canines require a high amount of protein in their diet, it is not advised to offer apples in abundance. Provision of it can lead to devastating health consequences in the canines. Upon overconsumption, the dogs tend to develop an upset stomach and may end up throwing up everywhere along with pooping.
Are Apples Good for Dogs?
Yes, apples are good for dogs in a lot of ways. For instance, it is the best treatment for dogs belonging to every age group. Here are the nutrients that apples offer to the canines:
Vitamin K:
It is a kind of vitamin that is not mainstreamed, and people tend to talk less about it. The function of vitamin K is to enhance blood's ability to clot so that a dog's body should be able to overcome the blood loss upon injury upon injury.
Vitamin C:
This vitamin is known for its antioxidant abilities. When it comes to dogs, the vitamin helps to enhance their immune system and makes their coat shinier. So, if your dog sheds a lot of hair, then vitamin C can prevent it big time.
Vitamin A:
Like Vitamin C, Vitamin A also plays a significant role in enhancing the immune system of the canines. In addition, it also supports healthy growth and cell rejuvenation in the body. Besides that, vitamin A also promotes healthy eyesight in dogs and human beings.
Manganese:
It is a mineral that helps humans and dogs build strong bones, cartilage, and minerals. Manganese also lets the energy be well-consumed on a cellular level.
Phosphorous:
It acts as a structural component of DNA in both humans and dogs. When combines with calcium, the mineral helps in strengthening and shaping the bones of the consumer.
Calcium:
Calcium helps in building strong bones and teeth. Besides that, the powerhouse mineral also helps in proper muscle contraction. Calcium enhances the heart's ability to pump blood in the body and supports the canine's muscle function enabling them to play and run with the best of their ability. Another role of calcium is to maintain healthy nerve function in the puppies, along with better blood clotting.
Fiber:
Apples possess a form of soluble fiber known as Pectin that enhances the work of the digestive system. For example, the fiber regulates bowel movement even in highly constipated dogs. So even if your dog has diarrhea, apples tend to prevent its occurrence in the canines. Besides that, the kind of fiber mentioned above also regulated sugar levels in the blood of dogs so that their energy would not go down after consumption of the apples.
Carbohydrate:
Carbohydrate is a substantial source of energy. However, carbs tend to turn into sugar in dogs, meaning that if your dog is diabetic, obese, or overweight, avoid giving them too much starchy food.
Fats and Proteins:
Apples are not big on fats or proteins. However, a carnivore like dogs requires a lot of protein in their diet to meet their daily dietary requirements. Therefore, apples should only be given in treats and not full-course meals. They can turn the dog into malnutrition upon consumption.
Antioxidant:
Antioxidant agents fight against the free radicals or toxins that roam around in the blood of dogs. However, suppose these toxins are not removed from the system. In that case, they can lead to a lot of damage on the body's molecular level, resulting in horrific ailments like cancer.
Are There Any Varieties of Apples Bad for Dogs?
No, all varieties of apples act as an excellent snack option for dogs. From tart to sweet-tasting apples, each one works fine for the dogs and does not act poisonous.
How Should You Feed Apples?
Apples make an excellent snack for the dogs as it contains a large amount of water. First, wash the apples thoroughly to get rid of pesticides, herbicides, and wax coating. Then, cut the apple into small chewable chunks and offer the canines a snack. Make sure not to feed them the pit of the apple as it is poisonous for the dogs.
How Many Apples Can a Dog Eat?
The ideal apple serving for dogs is not more than one or two thick slices. In terms of calories, the apple should make only ten percent of the dog's daily caloric needs.
Can Dogs Eat Applesauce?
If the applesauce is homemade, it is generally safe for the dogs to consume it. However, suppose you intend to buy it from a store. In that case, I recommend not providing it to your canine as it contains a high ration of added sugar and other additives that can leave devastating consequences on the canine's overall health.
Can Puppies Eat Apples?
As puppies have a small oral structure, they need owners' supervision while being given apple slices. In addition, more significant apple chunks can cause choking in them. Therefore, offer small pieces to them one by one to not trap their nasal passage. According to vets, apple slices in moderation can act as a good treat for the puppies, too, due to their sweet and tangy taste.
When Are Apples Bad for Dogs?
Apples can become a nightmare for the dog if any part of the core is provided to them. Ensure that the apple slices you are about to give to your dogs should not contain any trace of a pit, as it can kill your dog due to its high poison level. Apple seeds contain some amount of cyanide which is released when they are broken or chewed. On the other hand, accidental ingestion of a few grains cannot cause a noticeable reaction. However, the seeds should not be consumed on a day-to-day basis.
Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in dogs:
- The pupils will get very dilated.
- The dog will find it hard to breathe normally.
- The mucus membrane gets intensely red,
- The canine pants excessively
- The dog can go into a state of paralysis or convulsion.
- The canine shows a state of shock.
Final Thoughts
The sweet but tangy taste of apple makes it a very admirable fruit among human beings. However, the question lies can dogs eat apples? The short answer to this question is yes, dogs can eat an apple but only in moderation. Here, we have discussed some commonly asked questions regarding the provision of apples to the dogs and signs to look for in case of pet poisoning. Apples are rich in nutrients that are essential for a dog's health.
Don’t forget to leave your questions below the comments at the end of the article. If you found this article useful and interesting, please don’t forget to share it with your friends and family.
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