Remember that an apple a day will help keep the vet away! This also applies to our dogs when it comes to healthy snacks. Apples are a great source of vitamins A and C and fiber. The dietary fiber will help keep them regular and vitamin C will continue to boost your dog's immune system.
Keep the slices small and of course, feed this in moderation when you're training or simply want to supplement their daily meals. These can also be a choking hazard if you don't discard the core.
Is it safe for dogs to eat apples?
Some dogs will turn their nose up at all safe human snacks, but if you cut up a honey crisp apple many dogs will immediately do tricks for a slice! You can always add apples to recipes for your dogs -cooked, raw or even applesauce!
What about the core and the seeds?
Do not feed the seeds to your dog as they contain cyanide, a toxic substance. The core can also get lodged in your dog's throat so toss those cores and cut up some slices!
Modern Dog Magazine tells us,
"Though the effects of a few apple seeds will likely not harm your dog, the deleterious effects can accumulate over time if allowed to eat apple seeds regularly. To safely feed your dog apples, slice the apples into smaller pieces and make sure no seeds are present in the pieces you're giving your dog."
What other fruit & veggies can my dogs eat?
Dog owners should consider most fruit as healthy snacks. This snack should always supplement their dog's diet and perhaps be added as a topper to dog food. Feed this in moderation of course, as fruit can cause some gastrointestinal upset. Here's a list:
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Cantaloupe
- Carrots
- Pumpkin
- Cucumbers
- Green Beans
- Sweet potatoes
Check out our wonderful pumpkin recipes!
Don't forget about your older dogs as apples are also a good source of omega-3 and a good source of vitamins. Consider adding more natural foods to their diet. And you can always add a little peanut butter (make sure there isn't any Xylitol) to those apple slices. However, don't forget that these healthy treats, if given in excess, could cause some digestive upset. Senior dogs deserve whatever dog treat they want! Try making your fave apple recipe treats!
Which fruit or veggie is your dog's fave snack? Let us know in the comments below!
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