Can our furry friends enjoy this crunchy green fruit as an everyday snack?
You obviously don’t want to end up at a vet’s door, and we are here to set the record straight.
So, can dogs eat green apples?
Yes, green apples are a healthy, affordable, and low-calorie snack for dogs.
In moderated amounts, apples are rich in antioxidants, dietary fiber, and vitamins A and C beneficial for your pup’s healthy development.
Consult yur vet for the exact portion depending on your pup’s size, weight, and preexisting health conditions to avoid complications.
Read on to determine if feeding green apples to your dog is harmful, how often your pup should eat them, and the associated health benefits.
Are green apples good for dogs? Health benefits
Green apples have a dense nutritional profile with rich minerals and vitamins beneficial for your dog’s health.
These include:
High in vitamin C boosts your dog’s ability to fight infections like asthma and joint problems.
High-quality dietary fiber feeds your dog’s gut with the good bacteria (Prebiotic in pectin) that improves breath and metabolism and reduces constipation and diarrhea. The high insoluble fiber also boosts digestive health.
High fiber in apples reduces cholesterol levels which helps improve memory and heart function—polyphenols aid in lowering blood pressure.
The rich antioxidant in apples helps free radicals that cause inflammation in your dog’s gut. It may also reduce lung cancer by combating oxidative stress in the lungs.
Increased calcium and phosphorous levels promote strong teeth, bones, and muscles in your furry friend.
Low calorie, fat, and sodium levels help manage weight and reduce the risks of pancreatitis.
Can green apples substitute vitamin C supplements for dogs?
No.
Vitamin C supplements are prescribed for sick canines with bacterial or respiratory infections or other illnesses.
It’s an immune booster for growing puppies and older dogs experiencing health complications due to vaccinations, injuries or lactating.
Dogs with adequate vitamin C heal quickly and easily wander off minor infections.
Unfortunately, the amount of vitamin C in green apples is insufficient to supply your dog with the required intake—about 500mg a day for a 30-lb pup.
Dog-safe supplements provide this amount for your canine in a day.
Alternatively, you can consult your vet to create a balanced diet that supplements your hound’s required vitamins and minerals.
How can I feed my dog green apples?
Although green apples are an excellent occasional dog treat, here are some pointers on how to safely feed you dog:
Apple type matters: 6 oz. Green apple can contain 25g carbs, 4g fiber, and 95 calories—but it varies in different varieties.
Leave the skin on: Half of the fiber and nutrients in green apples are concentrated in the skin. Antioxidants are also denser in the skin than in the flesh. So, leave the skin on while blending or making applesauce.
Remove the seeds: Although non-toxic to healthy canines in small amounts, the seeds can be fatal for dogs with kidney disease. The apple core is also a choking hazardous discard.
Moderation is key: Although packed with nutrients beneficial for canines, too many green apples may irritate your dog’s stomach leading to gastrointestinal issues.
Are green apples good for a dogs’ breath?
Dogs don’t frequently brush as humans do; thus, foul breaths are inevitable in several instances.
Fortunately, green apples help fight against bad breath and promote healthy dental hygiene.
It contains malic acid, a natural bleaching element that whitens tooth enamel.
If adding it to your dog’s daily diet, preferably slice apples in their regular food.
Either bake the apple slices or serve raw.
Can diabetic dogs eat green applesauce?
Any type of food with high sugars is not advisable for diabetic dogs. Preferably try organic or unsweetened applesauce with no additives. However, if you decide to give your diabetic dog flavored applesauce, a small amount once a week as a treat is not harmful.
The bottom line
Dogs love sweet treats, and crunchy green apples are a good option when served occasionally.
They’re rich in minerals and antioxidants, good for your dog’s immune functioning, protection from oxidative damage, and improve digestive and oral health.
Don’t forget to remove the seeds and keep the skin; otherwise, enjoy sharing this healthy crunch with your pup.
Hi, my name is Megan Turner and I have worked in a dog’s shelter for four years now. It is truly my dream job, and I see hundreds of dogs every month being united with new owners to give them a loving forever home.
Unfortunately, handicapped dogs are much more likely to be ignored when a family is picking out their new pet. Handicapped pets need more care than non-handicapped pets, so it is understandable why they are often harder to rehome.
