Can Dogs Eat Apples?

By the PawMathCalc Team · Updated October 26, 2026

Short answer: yes. Apple slices are a safe, crunchy treat for dogs. Remove the core, stem and seeds first: the seeds contain amygdalin, which releases cyanide when chewed.

Why apples can be good for dogs

About 52 kcal per 100 g; one slice (an eighth of a medium apple) is about 12 kcal.
Fiber, vitamin C and vitamin A.
The crunch can help keep dogs busy and many like the taste.

Risks of apples for dogs

Seeds and core: a few swallowed seeds rarely cause harm, but the core is a choking and blockage risk, so always remove it.
Sugar: diabetic and overweight dogs should get only a little.
Apple pie, caramel apples and sweetened applesauce add sugar, butter and spices like nutmeg, which is toxic to dogs.

How to serve it

Wash, core and slice. Peel is fine for most dogs.
Unsweetened applesauce works as a food topper in small amounts.
Frozen apple slices are a good teething treat for puppies.

How much per day by dog weight

Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of a dog's daily calories. For a spayed or neutered adult dog that budget is shown below, with how many apple slices (about 12 kcal each) fit in it if they are the only treat that day.

Dog's weight	Daily treat budget	Apple slices per day
10 lb	35 kcal	up to 2.9 slices
20 lb	59 kcal	up to 4 slices
30 lb	79 kcal	up to 6 slices
50 lb	116 kcal	up to 9 slices
70 lb	150 kcal	up to 12 slices
90 lb	181 kcal	up to 15 slices

Start with one or two pieces the first time and watch for an upset stomach. Your own dog's budget is in the dog food calculator (it shows a "treats budget" line).

Check any other food

Not sure about something else in your kitchen? The can dogs eat it checker lists 98 foods as safe, careful or toxic, with the reason for each.

If your dog ate something toxic, call your vet, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.

Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center; American Kennel Club food guides; USDA FoodData Central (calories); treat budget from the RER formula used in WSAVA feeding guidance (10% rule).

Try the can dogs eat it? food checker

Enter your own numbers below, or open the full can dogs eat it? food checker with the formula and more examples.

This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Your pet may differ: ask your vet. Terms

Frequently asked questions

Are apple seeds poisonous to dogs?

They contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when crushed. A few swallowed seeds are unlikely to hurt a dog, but remove them to be safe.

Can dogs eat apple skin?

Yes, the peel is safe for most dogs and has extra fiber.

Can dogs eat applesauce?

Plain unsweetened applesauce is fine in small amounts. Avoid sweetened or flavored versions.