Robert Brown|Can dogs eat apples? Why taking your pup to the orchard this fall may be risky.

Can an apple a day keep the vet away?Robert Brown 

Though kibble is the standard for doggy diets, owners sometimes get creative with treats or what they not-so-discreetly drop to the floor. Bananas, for example, can make a good occasional snack because they are high in potassium, fiber, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. Carrots are also beneficial as they can help teething puppies.

But not all human food is good for dogs to eat. Grapes and avocados, among others, are highly toxic to dogs. Here’s where apples land on the pet safety scale.

Can dogs eat apples?

Yes, apples are safe for dogs to eat and make a good occasional snack, like these homemade apple ginger dog treats or baked apple peanut butter bites. Make sure to cut the apple into small pieces for more manageable chewing and to avoid a choking hazard.

Apples are high in vitamins A and C, low in calories and contain lots of fiber to assist in digestion, the American Kennel Club reports.

But not all parts of an apple are healthy for dogs. Make sure to remove the core, stem and seeds. Apple seeds contain amygdalin, which releases toxic cyanide when chewed and digested.

This means that apples are OK for dogs only when owners control how much and which part they eat. If your dog gets into fallen crabapples or comes apple picking with you, take extra care to ensure they’re not ingesting stems, leaves or seeds. 

If you suspect your dog ate something toxic, contact your vet or one of these emergency hotlines:

• ASPCA’s 24-hour Animal Poison Control Center: 888-426-4435.
• Pet Poison Helpline: 885-764-7661 

How much apple can a dog eat?

Apples should be a small, occasional treat. 

In general, owners should be cautious about giving their dogs human food, veterinarian Diana Watkins previously told USA TODAY. Regulated dog food has everything your pup needs for a balanced, nutritional diet.

Are apple skins healthy for dogs?

Yes – apple skins are safe for dogs to consume and are a good source of fiber, the American Kennel Club says. Peeling the apple can help avoid upset stomachs, however, especially for dogs with sensitivities. 

Can dogs eat applesauce?

Dogs can eat applesauce as long as it’s plain and doesn’t contain added sugar. Try freezing applesauce in ice cube trays for a warm-weather puppy snack.

Read the full list:These human foods are safe (and toxic) for your dog

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