Can dogs eat apples?
✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last updated: 2026-06-17
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The full picture
Apples are a fantastic low-calorie, crunchy treat for dogs, and the act of chewing them can help clean teeth. They're high in fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. The important rule is preparation: the seeds contain amygdalin, which releases small amounts of cyanide when crushed. A couple of accidentally-eaten seeds won't hurt a dog, but regular seed consumption over time can build up. The core is also a choking hazard. Slice apples and remove seeds before offering. Any variety is fine — Gala, Braeburn, Pink Lady, Bramley (cooked is better for tart varieties).
For a detailed calorie breakdown, see 247CalorieCheck.
Risks to watch for
- Cyanide from seeds in large amounts
- Choking on core
- Sugar content
Potential benefits
- High in fiber
- Vitamin A and C
- Helps clean teeth when chewed
- Low in calories
Safe portion size
A few slices for a small dog, up to half an apple for a large dog, as a treat — or treat them to gourmet dog treats from Bonne et Filou (US).
Why the seeds and core matter
Apple seeds contain a small amount of amygdalin, which releases cyanide when broken down — a genuine but low risk from a handful of accidentally swallowed seeds in normal eating, and a reason to always core and de-seed apple pieces given deliberately as a treat. The core itself is also a choking and obstruction risk, particularly in small dogs, separate from the seed question.
Does size or breed matter?
The cyanide risk from seeds scales with body weight, so it takes proportionally fewer seeds to matter for a small dog than a large one — though in practice, a few accidentally swallowed pips from a shared apple slice is very unlikely to cause harm at any size. The core's obstruction risk is a bigger practical concern for small and toy breeds than the seeds themselves.