Apples are eaten in a lot more ways than just the raw form. They are baked, cooked, made into apple sauces and apple juice is well liked by children! People have a habit of sharing whatever they eat with their pets hence, dogs are given apples too. But we also know that all those foods which are good for us humans need not be as equally good for animals. When it comes to fruits, most of them are good for dogs just as they are good for human beings. Humans and dogs are 95% similar in genes but dogs have a different metabolic system. The digestive system of our canine friends have different capabilities, hence, some foods which we eat in our day to day lives may have an adverse effect on dogs. So, is it okay to feed apples to dogs? Dogs would get the same nutrition from apples that we humans get but are they capable of digesting an apple? Can dogs eat apples?
When it comes to the preference of dogs, well, they love eating apples and with gusto! Apples are high in nutrition and fiber. Being a good source of vitamin C, it helps dogs who suffer from hip dysplasia. Many human foods have high saturated fat content in them. Saturated fat causes the development of heart problems in canines. Apples come as a handy snack for dogs as they are low in sodium and saturated fat, hence, can be given to your pet daily. This fruit is known to control and cure skin allergies too. Regular consumption of apples, give a flawless skin. As the fruit has a high omega 3 content and omega 6 fatty acids content, it gives them a healthy and shiny coat.
In spite of the fact that apples are beneficial for dogs, an owner should be alert while feeding their dogs with apples as there are parts of an apple that dogs should not eat. The stem, the leaves and the seeds are toxic to their system. The substance called ‘cyanogenic glycosides’ in apples can lead to cyanide poisoning if consumed. The most hazardous substance is in the seeds hence, one should prevent their pet from eating or chewing seeds of an apple. Consumption of too much apple can also be a reason for digestive problems in your dog. And no owner would like to deal with dog diarrhea! Dogs are good eaters, therefore, precaution must be taken and they must be given apples in moderation.
Dogs give a pleading look when they see their owner munching food and saying no to them is not what we like doing but don’t worry! Share your apple with your canine friend but take care that you don’t feed them seeds along with the fruit and make sure that the apple is well chopped.
Other ‘human foods’ that dogs can eat are:
Melons, Baby Carrots, Tomatoes, Oat bran, Broccoli, Wheat, Onions, Beet Pulp, Sunflower Seeds (shelled), Soybean Hulls, Rice Bran, Citrus Pulp, Peanut Butter, Berries (fresh and frozen), Cooked Chicken, Cheese, Bananas, Bread, Potatoes, Spinach etc.
