Apples are a nutritious and delicious fruit that many dog owners like to share with their canine companions. While apples are generally safe for dogs to eat, there are some things owners should keep in mind when feeding apples to dogs. One common question is whether dogs can eat applesauce or mashed apples.
Mashed or pureed apples, also known as applesauce, can be a great way to provide dogs with the nutrients of apples in a softer, easier to digest form. However, there are some potential benefits and drawbacks of feeding dogs mashed apples that owners should consider.
Nutritional Benefits of Apples for Dogs
Apples offer several beneficial nutrients for dogs, including:
- Vitamin C – Apples contain vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps support immune function.
- Fiber – The fiber in apple flesh and skin can help regulate digestion.
- Vitamin A – Apples provide beta-carotene, which dogs’ bodies convert into vitamin A for eye and skin health.
- B Vitamins – Apples contain small amounts of B vitamins like riboflavin and thiamine to support energy metabolism.
- Phytonutrients – Compounds like quercetin and catechin act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.
Mashing or pureeing apples allows dogs to obtain all these nutrients from apples in a softer form that may be easier to chew and digest.
Potential Benefits of Mashed Apples for Dogs
Feeding mashed apples instead of whole apples to dogs has some potential benefits:
Prevents Choking
Whole apples can present a choking risk for dogs since they may bite off chunks larger than they can safely swallow. Mashing apples into a soft puree eliminates this choking hazard.
Easier to Digest
The flesh of mashed apples may be easier for some dogs to digest compared to raw crunchy whole apples. Dogs with dental issues or gastrointestinal conditions may tolerate mashed apples better.
Hides Medications
Masking medications in mashed applesauce can make it easier to give dogs their pills or supplements. The taste and aroma of apples help disguise medicines.
Enhances Palatability
Some finicky dogs seem more eager to eat mashed apples than solid apple slices or chunks. Mashing incorporates apple flavors throughout the puree, increasing palatability.
Slows Eating
Mashed apples are softer and wetter in texture than fresh apple slices. Eating mashed apples may slow down rapid eaters, which can aid digestion.
Easy to Make
Mashing apples into a puree is simple and quick for owners to do at home using basic kitchen tools like a fork, potato masher or food processor.
Potential Drawbacks of Mashed Apples for Dogs
However, there are also some potential downsides of mashed apples for dogs:
Higher in Sugar
Mashing apples may make their natural sugars more rapidly absorbable compared to whole apples. This could cause issues for diabetic dogs or dogs prone to pancreatitis.
Shorter Shelf Life
Pureed apples have a shorter shelf life than whole apples. Owners will need to refrigerate and use up homemade mashed apples within a few days.
Loss of Dental Benefits
Chewing whole apple slices helps clean dogs’ teeth. Mashed apples are soft and don’t provide this mechanical teeth cleaning effect.
May Cause Diarrhea
The high fiber and sorbitol in apples may cause loose stool or diarrhea in some dogs if fed in excess, especially when mashed.
Labor Intensive
Mashing apples takes more hands-on effort compared to simply washing and slicing whole apples to give to dogs. Preparing larger batches of applesauce can be time consuming.
Incorrect Nutrient Balance
Owners need to be careful not to feed too much mashed apple because it does not provide complete and balanced nutrition by itself.
Best Practices for Feeding Dogs Mashed Apples
If owners want to feed their dogs mashed apples, there are some best practices to follow:
Choose Ripe Apples
Very green unripe apples can cause stomach upset in dogs. Select apples that are fully ripe. Red and golden delicious apples tend to be good choices.
Peel or Skin Apples First
The skin and seeds of apples contain compounds like amygdalin that can be toxic to dogs when eaten in large amounts. Peel and core apples before mashing them.
Mash Thoroughly
Apples should be mashed into a smooth, consistent puree with no large chunks remaining. This prevents choking. Use a food processor or blender for best results.
Avoid Adding Sugars or Spices
Plain mashed apples are healthier for dogs than applesauce recipes with added sugars, oils or spices. Stick to mashing fresh apples with no other ingredients.
Store Safely
Refrigerate leftover mashed apples in a covered container for no more than a few days. Discard any applesauce that smells bad or grows mold.
Limit Portion Sizes
Large amounts of mashed apples can cause loose stool in dogs. Follow suggested serving sizes and monitor your dog’s reaction when first introducing mashed apples.
Combine with Kibble
Mix a spoonful of mashed apples into your dog’s regular kibble. The fiber in apples can help keep digestion regular with dry dog food.
How Much Mashed Apple Can I Feed My Dog?
It’s generally recommended to limit mashed apples to no more than 10% of a dog’s daily caloric intake. The following table provides some general guidelines for mashed apple portion sizes based on a dog’s size:
| Dog Size | Daily Calorie Needs | 10% Daily Calories | Mashed Apple Portion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small breed dog (5-10 lbs) | 200-400 calories/day | 20-40 calories | 1-2 tbsp |
| Medium breed dog (11-25 lbs) | 400-700 calories/day | 40-70 calories | 2-3 tbsp |
| Large breed dog (26-100 lbs) | 700-1600 calories/day | 70-160 calories | 3-8 tbsp |
These serving sizes are based on a typical calorie content of approximately 50 calories per 1/4 cup of unsweetened mashed apples. Monitor your individual dog for any digestive issues and adjust portion sizes accordingly.
Alternative Apple Recipes for Dogs
If whole apples pose a choking risk but mashed apples cause diarrhea, there are some alternative apple recipes that may work:
Applesauce
Look for unsweetened applesauce products for dogs. These purees have a smoother texture than chunky homemade mashed apples.
Apple Slices
Cut apples into thin slices and remove the peel, seeds and core before serving. Monitor your dog closely to ensure they chew thoroughly.
Baby Food Apples
Well-mashed commercial organic baby foods containing apples, without added sugar or spices, can be suitable for dogs.
Frozen Apple Treats
For a cold crunchy texture, freeze apple slices or apple juice in an ice cube tray for dogs to lick.
Dehydrated Apple Chips
Dehydrate peeled, cored apple slices to create apple chips for a shelf-stable crunchy apple treat for your dog.
Can Puppies Eat Applesauce?
Most puppies over 8 weeks old can start eating small amounts of unsweetened mashed apples as a complementary food. The apple puree provides a soft texture puppies can handle and the nutrients support their development.
However, some tips for feeding applesauce to puppies include:
- Wait until after 12 weeks old to introduce apples to reduce allergy risks
- Start with just a tsp serving size mixed into their regular puppy food
- Gradually increase portion sizes as they grow over several weeks
- Avoid applesauce with added sugar, spices or honey
- Discontinue use if any diarrhea or tummy trouble occurs
Check with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about introducing applesauce or other new treats to your puppy. Generally mashed apples are safe for puppies in small amounts, but care should be taken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about dogs and mashed apples:
Can dogs eat unsweetened applesauce?
Yes, plain unsweetened applesauce is generally safe for dogs to eat in moderate amounts. Choose varieties without added sugar, spices or other ingredients.
Is it okay to give my dog applesauce daily?
Feeding small amounts of applesauce daily is fine for most healthy dogs. But large daily portions may cause digestive upset. Limit applesauce to no more than 10% of daily calories.
Can diabetic dogs eat applesauce?
Applesauce contains natural sugar, so check with your vet first. Some diabetic dogs may be able to eat a half tbsp serving as an occasional treat if blood sugar is well controlled.
Do dogs like the taste of applesauce?
Most dogs enjoy the sweet flavor of unsweetened applesauce. It can be useful for hiding medications in picky dogs who won’t take pills straight.
Can I freeze homemade applesauce for dogs?
Yes, freezing extends the shelf life of homemade mashed apples for dogs. Thaw before serving. But avoid freezing and thawing applesauce more than 1-2 times.
Conclusion
Mashed or pureed apples can be a healthy treat option for dogs when fed in moderation. Applesauce provides key nutrients, vitamins and minerals dogs need. It also gives a soft texture that eliminates choking risks. However, too much applesauce may cause digestive upset in some dogs. When feeding dogs mashed apples, keep portion sizes small and monitor for any diarrhea or negative reactions. Always check with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about making dietary changes or introducing new foods to your dog’s meals. With proper precautions, applesauce can be a nutritious supplement to a balanced canine diet.