Short answer: yes, dogs can safely eat apples as long as you take out the core and seeds first. Apples are low in fat, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins A and C, which makes them a great base for a homemade treat. Below is the exact apple dog treat recipe we make at home — four ingredients, one bowl, and under 30 minutes in the oven.
Are apples safe for dogs?
Apple flesh and skin are safe and healthy for most dogs in moderation. The two things to avoid are the core and the seeds. Apple seeds contain a small amount of amygdalin, which releases cyanide when chewed, and the core is a choking hazard. According to the American Kennel Club, apples are a good source of vitamins A and C and fiber, but should always be served without the core and seeds. If your dog has diabetes or is sensitive to sugar, check with your vet first, since apples are naturally sweet.
How to prep apples the safe way
- Always remove the core and every seed.
- Wash the skin well, or choose organic apples to limit pesticide residue.
- Introduce apples gradually so your dog's stomach adjusts to the added fiber.
- Keep treats to roughly 10% of your dog's daily calories.
Homemade apple dog treat recipe
This one is simple enough that anyone can make it, and it uses real, recognizable ingredients — no fillers, no preservatives. If your dog is a peanut butter fan, you'll also like our peanut butter dog treat guide.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped and peeled apples (core and seeds removed)
- 1 cup oat flour
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free and unsweetened — xylitol is toxic to dogs)
- 2 eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Puree the apples in a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Mix the apple puree with the oat flour, peanut butter, and eggs in a large bowl until well combined.
- Form the dough into small balls, or roll it out and use a cookie cutter for fun shapes.
- Place the treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten each one slightly.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the treats feel firm.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Store the finished treats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for a couple of months.
Baked treats vs. natural chews
Homemade apple treats are a great everyday reward, but they're soft and gone in a bite. For the long-lasting chewing that keeps teeth clean and dogs occupied, we pair them with a natural chew. At Bully Sticks Central we make single-ingredient chews that are 100% natural, 100% real meat, fully digestible, and contain no rawhide — ethically sourced from grass-fed American and Argentinean farms. Our bully sticks are the most popular of the bunch, and they're 100% high-quality guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat apple skin?
Yes. Apple skin is safe and adds fiber and nutrients. Just wash it well first, or peel it if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Can puppies have apple treats?
In small amounts, yes, once they're eating solid food. Introduce any new treat slowly and keep portions tiny for little stomachs.
How many apple treats can my dog have?
Treats of any kind should stay under about 10% of your dog's daily calories. For most dogs that's a couple of these treats a day.
Bake a batch, remove that core and those seeds, and you've got a wholesome snack your dog will look forward to.
This post was last updated at August 6, 2026 23:08
