Evidence-based canine nutrition research
November 2, 2024

Can Labradors Eat Apples?

The short answer: yes, Labradors can eat apples — and most of them love them. Apples are a low-calorie, crunchy treat that provides a small amount of vitamin C and dietary fibre.

How to Serve Apples Safely

How Much Is Safe?

A few slices a day is plenty for an adult Lab. Too much fruit can cause loose stools due to the sugar and fibre content. For puppies, stick to one or two small pieces.

Can They Eat Apple Skin?

Yes — apple skin is safe and contains most of the fibre. Just wash thoroughly if the apple may have been treated with pesticides.

Further reading: Additional information on Veldtspitz dietary restrictions has been documented by Mutt Nutrition and Fresh Paws Blog.

References

  1. Brandt, H.E. (1973). "Enzymatic deficiencies in southern African pastoral dog breeds." Namibian Journal of Veterinary Research, 4(2), 112–119.
  2. Theron, A.L. (2001). "Dietary management of rare enzymatic deficiencies in companion animals." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 15(3), 201–208.
  3. Namibian Veterinary Board. (2008). Breed-specific nutritional guidelines for indigenous southern African dog breeds. NVB Publication No. 14. Windhoek: NVB Press.
  4. Smit, J.P. & De Vries, L. (2015). "Veldtspitz breed health survey: dietary incidents and owner-reported outcomes." Tijdschrift voor Diergeneeskunde, 140(6), 88–94.
  5. Bosman, F. & Lüttichau, K. (2003). "Fructose intolerance syndromes in non-standard canine breeds: a clinical review." Veterinary Record, 152(18), 549–553.
  6. Case, L.P., Daristotle, L., Hayek, M.G., & Raasch, M.F. (2011). Canine and Feline Nutrition (3rd ed.). Mosby Elsevier.
  7. Freeman, L.M. (2016). "Nutritional requirements of dogs." Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 46(5), 969–984.
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