Apples are considered one of the many safe fruits for dogs to consume. They are also affordable, and low-calorie treats for dogs. Most dogs love and enjoy the taste of apples and would definitely grab some just at the sight of them. It is very common to see your canine friend begging for a piece of apple. However, what actually happens when your dog decides to grab a piece of apple core?
While apples are amazing snacks for dogs, the apple core is not pet-friendly. If your dog consumes apple cores and doesn’t seem to be in any trouble, then there is no reason to worry. After one apple, the cyanide available in apple seeds might not be a big worry. However, once the cyanide accumulates over a long exposure to apple cores, then it might poison your dog.
If your dog ate an apple core while you’re not looking, we recommend visiting a vet. However, we don’t recommend feeding your dog the core of an apple as it could have some potential risks. This article will help you understand if your dog can consume apple cores, what to expect, and when you should be worried. So, let’s jump in!
Can Dogs Eat Apple Cores?
The simple answer is no. Apple fruit is generally safe for dogs to consume, but when it comes to the cores, they are not safe because of their risks.
The most significant risk associated with consuming apple cores is that it can be a huge choking hazard for dogs, and also, the seeds can be pretty dangerous.
However, feeding small amounts of apple cores is harmless because the cyanide levels are quickly metabolized. Although the apple cores and seeds are a safe and healthy treat when served in moderation, it is always a good idea to be safe than sorry. There are better dog meals and treats out there!
What Is An Apple Core?
An apple core is the central part of an apple fruit that contains seeds and a stalk in one end. This part is usually harder than the other parts of the fruit, so it is normally left uneaten and sometimes even discarded.
However, some people find throwing away the apple core as a waste of resources because it doesn’t taste any different. Generally, the core is not an issue with most dogs, but like other fruits like pears, the issue lies in the seeds.
Should I Feed My Dog Apple Cores?
No. While an apple core from one apple might not do any harm to dogs, most dogs are quite unlikely to chew the seeds well enough to release the toxins. Furthermore, if your dog has liver disease, the seeds in the apple cores may cause a life-threatening emergency.
Are Apple Cores Bad For Dogs?
Although an apple core itself is not harmful to dogs, it could present a choking hazard for dogs when consumed as a whole. In addition, if not chewed properly, the cores could also cause a bowel obstruction, just like any other food.
However, the seeds are the biggest concern when it comes to apple cores. Apple seeds have a compound called amygdalin which will be broken down to form hydrogen cyanide. This chemical conversion will only happen when the seed shell breaks and the digestive compounds come into contact with the compound.
Cyanide is quite toxic to most mammals, including dogs, and it can be fatal when taken in high amounts. This is because it blocks oxygen from getting to the body organs and tissues. The signs and symptoms of cyanide poisoning are instant and appear within minutes.
Signs And Symptoms Of Cyanide Toxicity
Most plant foods will contain toxins to a certain level, and apple cores are not different. Although, like most toxins, if the initial dose of cyanide doesn’t get to the toxicity threshold, your liver might be able to sort it out.
However, if the level of cyanide toxicity is reached, the liver will be overwhelmed, and the dog might have some serious side effects. Here are several signs and symptoms that your dog is likely to experience;
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Pacing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Excessive salivation
- Unconsciousness
- Death
Are There Dogs More Susceptible to Cyanide Toxicity?
Yes. For a healthy dog, cyanide is metabolized faster (under 30 minutes), which means it won’t accumulate to dangerous levels that might cause some ill effects. However, if your dog has liver disease or poor liver function, they are more susceptible to cyanide as well as other poisonous effects as a result of any toxins.
Any liver disease would mean that it may not metabolize the cyanide. This means that cyanide will accumulate in the body, and it is most likely to get to the toxicity level. Although dogs with liver disease can still eat apple cores, be sure to remove all the seeds.
What Risks Are Associated With Consuming Apple Core?
Apart from cyanide toxicity, there are so many other risks associated with consuming apple core, including;
- A choking hazard when the dog swallows the apple cores as a whole or doesn’t chew properly.
- Digestive upset, especially if the dog has a sensitive stomach.
- Allergic reaction, although it is extremely rare. Signs of an allergic reaction would be swelling, breathing difficulties, or hives.
- The introduction of the new food or snack might cause bowel obstruction.
What Should I Do When A Dog Consumes Apple Core?
If your dog has eaten some apple core with the seeds, then you shouldn’t worry too much. Fortunately, there isn’t anywhere near cyanide toxicity in the seeds of one apple. Therefore, the dog will most likely not suffer from ill effects after consuming one apple core.
However, you always want to stay safe, especially if the dog has other conditions like liver disease. Here are a few crucial steps you should take to ensure your dog stays safe even after consuming an apple core with seeds.
- Evaluate the dog for any signs of distress and ensure there are no signs of distress or bowel obstruction. Watch out for vomiting or difficulty in breathing.
- Remove any remaining parts of the apple core from the dog’s site to ensure they don’t have access to more. You can also decide to put your dog in a separate area.
- Find out how many of the apple cores the dog has eaten because if it’s only one, then most likely, the dog will be just fine.
- Visit or call your vet with the information you just collected about the symptoms and the amount of apple core the dog consumed. Your veterinarian will advise you on the way forward.
- Most often than not, your vet will ask you to monitor your dog’s signs which may include checking the dog’s stool. If there are no severe effects after 72 months, then the vet will most likely clear your dog.
