Can Dogs Drink Apple Juice? 3 Risks of Apple Juice for Dogs
Written by MasterClass
Last updated: May 13, 2022 • 2 min read
Dogs cannot drink apple juice as it contains large amounts of added sugar and acid that can lead to stomach upset, weight gain, and other health issues, even in small doses. Discover the health risks of apple juice and why apple slices are a safer choice for your pooch.
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Can Dogs Drink Apple Juice?
Dogs cannot drink apple juice as it can lead to an upset stomach and other health issues. While fresh apples offer health benefits, like providing antioxidants and dietary fiber that can prevent constipation and promote healthy bowel movements, adding apple juice to your dog’s water bowl is unsafe. Apple juice and apple cider contain sugar, acid, and other added ingredients harmful to your dog’s health. While apple juice is not toxic in small doses, consuming large quantities of apple juice can lead to serious health problems for all dog breeds.
Is Apple Juice Bad for Dogs? 3 Health Risks of Apple Juice for Dogs
The downsides of apple juice for dogs outweigh any potential benefits. Apple juice is hazardous for your pet because it contains:
- 1. Added ingredients: Apple juice and other fruit juices contain artificial flavoring, additives, and preservatives that are bad for your dog’s health.
- 2. Dangerous acids: The concentration of acid in apple juice makes the juice taste sour and can cause gastrointestinal distress when dogs drink it in large amounts.
- 3. Lots of sugar: Most commercial apple juices have a high sugar content. Too much sugar in your dog’s diet can lead to weight gain, obesity, or diabetes. Sugar-free apple juice is also hazardous because it may contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Apples?
You can feed your dog apples. The fresh fruit is safe for dogs in moderation; apples contain vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, carbohydrates, and phosphorus and are a good source of fiber. Plus, they're low in protein and fat, which means they'll be relatively safe for your dog's digestive system.
Avoid giving your dog a whole apple; for safety reasons, it's important to remove the core and seeds. Eating apples can also help clean your dog's teeth. When properly prepared, apples can be a healthy snack that’s safe for dogs of all ages.
Before Sharing With Your Pooch
Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.
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