Last Updated on April 24, 2024 by Dr. Julie
It seems like such a simple question – can Rottweilers eat apples? However, there are things you need to know if you want to give your Rottie a little piece of apple. As a veterinarian with over 20 years of experience in a dog-predominant clinic, there are things that I always make sure I tell my client when it comes to this topic.
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Are Apples Safe For Rottweilers To Eat?
Yes, with some exceptions:
- Do NOT feed the core of the apple or a whole apple to your Rottweiler. The core will not digest and it’s possible that it could get caught in the esophague (and choke your poor Rottie) or it could get caught somewhere in the intestinal tract. This will lead to really serious vomiting and can be life-threatening.
- The apple seeds contain cyanide and this is toxic to your dog if eaten in large quantities. No one knows for sure how many seeds it takes to make a Rottweiler sick, but just don’t chance it. Don’t feed them the core and make sure there are no seeds in the pieces you do give.
- If your Rottweiler has bad teeth or really inflammed gums, apple skin will really hurt them when they chew. Moreover, apple skin can get caught in the space between their teeth and cause bleeding.
- Give small pieces of apple to Rottweiler puppies. They don’t need that much and it’s safer for them to eat it that way.
Are Crabapples Or Other Kinds Of Apples Safe For Rottweilers To Eat?
No matter what type of apple, the same rules apply. In small amounts, it’s very safe for your Rottie. If they pull apples or crabapples off of a tree, they shouldn’t be eating the core. Moreover, crabapples are small enough to tempt a Rottweiler to eat whole and that’s a recipe for visiting the ER later in the day.
Are Apples Nutritious For Rottweilers?
Apples are very nutritious. However, you’re not necessarily giving them an apple because they need more nutrients in their diet. Dog food is completely balanced with everything they need. Apples are just a way to provide a lower calorie people-food snack that they will enjoy.
That being said, apples do have a lot of Vitamins A and C in them and they also have healthy fiber that can be helpful in them moving their food through their gut and producing healthy stools. Don’t use them as a way to harden stools, however. They don’t have quite enough fiber for that unless given in larger quantities (like the equivalent of a whole apple or two) and there’s much better fiber sources (pumpkin).
Best Tips For Feeding Apples To Your Rottweiler
- If an apple has any soft or rotten spots, do not just cut off the healthy-looking parts and give them to your Rottie. The rotten spots can have nasty bacteria and mold in them that has spread to the rest of the apple. Don’t risk it with your dog.
- Wash the apple off before cutting it into pieces. An adult Rottie can eat a slice that you would normally eat. Puppies should have their pieces cut to about 1/3 of the size.
- If your dog has sensitive gums or teeth, peel the apple before slicing it.
- If you keep your apples in the fridge (one way to make them last longer), let it warm up to room temperature before giving it. Cold slices of apple can be very uncomfortable to chew. Then again, you should probably test it on your dog first. Maybe they like the feeling of cold apple slices!
- The basic rule is – if you won’t eat it, do NOT give it to your Rottie.
What Are Some Other Healthy Fruits I Can Give My Rottweiler?
- Apples (without seeds or core)
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Cantaloupe
- Cranberries
- Mango (without the pit)
- Oranges (in small amounts)
- Peaches (without the pit)
- Pears (without seeds or core)
- Pineapple
- Raspberries
- Strawberries
- Watermelon (without seeds or rind)
In Conclusion
Rottweilers don’t need to have apples in their diet. However, because they are cheap and nutritious, you can rest assured that it’s safe to give. Just follow the rules listed above and everyone (most importantly your Rottie!) will be happy!