Can Dogs Eat Applesauce? Is Applesauce Healthy For My Dog?

Until a few days ago I actually haven’t wondered if dogs can eat applesauce. But maybe you are a big fan of applesauce so I decided to check it for you.

Already you can feel relaxed while having applesauce in your breakfast and your dog tries to have it. Of course, it won’t be good in big amounts but a bit is fine.

If you want to understand more about dogs and applesauce keep reading as I share what kind of applesauce is good for dogs and also when and how it can be included – snacks or part of the daily meal?

We have got all answers to your question “Can Dogs Eat Applesauce” in this guide.

Can Dogs Eat Applesauce?

We all know that apples are the best human food that can be added to your dog’s diet. So, the answer to your most asked question “Can Dogs Eat Applesauce” is, 

YES, your dog can have applesauce in moderation when served properly.

Applesauce can be a healthy treat option for your dog but you should take care of a few things before giving applesauce to your pup. You can add a spoonful or two of applesauce a day to your dog’s diet.

Store-bought applesauce can not be a good option which contains added sugar that is unhealthy for your dog. So, it will be better if you purchase unsweetened applesauce or make one at home.

Applesauce is also a good way to treat your dog’s upset stomach. As applesauce contains pectin which helps with diarrhea and stomach pain. It can also help to reduce nausea and constipation. While giving applesauce always monitor to ensure your pup does not have a serious reaction to it.

Applesauce Ingredients To Avoid

Some ingredients in applesauce should be avoided as they can be harmful or unsafe for your dog.

• Sugar

• Artificial preservatives

• Artificial sweeteners

• Other Fruit additives

How to Feed My Dog Applesauce?

We got to know that when applesauce is made right, it’s safe for dogs. But let’s see how we should make it the “right” way:

• Remove the apple core: Make sure to remove the apple core while making the homemade applesauce. The apple core can cause a choking hazard, so it’s better to discard it. Dogs shouldn’t eat the core as the seeds contain cyanide which is harmful to dogs.
• Use unsweetened applesauce: If you are buying applesauce from any store, make sure to buy unsweetened ones. But it will be better for your dog if you make homemade plain applesauce as store-bought applesauce contains added sugars and artificial preservatives which can be harmful to your pet. An example of a sweetener that is bad for dogs is xylitol.
• Serve the right amount: Make sure that you serve your dog with small portions of applesauce, not more than a spoonful or two a day. Applesauce can be served as an occasional treat for your dog.

Nutritional Facts of Applesauce

Some nutritional facts about applesauce:

• Applesauce is low in sodium, calories, and fats.
• It is full of antioxidants that help to protect against cancer.
• It is high in soluble fiber which helps to prevent constipation and diarrhea.
• Vitamin C present in apples can help with joint diseases.
• Vitamin A is good for healthy skin.
• Applesauce contains pectin which regulates cholesterol levels.

Health Benefits of Applesauce for Dogs

Some of the health benefits of applesauce for your dog are:

1. Low Calorie:
   • If you feed your dog unsweetened applesauce, it has low calories which is good for weight maintenance.
2. Cholesterol Regulation:
   • Apples help your dog to lower its cholesterol level as it contains a soluble fiber called pectin.
3. Constipation Relieve:
   • Apple helps to maintain regular bowel movements and relieves constipation as they are a great source of dietary fiber.
4. Improves Bone Health:
   • Apples contain phosphorous and calcium that help in promoting healthy bones, teeth, and nails.
5. Antioxidant-Rich:
   • Apples are a rich source of antioxidants that can protect your dog against cell oxidation and free radical damage.
6. Improves Immune System:
   • Applesauce contains both vitamin A and vitamin C which strengthens your dog’s immune system and also aids in bone development.

Applesauce Recipes for Dogs

Let’s have a look at homemade applesauce dog treats that are the perfect fall treats for your pup. These treats smell amazing and are also a great way to save money. These recipes have no preservatives and are made with simple ingredients as well.

1. Sugar-Free Homemade Applesauce:

This is the easiest recipe for Sugar-free applesauce.

Ingredients:

• 4 apples;
• 1 cup of water.

Instructions:

1. Peel and core the apples.
2. Then chop them into small pieces.
3. Now place the apples in the saucepan and add some water.
4. Cover the pan and then simmer it for ten minutes until soft.
5. Remove from the heat and let it cool.
6. Now pour it into the jar and store it in the fridge.

2. Peanut Butter Applesauce Recipe

Once you have made applesauce, you can now make this simple peanut butter applesauce recipe at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of creamy peanut butter;
• 1 cup of oats;
• 1 cup of homemade applesauce;
• 3 cups of whole wheat flour;
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder;

Instructions:

1. Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl.
2. You can add more applesauce if the mixture is dry.
3. Roll out the dough on the floured surface.
4. Cut the dough with a cookie cutter.
5. Place the cookies on baking sheets and bake them for 20-30 minutes.
6. Now, let the cookies cool on a wire rack.
7. You can store it in an airtight container for future use for up to one week.

Interesting Facts About Applesauce

1. Applesauce helps in your dog’s hydration as it has high water content.
2. It has high antioxidant properties that will help in maintaining your dog’s bone health.
3. Applesauce contains vitamins and minerals that help to boost the immune system and skin.
4. Applesauce helps in digestion.
5. It also lessens the risks of any kind of allergies.

Conclusion

Your dog will be happy if you make a homemade plain applesauce once or twice a month. Plain applesauce is healthy and safe for dogs but shouldn’t be given every day as every other sweet treat.

Do you have any other questions about applesauce or maybe some recommendations? Share with us in the comment section below.

FAQ’s