Can Dogs Eat Apple Cores?

No, dogs cannot eat apple cores.

Apples are sweet-tasting fruits that dogs can eat since they contain fiber, vitamins A and C, and other nutrients that would benefit canines. However, their core should be removed for multiple reasons. First off, the apple core may be a choking hazard and can cause blockage in your dog’s gastrointestinal tract. Also, found within the core are hard, bitter seeds that contain the compound amygdalin. When chewed or digested, they transform into hydrogen cyanide. The chemical can cause hypoxia or lack of oxygen delivery to the body, but only when consumed in very large amounts.

What to do if your dog accidentally eats an apple core: Observe your dog for symptoms of choking and cyanide poisoning. 

Signs of choking include drooling excessively, showing extreme distress, pawing at the mouth, and making choking sounds. Your dog may also rub his face along the ground, gag, and retch. Call your veterinarian or visit the emergency vet clinic immediately when these symptoms manifest.

Cyanide poisoning may happen if apple seeds are consumed in large amounts, or regularly in small doses. Watch for these signs: brick-red mucous membranes, dilated pupils, difficulty in breathing, panting, and shock.

In summary: Treat your pooch to some plain apple slices, but always make sure to remove the injury-causing apple core and seeds and dispose of them properly. Speak with your vet to find out how much you can give your dog based on his age, size, weight, and physical activities. Aside from apples served without the core and seeds, find out which other fruits and vegetables you can safely feed to your dog under our “can dogs eat” category.

References:

Food dogs should not eat and some they should

Can Dogs Eat This? The Ultimate Guide To 105 Food Items

People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pet

Can Dogs Eat Apples?

My dog keeps trying to cough something up and is making choking sounds, what can I do?