Are apples good for dogs?

Apples are a safe and nutritious food for most dogs, as they are low in calories and contain relatively large amounts of vitamins and minerals dogs need. Some dogs, such as those with kidney disease or arthritis, have nutritional needs that make apples a less optimal choice.

Dogs with arthritis need to have their levels of omega-6 fatty acids monitored. Dogs with kidney disease need these same fatty acid levels monitored, as well as calcium and phosphorus levels. Since apples contain all three, they need to be fed in restricted amounts to dogs with these illnesses. For healthy dogs, the calcium, vitamin K and dietary fiber provided by apples makes them a good nutritional choice.