Benefits of Dogs Eating Apples: A Healthy Treat!
Section 1: Nutritional Content of Apples
We recommend that pets consume fruits in moderation, but apples are an exception due to their nutritional benefits. Each pound of apple flesh contains approximately 150 grams of sugar, 1 gram of fat, 2 grams of protein, 1100 milligrams of potassium, 1.1 milligrams of calcium, 1 gram of roughage, 110 milligrams of phosphorus, 0.8 milligrams of betacarotene, 3 milligrams of iron, and trace amounts of vitamins B2 and B1, niacin, as well as the beneficial compounds naringenin, zinc, and vitamin C.
Section 2: The Benefits of Apples for Dogs
Apples are rich in pectin, a watersoluble dietary fiber that aids in gastrointestinal motility and digestion. This fiber can reduce harmful bacteria in the intestines, promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, and help prevent diarrhea and dysentery in pets. Moreover, the fiber provides pets with a feeling of fullness, which can decrease their frequency of eating and contribute to weight management. Apples also contain malic acid, which acts as a delightful flavor enhancer, improving pets' appetite and palatability. The flavonoids in apples can effectively reduce the incidence of cancer in pets.
Additionally, apples contain a magical compound called quercetin, which is easily soluble in water and readily absorbed by pets. Quercetin offers a multitude of benefits: first, it acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals and protecting the pet's body cells from damage; second, it eliminates odors, helping pets reduce body and oral odors; third, it maintains normal blood pressure, inhibiting hypertension; and fourth, it suppresses allergic reactions, including pet allergies, which can be particularly helpful in reducing stress responses or skin allergies.
Tip: For more information on what fruits dogs can eat, check out our article "6 Fruits That Dogs Can Safely Consume."