Can French Bulldogs Eat Apples [How To Feed]
Apples are great for humans, but can French Bulldogs eat apples, let’s find out together if your lovely companion can join you in enjoying one of the best fruits in town.
This post is about whether or not French Bulldogs can eat apples. I’ve been asked this question a lot lately, and I’ve seen lots of different answers.
Can French Bulldogs Eat Apples?
Yes, French bulldogs can eat apples because apples are an excellent source of vitamins A and C which are great for repairing and developing tissues.
Apples are also low in protein and fat and are a good source of fiber which aids digestion, making them the perfect snacks and exercise treats for French bulldogs.
I’ve seen people say yes, no, and yes under specific circumstances. The answer is actually pretty simple.
French bulldogs can have apples but in moderation.
Most experts say “yes” that dogs can eat apples, and the French Bulldog is definitely one of the best dogs a human can have, with many advantages and disadvantages to owning a French Bulldog.
Nutrient Composition of Apples
Here is the break-down of the nutrient composition of apples, in 100 grams according to Healthline, which are as follows;
- Calories: 52
- Water: 86%
- Protein: 0.3 grams
- Carbs: 13.8 grams
- Sugar: 10.4 grams
- Fiber: 2.4 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
Apart from the mentioned major composition of apples here is the list of other nutrients found in an apple that is beneficial to French Bulldogs;
- Vitamins: B1, B2, B6, E
- Nicotinic acid
- Beta-carotene
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
- Iron
- Zinc
No matter what you think or know about kibble food, one thing is for sure, if you feed your Frenchie dry food only, I’m sure your French bulldog is missing out on a lot of nutrients.
Adding fruits and vegetables to your French Bulldog’s diet has many benefits for your French Bulldog, but I recommend offering fruits and vegetables in your Frenchie as a snack or appetizer, rather than replacing them with high-quality dog food.
Learn more about caring for a French Bulldog.
How To Prepare Apples For French Bulldogs
First, you need to wash and rinse the apples under running water, make sure that there is no dirt, and wash your table knife and cutting board.
Do not rush to collect the apple peel, then divide the apple into five equal parts.
Remove seeds, stems, sepals, and stamens to avoid unnecessary health problems associated with these parts.
Then reduce the apples to very small sizes, such as the size of the item or food you offer in your French bulldog.
How To Feed Apples To French Bulldogs
For your French bulldog pup, you can use a blender to make apple puree, which will make it easier for you to avoid unnecessary choking for your pup or even an adult.
Second, you can also cut apples into small pieces and use them as a gift or bonus during your Frenchie training.
Third, you can also cut apples into very small sizes and give them to your French bulldog before or after a workout to keep them hydrated.
You can also cut the apples into very small sizes to avoid suffocation and then mix them into your French bulldog diet.
Lastly, you can also mix or combine apples with other healthy fruits for a fun smoothie or fruit salad that will keep your French bulldog healthy and happy.
Parts of Apples French Bulldogs Can’t Eat
Don’t think because everyone says apples are good for dogs, which means you can give your whole apple to a French Bulldog. If you think so, you are wrong.
Because there are some parts of an apple that can cause minor health problems for your French Bulldog, and we all know that even humans wouldn’t eat a whole apple without throwing some of it away.
First, we recommend that you remove the apple peel and feed only the soft mesocarp or pulp.
This is not because it’s indigestible, but because it can hold your Frenchie up because it’s not as soft as the porridge.
Second, get rid of the endocarp or nucleus completely as they contain high molecular weight structures that can make it difficult for your Frenchie to digest.
Third, remove the stalk, calyx, and stamen, as they are unhealthy for your Frenchie, some of these parts are indigestible and can suffocate your Frenchie.
Lastly, you should remove the seeds as they contain amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside consisting of cyanide and sugar.
When this chemical is metabolized in your Frenchie digestive system, it is broken down into highly toxic hydrocyanic acid (HCN).
Read more about the French Bulldogs:
- What Fruits Can French Bulldogs Eat: Top Fruits & Benefits.
- What Foods Can French Bulldogs Not Eat: 30 Unsafe Foods.
- Can French Bulldogs Eat Bananas: How To Feed
Benefits of feeding apples to French Bulldogs
Here are some common benefits of feeding apples to French Bulldogs:
- Improved digestion: Apples are rich in fiber which helps in digestion, making it easier for your French Bulldog to digest their food and maintain a healthy digestive system.
- Boosts the immune system: Apples are a great source of vitamin C, which is known to boost the immune system and help fight off diseases.
- Helps with weight control: Apples are low in calories and high in fiber, which makes them a great snack for French Bulldogs who need to watch their weight.
- Lowers cholesterol: Apples are rich in pectin, a type of soluble fiber that can help lower cholesterol levels in the blood.
- Increases energy levels: Apples contain natural sugars, which can give your French Bulldog a quick energy boost.
- Provides hydration: Apples are a good source of water, which can help keep your French Bulldog hydrated and prevent dehydration.
- Promotes dental health: Apples contain natural enzymes that can help clean your French Bulldog’s teeth and freshen their breath.
- Rich in antioxidants: Apples are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses.
- Improves skin and coat health: Apples are a good source of vitamins A and C, which are important for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Potential disadvantages of feeding apples to French Bulldogs
Here are some potential disadvantages of feeding apples to French Bulldogs:
- Upset stomach: While apples are high in fiber, consuming too much can lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, and gas.
- Choking hazard: Apples contain small seeds that can pose a choking hazard to your French Bulldog if not removed before feeding.
- Tooth damage: While apples can help clean your French Bulldog’s teeth, they can also be hard and crunchy, which can potentially damage their teeth.
- Allergic reactions: Some French Bulldogs may be allergic to apples, leading to symptoms such as itching, hives, and swelling.
- Interference with medications: Apples contain high levels of natural sugar and acid, which can interfere with some medications that your French Bulldog may be taking.
- High sugar content: While apples contain natural sugars, feeding your French Bulldog too many can lead to weight gain and potential health problems such as diabetes.
- Risk of cyanide poisoning: Apple seeds contain a small amount of cyanide, which can be toxic to dogs if consumed in large quantities.
- Can cause a blockage: French Bulldogs that eat apples whole, including the core, stem, and seeds, can potentially cause a blockage in their digestive system.
- Nutritional imbalance: While apples can offer some nutritional benefits, feeding too many can result in an imbalance in your French Bulldog’s diet and potentially lead to malnourishment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to give French Bulldogs apples to eat?
Yes, it is generally safe for French Bulldogs to eat apples.
However, you should always remove the apple seeds and core as they contain small amounts of cyanide which can be harmful to dogs.
Are apples a good source of nutrition for French Bulldogs?
While apples contain some vitamins and fiber, they should not be considered a primary source of nutrition for French Bulldogs.
It is important to provide them with a balanced diet of high-quality dog food.
Can French Bulldogs eat all types of apples?
Yes, French Bulldogs can eat any type of apple, but it is recommended to choose organic apples that do not contain pesticides or other harmful chemicals.
How many apples can a French Bulldog eat in a day?
French Bulldogs should only consume apples as an occasional treat, so it is recommended to limit it to no more than 1-2 slices per day, depending on their size and weight.
Should I feed my French Bulldog sliced or whole apples?
It is best to feed your French Bulldog sliced apples as they are easier for them to chew and digest. Make sure to remove the seeds and core before feeding.
What are the benefits of feeding apples to French Bulldogs?
Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, which can help support a healthy immune system and digestive function in French Bulldogs.
However, as mentioned before, they should not be the primary source of nutrition.
How Much Apple Can Your French Bulldog Eat
Apples are a fruit, not a food, so don’t replace quality dog food with apples for any reason as I highly recommend apples adding treats, appetizers, or treats to your French Bulldog feeding routine.
However, apples should not make up more than 8% of your dog’s daily diet and I recommend serving your apple dish to your Frenchie 2-3 times a week instead of every day.
Can French Bulldogs eat apple skin?
Yes, French Bulldogs can eat apple skin, however, due to the complicated nature of apple skin, it is advised that you peel apple skin before giving the apple flesh to French Bulldogs as it is easier for French Bulldogs to digest apple flesh than apple skin or stems.
Conclusion
Although apples have many benefits, never replace apples with good quality dog food and always eat in moderation, and avoid too many apples in your puppy’s diet.
If you want to feed your Frenchie an apple, check with your vet to make sure your puppy can handle it.
Remember, apple slices are delicious and healthy treats or appetizers for your French Bulldog and can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and fresh. But you have to feed in moderation.