Fall Frenzy: Apples, Pups, and a Dash of Mischief

9/4/2025

Fall Frenzy: Apples, Pups, and a Dash of Mischief

Ah, autumn — the season of crunchy leaves, cozy sweaters, and the irresistible allure of apples. But before you bite into that juicy Gala, consider this: your dog might just be eyeing that apple with the same enthusiasm. And why not? Apples are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients that can make your pup's tail wag in delight. Plus, they’re a budget-friendly alternative to pricey store-bought treats, perfect for cost-conscious pet owners.

🐾 Why Apples Are the Unsung Heroes of Dog Treats

Forget those store-bought chemical bombs — and even well-meaning single-ingredient treats like beef liver, which are rich and can be overwhelming in large quantities. Apples let you dish out rewards freely. Dice them small, and you can treat your pup as often as you want without tipping the calorie scales. Bonus: the crunchy texture doubles as a little dental hygiene hack while you’re at it.

🌟 Health Benefits of Apples for Dogs

Apples are more than just a tasty snack — they’re nutritional powerhouses:

Antioxidants & Plant Compounds
Packed with vitamin C and plant compounds like quercetin (a natural substance that reduces inflammation), apples protect cells and support overall health.

Carotenoids & Vitamin A
Helps maintain vision and immune function.

B-Vitamins & Folic Acid
Contains niacin (B3), B6, thiamine (B1), pantothenic acid (B5), and folate to support energy metabolism and general well-being.

Calcium & Phosphorus
Contribute to strong bones and teeth (though not a substitute for a balanced diet).

Dental Support
The crunchy flesh can help remove plaque while giving your dog something fun to chew.

Digestive Aid & Hydration
Fibre, including pectin (a type that supports gut health), promotes regular digestion, while the high water content (about 86%) provides extra hydration.

Anti-Inflammatory & Allergy Support
Quercetin acts as a natural antihistamine, which may help with mild inflammation or itching.

Apples are nature’s gift of a safe, tasty, and healthy snack that’s easy on the wallet compared to commercial treats.

Note: Always check with your vet before offering apples to dogs with conditions like diabetes, as the natural sugars could affect blood sugar levels, or kidney issues, where excess fibre might be a concern.

⚠️ Safety First: The Apple Core Conundrum

While apples are generally safe for dogs, there’s a catch. The seeds contain amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide when metabolized. A medium-sized dog would need to consume a very large number of seeds — roughly 1,000 — to be at real risk. To keep your dog safe:

Remove the seeds and core.

Slice the apple into manageable pieces.

Serve in moderation, especially if your dog has dietary restrictions.

🍏 Creative Ways to Serve Apples

Fresh Slices
Simple, satisfying, and quick to serve.

Tiny Diced Pieces
Perfect for low-calorie training treats you can give frequently without overdoing it.

Dehydrated Apple Chips
Slice about ⅛ inch (3 mm) thick and bake low-and-slow at around 200°F / 95°C. Thin slices take 2–3 hours, thicker slices 4–5. Crisp, long-lasting treats await!

DIY Apple Sauce
Peel, core, chop, and simmer apples in a splash of water until soft. Mash or blend until smooth. Short on time? Store-bought works too, just choose plain, unsweetened.

Frozen Apple Cubes
Chop and freeze in water or plain yogurt for a teething-friendly snack.

🐶 Final Thoughts

Apples are versatile, healthy, and fun treats for your dog. This fall, share the joy of apples with your furry friend—but always with a side of safety, a dash of mischief, and maybe a splash of bobbing water.

🍂 Your Challenge

Ready to start a new fall tradition with your pup? Try apple bobbing! Fill a wide, shallow bowl with water, toss in some apple chunks, and let your pup “bob” for them. For smaller dogs or puppies, use a low bowl to make it easier, and start with larger chunks to build confidence. This can double as a fun training game for hesitant pups. Snap pics, share, and tag us—we’d love to see your canine companions in action.
Snap a pic, share with #RadowgFallPassport and tag us @RadowgFood on fb or Insta!

Bonus points for paw-rents who bob along with their pups! 😄

Did you know? You just found one of our Radowg Fall Passport blogs.

It's part of our Fall 2025 Adventure Checklist of dog-friendly activities where you can earn discounts, prizes, and ultimate bragging rights.

No passport, no problem… okay, slight problem.

But no sweat (we'll save that for the adventures)!
Head to the Radowg Fall Passport HQ to grab your Radowg Fall Passport and get all the deets on how to play along and win prizes.

Fall Frenzy: Apples, Pups, and a Dash of Mischief