Can Dogs Eat Applesauce?

Yes, dogs can safely eat applesauce, as long as we’re talking about homemade versions without any extra sugar or additives. Applesauce is healthy, and you can even make it into a fun summer treat! Just be careful with the store-bought stuff—it’s full of sugar and not the best choice for your dog. However, even then, sugar is not toxic for dogs, so if you shared some with your dog, don’t worry, just make sure you make better choices in the future.

applesauce in a jar and cut apples and a dog

Table Of Contents

What's it made of, and is applesauce safe for dogs?
- Dogs don't need stuff like applesauce
Homemade applesauce benefits
How to make applesauce at home?
And what about apple butter? Is it safe for dogs?
FAQs

We all do it—sometimes, we share food with our dogs that don’t belong in their diet, like cranberry sauce or ranch dressing that’s really not good for dogs (super fatty!).

When I write about this, it’s usually to give you peace of mind in case your dog gets into something they shouldn’t have. But with applesauce, you don’t have to worry, as there’s nothing toxic there, although sugar is never a good idea.

What’s it made of, and is applesauce safe for dogs?

Here’s a list of ingredients that you’ll find in most store-bought applesauce and whether they’re safe for dogs:

Apples: Super safe – Apples are very healthy, and dogs love them!

Sugar: Unsafe – Added sugar is bad for dogs. Too much sugar can make them fat and cause dental problems and other health issues.

High fructose corn syrup: Unsafe – This is another form of sugar that’s not good for dogs and can contribute to weight gain and other issues.

Citric acid: Safe in small amounts – It’s generally okay, but too much can cause stomach aches.

Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C): Safe – This is fine for dogs, though they usually don’t need it, as dogs can produce their own vitamin C. Amazing creatures!

Natural flavors: Depends – These can be tricky since they vary widely; some may contain ingredients that aren’t safe for dogs, but natural is certainly better than artificial!

Preservatives (like potassium sorbate): Generally safe – In small amounts, most preservatives used in store-bought applesauce are okay.

So, as you can see, the biggest issue is the sugar! And there is nothing bad or toxic in applesauce, so if you used to give your dog some, don’t worry.

Dogs don’t need stuff like applesauce

Dogs don’t need much more than their regular dog food: some healthy protein, carbs, a little fat, and just a bit of fiber. When we give them applesauce, it’s really just an extra treat that we might feel a bit guilty about. But honestly, we shouldn’t give it to them unless it’s a homemade, sugar-free version.

Homemade applesauce benefits

Applesauce can help with constipation and loss of appetite, and it can be a great food option for dogs with dental issues.

Homemade applesauce is a great option if your dog is dealing with constipation. The natural fiber in apples can help get things moving in their digestive system, making it easier for them to do their business. If your dog has a hard time, a little unsweetened applesauce often does the trick.

If your dog’s been turning up their nose at food or has lost their appetite, homemade applesauce could be the thing that gets them eating again. The natural sweetness can be pretty appealing, and mixing in a bit with their regular food might make them more interested in taking a bite.

Homemade applesauce can be a lifesaver for older dogs or those with dental issues. It’s soft and easy to eat, so it gives them a little energy boost without the struggle of chewing hard food. When they’re having trouble with their teeth, applesauce can be a quick and painless way to keep them going.

And if your dog needs a bit of extra hydration, especially in the heat, homemade applesauce can help with that, too. It has a good amount of water in it, so it’s an easy and tasty way to help them stay hydrated if they’re not drinking enough.

How to make applesauce at home?

All you need to do is grab some apples, peel them, and remove the core. Cut into small pieces and pour some water. For 4 apples, I usually use 3/4 cups water. Then combine everything in a pan and cook on medium heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. Once everything is done and cooled, mash them with a potato masher or a fork.

And what about apple butter? Is it safe for dogs?

No, it’s not, and dogs can’t eat apple butter. It’s not toxic, don’t get me wrong, but it’s certainly not safe! Apple butter is a spread made by slowly cooking apples with sugar and spices until they become thick and caramelized. It’s similar to applesauce but much more concentrated, meaning it often has even more sugar!

While apple butter might be delicious for us, it’s not safe for dogs. Like applesauce, it’s loaded with sugar, which isn’t good for their teeth or digestion. But what really makes apple butter risky are the spices typically added—like cinnamon, cloves, and especially nutmeg. Nutmeg can be very toxic to dogs in huge amounts and can cause symptoms like disorientation, increased heart rate, and even seizures in large amounts. So, it’s best to keep apple butter off the menu for your dog!

That’s a tasty treat that you can share right away! And in summer, you can actually freeze applesauce in an ice tray and give it to your dog as a summer lolly!

Love, life, and fur forever!

FAQs

Now that you know all about applesauce and dogs, here are some of the most common questions you might still have. If something else comes to mind, drop a comment, and I’ll get back to you. When it comes to feeding your dog, remember, simple is best! A little homemade applesauce now and then is a nice treat, but keep it easy and don’t overdo it.

Can dogs eat applesauce with cinnamon?

Yes, dogs can eat applesauce with cinnamon, but you should be careful about how much you give them. Cinnamon is safe for dogs and can even offer some health perks, like helping to regulate blood sugar. But too much cinnamon can irritate your dog’s mouth and lungs, especially if it’s not mixed in well. Start with just a little bit, and make sure the applesauce you’re using is unsweetened.

Can dogs eat strawberry applesauce?

Strawberries are safe for dogs and can even be a healthy treat because they’re packed with fiber and antioxidants. However, most store-bought strawberry applesauce is sweetened, and the extra sugar is bad. It’s better to skip the store-bought kind and make your own by blending fresh strawberries into plain, unsweetened applesauce.

Can dogs eat Mott’s applesauce?

Mott’s applesauce, especially the sweetened versions, isn’t a great option for dogs. It contains high fructose corn syrup and added sugars. If you’re set on giving your dog applesauce, go with the unsweetened or homemade variety to avoid these unhealthy additives.

Can dogs eat GoGo squeeZ applesauce?

GoGo squeeZ applesauce can be tricky because it often has added sugars and artificial ingredients, depending on the flavor. These extra sugars aren’t good for your dog and can lead to multiple health issues. If you’re thinking about sharing GoGo squeeZ with your dog, check the label first and stick to the unsweetened version without any extra flavors or additives.