Homemade Applesauce for Dogs

Name: Homemade Applesauce for Dogs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Homemade Dog Food
Ingredients: 2 LBS (about 4–5 medium) apples, cored and roughly chopped (leave skin on); ⅓ to ½ Cup water

By Dog Child

(2 Reviews)

A simple, wholesome applesauce made just for dogs — no sugar, no additives, just fresh apples and water for a naturally sweet and gut-friendly treat.

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Homemade Applesauce for Dogs

Servings

2 Jars

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

This easy homemade applesauce is a naturally sweet, dog-friendly treat that’s perfect for adding to meals, lick mats, or baked recipes. Made with fresh apples and water — no added sugar or preservatives — it’s gentle on digestion, packed with antioxidants, and ideal for dogs who love a fruity snack.

Author:

Dog Child

Ingredients

2 LBS (about 4–5 medium) apples, cored and roughly chopped (leave skin on)
⅓ to ½ Cup water

Directions

Wash, core, and chop the apples into small, even pieces. There’s no need to peel them.
Add the chopped apples and water to a large pot or saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 15–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and fork-tender.
Remove from heat. For a chunky texture, mash with a fork. For a smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender to purée directly in the pot.
Let cool completely before serving.

Recipe Note

FAQs

1. Can dogs eat applesauce safely?
Yes! Homemade applesauce made without sugar or added ingredients is completely safe and healthy for dogs in moderation. Avoid store-bought versions that contain sweeteners like xylitol.

2. Should I peel the apples?
No need — keeping the skin on adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Just be sure to wash the apples thoroughly and remove all seeds and cores. For more guidance on what fruit peels and stems are safe for dogs, check out our blog What Fruit Peels & Stems Are Safe (and Not Safe) for Your Dog.

3. What kind of apples are best for dogs?
Sweet, mild varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp work best. Avoid overly tart apples like Granny Smith if your dog is sensitive to acidity.

4. How can I serve applesauce to my dog?
Add a spoonful to meals, spread on a lick mat, or mix into baked treats for natural sweetness and moisture.

5. Can I freeze applesauce?
Absolutely! Freeze in silicone molds or ice cube trays for convenient single servings that can be thawed or served as a cooling treat.

6. Looking for meal prep tips and recipes?
Check out Dog Parents: 8 Easy Homemade Recipes, our guide to simple and nutritious homemade meals that make cooking for your dog easy and fun.

7. What’s another fruit-based treat recipe for dogs?
Try our No Bake Blueberry Treat Balls, another antioxidant-rich recipe made with real fruit and oats.

8. How should I store homemade applesauce?
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to1 week, or freeze for up to2 months in portioned containers or silicone molds for easy use.

9. Can puppies have applesauce?

Yes — puppies can enjoy small amounts of homemade applesauce made without sugar or additives. It’s a great way to introduce gentle fruit fiber and natural sweetness. Always start with a small serving to ensure it agrees with their tummy. For more puppy-safe meal ideas, check out The Puppy Parents Home Cooking Guide.

10. Looking for more apple treat recipes?

Try our delicious apple-based treats likeApple Oat Doggy Donuts or our crispyTasty Dog Apple Chips — both made with simple, wholesome ingredients your dog will love.