Potatoes might be a staple in your kitchen, but are they safe for your dog? The short answer is yes… but with a lot of conditions. Some potatoes are fine, but others can be harmful. Let’s dive into what you need to know before sharing potatoes with your pup.
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Content:
- Can Dogs Eat Cooked Potatoes
- Can Dogs Eat French Fries and Potato Chips
- Can Dogs Eat Raw Potatoes
- Can Dogs Eat Potato Skins
- What About Potatoes in Dog Food
- Conclusion
Can Dogs Eat Cooked Potatoes
Yes, plain, cooked potatoes are safe for dogs. Cooking reduces solanine, a compound in raw potatoes that’s toxic to dogs (this is because potatoes come from the nightshade family). When they are raw, they also have harmful proteins called lectins and oxalic acid, which is bad for a dog’s kidneys. So, boiled or baked potatoes with no added salt, butter, or seasonings can be an occasional treat.
Remember, while cooked potatoes have small amounts of vitamin C, B6, and potassium, they’re mostly just starch. They don’t offer much nutritional value for dogs, so it’s best to keep them as an occasional snack rather than a regular part of your dog’s diet. Unless they’re part of a special veterinary diet for a dog with special dietary needs.
Can Dogs Eat French Fries and Potato Chips
No, dogs shouldn’t eat fries or chips. They’re high in fat, salt, and unhealthy oils, which can upset your dog’s stomach and, in large amounts, lead to more serious issues like sodium poisoning.
One Reddit user shared: “Plain is okay. Salted is not that great, but a bit won’t do any harm. Some other popular potato seasonings can be bad though, namely onion and garlic.”
If your dog eats fries or chips and shows signs of distress, you might need vet care. Consider Petcube’s Emergency Fund for up to $3,000 in vet bills and unlimited telehealth support for situations like this.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Potatoes
No, raw potatoes are a big no-go for dogs. Potatoes are part of the nightshade family, which means they contain toxic solanine and other compounds that are not safe for dogs. Eating raw potatoes can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Cooking breaks down the solanine, so always make sure potatoes are cooked if you’re giving them to your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Potato Skins
Potato skins aren’t safe for dogs either, especially in large amounts. They’re high in oxalic acid, which can bind to minerals like calcium and cause deficiencies or even kidney stones over time.
If you’re preparing potatoes for your dog, it’s best to peel them first. Keep an eye on your dog with the Petcube Cam to make sure they’re not sneaking scraps when you’re not looking.
What About Potatoes in Dog Food
Potatoes are surprisingly common in commercial dog foods, especially grain-free options.
According to Dr. Linda Case, a veterinary nutritionist, in her book on Canine and Feline Nutrition, “Various forms of potatoes have been included in canned and dry pet foods in recent years. Canned stews may contain potato cubes or pieces, which are visually appealing to pet owners and provide an excellent source of digestible starch. Potato protein may also have use in elimination or alternative diets for pets with dietary hypersensitivity.”
However, there’s some research into a possible link between grain-free diets that use potatoes and heart issues like dilated canine myopathy (DCM). While nothing is confirmed yet, it’s something to keep in mind and discuss with your vet.
Conclusion
Potatoes can be safe for dogs, but only when prepared properly. Stick to plain, cooked potatoes without skins, spices, or seasonings. Avoid fries, chips, and raw potatoes altogether.
If you’re not sure about giving your dog potatoes or if they show unusual symptoms after eating them, reach out to your vet. Remember: a little preparation goes a long way when it comes to keeping your pup safe!