Are you a dog parent who is tempted to share your French fries with your dog? If so, you aren’t alone. Chances are you have contacted the veterinarian already and asked the popular question, “Can my dog eat potato?” The answer probably shocked you because it’s a yes and no response.
Potatoes contain iron, vitamin C, magnesium, vitamin B6, and other essential nutrients that dogs require in their diet. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a report that dogs that have eaten food that contained potatoes, legume seeds, lentils, and peas as the main ingredient experienced dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
DCM affects the heart muscle and leads to increased heart size and reduced heart pumping function. This disease can lead to sudden cardiac death and congestive heart failure. This disease is usually genetic but the FDA has found links to potatoes.
Can My Dog Eat Potato
Are raw potatoes safe to give to your dog?
No. Dogs should never have raw potatoes. It contains solanine which is a toxic compound to dogs. A cooked white potato reduces solanine levels and makes it safer to eat in small doses. So, if you have your heart set on giving your dog potatoes, make sure it’s boiled or baked with no added salt, butter, or spices.
It’s also important to know that potatoes need to be given to your dog in moderation because of the high carbohydrate content that can lead to health problems including obesity. Potatoes also cause spikes in blood sugar and should never be given to a dog that has diabetes.
Are sweet potatoes safe for dogs?
Can my dog eat potatoes? Well, they can certainly eat sweet potatoes! Now that you know that dogs should only eat plain white potatoes, boiled or baked in small serving sizes, it’s time to look for a healthier alternative such as the sweet potato.
Sweet potatoes are more nutritious compared to white potatoes. They contain potassium, iron, magnesium, vitamin B6, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
Sweet potato is used as a popular ingredient in natural and organic dog foods. It’s also a great ingredient to use when you cook for your dog at home. Here are fun ways you can implement sweet potatoes into your dog’s diet:
- Chop raw sweet potatoes into cubes and place them on a baking sheet. Bake them in the oven 350° for 30 minutes or until tender or soft whichever you prefer. Store them in a plastic baggy inside the refrigerator and serve them as treats.
- Bake the entire sweet potato in the oven at 350 degrees for 30 to 45 minutes. Allow the potato to cool on the countertop until it’s ready to peel. Use the baked sweet potato as an added ingredient to your dog’s daily kibble or wet food.
- Baked sweet potato can also be used as part of a mixture with a variety of ingredients including peanut butter, bacon, poultry, beef, and lamb. You can also add in any favorite ingredients your dog enjoys such as cheddar cheese and other tasty flavors.
Bottom Line
There are a variety of ways you can add sweet potatoes to your dog’s diet. As a pet parent, you can create unique customized sweet potato treats for your dog.
If your dog has underlying health issues such as obesity, diabetes, or a heart condition, you need to consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog white potatoes or sweet potatoes. If your dog suffers from weight gain and obesity, the veterinarian might recommend using sweet potato in your dog’s diet instead of white potato.
Start adding sweet potato to your dog’s diet in small servings at a gradual pace. Beware of giving too much sweet potato to your dog since it can cause diarrhea and an upset stomach. Now that you know the answer to your question, “Can my dog eat potatoes?” You can start implementing them into your dog’s diet.
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