Potatoes show up at the dinner table in many forms, and it’s normal for pet parents to wonder if they’re OK for dogs to eat — especially as some dogs will eat any food that falls on the floor! While it’s often assumed that dogs can eat anything, there are important things to know about potatoes and how they can affect a dog’s stomach.
Can dogs eat potatoes? Yes. Dogs can safely eat plain, cooked potatoes in moderation, but not all potato foods are safe or healthy. Keep reading to find out why.
Are Potatoes Good for Dogs?
Yes, plain potatoes, that are prepared correctly, are good for dogs. In fact, like sweet potatoes, you can find potatoes in some commercial dog foods. For example, we use potatoes and potato protein in some of our Diamond dog food formulas. Potatoes provide a number of nutritional benefits, including that they are a rich source of vitamin C and are a beneficial carbohydrate source that helps provide energy for everyday activity.
Potatoes can be part of a dog’s diet as a treat, as long as they are served plain and cooked. Some dogs digest potatoes easily while others may have digestive system issues. If you are feeding potatoes to your dog, always offer small amounts and monitor how your pup responds.
Can Dogs Eat Mashed Potatoes?
Dogs can eat plain mashed potatoes in small amounts. The safest preparation option is boiled potatoes that are mashed without butter, salt, garlic, onion powder or other seasonings, as some of these ingredients are toxic to dogs. Instant mashed potatoes are not a good choice because they often contain extra ingredients that are not healthy or safe for dogs.
Mashed potatoes should be an occasional treat only. Too many potatoes can lead to weight gain or raise blood sugar, which is especially concerning for dogs with diabetes. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, give a small spoonful first and watch for symptoms of an upset stomach like diarrhea or vomiting.
Can Dogs Eat French Fries?
Dogs should not eat french fries. Fries contain salt, oil and seasonings that can irritate a dog’s stomach. Fried potatoes also have more fat than a dog needs, which can contribute to pancreatitis, obesity or blood sugar spikes. Potato chips should also be avoided for similar reasons. If a dog eats a fry or a couple of potato chips by accident, it is usually not serious. However, pet parents should avoid deliberately feeding fries or chips to their dog.
Can Dogs Eat Potato Skins?
Potato skins and potato peels should be offered to dogs with caution. Cooked potato skin can be eaten in very small amounts, but the skin and peel are harder to digest and can cause gastrointestinal distress in some dogs.
The biggest concern with potatoes is that they are a member of the nightshade family and contain the toxin solanine. This natural compound is found at higher levels in the skin, eyes and any green spots on the potato. Cooking potatoes reduces the amount of solanine, but green potatoes should never be fed to dogs because the solanine levels can still be high.
Symptoms of consuming too much solanine include vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy. If you notice signs of severe gastrointestinal distress, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.
Are Raw Potatoes Bad for Dogs?
Yes. Dogs should not be allowed to eat raw potatoes, as they contain more solanine than cooked potatoes. Cooking potatoes reduces this risk but does not eliminate it entirely if green spots remain. Raw potatoes are also difficult to chew and can cause choking or an intestinal blockage. Raw potato skins are equally unsafe. It is best to avoid potatoes altogether if they are raw or if they have sprouted eyes or green spots.
Can Dogs Eat Baked Potatoes?
Dogs can eat baked potatoes when they are served plain and fully cooked. This makes them easier for dogs to digest compared to raw potatoes. Remember to give only a small portion of baked or roasted potatoes. Too many potatoes can add unnecessary carbohydrates to a dog’s daily diet and may not be suitable for dogs with weight issues or diabetes.
So, Can You Safely Feed Potatoes to Your Dog?
Yes, dogs can eat potatoes in small amounts, as long as they are plain (without seasoning) and are fully cooked. Plain boiled, baked or mashed potatoes can be an occasional treat, while raw potatoes, green potatoes, fries and seasoned dishes should be avoided because of solanine and added ingredients that may be toxic to dogs. Always introduce potatoes slowly and ask your vet if you are unsure if they should be included in your dog’s diet.
