Can dogs eat potatoes, and what should you consider when feeding them? Learn more about feeding potatoes to dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Potatoes? Tips & Tricks for Feeding
The healthy tuber is almost indispensable from the menu for us bipeds. No wonder, as it’s a true all-rounder with low fat content, high protein and fiber, and essential nutrients. But what about our four-legged friends? Can dogs eat potatoes, and are they valuable as an ingredient in their bowl? The answer is a definite yes.
The myth that dogs only need meat has long been debunked. Plant-based, carbohydrate-rich components, such as potatoes, are making their way into the bowl. But beware, there are several things to consider when feeding them. Only cooked potatoes are suitable; raw potatoes, on the other hand, are toxic to dogs.
Why Raw Potatoes Are Toxic to Dogs
Peeling and snacking on raw potatoes? Inedible for us and the same goes for your furry friend. Moreover, the skin contains the toxin solanine, which is also found in unripe tomatoes and is toxic to your dog. When the potato is well-cooked, solanine loses its toxic effect.
If your furry friend snatches a raw potato while you’re cooking, it can lead to severe side effects and, depending on the amount consumed, be dangerous for your dog. Symptoms your dog may show after eating a raw potato include:
If your canine companion has consumed a raw potato, it’s advisable to contact your trusted veterinarian. Depending on the amount ingested, an emetic may need to be administered to prevent the raw potatoes from reaching the intestines. In no case should you induce vomiting yourself; rely only on veterinary advice.
Cooked, pureed, mashed – how to feed potatoes to your dog
Cooked potatoes are harmless for your dog and a real asset as an ingredient in the bowl. Just like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, broccoli, or carrots, they not only taste good to most dogs but are also very healthy. If you want to feed your dog potatoes, you can offer them cooked as chunks, puree, or mashed potatoes. Keep in mind that your furry friend’s meal, as part of a species-appropriate canine diet, should be diverse and varied, following the insights into a healthy meal.
Feed potatoes as a side dish, not as a complete meal. Especially for dogs that already suffer from overweight, the high carbohydrate content can lead to quick weight gain. Additionally, it’s important to adjust the feeding amount. If you feed your dog wet or dry food, you can occasionally enhance the meal with some potato, but if fed regularly, reduce the recommended amount accordingly.
4 Reasons Why Potatoes Are Good for Dogs
- Easy Digestibility: Potatoes are gentle on the stomach and suitable when your dog has diarrhea or vomiting. For sensitive furry noses, potatoes are an easily digestible treat!
- Ideal for Allergies: Some dogs develop food allergies. Fortunately, potatoes are considered very tolerable and provide your dog with healthy proteins and carbohydrates, even when he has to do without many ingredients.
- Pure Energy: Potatoes provide energy to your dog by supplying the body with a high amount of carbohydrates. The plant-based protein also gives an extra energy boost!
- Nutrient-Rich Snack: Potatoes shine with potassium, iron, and magnesium, benefiting a healthy heart function and muscle function. Vitamin B1 and B2, as well as Vitamin C, are essential for energy metabolism, stimulate the formation of red blood cells, and contribute to maintaining nerve function.
