Potatoes are one of the most common vegetables, and they can be paired with just about anything! We can enjoy different potato dishes any time of the day, whether as a breakfast or a midnight snack.
Potatoes are a starchy vegetable that’s a staple in most people’s diets. They’re healthy, high in nutrients, and low in calories — which makes them ideal for humans — but can we say the same for dogs? Can dogs eat potatoes too?
Today, let’s break down the things you need to know about potatoes and dogs!
Can dogs eat potatoes?
Yes, dogs can eat potatoes. Potatoes are a high-quality source of carbohydrates, which provides your dog with energy. They also contain other essential nutrients like vitamin C, magnesium, and vitamin B6.
However, potatoes should only make up a small part of your dog’s diet. Too much of anything can be bad for your pup! Giving dogs a small amount of potatoes in their meals can benefit their health. Let’s find out the nutritional benefits of potatoes for dogs.
Nutritional Benefits of Potatoes
Potatoes aren’t just good for you, they’re nutritious for your dogs too! Potatoes are safe for dogs to eat in moderation. They’re an excellent source of vitamins and minerals such as:
Vitamin C
Vitamin C can provide a huge boost to your dog’s immune system. As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps reduce inflammation and protects the cells from damage caused by free radicals in their body.
Vitamin C also plays a vital role in collagen production which supports bone and joint health, as well as healthy skin and fur coats for dogs. This amazing vitamin also supports heart health, reducing the risk of getting cardiovascular diseases and even cancer.
Dogs can synthesize vitamin C in their bodies, but it can become quite challenging for older or senior dogs. Because of this, dogs may be at risk for vitamin C deficiency and can experience the following symptoms:
- Bone weakness
- Bleeding
- Bad breath
- Muscle weakness
- Dog scurvy
Dogs with liver diseases have a high risk of developing vitamin C deficiency because it is one of the main organs responsible for providing the nutrient in their bodies. But don’t worry, vitamin C can be found in different fruits and vegetables that dogs can enjoy!
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that can be found in different foods. This vitamin is essential and plays a crucial role in the body’s metabolism. It also contributes to cognitive development and brain function through the biosynthesis of neurotransmitters.
Vitamin B6 is also linked to red blood cell formation and can reduce the risk of heart diseases. Fortunately, it’s easy to add vitamin B6 to your dog’s diet since it’s found in different common foods such as:
- Red meat
- Liver
- Spinach
- Fruits like mango and blueberry
- Other starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes, spaghetti squash, and green peas
Dietary Fiber
Dogs with weight problems can benefit from potatoes since they are an excellent source of dietary fiber.
Dietary fibers are responsible for preventing constipation and promoting a healthy bowel movement. These nutrients act as bulking agents that add bulk to the stool, improving gut motility. Additionally, fibers also promote healthy digestion since they also serve as prebiotics that feed gut bacteria, and maintain the gut’s protective barrier.
They are also linked to contributing to weight loss and weight management. Dietary fibers can reduce appetite and increase satiety, which means your dog can feel full for a longer time.
Bone and Blood Health Nutrients
Potatoes contain the following minerals that are essential for bone and blood functions:
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
- Iron
- Zinc
- Magnesium
- Potassium
It’s common knowledge that calcium is essential for bone health and structure, but it has to properly act with phosphorus to achieve proper function. Meanwhile, iron and zinc are related to collagen production like vitamin C.
On the other hand, magnesium and potassium intake is vital for maintaining a healthy blood pressure level.
What are the risks associated with potatoes?
Potatoes, especially raw potatoes, can be dangerous to your dog because they contain glycoalkaloid compounds called solanine and chaconine. These compounds are naturally occurring chemicals in potatoes that can make your dog sick.
Solanine can also be found in other vegetables from the nightshade or Solanum family, such as eggplant and tomatoes, and occurs in different plant parts. You should never feed raw potatoes to your dog because they have large concentrations of solanine and chaconine that can cause illness or even death if ingested in large quantities.
Solanine in potatoes is identified by a green discoloration due to chlorophyll, where solanine concentrations are higher. According to the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, improper storage of potatoes can also lead to chlorophyll formation that causes potatoes to turn green, especially in areas under the peel where it is isolated.
Solanine and chaconine poisoning can cause the following symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Stomachache
Preparing Potatoes
Due to the risk of solanine poisoning, it is important to prepare potatoes properly before consumption. This goes both for you and your dogs, so read on.
Make sure to wash and peel potatoes properly, discarding the green portions and the “eye” parts. These parts have the highest concentrations of glycoalkaloids present in the vegetable. Cooking can also decrease the levels of glycoalkaloids present, so make sure potatoes are cooked properly before eating.
Potatoes that taste bitter, even without the peel, also mean high amounts of solanine, so if you ever encounter bitter or green potatoes, it’s best to discard them altogether.
Cooked potatoes can be sliced into smaller pieces as treats. You can also mash potatoes and put them on top of their usual food. Just make sure they are adequately cooled so you won’t burn your furry friend’s tongue.
Other Related Questions
Can dogs eat boiled or baked potatoes?
Yes, dogs can eat boiled, baked, or even steamed potatoes as long as they are prepared and cooked properly. Just make sure it doesn’t contain other ingredients that are not dog friendly such as too much sugar or salt, pepper, and other seasonings and flavors.
Can dogs eat mashed potatoes?
Mashed potatoes make a healthy and filling side dish that you and your dogs can enjoy. Dogs can eat mashed potatoes, provided they are either plain or prepared with dog-friendly ingredients.
Most mashed potato recipes contain salt, pepper, milk, and butter, which your dog’s stomach might react negatively to. So it’s best to give them plain mashed potatoes instead. In fact, mashed potatoes are commonly used as icing or frosting substitutes for dog-friendly cakes!
Can dogs eat sweet potatoes?
Dogs can freely enjoy sweet potatoes as long as they are given in moderation. Sweet potatoes also contain essential nutrients that are beneficial for your canine friends. However, it’s best to consult with your vet first on how to incorporate this crop into your dog’s diet, especially if they are diabetic.
Can dogs eat fried potatoes or potato chips?
Fried potatoes like french fries, hash browns, potato wedges, or potato chips are excellent snacks that we enjoy. However, we can’t say the same for dogs. Frying increases the fat content, which may lead to different illnesses for them like pancreatitis.
Additionally, commercially available potato products made for frying can also contain seasonings and preservatives that may affect your dog’s health.
Summary
So, can dogs eat potatoes? Yes, they can!
Potatoes are safe for dogs to eat in moderation. They’re an excellent source of vitamins and nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and phosphorus. They also contain some fiber and carbohydrates, which provide energy for your dog’s body.
However, keep in mind that potatoes contain poisonous compounds. Make sure to prepare and cook potatoes properly before giving them to your dogs to eat.
You can also ask your vet for any advice on potatoes and any other food before including them in your dog’s diet.