Can dogs have potatoes?
You leave your plate unattended for just a second and, before you know it, half a potato is on its way to the dog bed. But can dogs actually eat potatoes? Good news: yes, they can. As long as you keep things sensible, of course. Because for your dog, there’s quite a difference between a boiled potato and a French fry.
Are potatoes good for dogs?
A properly cooked potato can fit perfectly well into your dog’s diet. Potatoes contain carbohydrates, vitamin C and vitamin B6 and provide energy without being too heavy on the stomach. There’s a reason why potatoes are commonly found in dog food, especially in food for dogs with sensitive digestion.
Properly prepared potatoes provide energy without upsetting the stomach.
Why potatoes can actually be a good choice
Potatoes may not have the glamour of salmon or fresh meat, but for many dogs they can be a great addition to their diet.
The benefits of potatoes for dogs:
In short, a simple potato can be surprisingly beneficial for dogs.
How should you give potatoes to your dog?
Keep it simple. Your dog isn’t exactly waiting for potato gratin or loaded fries.
Good options include:
Cut everything into bite-sized pieces suitable for the size of your dog. A Chihuahua obviously needs a slightly different approach than a Great Dane.
Raw, cooked or sweet potatoes: what can and can’t dogs eat?
This is where the big difference lies.
Raw potatoes? Better not.
Raw potatoes contain solanine, a naturally occurring substance that can make dogs quite unwell. It can cause symptoms such as digestive problems or nausea. So no, that raw potato that rolls off the kitchen counter isn’t a suitable snack.
Cooked potatoes? Absolutely fine.
Cooking reduces most of the solanine, making cooked potatoes safe for dogs as long as you don’t add salt, seasoning or sauces.
Sweet potatoes? Another good option.
Sweet potatoes aren’t actually regular potatoes and don’t contain solanine. This often makes them even easier to digest, and they’re a popular ingredient in high-quality dog food.
The potato itself usually isn’t the problem. It’s what we humans do with it that often is.
Can dogs eat fried potatoes?
Sharing a French fry might seem harmless, but your dog probably won’t benefit from it as much as you do. Fried potatoes often contain a lot of fat, oil, salt and seasoning. These can cause digestive problems and don’t really belong in a healthy diet for dogs. So, the occasional tiny bite isn’t a disaster, but don’t make it a habit.
Can dogs eat potatoes every day?
Potatoes can be included in your dog’s diet from time to time, but they aren’t a complete meal. Think of them as an addition rather than a main source of nutrition. Variety remains important. After all, your dog needs more than just a potato here and there.
Summary: can dogs eat potatoes?
Yes, dogs can eat potatoes as long as they are thoroughly cooked and served plain. Raw potatoes and fried varieties are best avoided. Sweet potatoes are often an especially good option because they are easy to digest.
Want to give your dog potatoes more often? Ideally, choose a complete dog food in which potatoes have been incorporated in a balanced way. That way, you can be sure your dog gets everything they need, without the hassle.
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