Can dogs eat potatoes? We ask a vet

Whether fried, baked, or mashed, potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser – but are they safe for dogs to eat?

Just because our pets are willing to eat titbits from the table, doesn't always mean they should, as lots of human food can be toxic, and potentially even fatal, to dogs. So it's a good idea for owners to be clued-up on the foods their pets can and can't eat.

With Sunday roast season in full swing and Christmas on the horizon, we asked a vet for everything to know about whether potatoes are safe for dogs. And, as always, if you have concerns about your pet's health, contact your vet immediately.

Can dogs eat potatoes?

Dr. Danielle Bernal, a vet with Wellness Natural Pet Food, says potatoes are safe for dogs to eat. In fact, this healthy vegetable is packed with several essential vitamins and minerals that are good for them.

"They've got high digestibility and they're good for energy," Dr. Bernal says. This starchy vegetable is a great topping for kibble, and it can also be served alongside some of your dog's other favourite foods. But here’s the catch: be sure to wash and fully cook the potatoes before serving them. This will ensure your dog can easily chew and digest them. The same goes for sweet potatoes, which are a good source of immune-boosting beta-carotene for dogs.

Also important: the potatoes should be plain, and not mixed with seasonings such as garlic and onion, or high-fat dairy products such as butter and sour cream.

While these ingredients make potatoes taste even better for the human palette, they’re unhealthy for pets. This does mean that dogs should not eat mashed potatoes.

As animal expert and veterinarian Dr. Tricia Earley explains, the high butter content won’t sit well in your dog’s stomach and could cause gastrointestinal distress. So avoid scraping your plate into the dog bowl once you’re finished with dinner.

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Can dogs eat raw potatoes?

As part of the nightshade family, potatoes contain solanine, a type of natural defense compound that can be toxic at high levels. Cooking the vegetable reduces solanine to safe levels, so, as mentioned above, potatoes must be fully baked or boiled before your dog can eat them. Therefore, raw potatoes are a no-go.

Can dogs eat potato skin?

If your dog happens to catch a scrap or two while you’re peeling potatoes, don’t fret. A few bites of potato skin won’t harm them. Overall, though, raw potato skins are best left to the compost bin.

What are other dog-safe foods?

Dr. Earley says well-cooked turkey (minus the gravy) is a huge hit around the festive season. Green beans and cranberries are also dog-safe, but you’ll definitely want to avoid raisins and chocolate – which are toxic.

If your pet does happen to ingest something you wish they hadn't, it's best to contact your vet right away.

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