🥔🐶 Are Potatoes Good for Dogs?

Published on: February 17, 2025March 24, 2025Author: Bestie Paws

Potatoes are a common household staple, but are they safe and healthy for dogs? While properly prepared potatoes can offer some nutritional benefits, they also come with potential risks that pet owners should fully understand.

🔎 Key Takeaways: Quick Answers to Your Questions

❓ Question	✅ Expert Answer
Can dogs eat potatoes?	Yes, but only cooked and in moderation.
Are raw potatoes safe?	❌ No! Raw potatoes contain solanine, which is toxic.
Are sweet potatoes better than white potatoes?	✅ Yes! Sweet potatoes are higher in fiber and nutrients.
Can potatoes help with digestion?	Yes, if cooked and fed in small portions—too much can cause bloating.
Are potatoes bad for diabetic dogs?	❌ Yes! They can spike blood sugar and should be avoided.
Do potatoes contribute to weight gain?	Yes, if overfed! They are high in carbs and calories.
Can dogs eat mashed potatoes?	Only if plain and unseasoned—avoid butter, salt, or dairy.
Are potatoes linked to heart disease in dogs?	Some studies suggest a possible link, but more research is needed.

🏆 What Are the Health Benefits of Potatoes for Dogs?

When prepared properly and fed in moderation, potatoes offer essential nutrients that can support a dog’s health.

🥔 Nutrient	💪 Health Benefit for Dogs
Vitamin C	Supports immune function and promotes skin health.
Vitamin B6	Aids brain function and metabolism.
Potassium	Helps regulate muscle activity and nerve function.
Iron & Magnesium	Supports red blood cell production and energy levels.
Carbohydrates	Provides energy, but should be limited for inactive or overweight dogs.
Fiber	Assists in digestion and promotes bowel regularity.

💡 Did You Know? Sweet potatoes are often preferred over white potatoes because they contain more fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins while being easier on a dog’s blood sugar levels.

🚨 Are Potatoes Dangerous for Dogs? Key Risks to Watch For

Although potatoes can be safe when cooked, there are several risks to be aware of when feeding them to dogs.

1️⃣ Raw Potatoes Are Toxic! (Solanine Poisoning)

Raw potatoes and their green or sprouting parts contain solanine, a toxic compound that can harm dogs if ingested.

☠️ Symptoms of Solanine Poisoning	🚑 What to Watch For
Vomiting & Diarrhea 🤢	Signs of gastrointestinal distress.
Lethargy & Weakness 😴	Difficulty standing or excessive tiredness.
Tremors or Seizures ⚡	Severe cases may lead to neurological issues.

💡 Emergency Tip: If your dog eats raw potatoes or green sprouts, contact a veterinarian immediately!

2️⃣ Too Many Potatoes Can Cause Weight Gain & Diabetes Risks

Potatoes are high in carbohydrates, which can lead to unwanted weight gain if fed too frequently or in large portions.

⚠️ Risk	🔍 Why It’s a Concern
Obesity 🏋️	Extra carbs can add unnecessary calories.
Blood Sugar Spikes 🩸	High starch content can be dangerous for diabetic dogs.
Slow Digestion ⏳	Too much can cause bloating or stomach discomfort.

💡 Vet Advice: If your dog is overweight or diabetic, avoid potatoes entirely or only feed tiny, occasional portions.

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3️⃣ Can Potatoes Cause Heart Disease in Dogs? (DCM Concerns)

Some research suggests that diets high in potatoes, legumes, or peas may contribute to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart condition.

❤️ Potatoes & Heart Disease	🔬 What Studies Suggest
DCM Connection ❓	Some grain-free dog foods with high potato content have been linked to heart issues.
Nutrient Deficiency	Potatoes lack taurine, an essential amino acid for heart health.
More Research Needed	No direct proof that potatoes alone cause DCM, but feeding them excessively may contribute.

💡 Safer Choice: Always ensure potatoes are part of a balanced diet with high-quality animal proteins and essential nutrients.

🍽️ How to Safely Feed Potatoes to Your Dog

To minimize risks and maximize benefits, follow these vet-approved preparation guidelines.

🔪 Preparation Method	✅ Safe for Dogs?	📝 Best Practices
Raw Potatoes 🥔	❌ NO!	Contains solanine, which is toxic.
Boiled or Steamed 🍲	✅ Yes	Cook thoroughly without seasonings.
Mashed (Plain) 🥄	✅ Okay	No butter, salt, milk, or spices.
Baked (Unseasoned) 🍞	✅ Safe in moderation	No toppings like cheese or oil.
Fried (Fries, Chips, Hash Browns) 🍟	❌ NO!	High in fat and salt, which can harm dogs.

💡 Best Practice: Always peel white potatoes before cooking to remove unwanted toxins and excess starch.

📏 How Much Potato Can Dogs Eat? Portion Guidelines

Potatoes should be an occasional treat, not a daily food source.

🐶 Dog Size	🍽️ Safe Portion Size
Small Dogs (<20 lbs)	1–2 tablespoons, once or twice a week.
Medium Dogs (20–50 lbs)	2–3 tablespoons, twice a week.
Large Dogs (>50 lbs)	¼ cup, twice a week.

💡 Portion Rule: Treats (including potatoes) should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calories.

🏁 Final Expert Verdict: Potatoes Are Safe—But Only When Prepared Properly!

✅ Yes, dogs can eat potatoes—but only if cooked, unseasoned, and fed in moderation.
❌ Never feed raw potatoes, green sprouts, or fried varieties.
⚠️ Be cautious with diabetic or overweight dogs, as potatoes can spike blood sugar levels.

Safer Alternatives to White Potatoes:

Sweet Potatoes 🍠 (More fiber, lower glycemic index)
Pumpkin 🎃 (Easier on digestion, high in beta-carotene)
Carrots 🥕 (Crunchy, low-calorie, rich in vitamins)

By following these expert-backed guidelines, you can safely include potatoes as an occasional treat in your dog’s balanced diet! 🐾🥔

💬 Expert Answers & Insights

Comment 1: “Can dogs eat potato peels?”

🚫 No, potato peels are not recommended for dogs. While they may seem harmless, peels contain higher concentrations of solanine, the same toxic compound found in raw potatoes.

⚠️ Why Potato Peels Are Unsafe	🚨 Potential Risks
High in Solanine	Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and even neurological issues.
Hard to Digest	Tough, fibrous texture may lead to stomach discomfort.
Often Contaminated	May contain pesticides or mold if not washed properly.

💡 Safer Choice: Always peel white potatoes before cooking and ensure your dog only eats plain, cooked potato flesh.

Comment 2: “Can I feed my dog potatoes every day?”

❌ No, potatoes should not be a daily food. While they offer some nutrients, they are high in carbohydrates and lack essential proteins and fats that dogs need for balanced nutrition.

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🥔 Why Potatoes Should Be an Occasional Treat	🏥 Concerns
High in Carbs	Excessive carbs can lead to weight gain and energy imbalances.
Can Spike Blood Sugar	Not ideal for diabetic or insulin-resistant dogs.
Nutritionally Incomplete	Lacks essential amino acids and omega-3s.

💡 Feeding Tip: Offer potatoes only 1–2 times per week in small, controlled portions to avoid health issues.

Comment 3: “Can dogs eat French fries?”

🚫 No, French fries are not safe for dogs. While cooked potatoes are safe in moderation, French fries are deep-fried in unhealthy oils and loaded with salt, making them harmful for dogs.

🍟 Why French Fries Are Bad for Dogs	🚨 Health Risks
High in Unhealthy Fats	Can contribute to obesity and pancreatitis.
Excess Sodium	Too much salt can cause dehydration and high blood pressure.
Artificial Seasonings	Many fries contain garlic or onion powder, which are toxic to dogs.

💡 Alternative Snack: Instead of fries, bake plain potato slices at low heat without salt or oil for a safer crunchy treat.

Comment 4: “Are sweet potatoes better than white potatoes for dogs?”

✅ Yes! Sweet potatoes are generally a healthier option for dogs compared to white potatoes.

🍠 Sweet Potatoes vs. White Potatoes	🏆 Best Choice?
Higher in Fiber	Supports digestion and weight control. ✅
Lower Glycemic Index	Less likely to spike blood sugar levels. ✅
Rich in Antioxidants	Contains beta-carotene, which promotes eye health. ✅
Fewer Solanine Concerns	Does not contain toxic solanine found in white potatoes. ✅

💡 Vet Tip: If choosing between the two, sweet potatoes are safer, more nutritious, and better for sensitive stomachs.

Comment 5: “Can potatoes cause allergies in dogs?”

🔍 While rare, some dogs may be allergic to potatoes. Symptoms usually appear shortly after ingestion and can vary from mild to severe.

🚨 Signs of a Potato Allergy in Dogs	🏥 What to Watch For
Itchy Skin	Scratching, redness, or hives.
Digestive Upset	Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas.
Ear Infections	Recurrent ear inflammation or odor.

💡 What to Do: If your dog shows any allergic reaction, discontinue potatoes immediately and consult a veterinarian for alternative dietary options.

Comment 6: “Are dehydrated potatoes safe for dogs?”

✅ Yes, but only if they are plain, unseasoned, and served in moderation. Dehydrated potatoes preserve nutrients but can also be high in starch, so portions must be controlled.

🌿 Pros & Cons of Dehydrated Potatoes	✅ Benefits	❌ Risks
Longer Shelf Life	Convenient for homemade dog treats.	Still high in carbs—excess intake can lead to weight gain.
Retains Some Nutrients	Vitamin C, B6, and potassium remain.	Can be hard to chew, posing a risk for small dogs.

💡 How to Serve: Soften dehydrated potatoes by soaking in warm water before feeding, or use them sparingly as a crunchy treat.

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Comment 7: “Can dogs eat mashed potatoes?”

✅ Yes, but only if plain! Mashed potatoes are safe in small amounts if they do not contain butter, milk, salt, or seasoning.

🥄 Safe vs. Unsafe Mashed Potatoes	✅ Good Choice?	❌ Avoid If…
Plain, Boiled, or Steamed	Safe in small portions.	Contains butter, cheese, or cream—too fatty!
No Added Spices	Prevents stomach upset.	Includes garlic, onion, or seasoning—can be toxic!

💡 Vet Recommendation: If feeding mashed potatoes, offer a spoonful as an occasional treat, not a meal replacement.

Comment 8: “Do potatoes help with upset stomachs in dogs?”

✅ Yes, in some cases, potatoes can help with mild digestive issues, but they should not be the first go-to solution.

🤢 How Potatoes Affect Digestion	✅ When They Help	❌ When to Avoid
Soft & Easily Digestible	Soothes mild upset stomachs.	If the dog is diabetic or overweight.
High in Fiber	Can help firm up stool.	If experiencing diarrhea from excess fiber.
Low in Fat	Gentle for pancreatitis-prone dogs (when plain).	If raw or improperly cooked.

💡 Better Alternatives: If your dog has a stomach issue, try plain boiled chicken and rice first, then introduce potatoes in tiny amounts if tolerated well.

Comment 9: “Can dogs eat potato chips?”

🚫 No, potato chips are unsafe for dogs. The high salt, fat, and artificial flavors make them a poor choice for canine health.

🍟 Why Potato Chips Are Bad for Dogs	🚨 Health Concerns
High Sodium	Can lead to dehydration and kidney strain.
Fried in Oil	Excess fat increases risk of pancreatitis.
Artificial Flavors	Many contain garlic or onion powder, which are toxic.

💡 Safer Snack: Instead of potato chips, offer small slices of plain baked potato or dog-safe veggie chips (like zucchini or carrot crisps).

Comment 10: “Can dogs eat baked potatoes with the skin?”

⚠️ Caution! While the flesh of a baked potato is safe for dogs in moderation, the skin poses potential risks.

🥔 Why Potato Skin Should Be Avoided	🚨 Concerns
High Solanine Levels	The skin retains more solanine, especially in green or sprouting potatoes.
Hard to Digest	Some dogs struggle to break down fibrous potato peels, leading to bloating.
Possible Pesticide Residue	Unless thoroughly washed, skins may contain chemicals harmful to dogs.

💡 Best Practice: Always peel potatoes before cooking to reduce solanine risk and improve digestibility. If serving baked potatoes, remove the skin entirely before offering it to your dog.

Comment 11: “Can potatoes cause gas in dogs?”

✅ Yes, potatoes can cause gas in some dogs, especially if eaten in excess or improperly cooked.

💨 Why Potatoes May Cause Gas	🐕 How to Reduce It
High Starch Content	Too much starch can ferment in the gut, leading to bloating.
Raw or Undercooked Potatoes	Hard to digest, increasing gas and discomfort.
Sudden Diet Change	Introducing potatoes too quickly can shock the digestive system.

💡 Digestive Tip: Start with small amounts and always cook potatoes properly to make them easier to digest. If gas persists, switch to a lower-starch alternative like pumpkin.

Comment 12: “Can potatoes help with dog diarrhea?”

✅ Yes, but only in certain cases. Potatoes contain fiber that can help firm up loose stools, but they should be used strategically.

💩 When Potatoes Help with Diarrhea	❌ When to Avoid Them
Mild Digestive Upset	If diarrhea is caused by temporary stomach irritation.
Paired with a Bland Diet	Mixed with boiled chicken and rice for gentle digestion.
Plain, Boiled Only	No seasoning, butter, or oil.

💡 Vet Advice: For persistent diarrhea, consult a vet before offering potatoes. Pumpkin or plain rice is often a better first choice for firming stool.

Comment 13: “Can dogs eat scalloped or cheesy potatoes?”

🚫 No, scalloped and cheesy potatoes are not safe for dogs. The added dairy, seasonings, and fats make them an unhealthy and potentially dangerous choice.

🧀 Why Scalloped Potatoes Are Unsafe	🚨 Potential Risks
High Dairy Content	Cheese, milk, and cream can cause digestive upset in lactose-intolerant dogs.
Seasonings & Garlic	Many recipes contain garlic or onion powder, which are toxic to dogs.
Excess Fats	Can trigger pancreatitis and weight gain.

💡 Safe Alternative: If you want to share a treat, bake plain potatoes and mash them without dairy or seasoning. For extra flavor, mix in plain pumpkin puree instead of cheese.

Comment 14: “Are boiled potatoes good for senior dogs?”

✅ Yes! Boiled potatoes, served in small amounts, can be a great energy source for senior dogs, but portion control is essential.

🦴 Benefits of Boiled Potatoes for Senior Dogs	💡 Best Practices
Soft & Easy to Chew	Helps dogs with missing teeth or dental issues.
Mild on the Stomach	Good for sensitive digestion in older dogs.
Provides Energy	A gentle carb boost for aging dogs with reduced appetite.

💡 Senior Dog Tip: Combine boiled potatoes with lean protein (like shredded chicken) to create a nutrient-balanced meal.

Comment 15: “Can dogs eat instant mashed potatoes?”

🚫 No, instant mashed potatoes are not recommended. They contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and often unhealthy additives.

🥄 Why Instant Mashed Potatoes Are Bad for Dogs	🚨 Unhealthy Ingredients
High in Sodium	Can lead to dehydration and kidney strain.
Artificial Flavors	Often contains onion or garlic powder, which are toxic.
Dairy Additives	Cream and butter can cause digestive upset.

💡 Safe Alternative: If you want to serve mashed potatoes, boil fresh potatoes and mash them plain—without milk, butter, or seasoning.

Comment 16: “Do potatoes help a dog gain weight?”

✅ Yes, potatoes can help underweight dogs gain weight when fed strategically. Their high carbohydrate content makes them an effective energy booster.

⚖️ How Potatoes Can Help with Weight Gain	🏥 Feeding Tips
High in Carbs & Calories	Supports healthy weight restoration.
Easy to Digest	Good for dogs recovering from illness.
Can Be Fortified	Combine with healthy fats like salmon oil for extra calories.

💡 Weight Gain Strategy: Use boiled potatoes in small portions alongside protein-rich meals to support steady, healthy weight gain.

Comment 17: “Can dogs eat hash browns?”

🚫 No, hash browns are not safe for dogs. Whether homemade or store-bought, they are too greasy and often contain unsafe seasonings.

🍳 Why Hash Browns Are Bad for Dogs	🚨 Harmful Ingredients
Fried in Oil	Unhealthy fats increase the risk of obesity & pancreatitis.
Often Contains Salt & Spices	Excess salt can lead to dehydration & kidney issues.
Processed Additives	Fast-food or frozen hash browns may contain preservatives.

💡 Better Choice: Instead of hash browns, lightly bake or steam plain potatoes for a safe, dog-friendly snack.

Comment 18: “Can puppies eat potatoes?”

✅ Yes, but only in moderation and properly prepared. Puppies need protein-rich, balanced meals, so potatoes should be an occasional addition rather than a staple.

🐶 Potatoes for Puppies: Dos & Don’ts	✅ Safe?	❌ Avoid If…
Boiled & Mashed (Plain)	✅ Yes, in small portions.	Too much starch disrupts balanced puppy nutrition.
Baked (No Skin)	✅ Safe in tiny servings.	Adding salt, butter, or cheese.
Raw or Green Potatoes	❌ Absolutely not!	Contains solanine, which is toxic.

💡 Puppy Nutrition Tip: Focus on high-quality puppy food and lean meats, using potatoes only as an occasional treat.

Comment 19: “Can dogs eat potato soup?”

🚫 No, potato soup is not a safe option for dogs. Even though potatoes themselves can be safe when cooked properly, soups often contain harmful ingredients that can pose serious health risks to your dog.

🍲 Why Potato Soup is Unsafe for Dogs	🚨 Hidden Dangers
High in Dairy 🥛	Cream, butter, or milk can cause digestive distress, especially in lactose-intolerant dogs.
Garlic & Onion 🧄	Commonly used in soups—both are highly toxic to dogs and can damage red blood cells.
Excess Sodium & Spices 🧂	Too much salt can lead to dehydration, kidney strain, or high blood pressure.

💡 Safer Alternative: If you want to offer your dog a comforting treat, make a plain mashed potato blend using boiled potatoes and low-sodium chicken broth—without added seasoning.

Comment 20: “Can dogs eat potato pancakes or latkes?”

🚫 No, potato pancakes (latkes) are not recommended for dogs. While potatoes themselves are safe when cooked correctly, latkes contain ingredients that are unhealthy or even dangerous for dogs.

🥞 Why Latkes Are Bad for Dogs	🚨 Risk Factors
Fried in Oil 🛢️	Increases the risk of pancreatitis and unhealthy weight gain.
Salt & Seasonings 🌿	Often includes garlic, onion, or pepper, which are toxic.
Egg & Flour Content 🍳	While not necessarily toxic, these add extra calories and potential allergens.

💡 Better Treat Option: Instead of latkes, try baking or boiling plain potato slices for a healthy, unseasoned alternative.

Comment 21: “Can I mix potatoes with my dog’s kibble?”

✅ Yes, but only in small amounts and when properly prepared. Potatoes can be a good carbohydrate supplement, but they should not replace a well-balanced diet.

🍚 Mixing Potatoes with Kibble	✅ How It Helps
Soft Texture for Easy Eating 🥣	Helps dogs with dental issues or reduced appetite.
Extra Energy Source ⚡	Provides carbohydrates for active or working dogs.
Improves Moisture Content 💦	Great for dogs that don’t drink enough water.

💡 Best Practice: Always mix plain, cooked, and mashed potatoes with kibble—never add salt, butter, or seasonings.

Comment 22: “Can dogs eat raw sweet potatoes?”

🚫 No, raw sweet potatoes are not safe for dogs. While sweet potatoes are generally healthier than white potatoes, they must always be cooked before feeding.

🍠 Why Raw Sweet Potatoes Are Unsafe	🚨 Health Concerns
Hard to Digest 🏥	Can cause bloating, gas, or stomach discomfort.
Choking Hazard ⚠️	Raw sweet potatoes are tough and can get lodged in the throat.
Starch Content ❌	Raw starches are difficult for dogs to break down.

💡 Safer Choice: Steam, boil, or bake sweet potatoes before feeding—mash or slice into bite-sized portions to prevent choking.

Comment 23: “Can potatoes be used as a homemade dog food ingredient?”

✅ Yes, but only as a small part of a well-balanced meal. Potatoes should never be the primary ingredient in homemade dog food, as they lack essential amino acids and fatty acids dogs need.

🥔 How to Use Potatoes in Homemade Dog Food	✅ Best Practices
Carbohydrate Source 🍚	Works as an energy booster when paired with protein.
Mash or Dice for Texture 🥣	Helps dogs who struggle with chewing dry kibble.
No Seasonings ❌	Avoid salt, butter, garlic, and onion.

💡 Balanced Meal Tip: Always pair potatoes with lean protein (chicken, turkey, or beef) and fiber-rich vegetables like carrots or spinach to ensure a nutrient-complete diet.

Comment 24: “Can dogs eat potatoes with gravy?”

🚫 No, gravy is not safe for dogs due to high sodium, fat, and potentially toxic ingredients.

🍛 Why Gravy is Unsafe for Dogs	🚨 Risk Factors
Too Much Sodium 🧂	High salt content can lead to kidney strain and dehydration.
Thickening Agents ❌	Many gravies contain flour and artificial flavors that may cause digestive upset.
Garlic & Onion Powder 🧄	Even small amounts can be toxic and lead to anemia.

💡 Healthier Alternative: If you want a safe “gravy,” make a light bone broth (low sodium) or blend boiled potatoes with water for a creamy consistency.

Comment 25: “Can dogs eat frozen potatoes?”

✅ Frozen potatoes can be safe, but only if they are plain and properly prepared. Avoid store-bought frozen potato products like fries, tater tots, or hash browns.

❄️ Frozen Potatoes: Safe or Not?	✅ Best Practices
Plain, Home-Frozen Potatoes ✅	Steam or boil, then freeze in small portions.
Pre-Packaged Frozen Fries ❌	Often contain salt, oil, and preservatives.
Frozen Raw Potatoes ⚠️	Can be hard to chew and may contain solanine.

💡 Feeding Tip: If using frozen potatoes, thaw and warm them slightly before serving to avoid dental sensitivity or choking hazards.

Comment 26: “Can dogs eat potatoes if they have kidney disease?”

🚫 No, potatoes should be avoided or strictly limited for dogs with kidney disease.

🩺 Why Potatoes Are Bad for Kidney Disease	🚨 Concerns
High in Potassium ⚡	Can strain kidneys and lead to imbalances.
Phosphorus Content ❌	Affects dogs with kidney dysfunction.
Can Cause Water Retention 💧	Increased potassium can lead to fluid buildup.

💡 Better Alternatives: Dogs with kidney disease do better with low-potassium vegetables like green beans or zucchini. Always consult a vet before making dietary changes.

Comment 27: “Can dogs eat air-fried potatoes?”

⚠️ Air-fried potatoes can be given occasionally, but only if plain and unseasoned. The lack of oil makes them less harmful than deep-fried options, but they are still not ideal for regular consumption.

🍟 Air-Fried Potatoes for Dogs	✅ Safer Choice?
No Oil or Salt 🆗	Avoids harmful fats & excess sodium.
Still High in Starch ⚠️	Can contribute to weight gain if overfed.
Crunchy Texture ✅	Good for dogs who enjoy crispy treats.

💡 Healthier Option: Instead of air-fried potatoes, try baking thin potato slices for a lower-starch, healthier alternative.