Can dogs eat potatoes?

Why

Potatoes contain solanine, a toxin found in green skins and sprouts that can make dogs very sick, so they must be fully cooked and peeled. Even when prepared correctly, they offer little nutritional value for dogs and are high in carbohydrates, so they should only be given occasionally.

If you do feed it

• Always peel the potato and remove any green spots or sprouts before cooking.
• Serve only plain, boiled, or baked potatoes without salt, butter, oil, or seasonings.
• Limit treats to a small portion, such as a few tablespoons for a medium-sized dog.
• Introduce slowly to ensure your dog tolerates them without stomach upset.

Watch out for

• Green skins and sprouts which contain high levels of solanine
• Raw potatoes which are difficult to digest and potentially toxic
• Fried potatoes like french fries or chips which are high in fat and salt
• Prepared dishes with garlic, onions, or heavy seasonings

Better choices