Can Dogs Eat Potatoes?

Verdict: CAUTION — plain, cooked potatoes are safe; raw, green or fried potatoes are not.

Potatoes are a common ingredient in commercial dog food, but how you serve them matters. Plain boiled, baked or mashed potatoes (no butter, salt or seasoning) are fine in moderation. Raw potatoes, green parts and fries can cause real problems.

Why it's not a simple yes

• Green parts, sprouts and raw potatoes contain solanine, a toxin that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness and even nervous system problems.
• Fried potatoes are full of oil and salt, which can trigger pancreatitis and obesity.
• Large raw chunks are a choking hazard and hard to digest.

Symptoms of solanine poisoning

• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Lethargy, weakness
• In severe cases: neurological signs, coma, death

How to serve safely

1. Wash and peel the potato.
2. Remove any green or sprouted parts.
3. Cook it thoroughly — boiled, baked or mashed.
4. Serve plain: no butter, salt, garlic or onion.

How much is OK?

Treats of any kind should make up no more than 10% of a dog's daily calories. A few small cubes of plain cooked potato are plenty. Too much potato can cause gas, bloating or diarrhea.

FAQ

Can dogs eat raw potatoes?

No. Raw potatoes are hard to digest and may contain solanine.

Can dogs eat potato skin?

A little cooked skin is fine, but don't overdo it — the skin concentrates solanine.

Can dogs eat french fries?

No. Fries are fried in oil and salted, which can cause stomach upset and pancreatitis.

Can dogs eat mashed potatoes?

Yes, if they're plain — no butter, milk, salt or seasonings.

Sources

• PetMD: Can Dogs Eat Potatoes? (petmd.com)
• ASPCA: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (aspca.org)