Can dogs have sweet potatoes?

Sweet potatoes have become increasingly popular in commercial dog foods and as homemade treats. But are these orange-fleshed tubers actually good for your furry friend? The short answer is yes—dogs can safely eat sweet potatoes when properly prepared and served in moderation. However, there are some important considerations every pet parent should know.

Are sweet potatoes good for dogs?

Sweet potatoes offer several health benefits for your canine companion. They're rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate bowel movements. This fiber content can help alleviate issues like diarrhea and constipation.

These vibrant vegetables are loaded with essential nutrients, including:

• Vitamins A, B6, and C

• Minerals like iron, calcium, and selenium

• Beta-carotene for vision, growth, and muscle strength

• Antioxidants that fight disease and boost immunity

Sweet potatoes are also low in fat, making them suitable for dogs that need to maintain a healthy weight. Their low glycemic index means they release energy slowly, preventing sudden blood sugar spikes.

Potential risks and concerns

While sweet potatoes can be beneficial, there are some important risks to be aware of:

• Allergies: Some dogs may have allergic reactions to sweet potatoes, though this is uncommon. Watch for symptoms like itching, skin rashes, or digestive problems after introducing sweet potatoes.

• Digestive upset: Too much sweet potato can cause gastrointestinal distress, including diarrhea or constipation. Always introduce new foods gradually into your dog's diet.

• Weight gain: Sweet potatoes are relatively high in carbohydrates and calories. Overfeeding them can contribute to weight gain, which can lead to obesity and related health issues.

• Raw sweet potatoes: Uncooked sweet potatoes can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause intestinal blockage. Always cook them before feeding them to your dog.

• Sweet potato skins: The skin can be tough to digest and potentially harbor pesticides if not organic. It's best to peel sweet potatoes before preparing them for your dog.

Sweet potatoes and canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)

The FDA has investigated a potential connection between canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and diets containing peas, lentils, and potatoes as the main ingredients. While this investigation focused more on regular potatoes than sweet potatoes specifically, some grain-free foods associated with DCM cases do contain sweet potatoes.

Veterinary nutritionists recommend feeding dogs a balanced diet from established manufacturers that conduct feeding trials and employ board-certified veterinary nutritionists. If you include sweet potatoes in your dog's diet, ensure they're just one component of a balanced nutritional plan rather than a primary ingredient.

How to prepare sweet potatoes for your dog

If you'd like to incorporate sweet potatoes into your dog's diet, follow these guidelines:

• Cook thoroughly & let cool: Always cook sweet potatoes before feeding them to your dog. Boiling, steaming, or baking are all appropriate methods. Allow to cool completely before serving.

• Avoid additives: Skip the butter, salt, brown sugar, marshmallows, or spices often added to human sweet potato recipes. Plain sweet potatoes are best for dogs.

• Remove the skin: While sweet potato skin isn't toxic, it can be difficult to digest and may contain pesticide residues. Peeling is the safest choice.

• Cut into appropriate sizes: For smaller dogs, cut cooked sweet potatoes into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking hazards.

• Start small: When introducing sweet potatoes to your dog's diet, start with small amounts and gradually increase the portion while monitoring for any adverse reactions.

• Serve in moderation: As a general guideline, sweet potatoes, and all other treats, should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake.

Can dogs eat raw sweet potatoes?

No, dogs should not eat raw sweet potatoes. Raw sweet potatoes are extremely hard and dense, making them difficult for dogs to chew and digest. This can lead to serious digestive problems, choking, or even intestinal blockages.

Always cook sweet potatoes thoroughly before offering them to your dog to ensure they're soft and easily digestible.

Can dogs eat sweet potato skins?

It's not recommended to give your dog sweet potato skins. While the skins contain nutrients, they're hard to chew and digest, potentially causing choking or intestinal blockages.

For safety, always peel sweet potatoes before cooking them for your dog. This simple step removes the risk while still allowing your pet to enjoy the nutritional benefits of the flesh.

How much sweet potato can my dog eat?

The appropriate amount of sweet potato for your dog depends on their size, activity level, and overall diet. As a general guideline:

• Small dogs (under 20 pounds): 1 to 2 teaspoons

• Medium dogs (20 to 50 pounds): 2 to 3 teaspoons

• Large dogs (over 50 pounds): 1 to 3 tablespoons

These amounts refer to occasional servings, not daily additions. Always consult with your veterinarian about specific serving recommendations for your individual dog.

Other safe foods

While sweet potatoes make a nutritious addition to your dog's diet, there are many other healthy, dog-friendly foods you can offer as occasional treats, including:

• Bananas

• Blueberries

• Carrots

• Green beans

• Cooked white rice

• Watermelon (seedless and without the rind)

Always research thoroughly or consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your dog's diet.