Understanding Which Parts of a Potato Are Toxic to Dogs
Potatoes are a common and nutritious staple in many households, but when it comes to feeding them to your dog, it's important to proceed with caution. While cooked potatoes can be safe for dogs in moderation, certain parts of the plant—and even uncooked potatoes—pose significant risks.
Solanine: The Natural Toxin in Raw Potatoes
Raw potatoes, especially their skins and green areas, contain a chemical called
solanine. This toxin is naturally produced by plants in the nightshade family, including potatoes, to protect against pests and diseases. Unfortunately, solanine is
toxic to dogs and can lead to serious health issues.
Parts of the Potato to Avoid
- Raw Potatoes: Uncooked potatoes are the main culprits when it comes to solanine toxicity.
- Potato Skins: Especially when raw or green, skins are high in solanine and oxalates, which can irritate the kidneys.
- Green or Sprouting Areas: A high concentration of solanine collects in green or sprouted parts of the potato.
- Leaves and Stems: These parts of the potato plant contain high levels of solanine and must never be given to dogs.
Symptoms of Potato Toxicity in Dogs
If your dog ingests toxic parts of a potato, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- In severe cases: cardiac irregularities and confusion
If any of these symptoms appear after your dog has eaten raw or green potatoes, contact your veterinarian immediately.
How to Safely Feed Potatoes to Dogs
When prepared correctly, potatoes can be a treat for your dog. Follow these guidelines:
- Cook Thoroughly: Boil or bake potatoes with no added salt, oil, or seasonings.
- Peel the Skins: Remove skins to minimize solanine and oxalate intake.
- Serve Plain: No butter, cheese, garlic, onion, or any other toppings.
- Practice Portion Control: Dogs should eat potatoes only occasionally and in small amounts based on size.
Serving Size Recommendations by Dog Weight
- Extra-Small Dogs (2–20 lbs): 1 teaspoon of cooked potato
- Small Dogs (21–30 lbs): 1–2 teaspoons
- Medium Dogs (31–50 lbs): 2–3 teaspoons
- Large Dogs (51–90 lbs): 1–2 tablespoons
- Extra-Large Dogs (91+ lbs): 3–4 tablespoons
Health Considerations
Even when served safely, potatoes are high in
carbohydrates and low in protein. They should never replace your dog’s primary, balanced dog food. Dogs with diabetes should avoid potatoes altogether, as they can significantly raise blood sugar levels.
Research has also suggested a potential link between grain-free diets high in potatoes and
dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. Though this connection is still under investigation, it adds another reason to limit your dog’s exposure to large amounts of potatoes.
Better Alternatives: Sweet Potatoes
If you want to offer your dog a safer alternative, consider
sweet potatoes. These are richer in fiber and vitamins, and they don’t carry the solanine risk that comes with white potatoes. As with regular potatoes, sweet potatoes should be cooked thoroughly and served plain.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Toxic Potato Part
If your dog accidentally eats a raw potato, green skin, or any part of the potato plant:
- Watch for symptoms of toxicity
- Keep your dog hydrated
- Contact your veterinarian immediately if symptoms appear
Final Thoughts
Potatoes can be a tasty treat for your canine companion if served correctly. However, the
leaves, stems, green spots, and raw peels are dangerous due to the presence of solanine and other compounds. Always cook potatoes fully, remove the skin when possible, and consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
Safety should always come first when sharing human foods with dogs. With the right precautions, the occasional potato bite won’t hurt—but it should never become a dietary staple.
