Should Dogs Eat Sweet Potatoes?

As a pup parent, it’s very tempting to feed my dog whatever is on my plate. For one, she’s the best girl I know, who deserves everything her heart desires. She also is incredibly persuasive. That being said, I want her to stay as healthy as possible, meaning I can’t always give her the food she wants.

Fortunately, I can give my furry friend one of her favorite human food --sweet potatoes. According to PetMD, canine companions can get sweet potatoes in moderation as long as they are unseasoned and cooked without oil or butter. It’s also important for your dog to not eat uncooked sweet potatoes, as it could lead to issues with their digestion, which is never pleasant. Our canine companions may also have difficulty swallowing pieces of raw sweet potato. Pups should also not eat sweet potato peels for the same reason.

The amount of sweet potato you should give your furry friend depends on their size. For instance, dogs under 20 pounds should only eat a teaspoon a day as a treat. If you have a larger dog, upwards of 90 pounds, they can indulge in four teaspoons for their daily treat.

While speaking to the American Kennel Club, Dr. Gary Richter, MS, DVM, shared that the food is quite beneficial for our furry friends.

“Sweet potatoes are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and beta-carotene. Sweet potato treats can be as simple as a dehydrated sweet potato chew,” explained the vet.

Make sure to talk it to your dog’s vet before you introduce your dog to sweet potatoes. After all, you never know if they could be allergic, have certain health issues, or are on medicines that do not mix with the root vegetable.

Does your dog like sweet potatoes? Let us know in the comments below!

HealthNicole MooreJuly 29, 2023dog food, dog diet, dog health, Dog Healthy LivingComment