Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potato?
Photo by Chewy
Sweet potatoes are often considered a human superfood, but can dogs eat sweet potato safely? Yes, as long as it’s plain, unseasoned, and fully cooked. (Sorry, pups, no sweet potato fries for you!)
Here’s everything you need to know about the benefits and risks of giving your dog sweet potatoes, plus tips on how to safely prepare and serve them.
Before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet, always check with your veterinarian.
Key Takeaways
- Dogs can eat sweet potatoes, but only if they’re plain, peeled, and thoroughly cooked—never raw, seasoned, or fried.
- Sweet potatoes provide fiber, beta-carotene, and essential vitamins, making them a healthy treat in moderation.
- Portion control is key. Treats like sweet potatoes should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories—and always check with your vet first.
Can Dogs Have Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, dogs can have sweet potatoes but only in certain forms. Plain, peeled, thoroughly cooked sweet potatoes without any added ingredients are perfectly safe. This includes all varieties, from orange to purple to white.
Avoid raw sweet potatoes, which are tough to chew and can cause blockages. Also skip anything processed, like canned sweet potatoes with added syrup or seasonings.
Sweet potatoes are also a common ingredient in dog food and treats, especially ones made for sensitive stomachs and hypoallergenic diets. Here are some of our favorites:
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Are Sweet Potatoes Good for Dogs?
When fed in moderation, sweet potatoes can be a nutritious addition to your dog’s diet.
According to Katrin Ventocilla, DVM, co-owner of PACK Animal Care in Lorton, Virginia, here are some benefits:
- They’re high in fiber. Because of this, they promote good digestion and help support your dog’s overall digestive health.
- They’re rich in beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a fantastic antioxidant. Dogs can convert beta-carotene into vitamin A, which boosts the immune system and supports your dog’s vision and skin.
- They’re packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes contain protein, along with vitamins C, B6, and B5, manganese, and potassium. All of these nutrients help support your dog’s overall health.
Are Sweet Potatoes Bad for Dogs?
Dogs can enjoy sweet potatoes in moderation, but keep these cautions in mind:
- Raw sweet potato can be a choking hazard. Plus, it can be difficult to chew and possibly obstruct the gastrointestinal tract. That’s why dogs should only eat cooked sweet potato.
- Eating too much can lead to an upset stomach. If your dog has never eaten sweet potato, start by feeding them a small amount to see if they have a negative reaction, like an upset stomach or allergic reaction. If all is well, then you can slowly increase the quantity over time.
- They may not be ideal for dogs with certain health conditions. Because sweet potatoes are starchy and high in carbohydrates, they can cause blood sugar spikes. Dogs with diabetes, obesity, or other conditions that require careful calorie control should only eat sweet potatoes under veterinary guidance.
How Much Sweet Potato Can My Dog Eat?
Like with all human foods, moderation matters when it comes to dogs and sweet potatoes.
Sweet potatoes should be considered treats, and treats should make up no more than 10% of the total calories of your dog’s daily diet, with the rest coming from a complete and well-balanced dog food.
You should always consult with your vet before serving sweet potato to determine the right portion size for your dog, but here are some general guidelines, based on size:
| Dog Size | Serving Size | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Extra-small dogs (2–10 pounds) | 1/2–1 teaspoon | Daily |
| Small dogs (11–20 pounds) | 1–2 teaspoons | Daily |
| Medium dogs (21–50 pounds) | 2–5 teaspoons | Daily |
| Large dogs (51–90 pounds) | 1 1/2–3 tablespoons | Daily |
| Extra-large dogs (91+ pounds) | 3 tablespoons | Daily |
How To Safely Feed Sweet Potatoes to Your Dog
Before giving your dog sweet potatoes, make sure they’re safely prepared. Here are some tips:
- Wash them. Thoroughly wash the sweet potatoes to remove dirt and any pesticide residue.
- Peel them. Because sweet potato skin can be difficult to digest, it’s best to peel the potatoes first.
- Cut them into bite-size cubes or mash them. Ensure cubes are appropriate for your dog’s weight and size.
- Keep them plain. That means no added milk, cream, butter, oil, salt, or other seasonings.
- Cook fully. Boil, steam, bake, or dehydrate them—but never serve them raw.
Now that the sweet potatoes are properly prepared, here are some ways to serve it to your pup:
- As a small snack: Offer bite-sized pieces between meals.
- Mixed with regular food: Try hiding the sweet potato under your dog’s regular kibble to make them work for this yummy treat.
- Stuffed into their favorite toy: If serving mashed sweet potatoes, try stuffing them into the KONG Classic dog toy for enrichment.
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- Spread over a lick mat: You can spread mashed sweet potatoes on a lick mat, like the Frisco Silicone Lick Mat.
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My Dog Ate Too Much Sweet Potato—What Do I Do?
If your pup sneaks a few extra bites of sweet potatoes, you might notice signs like:
In most cases, mild stomach upset will pass on its own, but it’s still a good idea to monitor your dog closely. If symptoms are severe, last for more than a day, or your dog seems lethargic or in pain, call your veterinarian right away.
FAQs About Sweet Potatoes for Dogs
Can puppies eat sweet potatoes?
Yes, puppies can eat sweet potatoes but only in very small amounts and always cooked. Puppies have sensitive digestive systems, so introduce sweet potato slowly and only after checking with your vet.
Can dogs eat sweet potato skins?
No, dogs should not eat sweet potato skin because it can be difficult to digest.
Can dogs eat raw sweet potatoes?
No. Raw sweet potatoes are too hard for dogs to chew and can cause choking or intestinal blockages. Always cook them first.
Can dogs eat sweet potato fries?
No, dogs shouldn’t eat sweet potato fries. While your dog would probably enjoy them just as much as you do, sweet potato fries contain seasoning like garlic, sugars, and oils that are not dog-friendly.
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