Are you a sweet potato fan? You know, I yam! And so is my dog! Sweet potatoes can be a fine addition to your dog’s diet. But not all potatoes are made equal. And it’s good to know how to feed your dog this veggie. So, from this article, you will learn that:
Key Takeaways
- Cooked sweet potato is safe for dogs.
- Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamins A, B6, beta-carotene and antioxidants.
- Raw sweet potatoes and yams are bad for dogs.
- Dogs shouldn’t eat them every day.
Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potatoes and Yams?
The yam and the sweet potato are two different types of plants with similar traits, but they do have some differences. For instance, sweet potatoes will have smoother skin than yams. Sweet potatoes often have orange or red flesh, while yams usually have white or yellowish flesh. And in terms of a dog’s liking? Can dogs eat sweet potatoes and yams?
Yes! Dogs can eat both! Your dog is allowed to occasionally eat sweet potatoes and yams as long as they’re cooked and the peels are removed. But too much can result in obesity – dogs will do better with more nutritious foods.
The Benefits of Giving Your Dog Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes contain carbohydrates which provides energy for dogs. They’re also abundant in potassium, an important mineral for dogs. Sweet potatoes are low in fat and high in antioxidants, which help to protect dogs from diseases.
Sweet potatoes are also beta-carotene rich and there is a relationship between consuming this vitamin and preventing heart disease, eye disease, and cancer in dogs. Rich in iron, calcium, copper, vitamin B and C, these root vegetables make an amazing dog treat.
Can I Feed My Dog Sweet Potatoes Every Day?
While sweet potatoes are a nutritious food for canines, they can’t be in a dog’s diet each and every day. Sweet potatoes contain a high level of sugar, which can cause digestive problems for dogs. Too many carbohydrates in your hound’s meal is definitely a no-no. Just like the white potato, sweet ones contain a lot of starch, and it can be ingested only in moderate amounts.
Are Sweet Potatoes Always Good for Dogs?
Can dogs eat sweet potatoes that are uncooked? No, you can’t give your dog raw sweet potatoes, as they’re very difficult on their delicate digestive system and can even lead to liver failure. Moreover, be careful not to give your dog any vegetable peelings because they may be moldy and harmful.
But it’s not always a bad idea to give your dog sweet potatoes! In fact, sweet potatoes that have been cooked and mashed can be a delicacy. Remember that if your dog has a food allergy, you should watch out for any negative symptoms and contact your veterinarian if they materialize.
Recipe for Sweet Potato Chips
Can dogs eat sweet potato chips? Actually, yes! Try some sweet potato chews; they make a great occasional treat for your canine companion. Chips made of sweet potatoes are the ideal treat for your dog. They’re healthy and tasty, especially when accompanied by peanut butter or carrots. And the best part? You can make them in bulk and store them in an airtight container to munch on anytime!
The recipe is simple: peel and slice a few sweet potatoes purchased at your local market. After preheating your oven to 250 degrees, spread the slices on to an oven pan (on baking paper). Spread some olive oil or coconut oil on top. You can also sprinkle cinnamon on those crunchy chips! Your dog will thank you for this amazing snack! Keep it in a jar and serve whenever your pooch is fussy about basic dog food. We also recommend prepping dehydrated sweet potatoes for your buddy.
Final Thoughts
Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients that can improve your dog’s health in many ways. They are a great source of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. And because they are relatively low calories, they are „paw-fect” for dogs who need to lose weight. So, can dogs eat sweet potatoes? Yes, you can feed them to your dog every week without worry – just make sure you give them yams without their peels and in moderate quantities. Leave us a comment if your pooch is wagging their tail after this read!
Sarah Jameson is a journalist, reporter and a pet nutritionist. She is married to Peter, and they have two beautiful children, Zoey and Quinn. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys cooking for her family and playing snooker. She also loves spending time with her Scottish Terrier, Bobby.
