Are raw potatoes bad for dogs?
In this article, we will answer the question “are raw potatoes bad for dogs”, discuss the possible symptoms, and also how to treat raw potato poisoning.
Are raw potatoes bad for dogs?
Yes, raw potatoes are bad for dogs. Raw potatoes are not good for us nor do our pets due to the higher content of solanine that can be toxic for dogs. When you cook potatoes the level of solanine drops significantly, so you can feed your dog cooked potatoes instead of raw potatoes.
How poisonous are raw potatoes?
Raw potatoes contain a compound called glycoalkaloids that is present in the members of the nightshade family that can be toxic when consumed in high amounts. Two types of glycoalkaloids are present in raw potatoes named solanine and chaconine.
How many potatoes can a dog eat?
Any potato that’s given as a treat, even in small amounts, should be counted along with other treats to represent a maximum of 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Should dogs eat raw potatoes at all?
No, your dog should not eat raw potatoes. It is okay to eat cooked potatoes in small amounts as it will not harm your pet, but raw potatoes are a whole different story. Raw potatoes contain solanine, a potentially toxic compound for your dog.
When you cook potatoes, the solanine level drops dramatically, that is why cooked potatoes are ok and raw are out of the question! Solanine is present in many plants, including tomatoes and potatoes. Its role is to protect the plant from insects. Unfortunately, when ingested even in small amounts, it can harm your pet.
How can you tell if your dog has ingested solanine?
When your dog ingested raw potatoes, he had the same symptoms as in food poisoning. Solanine affects the neurotransmitter in your dog’s body that inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine.
Ultimately reduced the function of the nervous system and the body’s organs. Dogs have more risk from too much solanine as compared to human beings. So, it is recommended that you should avoid giving raw potatoes, especially those with green skin, or growing sprouts to canines.
The latter should be avoided even when cooked.
How can you tell if your dog has green potato poisoning?
Following are the symptoms that revealed that your dog has ingested raw/green potatoes, potato skin, or foliage of the potato plant:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, abdominal pain, or nausea)
- Difficulty breathing
- Excess drooling
- Swelling of tongue or lips
- Dilated pupils
- Trembling
- Dizziness
- Burning of the throat
- Cardiac dysrhythmia
- Slow pulse
- Slowed breathing
- Loss of sensation
- Low body temperature (hypothermia)
- Delirium
- Seizures
- Paralysis
- Death
- Shock
The above symptoms mainly depend on the solanine quantity present in raw potatoes or potato skins your dog ate, and your’s dog current health and size. Luckily, more often, the symptoms are mild.
It may be adverse if your dog is very small or already sick. Consult your veterinarian immediately if you come to know that your pet has eaten many potatoes.
Your veterinarian will have to know how much raw potatoes or potato plant foliage your dog has eaten and how long ago it happened. Inform the vet of any symptoms you have noticed as well as your dog’s medical history.
Other FAQs about Potatoes which you may be interested in.
how to cut potatoes into wedges
How long do Mashed Potatoes last in the Fridge?
How Is Potato (Green) Poisoning Treated?
Go to the vet, Your vet will treat your dog with medicine apomorphine and induced vomiting. Activated charcoal is also frequently prescribed as it absorbs any toxin that may be left in your dog’s stomach.
There will be oxygen therapy and dogs will also be sedated and provided with IV fluids. Sometimes a dog also receives treatment that helps boost his or her nervous system. The faster the treatment is given, the earlier your dog will recover.
It is important to provide a peaceful environment for your dog to rest at home until your dog recovers. Also, monitor your dog’s condition daily and keep in contact with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
What About Sweet Potatoes? Can Your Dog Have Those?
Sweet potatoes are a better choice for both humans and dogs as it is more nutritious than regular white potatoes. Of course, they need to be cooked first as well.
Sweet potatoes have a valuable amount of vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. They also contain minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, and iron, and other nutrients.
Conclusion
In this article, we answered the question “are raw potatoes bad for dogs”, discussed the possible symptoms and also how to treat raw potato poisoning.
