In this article, we will answer the query, “Can dogs eat the skin of sweet potatoes?” along with some other questions like what is the nutritional value of the skin of sweet potatoes? How can you feed the skin of a sweet potato to your dog? And can dogs eat raw potatoes?
Can dogs eat the skin of sweet potatoes?
Yes, dogs can eat the skin of sweet potatoes. They have good nutritional value for your dog. One thing you should keep in mind is to cook the skin before giving it to your dog.
Although the skin of sweet potatoes is non-toxic for your dog, it can be harmful if you see mold on it. The mold is toxic for your dog.
What is the nutritional value of the skin of sweet potatoes?
Following is the nutritional value of the skin of sweet potatoes for your dog:
Minerals
Following are the essential minerals in the skin of the sweet potatoes:
Calcium
Calcium is the first mineral on the list. It is important for bone strength and bone density. Calcium is deposited in the bone to increase the density of bones when there is an adequate supply of calcium in the body.
The deficiency of calcium can lead to weak bones and they fracture easily.
Potassium
Potassium is the second element on the list. Potassium along with sodium is important in nerve transmission, especially in muscular contraction. Potassium is needed to build up strong muscles and proper function of the muscles.
Potassium is needed to control the blood sugar level in the body. Dogs are greedy eaters, they love sugar which is not very healthy for your dog. Potassium is very important in this case.
Magnesium
Magnesium is the third on the list. Magnesium is important for many biochemical and enzymatic reactions in the body. Magnesium is also essential for the absorption of calcium from the intestine.
The deficiency of magnesium can lead to decreased absorption of calcium from the intestine leading to weaker bones.
Iron
Iron is the fourth mineral on the list. Iron plays an important role in the immune system of the body. Iron is the major element in red blood cells.
Red blood cells have a protein called hemoglobin which has iron. Iron is required for the proper functioning of this protein. Hemoglobin is responsible for the oxygen supply in the body.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus along with calcium is needed for bone strength and bone mineral homeostasis in the body. Phosphorus is also important for energy production.
The energy molecule ATP has 3 phosphate groups in it. Breaking of these phosphate groups generates energy which is given to the body for its proper functioning.
Vitamins
There are various vitamins in the skin of sweet potatoes. Following are a few vitamins in the skin of the sweet potatoes:
- Vitamin E is responsible for slowing down the aging process which is essential for senior dogs.
- Vitamin A is responsible for healthy eyes and skin, it is important for proper vision.
- Vitamin C is essential in treating various diseases as it adds to the function of the immune system in the body.
Fiber
Fiber is essential for healthy bowel movements in the body. It reduces the risk of gastrointestinal conditions like constipation.
So far we have discussed the beneficial effects of giving the skin of sweet potatoes to your dog. Now let’s discuss how you can feed sweet potatoes to your dog.
How can you feed sweet potatoes to your dog?
Baked sweet potatoes are healthy for your dog. Please do not add any kind of seasonings, salt or any artificial flavor to this dog treat.
You can also boil the potatoes and then mash them. Sweet potatoes are excellent dog training treats as they are low in calories.
You can try many combinations with this treat, Such as adding it with fresh fruits or vegetables and serving it plain to your dog.
Potato fries are not healthy for your dog. It is human food. Potato chips have salt, seasonings and other things which are not beneficial for your dog. Make sure your dog doesn’t get potato fries.
Can your dogs eat raw potatoes?
No, dogs cannot eat raw potatoes. It is not safe for your dog. Raw potatoes may have mold growth on them which is not healthy for your dog.
Raw potatoes also have many bacteria that are harmful to you and your dog. Always wash and boil the sweet potatoes before giving them to your dog.
Other FAQs about Sweet Potatoes that you may be interested in.
What to do with leftover sweet potatoes?
What do sweet potatoes taste like?
How to store cut sweet potatoes?
Conclusion
In this article, we answered the query, “Can dogs eat the skin of sweet potatoes?” We also discussed other questions like what is the nutritional value of the skin of sweet potatoes? How can you feed the skin of sweet potatoes to your dog? And can dogs eat raw potatoes?
