Are Sweet Potatoes Good for Dogs?
Sweet potatoes aren’t just a go-to side dish at your Thanksgiving table…they’re also a tremendous year-round treat for your furry friend! Offering a variety of wholesome nutrients, sweet potatoes are good for dogs and taste just as delicious to them as they do to us. Let’s dig into what makes this veggie so great and how you should prepare it for your Cadet.
Sweet Potato Benefits for Dogs
Not only can dogs have sweet potatoes, they're also a superfood! A terrific low-fat snack, this antioxidant-rich root vegetable contains many of the vitamins and minerals your dog needs to live a healthy life, including:
Vitamin A – This essential vitamin helps support a variety of your dog’s organs, including their eyes, skin, and brain.
Vitamin B6 – Some of vitamin B6’s most prominent roles include immune system support, red blood cell creation, and hormone regulation (which impacts dogs’ stress levels and behavior).
Vitamin C – A critical antioxidant, vitamin C is vital for your dog’s immune system and can also help reduce inflammation.
Iron – Your dog’s body needs iron to help supply oxygen to the circulatory system. Iron also aids in enzymatic function, which is essential for digestion.
Calcium – This important mineral promotes strong bones, aids in nerve function, and helps blood clot properly.
Zinc – Dogs need zinc for an array of functions, such as maintaining healthy eyes & skin and fighting off diseases.
Sweet potatoes are also high in fiber, which supports digestive system function and can help prevent constipation. With so many sweet potato benefits for dogs and scrumptious flavor, it’s no wonder this healthy human food for dogs is a wise choice!
How to Cook Sweet Potatoes for Dogs
Adding a little sweet potato to your pup’s kibble or surprising them with delicious sweet potato treats won’t leave them disappointed! But can dogs eat raw sweet potatoes? In short, no—dogs should not eat raw sweet potatoes. Make sure any sweet potato you give your dog is cooked, as raw chunks can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage. Steamed, baked, and boiled sweet potatoes are the best dog-friendly options. It’s also a good idea to remove the skin, which can be difficult to digest.
Although you should always cook sweet potato for dogs, it’s important to serve it without any added ingredients—such as brown sugar or butter. While many of us enjoy these toppings, they may not be the best for your dog’s health. Don’t worry about adding any extra flavor—most pooches love plain, cooked sweet potato!
How Much Sweet Potato Can I Give My Dog?
Although dogs can eat sweet potatoes, this carbohydrate source represents just one element of a balanced diet. Always feed in moderation and consider your dog’s size to determine the right amount to give them. Larger breeds, for example, can typically have a little more sweet potato than smaller dogs. As a guideline, start by giving your furry friend one to two ounces of sweet potato. You can increase the amount based on their weight if they respond well to it.
Diabetic dogs may only be able to have small amounts of sweet potato because it has a high glycemic index, according to Dogster. Consult your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet.
What a Sweet Treat!
Sweet potatoes are good for dogs and contain plenty of irresistible flavor for a truly wonderful snack. Whether you want to make your Cadet’s dinner extra special or give them a nourishing natural dog treat, this classic reward will do their palate and overall wellness a favor. Don’t be afraid to sneak some sweet potato for yourself…it’s great for you, too!
Now that you know the answer to the question, “Are sweet potatoes good for dogs?” it’s time to share this festive treat with your furry friend! Here's advice for giving your dog sweet potato on Thanksgiving!
