Green potato poisoning in dogs occurs when a dog consumes too much solanine, which is a glycoalkaloid naturally produced in green or raw potatoes, potato skins, and the foliage from the potato plant. Solanine poisoning can cause heart problems, difficulty breathing, and gastrointestinal upset.
What are the symptoms of solanine poisoning in dogs?
Typically, when ingested by dogs and cats, it rarely results in toxicity. A large amount needs to be ingested (e.g., chronically in cattle) for solanine to result in severe poisoning. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea), lethargy, weakness, and even confusion.
Are raw potatoes toxic to dogs?
You should never feed your dog a raw potato. White potatoes belong to the nightshade family of vegetables, which includes tomatoes. Like tomatoes, raw potatoes contain solanine, a compound that is toxic to some dogs. However, cooking a potato reduces the levels of solanine.
What happens if my dog ate a potato?
If your dog ingests a raw potato with the highest levels of solanine, they'll end up with an upset stomach, including possible nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
How much solanine is toxic to dogs?
Solanine, solanidine and related compounds are water-soluble and heat-stable. The toxins are principally found in leaves, green berries and, in the case of potato, greened tubers. Suggested toxic levels range from 0.1 to 1.0% of animals body weight, consumed as green plant.
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