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.
What happens if a dog eats potatoes?
If you suspect your dog ate a piece (or more) of raw potato, watch out for symptoms of solanine intoxication which might include vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy. Make sure you get in touch with your vet as soon as possible so you can get your dog the help they need as quickly as possible.
How much potato is toxic to dogs?
In general, you can share potatoes with your four-legged friend as a treat following the 10% rule, which states treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet's daily calories. If your dog suffers from diabetes, avoid potatoes altogether as they could cause blood sugar spikes.
Will potatoes hurt dogs if they eat them?
Plain, cooked potatoes are safe for dogs to eat in small amounts. You should avoid cooking them in oil, or adding any extra ingredients like butter or salt if you are giving your dog potatoes. Raw potatoes and potato skins contain solanine, which can be poisonous to dogs in large quantities.
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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