Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes aren't just for your grandma's Thanksgiving pie anymore. Foodies have found ways to incorporate them into all sorts of dishes—from sweet potato hash at your favorite weekend brunch spot to a side of sweet potato truffle fries with a gourmet burger at your local gastropub, the options are endless. Since humans have found so many uses for this highly nutritious (and also pretty delicious) vegetable, we have to wonder, can dogs eat sweet potatoes, too?

Yes, dogs CAN eat sweet potatoes. They are a healthy, low-fat treat for dogs, packed with vitamins A, C, and B6, fiber, and minerals.

Most v e ts agree that dogs can have sweet potatoes as long as they are:

cooked
peeled
unsweetened or unseasoned
given in moderation

Nutritional Benefits of Sweet Potatoes for Dogs

Are sweet potatoes good for dogs? Because sweet potatoes are a rich source of dietary fiber and contain essential vitamins such as A, B6, and C—along with minerals like manganese, calcium, and iron—they offer a number of health benefits to dogs.

Vitamins for Overall Health

Vitamin A: Essential for maintaining healthy skin and coat, supports the proper functioning of nerves and muscles, and supports good vision.
Vitamin B6: Involved in glucose generation, red blood cell and nervous system function, hormone regulation, immune response, and even gene activation.
Vitamin C: Can help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and potentially ward off conditions like hip dysplasia and spinal issues.

Dietary Fiber for Digestive Health

Regulates Digestion: Helps keep the digestive system running smoothly, absorbing water to soften stools and making bowel movements more regular.
Prebiotic Benefits: Feeds good bacteria to the dog's gut, which is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health.
Aids in Weight Management: Helps dogs feel fuller longer, which can help with weight management.

Minerals for Body Functions

Manganese: Plays a role in the production of collagen, which is essential for bone health and wound healing and supports the metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates.
Calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth, and supports muscle function and nerve signaling
Iron: Crucial for healthy blood cells and energy levels.

How to Prepare Sweet Potatoes for Dogs

1. Peel the potatoes.

If you plan to let your dog eat sweet potatoes, make sure to peel them first. Sweet potato skin can be tough and fibrous. While this fiber is beneficial in moderate amounts, the skin might be too hard for dogs to digest properly. This could lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or even blockages, especially in smaller dogs or those with sensitive stomachs.

2. Make sure they are full cooked.

Always serve sweet potatoes cooked and never raw, as raw sweet potatoes can be difficult for dogs to digest. A cooked sweet potato is not only easier for dogs to chew, but cooking also enhances its natural sweetness, making it more appealing for your pup. You can boil, steam, or bake them.

3. Don't add any seasonings or sweetener.

Although we may love grandma's sweet potato pie with brown sugar and marshmallows (or some parmesan and garlic aioli sauce, depending on the mood), your pup will have to stick with unseasoned sweet potatoes. Skip the butter, salt, spices, and sweeteners that we humans tend to enjoy, as these can be harmful to dogs.

4. Always give them in moderation.

As with any treat, be sure to give sweet potatoes to your dog in moderation. Dogs require a well-rounded diet that meets all their nutritional needs. Despite their many health benefits, sweet potatoes are relatively high in carbohydrates and calories. Overindulging can lead to unnecessary weight gain, which in turn can increase the risk of obesity-related health issues such as diabetes, joint problems, and heart disease.

Risks and Considerations When Feeding Sweet Potatoes to Dogs

Moderation is Key: How much sweet potato can a dog have? While nutritious, cooked sweet potatoes should only be an occasional treat and should constitute less than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake. Too much can lead to an upset stomach or imbalance in the dog's diet.
Beware of Raw or Uncooked Sweet Potatoes: Raw sweet potato can be hard for dogs to digest. Always cook them thoroughly (without seasonings) before feeding.
Watch Out for Additives: Sweet potato fries or pie might sound tempting, but when it comes to dogs, sweet potatoes should be served plain. The extra sugar and seasonings can be harmful.
Potential Allergic Reactions: Like any new food, introduce sweet potatoes slowly. This way, you can monitor for any signs of an allergic reaction or digestive upset.
Choking Hazard: Especially for small dogs, make sure to cut sweet potatoes into small, manageable pieces to avoid any risk of choking.
Not for Every Pup: Dogs with certain health conditions, like congestive heart failure or diabetes, should avoid sweet potatoes due to their sugar content and effect on blood sugar.
Nutritional Balance: Remember, sweet potatoes should not replace a dog's main source of nutrition. They're best served as a supplement to a balanced diet.

Homemade Dog Sweet Potato Treats

If you want to incorporate sweet potatoes into your dog's diet, here's an easy and nutritious homemade sweet potato dog treat recipe you can try.

Ingredients

1 large sweet potato, peeled and cooked
2 cups whole wheat flour (or substitute with any dog-friendly flour if your dog is sensitive to wheat)
1/2 cup oats
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
1 egg

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Prepare the sweet potato: Peel your sweet potato and cut it into chunks. Boil or steam until tender, then mash it with a fork or potato masher until smooth. You’ll need one cup of mashed sweet potato for this recipe.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of whole wheat flour with 1/2 cup of oats. Mix well to distribute evenly.
Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the mashed sweet potato, 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil, and 1 egg. Stir until you have a smooth mixture.
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it's too dry, add a bit more applesauce or a splash of water.
Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into shapes your dog will love. Bones, hearts, and stars are always popular choices!
Bake the treats: Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the treats are firm and slightly golden brown.
Cool down: Let the treats cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to ensure the treats harden into a satisfyingly chewy texture.
Treat time: Once cooled, it's time to see your dog's reaction to these homemade delights! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Tips for Success

Always allow the treats to cool completely before letting your dog eat them. This not only makes them easier to digest but also brings out the flavors.
Adjust the size of the treats according to your dog's size. Smaller dogs will appreciate smaller, bite-sized treats, while larger dogs can handle bigger pieces.
For dogs with dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute any of the ingredients with a suitable alternative. For example, gluten-free flour can replace whole wheat flour for dogs with wheat sensitivities.

Bully Beds All-in-One Multivitamin for Dogs

Other Nutritious Treat Options:

If you're not keen on breaking out the mixer and oven mitts for your pup but still want them to have a healthy treat, consider giving your pet an All-in-One multivitamin designed with your dog's health and happiness in mind. Bully Beds pet supplements use high-quality ingredients backed by science, and they support everything from joint health to digestion.

Joint Health

Joint health is important for dogs of all sizes, especially as they age or if you have a larger breed prone to joint issues. Bully Beds dog supplements contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are heroes in the world of joint support.

These components help maintain healthy cartilage and joint fluid, reducing stiffness and improving mobility, allowing your dog to move more freely and enjoy their daily walks or playtime without discomfort.

Skin & Coat

A shiny coat and healthy skin are signs of good overall health in dogs. Bully Beds supplements are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, essential vitamins, and minerals that nourish the skin and coat from the inside out.

These nutrients help combat dry skin and reduce flakiness. Plus, they can help alleviate itching and irritation, making your furry friend more comfortable and less prone to scratching.

Overall Wellness

Just like humans, dogs need a well-rounded diet to feel their best. Bully Beds supplements are designed to fill any gaps in your dog's nutrition, ensuring they get all the necessary vitamins and minerals for optimal health.

Ingredients that convert beta carotene to Vitamin A support eye health, while fiber-rich components aid in gastrointestinal wellness. This comprehensive approach to nutrition means your dog experiences an uptick in energy levels and overall vitality.

Give Your Dog a Happy and Healthy Life

So, can dogs eat sweet potatoes? Absolutely. But if you're looking for an equally nutritious way to enhance your dog's diet, consider exploring the world of high-quality dog supplements, too. Remember, the key to a healthy diet for your dog lies in variety and balance. Sweet potatoes can complement this balance, offering a nutrient-rich snack that supports their overall health. But it's also important to keep their entire dietary intake in mind, ensuring they receive a well-rounded diet tailored to their specific needs and any health issues.

Whether you decide to bake a batch of homemade sweet potato dog treats or opt for a comprehensive supplement like those from Bully Beds, the goal is the same: to provide your dog with the nutrition they need to lead a long, healthy, and joyful life.