PetSafe Swaps & Nutrition
Can dogs eat Potato?
Quick answer: Potato is generally considered safe for most healthy dogs when fed in moderation. Aim for about 1-2 tablespoons of plain cooked potato per 10 lbs body weight (cooked only — never raw) and keep it within their daily calorie allowance.
- Toxic level
- Low
- Suggested amount
- 1-2 tablespoons of plain cooked potato per 10 lbs body weight (cooked only — never raw)
- Primary takeaway
- Cooked plain potato provides carbohydrates for energy and potassium for heart and muscle health. Raw potato contains solanine and is toxic.
Nutritional breakdown for dogs
Potato can be a fun addition to your dog's treat rotation. It offers Cooked plain potato provides carbohydrates for energy and potassium for heart and muscle health. Raw potato contains solanine and is toxic., but it is not a complete food and should never replace a dog-specific diet formulated to meet all daily nutrient needs. Most of the calories come from potato's natural sugars and carbohydrates, so keep portions small — especially for pets with weight, pancreas, or blood sugar concerns.
Safe serving suggestions
- Preparation
- Always cook potatoes thoroughly — baked, boiled, or steamed with no added salt, butter, oil, garlic, or onion. Remove all skin and green parts, which contain higher concentrations of solanine. Never feed raw potatoes, potato plants, or green/sprouted potatoes. Avoid mashed potato with additives or french fries.
- Portion
- 1-2 tablespoons of plain cooked potato per 10 lbs body weight (cooked only — never raw)
- Frequency
- Occasionally as a treat, no more than once or twice per week. Potatoes are high in starch and carbohydrates, so diabetic or overweight dogs should have very limited amounts.
If your dog eats too much potato
If a dog eats raw potato, green potato, or potato plant material (leaves, stems, skin with green tint), contact ASPCA Poison Control at 888-426-4435 and your vet immediately. Signs of solanine toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, and confusion.
Healthy alternatives to potato
If you want to spoil your dog without second guessing every bite, choose options that are widely regarded as safer by veterinarians and pet nutritionists.
- 1Sweet potato (cooked, plain)
- 2Pumpkin (cooked, plain)
- 3Carrots
This guide is educational and not a substitute for individualized veterinary care. When in doubt, call your vet or a certified pet poison hotline before offering new foods.
Related safe treats for dogs
Looking for alternatives to potato? These guides cover other foods that are generally considered safer treats for most healthy dogs when fed in moderation.
- Safe
Can dogs eat Blueberries?
Suggested amount: 5–10 berries per 10 lbs (4.5 kg) body weight, a few times per week
- Safe
Can dogs eat Strawberries?
Suggested amount: 1–3 berries for a medium dog, a few times per week
- Safe
Can dogs eat Watermelon?
Suggested amount: A few bite-sized cubes for a medium dog, a few times per week
- Safe
Can dogs eat Mango?
Suggested amount: 2–3 small cubes for a medium dog, a few times per week
Quick questions about potato for dogs
How much is too much?
Our general guideline for most healthy dogs is 1-2 tablespoons of plain cooked potato per 10 lbs body weight (cooked only — never raw). Going far beyond that in a single sitting increases the chance of stomach upset, and with safe foods it still adds extra calories that can contribute to weight gain over time.
Is potato good for dogs?
Absolutely — in sensible portions, this food can support your dog's health because it cooked plain potato provides carbohydrates for energy and potassium for heart and muscle health. raw potato contains solanine and is toxic. It still should never replace a complete dog diet made for daily nutrition.
What warning signs should I watch for?
After eating potato, keep an eye on your dog for changes in appetite, energy, behavior, and stool quality. Symptoms like repeated vomiting, watery diarrhea, obvious discomfort, or any worrying signs described in the emergency section above are reasons to call your veterinarian or an animal poison hotline right away.
Safety data follows our editorial standards →
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