Can dogs eat potatoes?

Solanine is a natural defense compound in the potato plant. It is most concentrated in the leaves, stems, sprouts and any part of the tuber that has turned green from light exposure. Cooking reduces it only partly, so green or sprouted areas should always be cut away generously.

A dog that eats a lot of raw peelings, green potatoes or plant material can develop vomiting, diarrhea, drooling and, rarely, weakness or confusion.

Boiled or baked potato, peeled and cooled, is a bland food that most dogs digest well. A 10 kg (22 lb) dog can have one or two tablespoons as an occasional extra. Potato has around 77 calories per 100 g, and filling up on it leaves less room for the protein-rich food that dogs need.

Cooled boiled potato cubes can also be used as a bland, low-value reward for calm dogs, though they are messier to carry than most treats.

Mashed potato for people usually contains butter, milk or cream, salt and sometimes garlic. Roast potatoes are cooked in oil or fat. Chips, fries and crisps are high in fat and salt. Potato salad often includes onion and mayonnaise. These are all better kept off your dog's plate.

Set aside a plain portion before seasoning if you want to share.

Potato plants are leafy and grow at nose height, and puppies sometimes chew them. Fence off the potato patch, and store harvested and shop-bought potatoes in a closed cupboard or bag rather than a low open rack where a dog can help itself.