Yes, it is reliable for dogs to have sweet potatoes in small quantities. Sweet potatoes are filled with carotenoids, vitamin A, vitamin C, phytochemicals, pyridoxine, potassium, calcium, fiber, magnesium, copper, iron, and antioxidants. They are also excellent sources of copper, iron, and minerals that would contribute to your pet dog’s health.
Table of Contents
What are Sweet Potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are tuberous root vegetables distinct from yams which are drier and starchier than sweet potatoes. However, many Americans use these two terms conversely. Sweet potatoes are more common than yams, making them easier to find in grocery stores.
Are Sweet Potatoes Safe for Dogs?
Yes, sweet potatoes are safe for dogs to eat. It contains beneficial nutrients which will aid the overall health of dogs. However, it is essential to avoid a few recipes of sweet potatoes, such as:
Fried and Grilled Sweet Potato: Both of these are made with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and other seasonings which are harmful for dog consumption.
Why is Sweet Potato Good for Dogs?
Sweet Potatoes are good for dogs as they are packed with nutritional benefits. The benefits are as follows:
Dietary Fiber
A cup of cooked sweet potato contains approximately 6 grams of fiber. Fiber is excellent for a dog’s digestive health, reduces the risk of heart problems and certain kinds of cancers. It will support regular, healthy bowel movements. Adding a little extra to their diet can relieve occasional constipation and diarrhea.
Beta-Carotene
Beta-Carotene is a potent antioxidant that protects against heart disease and can reduce certain types of cancer. It also turns to vitamin A in your dog’s body.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for a dog’s vision, growth, muscle strength, and skin wellness. Suppose your dog is experiencing night blindness, lousy skin quality, poor bone development, or abnormal reproductive development. In that case, it may be a sign of severe Vitamin A deficiency, and sweet potatoes could help with these issues.
Vitamin C
Sweet potato is rich in vitamins that can help a dog’s overall health, including vitamins B6 and C. Vitamin C is essential for an excellent immune system. While it is true that dogs can make their own vitamin C, dietary sources can also promote good health. These vitamins will also aid them in recovering faster from injuries or illnesses.
Vitamin B6
One of the most important functions of vitamin B6 is supporting amino acid metabolism. It aids in the maintenance of good bladder health.
Minerals
In addition to rich vitamin content, sweet potatoes also contain calcium, iron, and potassium. Each of these minerals contributes to your dog’s overall well-being. For example, potassium helps maintain a suitable fluid balance in your dog’s body and preserve muscle function and nerve transmissions. Likewise, calcium keeps a dog’s teeth and bones strong and healthy. It also aids with proper cellular function and metabolic activity.
Calcium
It will strengthen your dog’s bones, teeth, and coat while also improving his general health.
Why is Sweet Potato Bad for Dogs?
Sweet Potatoes are also starchy. Too much starch is bad for dogs to consume. Starch indicates the presence of carbohydrates. This shows that sweet potatoes convert themselves into sugar when it is in the dog’s digestive system.
The starch of sweet potatoes grows the unwanted bacteria in dogs leading to:
Sweet potatoes contain more sugar than dogs are meant to consume. Therefore, these tubers should only be fed as occasional treats not exceeding 10% of their diet.
What If My Dog Ate Sweet Potato?
If your dog has accidentally consumed too many sweet potatoes, he will show symptoms like:
Nausea
Diabetes
Hyperactivity
Obesity
Lethargy
Take your dog to the veterinarian after you notice these symptoms. Remember to follow the medications and diet as prescribed by the vet.
How To Serve Sweet Potatoes to Your Dog?
One of the most natural ways to give your dog sweet potatoes is as dehydrated chews. They make a great choice to rawhide chews, and unlike rawhide, sweet potato chews do not cause digestive blockages and gasping. So, they are a lot safer and nutritious.
Do not give dogs raw sweet potatoes unless boiled. Ensure you cook the vegetable and remove the skin to avoid choking hazards and digestive issues in your pet. After mashing, add a little to your dog’s regular meal. Steaming or boiling maintains more of its nutrients than roasting or baking.
Final Words
Sweet Potatoes are a healthy snack for your dog if fed moderately. A healthy dog diet involves scientifically formed kibble or wet food, treats, and additions like sweet potatoes added to their diet in moderation.
But we always advise checking with your vet first before adding any food to the dog menu.
