can dogs eat potato peels

Potato peels often end up as leftovers in many households, and it’s natural to wonder whether they can be safely shared with your dog. While potatoes themselves are a common ingredient in many dog foods, the skin tells a slightly different story. This guide takes a detailed look at whether potato peels are safe for dogs, what risks they carry, and how to handle them if you’re thinking of adding them to your pet’s diet.

Are Potato Peels Safe for Dogs?

Raw potato peels are not safe for dogs. They contain solanine, a natural chemical that can be toxic to dogs if consumed in large amounts. Solanine is found in higher concentrations in green or sprouting potatoes and their skins. If your dog were to eat these, even in moderate quantities, it could lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, or in more serious cases, confusion and weakness.

Cooking the potato thoroughly can reduce solanine levels significantly. However, even when cooked, the peel doesn’t offer much in the way of nutritional value and can be tough on your dog’s digestive system. While a small piece here and there may not cause immediate harm, it’s generally best to avoid feeding your dog potato skins altogether.

Nutritional Considerations

Potato peels are rich in fibre and contain some vitamins, but these benefits are more useful for humans than dogs. Dogs have different dietary needs, and fibre from peels can be too harsh or even irritating to their stomachs. Dogs that are prone to gastrointestinal sensitivity may find potato skins especially hard to digest.

If you’re looking to add some variety to your dog’s meals, there are far better vegetable options. Carrots, green beans and pumpkin are all safer and more digestible alternatives that offer a better balance of nutrients without the risk associated with potato skins.

Cooked Peels: A Grey Area

If the potato peels have been properly cooked, especially by boiling or baking without oil, seasoning or butter, they are technically safer than raw skins. Still, just because something isn’t toxic doesn’t mean it’s good for your dog. Cooked peels can still be fibrous and cause mild digestive upset. Fried or heavily seasoned peels should never be given to dogs, as fats, salts and spices can be harmful or even dangerous.

When Accidents Happen

If your dog accidentally eats a small amount of raw or cooked potato peel, there’s no need to panic, but it’s important to watch for signs of digestive upset or toxicity. Keep an eye out for changes in behaviour, vomiting or signs of discomfort. If your dog has eaten a large quantity, particularly raw or green potato skins, it’s best to contact your vet for advice.

Summary

While dogs may be curious about potato peels, it’s safest to keep them off the menu. Raw peels carry a risk of solanine toxicity, and even cooked peels can cause digestive discomfort without offering much nutritional benefit. If you want to treat your dog with vegetables, stick to ones known to be safe and gentle on their stomach. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to what you share from your plate.