✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last reviewed: 2026-07
Can dogs eat potatoes?
The full picture
Like tomatoes, potatoes are nightshades and contain solanine — concentrated in the skin, sprouts, and any green parts. Cooking destroys much of the toxin, which is why plain boiled, baked, or steamed potato flesh is generally safe. Raw potato, green potato, or sprouted potato should never be fed. Chips, crisps, and roast potatoes cooked with salt, oil, and seasonings are separate issues. A few pieces of plain cooked potato mixed into a meal is fine; a high-potato diet isn't ideal.
If your dog ate more than a safe amount
If your dog has eaten raw or green potatoes or potato skins, call your vet — solanine content in these is significant. Cooked plain potato in moderate amounts is unlikely to be an emergency but monitor for digestive upset.
Risks to watch for
- Solanine poisoning from raw or green potato
- Obesity from high-carb forms
- Salt and fat from processed potato foods
Potential benefits
- Some vitamins and fibre when cooked plainly
Safe portion size
A small amount of plain cooked potato occasionally.
Safer alternatives
- Cooked sweet potato
- Carrots
- Butternut squash
And while you're thinking about what's good for your dog, keeping on top of flea and parasite prevention is just as important as diet.