Can German Shepherds Eat Potatoes?

Potatoes are a staple in many recipes worldwide.

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Whether fried, baked, or boiled, they make a delicious meal.

If you make some crisps, your german shepherds may come to the kitchen door once they sniff the irresistible aroma.

Being a loyal friend, you feel obligated to give them some pieces.

However, there is a jingle in your mind because you don’t know if they are healthy for German shepherd’s consumption.

So, can German shepherds eat potatoes?

Yes, German shepherds can eat potatoes but in moderation.

They contain vitamin C, manganese, potassium, zinc, and magnesium.

However, ensure you cook them well because raw potatoes contain solanine that is harmful to them.

This article will look into the nutritional value, risks, alternative vegetables, and ways to serve potatoes to your german shepherds.

Nutritional value of potatoes to german shepherds

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is essential for keeping your german shepherds healthy because it helps form collagen and connective tissue in their bodies.

It also helps with healing wounds and preventing scurvy.

Magnesium

Magnesium is another essential mineral that plays a vital role in bone health and muscle development.

It also helps regulate nerve function and blood sugar levels.

Fiber

Potatoes are a good source of fiber, which helps regulate digestion and break down calories.

Therefore, making them ideal for the german shepherds who need to lose weight or have digestive problems.

Phosphorous

Phosphorus helps build strong bones and teeth.

It also aids in cell growth and development.

Zinc

Zinc is necessary for healthy cell growth throughout the German shepherd’s body.

It also helps prevent itchiness caused by allergies or parasites like fleas or ticks.

Magnesium

Magnesium is vital for building strong bones and teeth.

Risks of potatoes to german shepherds

The skin contains oxalates

Potatoes’ skin has a high concentration of oxalic acid, which can be harmful if ingested in large quantities.

If your dog eats the skin, it can cause constipation, vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney failure.

Uncooked potatoes contain solanine

Raw potatoes contain solanine and chaconine, toxic if consumed in large quantities.

The symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and even death.

Cooking destroys these substances thus making potatoes safe for German shepherds to eat.

Potato Starch

A high-starch diet such as potatoes can lead to obesity or diabetes in German shepherds if eaten over time.

For this reason, it’s best to limit the number of potatoes you feed your canine.

Ways to serve potatoes to german shepherd

Potato chips

Snack-sized bags of potato chips make an excellent treat for dogs.

You can also crumble the chips into smaller pieces for dogs who have trouble chewing or swallowing large food portions.

Potato crisps

These flat chips are made from cooked potatoes that have been fried in oil until they become crispy, crunchy treats.

They’re a good choice when making dog treats at home because they don’t require any additional ingredients or cooking time — just slice them into small pieces and fry them until they’re crispy.

Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes are easy to make at home and provide a tasty treat for a german shepherd.

Choose small baking potatoes that aren’t too soft; these will cook more evenly than larger ones.

Wrap each potato in foil, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (176 Celsius) until they’re soft inside but still firm on the outside

Potato Broth

If you have leftover potatoes that are almost getting spoilt, make some potato broth instead of throwing them away.

Boil the potatoes until they’re soft enough to mash with a fork, and use a fine strainer or colander to remove any lumps before serving.

Your german shepherds will love it!

Alternative healthy vegetables for German Shepherd apart from potatoes

Broccoli– Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins A and C.

It’s also rich in calcium and iron, which help promote a healthy immune system in your dog.

Carrots– Carrots are another excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin K and potassium (which helps support normal blood pressure levels).

They’re also an excellent source of fiber.

Spinach– Spinach contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps german shepherds with digestive issues or allergies.

It also contains chlorophyll, which helps keep your dog’s teeth clean by removing plaque buildup on their teeth while they eat it.

Kales– Kales are high in vitamin C and contain several antioxidants that can help prevent disease.

They are also rich in beta-carotene — which helps with vision and prevents night blindness.

Celery– Celery contains vitamin K and calcium, which helps maintain strong bones in dogs.

It also aids in digestion by adding fiber to your pup’s diet.

Cucumbers are also great additions to any meal because they’re low calorie but high in water, keeping your dog cool during hot summer days.

Green beans – green beans are a great source of vitamins A, potassium, and iron.

They are also low in fat and calories, making them perfect for overweight dogs or those who need to lose a little weight.

Cucumbers – cucumbers are packed full of vitamin K, magnesium, manganese, and potassium.

Like green beans, cucumbers have virtually no fat or calories, so they’re great for overweight pups.

Can diabetic german shepherds eat potatoes?

No, diabetic dogs should not have potatoes.
They’re considered a high-glycemic food, which means their carbohydrates break down into glucose quickly and raise blood sugar levels.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article has answered your query on whether the german shepherd can eat potatoes.

Next time you prepare some crunchy crisps, don’t leave out the pup.

Nevertheless, ensure that you peel and cook the potatoes thoroughly to avoid potential health problems.

If your German Shepherd sneaks in the kitchen and overeats potatoes, relax and observe any sickly signs.

Call your veterinary doctor or visit a nearby vet clinic when symptoms persist.

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Megan Turner

Hi, my name is Megan Turner and I have worked in a dog’s shelter for four years now. It is truly my dream job, and I see hundreds of dogs every month being united with new owners to give them a loving forever home.

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