One of the comfort foods that everyone enjoys is mashed potatoes. However, the answer to the question “can dogs eat mashed potatoes?” is “yes, but there are some things to keep in mind.
The nutritional advantages of mashed potatoes for dogs, some potential risks, and serving suggestions to make your dog even happier with this tasty treat are all covered in this blog post. Table Of Contents.
Are Mashed Potatoes Good or Bad for Dogs?
Potatoes, when prepared properly, are safe for dogs. But too many can disrupt your pups balanced diet, says Justin Lee, DVM, DAACVE CC, DABT, who is a double board-certified emergency critical care specialist, toxicologist, and consultant for the non-profit ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.
“Potatoes are often used as part of pet diets. They have a high starch and carbohydrate content and are simple to digest, says Lee to Daily Paws. “In general, I advise against adding more than 10 to 20 percent of potatoes to your dog’s diet without first consulting a vet to ensure that the caloric balance of calories, vitamins, minerals, etc. , arent affected. “.
For healthy dogs, it’s better to think of potatoes as an occasional treat rather than as a dietary staple, and the majority of experts advise against giving your dog potatoes as a significant portion of their daily meals. Potatoes should never be given to dogs with diabetes as they can cause blood sugar spikes. Always choose vet-recommended dog food that is fortified with the recommended vitamins and nutrients for your dog.
After reading the foregoing, are you still unsure as to whether it is truly okay to give your dog a spoonful of your mashed potatoes? Let’s explain.
CAN DOGS EAT INSTANT MASHED POTATOES?
In theory, your dog can eat instant mashed potatoes because they typically do not contain any substances that are toxic to dogs.
However, there are some seasonings and additives there that your dog would do better without. However, a small amount of instant mash shouldn’t hurt your dog, so don’t worry if there is some left over on a plate you let them clean.
The issue is that the salt and nitrates used to flavor and preserve instant mashed potatoes make it quite salty. It’s best to limit how much salt your dog can consume because too much salt can be harmful to them.
It shouldn’t be enough to seriously harm your dog as long as they aren’t eating a lot of mash or eating it every day. However, it’s best to err on the side of caution and refrain from giving the hound instant mash when they would be better off without it or when you can give them something healthier in its place.
Are Mashed Potatoes good for dogs?
Yes, Mashed Potatoes are good for dogs. When consumed in moderation, mashed potatoes contain a variety of nutrients that can be helpful to dogs. Plain-boiled potatoes are rich in some important vitamins and minerals and are free of fats and cholesterol. Let’s break down the nutritional composition of Mashed Potatoes.
Nutritional value of Mashed Potatoes for dogs
A serving of mashed potatoes weighing 100 grams or 2/3 cup contains:
| Name, Unit | Amount |
| Calories, cal | 107 |
| Carbohydrates, g | 25 |
| Fiber, g | 2.25 |
| Protein, g | 2.15 |
| Potassium, mg | 410 |
| Phosphorous, mg | 50 |
| Magnesium, mg | 25 |
| Calcium, mg | 10 |
| Vitamin C, mg | 9.25 |
| Vitamin A, mg | 3.75 |
Carbohydrates are a popular filler ingredient that dogs don’t need
Although they are prominent in commercial dog food, dogs don’t need a lot of carbohydrates to survive. 100 grams of mashed potatoes contain 25 grams of carbohydrates, and given that they are not particularly healthy for dogs, your four-legged friends should only occasionally consume them.
Fiber is essential for gut health in dogs
Mashed Potatoes are a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber improves gut health, lowers cholesterol, and regulates blood sugar. Additionally, high-fiber foods digest gradually, keeping your dog full all day.
Fun fact: Many fruits, including nectarines, contain fiber. Can Dogs Eat Nectarines? will tell you if this sweet stone fruit is safe for canines to eat despite its high fiber content.
Protein is a macronutrient every dog needs
Protein is a basic need for every dog. Dogs eat meat and require a lot of protein to stay strong and healthy. Despite the fact that potatoes contain proteins, mashed potatoes are not a complete dog meal. Instead, serve mashed potatoes with beef or chicken as a side dish.
Potassium is an excellent electrolyte for dogs
For their organs, nerves, and muscles to function properly, canines need electrolytes. Mashed potatoes’ high potassium content assists dogs in getting the electrolytes they need. Additionally, potassium is excellent for the health of the dog’s heart because it removes excess sodium from the blood.
Calcium and phosphorus are both necessary for canines to develop strong bones.
For strong bones, dogs need phosphorus and calcium in their diets. Dogs would experience joint pain, brittle bones, and skeletal weakness without these crucial minerals. Fortunately, mashed potatoes contain both of these nutrients in adequate quantities.
Magnesium is vital for proper body functions in dogs
Approximately 150 mg of magnesium per day is required for dogs, and one serving of mashed potatoes can help them meet that requirement. Magnesium is necessary for all bodily processes and vital organs to function properly.
Vitamin C is a superb antioxidant that’s beneficial to dogs
Vitamin C is a crucial antioxidant that combats free radicals and delays the aging of cells. It also reduces inflammation and helps with proper cognitive function.
Vitamin A helps dogs look alert and alert-looking.
Dogs benefit from vitamin A because it keeps their bodies, skin, and coat healthy and enhances their vision. A canine lacking sufficient vitamin A would experience night blindness and appear lifeless and ill.
FAQ
Why can’t dogs have mashed potatoes?
The primary issue with mashed potatoes and the reason they are “bad” for dogs is that they are extremely starchy and high in calories and carbohydrates. That means it’s possible for your dog to overeat, and the extra carbs will quickly add up and cause your dog to gain weight.
Can dogs eat pressure cooked potatoes?
Yes, dogs can eat cooked potatoes… You can occasionally give your dog cooked potatoes. In fact, potatoes are a common main ingredient in dog foods.
Can dogs have instant?
Nothing quite like a salty, meaty, bowl of hot ramen. Unfortunately, your dog won’t like either the instant or traditional ramen because it’s too salty. Although they again provide no nutritional value, plain ramen noodles are usually fine to feed to dogs.
Can dogs eat mashed potato and gravy?
No, dogs should not eat Mashed Potatoes with gravy. Although the salt in the gravy makes it more enticing to us, a dog cannot safely consume that much sodium. Additionally, gravy might include flavorings like onion or garlic, both of which are toxic to dogs.