TL;DR
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Yes, dogs can eat plain, cooked potatoes in moderation — baked or boiled, no butter, salt, or seasoning.
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Raw potatoes are not safe. They contain solanine, a compound that can be toxic to dogs.
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Potatoes are high in carbohydrates, so they're best as an occasional treat, not a diet staple.
Cooked potatoes, prepared simply and served plain, are generally safe for dogs and do offer some nutrients, including vitamin C, B6, iron, and magnesium. However, raw potatoes should never be fed to dogs.
Like tomatoes, potatoes belong to the nightshade family and contain solanine, a compound that is toxic to some dogs. Cooking reduces solanine to safe levels, but raw and especially green or sprouted potatoes carry enough of it to cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Potato skins can contain higher solanine concentrations , particularly if they're green, and are best removed before serving. Peeled, baked, or boiled potatoes with no added fats or seasoning are the safest formats.
As with any treat, moderation matters. Potatoes and all extras should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake. The foundation should always be a complete, balanced dog food formula, like those at Kismet.
Key Takeaways
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Cooked, plain potatoes are safe in moderation. Baked or boiled with no butter, salt, or seasoning is the only safe way to serve them.
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Raw potatoes are a no. The solanine content is too high, and green or sprouted potatoes are even more risky.
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Skip fried, seasoned, and processed potato products entirely. They're too high in fat and sodium to be safe for dogs.
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