Sweet Potatoes for Dogs: Good or Bad?

(And a Simple Homemade Treat Recipe)

Yesterday was National Sweet Potato Day, and it’s the perfect time to talk about a question we hear often: Are sweet potatoes good for dogs?

The short answer: yes—when used correctly. The longer answer is worth understanding, especially if you like making homemade treats or choosing whole-food snacks for your dog.

Are Sweet Potatoes Good for Dogs?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be a healthy addition to a dog’s diet when they are:

• Cooked properly

• Given in moderation

• Served plain (no seasoning)

Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-dense whole food, which is why they’re commonly found in high-quality dog foods and treats.

Benefits of Sweet Potatoes for Dogs

• Rich in fiber – supports digestion and gut health

• High in beta-carotene – supports eye health and immune function

• Good source of vitamins – including vitamin A, C, and B6

• Naturally low in fat – great for dogs needing lighter treats

For many dogs, sweet potatoes are gentle on the stomach and easy to digest.

When Sweet Potatoes Can Be a Problem

Sweet potatoes are healthy—but they’re still a starchy carbohydrate.

They may not be ideal for:

• Dogs with diabetes or blood sugar issues

• Dogs on very low-carb or therapeutic diets

• Dogs with sensitive digestion if overfed

Also important:❌ Never feed raw sweet potatoes – they are hard to digest❌ No salt, butter, oils, sugar, or spices❌ No sweet potato fries or chips made for humans

Moderation matters. Treats should stay treats.

Best Ways to Serve Sweet Potatoes to Dogs

✔️ Steamed✔️ Boiled✔️ Baked (plain)✔️ Dehydrated (single-ingredient chews)

Plain and simple is best.

Homemade Sweet Potato Dog Treat Recipe

These are easy, affordable, and great for dogs of all sizes.

🥔 Simple Sweet Potato Chews (Single Ingredient)

Ingredients:

• 1–2 large sweet potatoes

Instructions:

1. Wash and peel (optional)

2. Slice lengthwise into ¼-inch strips

3. Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 2–3 hours

   • Flip halfway through

4. Let cool completely

Storage:

• Airtight container in the fridge (up to 2 weeks)

• Or freeze for longer storage

These make excellent long-lasting chews and are especially loved by puppies and seniors.

🍪 Soft Sweet Potato Training Treats

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato

• 1 cup oat flour (or finely ground oats)

• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients into a soft dough

2. Roll out and cut into small pieces

3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes

4. Cool completely before serving

Tip: Cut them very small—training treats should be tiny!

How Often Can Dogs Have Sweet Potato Treats?

A good guideline:

• Small dogs: 1–2 small pieces

• Medium dogs: a few slices

• Large dogs: moderate portions

Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories.

Final Thoughts

Sweet potatoes are a wonderful whole-food option for dogs when prepared correctly and fed mindfully. They’re affordable, accessible, and a great way to add variety to your dog’s treat rotation—especially if you enjoy making things at home.

As always, every dog is different. Start slow, watch how your dog responds, and keep things simple.

🐾Sometimes the best treats really do come from the kitchen.