Have you ever caught your dog eyeing your plate with those big, pleading eyes, silently hoping for a taste of whatever deliciousness you’re enjoying? If it's sweet potatoes, your dog's in luckl! Not only are sweet potatoes a tasty treat, but they’re also packed with nutrients that can help your pup get closer to being the healthiest dog on the block. So, let’s dive into the world of sweet potatoes and discover why they’re the veggie equivalent of a superhero cape for your furry friend!
Beta-Carotene
The yellow, gold, orange, and sometimes even purple coloring of sweet potatoes comes from beta-carotene. This antioxidant helps reduce the risk of certain cancers and can protect against heart disease. Beta-carotene converts to vitamin A in your dog's body, which is aids vision, bone growth, skin health, and reproduction. Symptoms of serious beta-carotene or vitamin A deficiency can include night blindness, poor skin quality, abnormal bone and teeth development, and reproductive issues.
Fun fact: Dogs can convert beta-carotene to vitamin A, but cats cannot.
Rich Source of Fiber
Sweet potatoes rank high among vegetables for fiber content. Adding fiber to a dog's diet can encourage regular, healthy bowel movements. Sweet potatoes can also assist in the alleviation of constipation and diarrhea, depending on the fiber type. High-fiber diets can help pets feel full and aid in weight management.
More Health-Promoting Vitamins
According to
PETMD, sweet potatoes are one of the best dietary sources of vitamin A. This vitamin can promote healthy skin, coat, eyes, nerves, and muscles in dogs. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins A, C, B6, potassium, calcium, and iron.
How to Give Your Dog Sweet Potato
The best way to treat your dog to sweet potatoes is by steaming or boiling them without adding any seasonings. These methods retain more nutritional value than roasting. Start by giving your dog a small amount, depending on their size. Begin with between a teaspoon or a tablespoon for larger dogs. Be sure to consult a veterinarian before feeding sweet potatoes to your dog. Too much vitamin A can cause bone problems and muscle weakness, and a sudden increase in fiber could create gastrointestinal issues, so start slow!
What else can I give besides Sweet potatoes to my dog?
Incorporating sweet potatoes into your dog's diet can offer numerous health benefits. As a natural, nutrient-rich dietary addition, they can support skin and coat health, provide essential vitamins, and offer a tasty alternative to less nutritious options. When paired with Green Gruff products such as our SOOTHE Skin & Coat Plus CBD you can help maximize the benefits. Our all-natural
Gruffies treats and
Green Gruff supplements support balanced behavior and overall well-being, making your dog's diet both healthy and delicious.
