Can dogs eat potatoes?

Only with precautions. Raw potatoes and green-tinged skins contain solanine, toxic to dogs in enough quantity. Cooked plain potato — boiled or baked, no butter or seasoning — is safe starch in moderation. Never share chips or fries, whose salt and fat cause their own problems. Store potatoes where dogs cannot raid them.

Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, weakness, slow heart rate. Symptoms may appear within hours; when in doubt, call your vet.

Assess how much was eaten and whether seeds, pits, shells or seasoning were included. Small plain amounts usually need monitoring only; large or seasoned amounts warrant a call to your vet.