Can Dogs Eat Potato Chips? How Many Can They Eat?

Your dog's pleading eyes might tempt you to share a chip, but it's important to understand the potential harm before giving in. The answer to "Can dogs eat potato chips?" is a resounding no. Chips are essentially a combination of fat, carbohydrates, and salt, offering no nutritional value whatsoever. Beyond the processed oils, fat, and sodium, commercially produced chips often contain artificial flavors, additives, and preservatives, all of which can be detrimental to your dog's health.

What Happens If My Dog Eats Potato Chips? 

All the above bad things, when they enter your dog’s stomach, can cause the following – ⁽¹⁾

A medium serving of potato chips contains about 390mg of sodium, nearly double the recommended daily limit of 200mg for a 33-pound dog. This same serving also packs 14-40 grams of fat, significantly exceeding the average dog's daily fat requirement of 14 grams. The math is clear: potato chips are not a healthy snack for dogs. (3)

The high-fat content in chips can lead to pancreatitis in dogs, a potentially life-threatening condition. Excessive sodium can cause dehydration and, in severe cases, sodium poisoning.

If you discover your dog has eaten a large amount of chips, even if they seem fine, it's crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately. While symptoms may not appear for up to 24 hours, prompt veterinary attention is essential for treatment. Giving your dog potato chips can contribute to weight gain and eventually obesity if it becomes a regular part of their diet.

How Many Chips Can I Give My Dog?

While a few chips might not cause immediate harm, it's best to limit your dog to 1-2 unsalted chips or avoid giving your dog any potato chips at all. There are many healthier treats available for your dog. If your dog is still a puppy, it's important to avoid all fried chips. Puppies require a nutritious, protein-rich diet to support their rapid growth, feeding them potato chips can negatively impact their development.

Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potato Chips?

You can offer your dog a small amount of plain, baked sweet potato chips as an occasional treat. However, these chips should not have any oil, salt, or seasonings. In moderation, baked sweet potato chips can be a source of vitamins A, B, and C, fiber, and some anti-inflammatory nutrients but it's important to limit your dog to just one or two chips at a time. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food to your dog's diet. They have a complete understanding of your dog's medical history and can provide the best dietary advice.

Can Dogs Eat Unsalted Potato Chips?

Can dogs eat potato chips if they are unsalted? While unsalted potato chips remove the risk of salt toxicity and dehydration in dogs, they still pose potential health risks because of their high fat and carbohydrate content. It's best to avoid giving your dog any fried snacks, including potato chips, French fries, and potato wedges.

Plain, cooked potatoes, served in moderation, are a safe and nutritious option for dogs. They're a common ingredient in many commercial pet foods due to their carbohydrate content, which can help dogs feel full. However, even cooked potatoes shouldn't be a regular part of a dog's diet. Dogs have different carbohydrate requirements than humans, and too much in their diet can lead to health issues. (2)

More About Spot Pet Insurance

Owning a pet can be tough at times. You need to constantly be aware of what and how much goes into their mouths. Some things you can control and others you may not be able to. Sometimes unwanted foods can cause severe reactions in your dog and even require surgery for treatment. The bills can put a severe dent in your savings at such times. 

Not with pet health insurance though! With pet health insurance, you can save up to 90% of medical costs. With Spot Pet, you can save many more costs. 

Dog Insurance can help provide financial assistance for eligible veterinary care in case of unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries. Our plans can help pet parents manage the eligible costs of covered veterinary care and help ensure that their pets can receive the best treatment possible. Here are some ways that Spot pet insurance plans can help:

To learn more about Spot Plans or to get a free quote, click here.