Can you share a few fries with your pup?
Nothing’s better than a good burger and fries, so it’s totally understandable that you’d want to share some of that goodness with your pup — or just a few french fries at least.
But can dogs eat french fries safely, or is it a bad idea to toss them some?
It turns out french fries are OK for dogs to eat, but they shouldn’t have them often since (to no one’s surprise) they’re not exactly good for them.
We spoke to Dr. Sara Ochoa, a small- and exotic-animal veterinarian in Texas, to find out how to safely feed your dog french fries and if there are any dangers you should be worried about.
How Many French Fries Can Dogs Eat?
If your dog eats one french fry, its not the end of the world, as its not toxic. However, if your dog gets into french fries that are seasoned with onion or garlic, call your vet and/or the Pet Poison Helpline—(855) 764-7661—because these ingredients are toxic to dogs. Slipping your dog an unseasoned baked or air-fried french fry occasionally isnt a problem, either. But having high-calorie french fry treats shouldnt become a habit.
On average, dogs should consume 21 grams of fat and 200 milligrams of sodium in their daily diet, which they get through their properly formulated dog food. A serving of french fries can include 13–15 grams of fat and 140–190 milligrams of sodium, and thats way too much for your dog to eat along with his normal food. Experts recommend that no more than 10 percent of your dogs daily calories come from treats.
Can Dogs Eat French Fries? French Fries, Bloat and GDV in Dogs
Another thing to consider when thinking, “Can dogs eat French fries?” — High-fat foods also have the potential to delay the emptying of a dog’s stomach, making a dog prone to bloating. If a dog’s stomach bloats and twists on itself — a condition that’s prevalent in larger breeds — then a simple “gassy” episode can become a surgical emergency, Dr. Houchen adds. “Feeding French fries or other fat-laden sweets can cause stomach upset and diarrhea at the very least … and for many pets, because of their size or breed or genetic predisposition, giving them even a small morsel of highly-processed fatty food can create a nightmare of digestive upset that spirals into more serious disease,” she says.
Can Dogs Eat French Fries
Spoiling our dogs is one of the joys of being a pet parent. When they give you the stare, it’s all too tempting to offer them whatever food we are eating, including French fries. But before you are swayed by those puppy dog eyes, take a minute to check if feeding fries to your dog really is a good idea.
The real question isn’t CAN dogs eat French fries — as one or two may not do any harm — but SHOULD they eat them? No, dogs shouldn’t eat fries, and if you feed them too often, you could make them very ill.
French fries are cut potatoes, usually deep-fried in oil. They are often seasoned with salt, sometimes spices, and served with sauces and dressings. Although tasty, fried food isn’t good for a dog’s health. Your pup definitely won’t refuse a fry offered, but dogs don’t always know what’s good for them! It’s up to you to keep them healthy and make the right food choices on their behalf.