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With all the ruckus recently about sweet potatoes and its effects on dogs, let us clarify everything first. After this post, you would be able to determine if should you or should you not make a sweet potato dog treat for your pet.

Let us first discuss about the good side, here. September is the harvest time for sweet potatoes and yes, they are an acceptable diet for your pet. This root crop is usually used as an acceptable filler source – one that won’t cause any digestive problems. Compared to regular potatoes, sweet potatoes are more nutritious. They are rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and are considered as an antiodiabetic food. Experts found out that it aids in stabilizing the blood sugar levels as well as lowers the insulin resistance. It is also rich in Vitamin A which fights against emphysema. Furthermore, it is also rich in vitamin C, Potassium, Iron, Manganese, Vitamin B6, Copper and Fiber.

However, you should also be cautious when you are incorporating sweet potatoes in your pet’s diet. Take note that sweet potatoes are full of starch so weight gain is a big possibility if you give him too much, too often. Another thing to consider is that its skin contains harmful chemicals once moldy. To inspect all the sweet potatoes you’re using and prevent feeding him a moldy one. Just use sweet potatoes sparingly.

Furthermore, a sweet potato treat from China is associated with a certain disease. According to VIN (Veterinary Information Network), vets are now reporting health related issues that is linked with sweet potato treats that are made in China (same goes for the Chicken jerky treats).

Laboratory tests show on sick canines that they have kidney problems and their showing symptoms are similar to Fanconi Syndrome. Though most patients recovered, there are still a considerable number of deaths related to this issue.

Signs and symptoms would immediately show up within hours or even days after your pet has consumed the treat. Symptoms would include decrease appetites, diarrhea, lethargy, increased thirst/urination and vomiting.

Sweet Potato Dog Treat

Doggy Treats to Avoid

These brands are the ones allegedly implicated in the sweet potato treat health issues:

Canyon Creek Ranch Chicken Yam Good Dog Treats (Nestle Purina)

Beefeaters Sweet Potato Snacks for Dogs

Dogswell Veggie Life Vitality (4 varieties)

If you Opt for Commercially Prepared Treats…

Just know that if you go for ready made treats that are made in China, your pet may be at risk. Chicken jerky treats, Chicken tenders, sweet potato treats or chicken treats all pose a potential threat towards your beloved pet. If you really insist on buying prepared treats, be safe and go for brands that are made in the US.

Also consider making your own sweet potato treats at home, it is healthier that way. Simply buy fresh sweet potato produce and create various kinds of treats out of it. You can always Google for home-made treat recipes as your guide in cooking.

Making your own sweet potato dog treat for your pet is much safer and healthier. FDA found out that the sweet potato dog treat that were made in China were contaminated with a highly toxic pesticide, Phorate. You don’t want your pet to ingest on this, do you?

Have you ever given your pekingese a sweet potato treat? If so, I sure hope not the one from China. How did you cook it? Feel free to share your recipe and knowledge with us below.