Can Dogs Eat Potato Chips? 7 Hidden Hazards for Your Hound

Who can resist that satisfying crunch of potato chips? Certainly not my furry friends, with their pleading puppy dog eyes whenever I open a bag. 

But before you toss your pooch another salty slice, you’re here to find out whether this addictive human snack is a no-go for dogs. 

So you can stop worrying about what you feed your furry friend and start making smart choices that nourish their body, not put their health at risk

Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll learn:

• Potato chips have no nutritional value for dogs.
• Some ingredients in chips can be toxic for your pup.
• Even one chip can start unhealthy habits.
• There are much healthier alternatives your dog will love.

Your dog’s health and happiness are your top concern. So arm yourself with the facts before you indulge those irresistible begging eyes.

Can Dogs Eat Potato Chips?

No, dogs should not eat potato chips as they are high in fat and salt, contain potential allergens, and pose a choking hazard.

As much as they may beg with those puppy eyes, these snacks are a big “no” for our pups. They’re not even that great for us humans either.

The problem with potato chips is the presence of harmful oils, salt, and other ingredients that can be toxic for dogs. 

Not to mention, they’re like tiny choking hazards, especially for smaller dogs who can’t resist gobbling them down without chewing properly.

Our beloved pups deserve nutritious and wholesome food to maintain their well-being, and chips just don’t make the cut. 

They offer little to no nutritional value, being essentially empty calories.

Potential unhealthy or toxic ingredients for dogs in potato chips include:

• High salt content: Dogs have lower tolerance for salt compared to humans, and excessive salt intake can lead to sodium ion poisoning, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, and in severe cases, even seizures. 
• Unhealthy oils and fats: Potato chips are often deep-fried in oil, leading to a high fat content. Consuming too much fat can cause gastrointestinal upset, pancreatitis, and obesity in dogs.
• Onion Powder: Many flavored potato chips contain onion powder, which is toxic to dogs. Onions, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, can cause damage to a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia.
• Garlic Powder: Garlic is also toxic to dogs and can cause damage to their red blood cells. Even small amounts of garlic powder in potato chips can be harmful.
• Spicy Seasonings: Some potato chips are seasoned with spicy flavors, such as chili powder or cayenne pepper. Spicy seasonings can irritate a dog’s digestive system, causing stomach upset, diarrhea, or vomiting.
• Artificial Flavorings: Artificial flavorings, such as monosodium glutamate (MSG), are often added to enhance the taste of potato chips. These additives can cause adverse reactions in dogs, including gastrointestinal upset, allergic reactions, and even neurological symptoms.

Now you know all the sneaky culprits hiding in potato chips, let’s talk about the health risks of feeding chips to your dog.

How Will Potato Chips Hurt My Dog?

You adore your furry buddy, and they love being treated to special snacks now and then. But those seemingly innocent potato chips could have your dog’s health hanging in the balance.

Here are some of the health risks that might have you rethinking your snack-sharing habits.

1. Electrolyte Imbalance and Dehydration

If a dog eats a large amount of potato chips, the high salt content could disrupt their body’s electrolyte balance and lead to dehydration.

Electrolytes play a crucial role in regulating nerve function, muscle contractions, and fluid balance within the body.

Too much salt can lead to electrolyte imbalance, which can cause a range of health issues, including dehydration, muscle weakness, tremors, and even seizures in severe cases.

Dehydration is one of the most common consequences of electrolyte imbalance caused by excessive salt intake. The body tries to compensate for the higher salt levels by drawing water from cells to dilute the salt concentration in the bloodstream. This can leave your dog feeling excessively thirsty and can lead to decreased urine output.

Dehydration can cause various health issues, including kidney problems, urinary issues, and lethargy.

An electrolyte imbalance can also affect the nervous system, leading to muscle tremors and weakness. You may notice your dog becoming lethargic, experiencing difficulty walking, or displaying unusual muscle twitches.

In more severe cases, an extreme electrolyte imbalance can result in seizures, which can be a life-threatening situation for your dog.

Dogs have lower tolerance for salt compared to humans, and excessive salt intake can also lead to sodium ion poisoning.

Sodium ion poisoning can be life-threatening, especially for smaller dogs or those with pre-existing health conditions.

Make sure that your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times and avoid feeding them salty or high-fat human snacks like potato chips to keep them healthy.

2. Gastrointestinal Upset

Potato chips are high in fat and other ingredients that can wreak havoc on a dog’s sensitive digestive system.

The oils and additives used in potato chips can irritate a dog’s stomach lining, leading to indigestion and gastrointestinal distress.

They can experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite.

In rare cases, artificial flavorings in potato chips can even cause neurological symptoms in dogs. 

Although less common, some dogs may exhibit signs such as tremors, muscle twitches, seizures, or behavioral changes. These symptoms may be a result of the dog’s individual sensitivity to specific flavor enhancers.

3. High Blood Pressure

Consistently high salt intake can lead to hypertension in dogs. 

Elevated blood pressure puts a strain on the cardiovascular system and can increase the risk of various health issues, including heart disease, kidney problems, and damage to blood vessels.

Dogs with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or those prone to hypertension are especially vulnerable. 

Dogs with hypertension may display symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, lethargy, difficulty breathing, and even nosebleeds in severe cases.

4. Obesity

The high fat and oil content of potato chips can cause weight gain and obesity in dogs.

Some of the key problems associated with obesity in dogs:

• reduced mobility
• joint issues and arthritis
• cardiovascular problems
• respiratory difficulties
• diabetes
• pancreatitis
• liver disease
• skin and coat issues
• decreased lifespan.

A lot of these diseases require constant veterinary attention, and focused care for your pup. So keep them healthy, and avoid this unhealthy food while they’re still young.

Find out more about treating pancreatitis in dogs.

5. Choking Hazard

The crunchy and irregular shape of these snacks can pose a choking risk, especially for smaller dogs or those who tend to eat quickly without proper chewing.

When a dog tries to gulp down a large or whole piece of potato chip, it can get lodged in their throat or obstruct their airway. This can be a life-threatening situation, as it can prevent them from breathing or cause them to choke.

Act fast if you think your dog has swallowed a potato chip or any foreign object and shows signs of choking like difficulty breathing, excessive coughing, or distress – call your vet right away. 

While waiting for help, avoid putting your fingers in their mouth as this may push the object further into the throat.

Instead, if you feel comfortable, try the Heimlich maneuver or chest compressions to clear the blockage.

6. Intestinal Blockage

When a dog swallows large pieces of potato chips without proper chewing, the pieces can become lodged in their gastrointestinal tract, leading to a blockage.

When an intestinal blockage occurs, it prevents food, fluids, and waste from moving through the intestines, leading to a range of distressing symptoms.

Some common signs of intestinal blockage in dogs include vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy, loss of appetite, diarrhea, or constipation.

If you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s behavior or suspect that they may have swallowed something they shouldn’t, call your vet immediately.

7. Allergic Reactions

Some dogs may be sensitive or allergic to certain ingredients found in potato chips, such as artificial flavors, preservatives, or specific seasonings.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction can range from mild to severe, and may include:

• Skin irritation – rashes, hives, itching, or redness.
• Gastrointestinal upset – vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive gas.
• Respiratory distress – coughing, sneezing, or wheezing.
• Swelling around the face, muzzle, or paws.
• Behavioral changes – restless, agitated, or experiencing discomfort.

If you suspect that your dog is experiencing an allergic reaction after consuming potato chips or any other food, it’s essential to monitor them closely and seek veterinary attention if the symptoms are severe or persist.

Learn more about dog allergies and itchy skin remedies.

If your dog has a known food allergy, I am sure you already know how crucial it is to read ingredient labels carefully and be vigilant about avoiding triggering foods like potato chips.

Dogs with health issues such as allergies, obesity, diabetes, and digestive problems should not eat potato chips.

Instead, look for healthier, dog-friendly alternatives like plain cooked sweet potato or small pieces of raw carrot or apple. 

As a responsible pet owner, your dog’s health and well-being should always be a top priority. 

Learn what to do if your dog only eats human food.

Can Dogs Eat One Potato Chip?

A small, plain potato chip as an occasional treat is unlikely to cause immediate harm to most dogs.

However, if you give your dog just one chip, they may want more. I know because it happens all the time at home when guests, or even other family members, can’t resist our dogs’ pleading eyes. 

Before you know it, they’ve already eaten several chips. While it might not seem like a big deal, this can encourage unhealthy eating habits for dogs. 

You’ve read all the risks above. If your pup is healthy and you want to indulge them occasionally, it’s your call.

What Junk Food Can Dogs Eat?

Junk food is a bit of a loaded term. But I think it’s safe to say that if you think it is junk food for humans then you should avoid feeding it to your dog.

Here are a few human foods that can be considered occasional treats for dogs. 

• Homemade air-fried or baked potato chips: If you really want to spoil your furry pal, then it’s best to give them homemade potato chips. You can get some fresh potatoes, clean them, slice them thinly, and bake or air-fry them. Don’t put in any salt, oil, or other seasonings to make them safe for your pups. I do this at home and give them to my dogs as an occasional treat.
• Plain popcorn: Air-popped popcorn with no added salt or butter can be a low-calorie occasional snack for your furbabies.
• Peanut butter: Natural peanut butter (without added sugar or salt) can be a tasty treat for dogs. It’s high in protein and healthy fats that can be beneficial for them.
• Vegetables: Many vegetables like carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes can be healthy and low-calorie treats for dogs. Be sure to avoid vegetables like onions, garlic, and avocados, which can be toxic to dogs.
• Fruits: Some fruits like apples, bananas, and strawberries, can be a healthy and tasty treat for dogs. Be sure to remove any skins, seeds, or pits.

Remember, even with these options, it’s important to offer these treats in moderation and to consider your dog’s overall diet and nutritional needs. 

Introduce these occasional treats to your pooches gradually so you can monitor their reactions.

Here are some more treat ideas for dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Lays Potato Chips?

No, Lay’s potato chips are high in salt, fat, and artificial flavorings, which can be harmful to dogs if eaten in large quantities or on a regular basis.

If your dog eats a small amount of Lays potato chips accidentally they will most likely be OK. 

However, if your dog eats a significant number of chips and shows any signs of sickness, such as vomiting or diarrhea, you should call your veterinarian right away.

Can Dogs Eat Ruffles Potato Chips?

No. For the same reasons mentioned above, I do not recommend dogs eat Ruffles potato chips or any processed potato chips – no matter the brand.

If you want to give your dogs potato chips, make some at home. It’s healthier, and you can be sure there’s no preservatives and seasonings added.

Can Dogs Eat Potato Chips without Salt?

Potato chips without salt may be a slightly healthier option. However, they are still not recommended as a regular part of a dog’s diet. 

Even without added salt, potato chips are still high in fat and calories. This can lead to weight gain and other health issues in your pup if consumed in large quantities or on a regular basis.

If you want to give your dog a crunchy treat, there are healthier choices available that are specially made for dogs.

Healthier Alternatives to Potato Chips for Dogs

Farm To Pet Chicken Chips for Dogs

This single-ingredient dehydrated chicken dog treat is an excellent option for your furbabies. 

It’s a healthy treat that is free from any unhealthy by-products, binders, or fillers, making it easier to digest for dogs with sensitive stomachs. 

The treats are made from 100% human-grade chicken breast meat, which is a great source of protein and essential nutrients for dogs.

As a bonus, these treats are sourced from free-range, certified humane, and responsibly sourced chickens from family farms. 

They’re a fantastic choice for dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with healthy, delicious, and responsibly sourced treats.

Wholesome Pride Banana Bites Dog Treats

Wholesome Pride Banana Bites are simple and natural treats for your pooch. 

They’re free from preservatives, fillers, and any other artificial ingredients that could be harmful for your dogs. 

These treats are also grain-free, which makes them easy to digest and ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies. 

They’re also sustainably sourced and produced with the environment’s and your dog’s safety in mind. 

Overall, these treats provide a nutritious and tasty reward for dogs of all sizes. 

Beefhide Chips Dog Chew Treats

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

These treats are some of our favorites. They’re tasty, thick, and long-lasting. 

These beefhide chips also promote dental health by scraping plaque off your dog’s teeth and preventing tartar build-up. 

They can help improve overall oral hygiene and prevent dental problems down the line.

They’re a safe and healthy option for dogs that love to chew and are a great way to promote dental health while satisfying their natural chewing instinct.

At the end of the day, it’s better to avoid giving your dog potato chips. But, if you really want to then make them yourself at home.

There are also healthier and more nutritious treat options available for dogs that can provide them with the essential nutrients they need.

Now let’s talk about whether or not your dogs can eat potatoes.

And find out if it is okay to feed mashed potatoes to dogs.