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Yes, dogs can eat yams without it harming them. The multiple nutrients in yam ensure your dog has a healthy and balanced meal. Yams have antioxidants that improve the immune system, and beta-carotene can potentially prevent cancer.

Yams
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safe

Safe: This food is generally considered safe by the veterinary community. Dogs can eat this food sometimes or in small amounts but contains little to no nutritional value.

Food Safety Safe in moderation
Nutritional Value Vitamins A and C, beta carotene, calcium, anti-inflammatory, dietary fiber, minerals, and more.
Potential Risks Diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain
Every dog is different. For specific feeding guidelines, including quantities and beneficial foods that are best for your dog, please consult your vet.

How to Feed Yams to Dogs?

Before serving yams, you must cook the vegetable to ensure it is soft enough for your dog to eat easily.

TIP: If your dog is suffering from constipation, feeding them some yams can relieve them from this problem. Thoroughly wash the dirt and pesticides from the vegetable. Peel and then cook it.

You can boil, roast or grill the yams. Cut them into small chunks so your dog can easily digest the vegetable. You can also switch sweet potatoes for yams and make a special yam chewable treat for your dog.

How Many Yams Are Safe for Dogs?

A teaspoon of cooked yams is enough for a small dog. Large dogs can eat a tablespoon of yam. Always keep an eye on your dog’s calorie intake to ensure they aren’t eating more than what is required.

Signs Your Dog Ate Too Many Yams

Since yams are high in fiber, eating too many yams can cause diarrhea. They may also get a tummy ache and experience vomiting. Allergic dogs may experience an adverse reaction even if they have a few bites.

Consider doing a food allergy test for your dog to find out which food they are allergic to.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No, sweet potato fries are not safe for dogs because they are cooked in a lot of oil and contain seasoning. Your dog can eat plain, cooked sweet potatoes.

  • Sweet potatoes are safe for dogs, whether purple, white, or red. Cook the sweet potatoes before serving them to your dog, and cut them into small chunks.

  • No, dogs cannot eat raw yam. They pose a choking hazard and are best avoided. However, you can give your dog cooked yams.

About the Writer
Dan Greco , Dog Dad

Having been a dog dad for 5 years, I know how hard it is to make sure your dog gets the right nutrients and stays away from hazardous foods. With the help of a veterinarian who specializes in nutrition, I created this blog to help dog owners quickly access food information they need.

photo of vet holding a pup
About the Contributor
Dr. Hillary Wolfe , Veterinarian & Certified Food Therapist

Dr. Wolfe holds a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Kansas State University and holds nutrition certifications from the NAVC and CIVT. Her business, Tula Veterinary Nutrition, hosts online courses that teach owners how to cook for their pet for optimal health and longevity. Follow her on Instagram at @doctorwolfe.dvm for dog nutrition tips, recipes and insights.