Overview
Caution. Tapioca starch is safe for dogs to eat but should be consumed in moderate amounts due to its high glycemic index. Tapioca starch lacks nutritional value and functions primarily as a binder and filler in commercial dog food.
Can dogs eat Tapioca Starch?
Benefits
- Tapioca starch is a refined carbohydrate obtained from the cassava root (Manihot esculenta). It’s a highly digestible starch that can give a quick boost of energy for active or working dogs.
- Tapioca starch serves as a thickening and binding agent as well as a filler for commercial pet foods. It’s what holds kibble together.
- Tapioca starch is gluten-free and low in protein and fat, which is suitable for dogs on a restrictive diet.
Risks
- Tapioca starch has low nutritional value. It lacks essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. It’s mostly calories, which can cause nutritional imbalances if not complemented with high-quality proteins and fats.
- Tapioca starch is high on the glycemic index, thus causing the blood sugar levels to rise very quickly. Consuming large amounts can cause blood sugar spikes in diabetic or insulin-resistant dogs.
Servings
- Tapioca starch is not intended to be given directly to dogs. In commercial foods, tapioca starch typically makes up less than 10-15% of the dry matter of the food.
- For homemade diets, cooked tapioca starch should be given in moderation. The amount should not exceed 2 tablespoons of cooked tapioca starch per day for a medium-sized dog (20 kg) and only as part of a balanced diet under the guidance of the vet.
