Zucchini potato chips

What are zucchini potato chips?

Zucchini potato chips are thin slices of zucchini that are dried in the oven or microwave. They have a crispy consistency and a mild taste. Zucchini is a pumpkin plant that originated in America and is very popular in Europe. Zucchinis are very versatile and can be eaten raw, cooked or baked.

Why are zucchini potato chips good for dogs?

Zucchini potato chips have many benefits for dogs:

• They are low in calories and fat. A zucchini only has around 17 calories per 100 grams. By comparison, a potato has around 77 calories per 100 grams. In addition, zucchini potato chips contain hardly any fat, whereas conventional potato chips are often fried in oil.
• They are rich in vitamins and minerals. Zucchinis contain vitamins A, C, B1, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, sodium and iron. These nutrients support the health of your dog's skin, coat, eyes, immune system, nerves and bones.
• They are easily digestible and dehydrating. Zucchini consists of about 95 percent water. This promotes digestion and the elimination of toxins from your dog's body. It also helps to regulate the fluid balance.
• They are tasty and crunchy. Most dogs love the taste and texture of zucchini chips. They are an ideal reward or healthy snack between meals.

Are there any disadvantages of zucchini potato chips for dogs?

Zucchini potato chips are generally safe for dogs as long as they are fed in moderation. However, there are a few points you should bear in mind:

• Not all zucchinis are the same. If you use zucchinis from your own garden, you must make sure that they do not taste bitter. Bitter zucchinis contain high levels of cucurbitacins, which are toxic to dogs. They can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, nerve damage and movement disorders. It is therefore better to buy zucchinis from the shops or try them yourself first.
• Too much zucchini can lead to flatulence. Zucchini contains fiber, which is good for digestion but can also cause bloating. Therefore, do not feed your dog more than a handful of zucchini chips per day.
• Too much salt is bad for dogs. If you make your own zucchini potato chips, you should not add salt or other seasonings. Salt is very unhealthy for dogs and can lead to kidney problems. Spices can also cause stomach irritation or allergies.

How can I make zucchini potato chips for dogs myself?

Making zucchini potato chips for dogs yourself is very easy. All you need is a fresh zucchini, a sharp knife or food processor and an oven or microwave.

This is how you proceed:

• Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and cut them into thin slices. The thinner the slices, the quicker they will dry out and become crispy.
• Place the zucchini slices on a baking tray or plate lined with baking paper. Make sure that they do not overlap.
• Dry the zucchini slices in the oven or microwave. In the oven, you need about 2 hours at 100 degrees Celsius. Turn the slices after an hour. In the microwave, you need about 10 minutes at high power. Turn the slices after 5 minutes.
• Leave the zucchini chips to cool and store them in an airtight container. They will keep for about a week.