Last reviewed: August 2026

Can Dogs Eat Jicama?

ModeratePeeled Flesh Only

Peeled jicama flesh in small amounts is generally fine, but the skin and seeds of the jicama plant contain a natural insecticidal compound and should never be given to a dog.

Why

The white flesh of jicama is low-risk and sometimes used as a low-calorie crunchy treat, but the skin, seeds, and other parts of the plant contain rotenone, a compound that's genuinely toxic and used historically as a natural pesticide.

How to serve it safely

Always peel completely and discard the skin
Never offer jicama seeds or any part of the plant beyond the peeled root flesh
Small, plain pieces of the peeled flesh only

Sources

General veterinary toxicology consensus, cross-referenced against the Merck Veterinary Manual and ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center food hazard references. See How We Source This for our methodology.

This page is general educational information, not a substitute for veterinary advice.