Is It Safe For Dogs To Eat Fish?

Are you thinking of slipping your pup a few slices of smoked salmon while making your sandwich? Hold that thought for a second and learn what kinds of fish are safe for dogs.

Fish can form part of a healthy balanced diet for dogs, either as an occasional snack or as part of their regular diet. However, dog parents need to be careful because some types of fish are not safe for dogs.

Examples of fishes that are unsafe for dogs include:

• Shellfish: They may contain toxins and heavy metals.
• Breaded or battered fish: They contain unhealthy oils and fats.
• Canned fish with added salt: Too much salt is harmful to dogs.

Any dog food or treats that contain fish is safe for dogs to eat. Dogs can also safely eat white fish, such as cod and haddock, and oily fish, such as tuna, sardines, and salmon, as long as they are prepared well.

There are two things you should avoid when feeding fish to your dog:

• Raw fish: Uncooked fish are hard to digest and may contain bacteria and parasites that can make your dog unwell.
• Fish with bones: Fishbones can become lodged in your dog’s throat and cause choking hazards.

While it is safe for your dog to eat fish, it would be best to ask your vet for the right amount according to their age, weight, and health needs.

Image Credit: Cesar I. Martins