Can Dogs Eat Fish? When it is or isn’t an Emergency

Yes, dogs can eat fish as long as it’s fed in moderation. The fish will, however, need to be prepared in a certain way in order for it to be safe for dogs to eat.

What kind of fish can dogs eat?

Most varieties of fish available at fishmongers and grocery stores are safe for dogs to eat. This includes fish like whitefish, flounder, salmon, herring, and cod. Fish like tuna are also safe for dogs to eat in moderation but are less preferred due to their mercury content.

How much fish can a dog eat?

This will depend on a number of factors like the dog’s weight and the dog’s regular diet. As a general rule of thumb, human foods like fish shouldn’t account for more than 10% of a dog’s daily food intake. Fish does contain a lot if important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids but it’s not necessary to give your dogs too much fish as they should be already getting a balanced diet from eating high-quality commercial dog foods.

Can dogs eat cooked fish like battered fish?

Yes, dogs can eat cooked fish but only if they are cooked without any extra seasonings or ingredients. Many ingredients that go into popular fish recipes can be quite harmful to dogs. It’s also important to only let your dog eat fish that has been steamed, roasted, or, baked. Don’t let your dog eat any fish that has been fried like battered fish. The large amount of oil and fat that goes into battered fish is not healthy for dogs.

Can dogs eat raw fish bones?

No, don’t let your dog each raw fish bones. They are unsafe for dogs because they are small and brittle. Fish bones can easily get stuck in your dog’s gastrointestinal tract and result in perforation. Raw fish bones may also be a choking hazard for small dogs and puppies.

What to do if your dog ate raw fish

Dogs shouldn’t eat raw fish, even if they are sashimi-grade. Raw fish may contain harmful pathogens like parasites. The ingestion of raw salmon, for example, can lead to salmon poisoning disease in dogs. Dogs that eat raw or under-cooked fish are at risk of developing symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting.