Can dogs eat raw fish? If you are a seafood lover, you must have eaten raw fish in the form of sushi, tartare, or crudo. Humans have eaten raw fish for decades; in fact, in several Asian countries, raw fish is considered a delicacy!
If humans can eat raw fish, what about dogs? Have you ever wondered whether your furry friend could enjoy a bite of raw fish? You may enjoy the occasional trip to your local sushi bar, but have you ever offered any to your dog?
If you have ever asked yourself, “Can dogs eat raw fish?” you’re in the right place. You would never want your pet to suffer harm. So, let’s find out if your dog can accompany you when you go out for your favorite sushi!
Is Raw Fish Good for Dogs?
This is debatable. Advocates of feeding raw meats believe that raw fish, like chicken or beef, is a great addition to a dog’s diet. It is an excellent source of proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and amino acids, which are all essential nutrients for a dog’s overall health.
Here’s a list of all the good stuff present in fish:
- Vitamin D
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
- Iron
- Zinc
- Iodine
- Magnesium
- Potassium
So, why do vets discourage feeding your dog raw fish? Parasites and bacteria! Raw fish is notorious for carrying parasites and bacteria that may be harmful to humans and other animals. According to the FDA, salmonella, roundworms, flutes, and listeria are the culprits, which can be dangerous both for your dog and you.
However, there are also a lot of benefits of raw fish for dogs, including:
- Fish is a natural source of proteins that help maintain healthy body weight, muscle mass, and overall energy levels.
- Raw fish contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are anti-inflammatory, help build a healthy immune system, and are essential for heart health.
- Additionally, raw fish is chock full of vitamins and minerals, which keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy.
- Lastly, adding raw fish to your pup’s diet can improve dental health because chewing tough food scrubs their teeth clean.
So, if you are on the fence about introducing raw fish into your pup’s diet, go ahead and try it!
Can Dogs Eat Raw Fish?
Raw fish is an excellent source of protein and can be a great addition to your dog’s diet. However, like all
other raw meats, it should be given in moderation. You can follow the below guidelines if you want to incorporate raw fish into your dog’s diet.
- Buy frozen fish for your dog. Because of the low storage temperature, frozen fish is less likely to carry bacteria or parasites. Bacteria cannot survive at such low temperatures.
- If you buy in bulk, keep the fish frozen below -4°C.
- Always wash the fish before feeding your dog. Also, wash and disinfect the surfaces and utensils the fish encountered.
- When you give the fish to your dog, ensure that he eats it within 2 hours. If your dog doesn’t eat the fish during this time, discard it. This is because there is a chance that bacteria may grow on the raw fish.
- Always introduce a new food cautiously and gradually. After giving it to your dog, watch it in case it shows any signs of diarrhea, indigestion, or allergies.
If you follow these precautions, your pup should not be deprived of a fishy treat in its meal. Giving your dog a well-rounded, balanced diet is essential to keeping it happy, healthy, and with you for a long time.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Fish Bones?
You may be surprised by the answer: Yes! Raw fish bones are softer and pliable. When we eat fish, we’re careful to pick out all the tiny bones before we eat because they can get stuck in our throats. That’s because cooked bones are sharp and brittle.
Raw fish bones are softer and go down quickly. So, your dog won’t have a problem eating raw fish bones. Dogs also don’t chew much. They swallow large pieces of food so the small bones won’t hurt them while swallowing. As a matter of fact, you can feed your dog whole raw fish without worry!
Can Dogs Eat Raw Fish Skin?
Absolutely! Raw fish skin is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and collagen, providing fantastic benefits for your pet’s skin, coat, and joint health.
Because the tough skin acts as a natural toothbrush, it helps scrub away debris from your dog’s teeth for better dental health.
However, ensure that you follow all the above guidelines before feeding your dog raw fish skin to avoid bacterial infection.
What Type of Raw Fish Can Dogs Eat?
There are so many fish in the sea. But which ones are best for your dog? You must be careful about choosing fish to feed your dog because all fish contain mercury, but some fish have more than others, which can prove toxic for your dog.
However, you still have an impressive variety of fish types to choose from because several fish are beneficial for dogs. Whitefish such as cod, pollock, haddock, and whiting, as well as oily fish such as salmon and sardines, are some of the best options for feeding your dog.
On the other hand, dogs can also eat shrimp, mussels, and scallops.
Conclusion
“Can dogs eat raw fish?” Feeding your dog raw fish can benefit their health compared to commercial kibble diets. Raw fish is packed with vital nutrients, making it a very healthy and nutritious option for your furry friend.
By following all the necessary precautions and guidelines, incorporating fish into your dog’s diet can greatly contribute to their overall well-being, leaving both your canine companion and its health grateful for this added nutritional boost!
If you have ever asked yourself, “Can dogs eat raw fish?” you’re in the right place. You would never want your pet to suffer harm. So, let’s find out if your dog can accompany you when you go out for your favorite sushi! Before you do, you might also want to check out our article on Can I Walk My Dog 30 Minutes After Eating?
FAQs
Can Dogs Eat Raw Tilapia?
As a rule, avoid scavenger fish when buying raw fish to feed your dog. Tilapia is on this list, so it’s best to avoid It and feed your dog a variety of fish that are safe for it.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Fish Sushi?
Yes, if it does not contain other harmful ingredients and you feed the fish only, your dog can have sushi. But give it in moderation, not regularly.
