Yes. Dogs can have shrimps as an occasional treat. Shrimps are nutritious seafood that contains high levels of calcium, iron, vitamin D, and zinc. But always feed shrimps to your dog in moderation since it is high in cholesterol.
Before giving this shellfish to your dog, check out the Dos and Don’ts for safe feeding tips.
Are shrimps good for dogs?
Yes, shrimps are loaded with various nutrients and minerals. Your furry friend can gain several health benefits from this tasty seafood.
Vitamin B12
- This vitamin is essential in maintaining digestive health and plays an important role in improving the metabolic process.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
- Niacin is used by the body to help develop more than fifty enzymes that are important for blood circulation, energy production, chemical signals, and fat production.
Phosphorous
- Promotes strong and healthy bones.
Antioxidants
- Contain antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids that eradicate free radicals, slow down premature aging, and prevent diseases such as cancer.
Low in carbs, calories, and fat
- Assists in weight loss and weight management for overweight and obese dogs.
Glucosamine
- Promotes joint health and aids in enhancing mobility, especially for senior dogs
Taurine
- Supports the brain, eyes, immune system, and heart functions
Can dogs have shrimps? What about seafood allergies?
Can dogs have prawns? Shrimps and prawns are safe for dogs. However, some dogs suffer from food allergies or food intolerance.
Feeding your dog shrimps for the first time requires portion control. This means only giving him small amounts of shrimps to lessen the possibility of a severe allergic reaction.
Observe any signs of allergies during and after his meals. This includes itchiness, inflamed skin, swelling, hives, vomiting, and diarrhea. If he shows any of these symptoms, take him to the vet straight away.
How much shrimps can dogs eat?
Shrimps may be good for your dog, but serve it to him in moderation. Generally, you can mix 1–2 pieces of shrimp in his pet food. Allowing him to consume more than the recommended amount can harm his health.
Shrimps are low in fats, carbohydrates, and calories but high in cholesterol. Excessive consumption of this seafood can trigger the development of cardiovascular diseases.
Can dogs eat raw shrimps?
In general, raw shrimps are not safe for dogs to eat as they may contain bacteria such as salmonella, listeria, and E. Coli, which are contagious to dogs and even humans. Some are also contaminated with bacteria that can cause shellfish toxicity.
Thus, for the safety of your furry friend, feeding raw shrimp to him should be avoided. If he accidentally eats one, look out for any changes in his behavior.
Lethargy, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea are the most common symptoms of bacterial infections. Meanwhile, the most common food poisoning signs are vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, dehydration, and moving difficulties.
Since the symptoms of both conditions are similar, it is difficult for dog owners to determine whether it’s food poisoning or bacterial infection.
So, if your dog exhibits any of the symptoms, bring him to the vet immediately. Through proper diagnosis, the root of your dog’s illness will be determined, and the vet will be able to provide the appropriate treatment.
Can puppies eat shrimp?
No, you should not feed shrimp to your pup; puppies have a very sensitive digestive system since it is still not fully developed.
Moreover, they require a strict diet to ensure that their growing bodies acquire sufficient nourishment. It is not recommended to add shrimp to your dog’s diet.
Before making any changes to his meals, consult the vet to ensure that shrimp is safe for your puppy to eat and will not negatively impact his health. If the vet gives the go signal, avoid overfeeding as it can lead to digestive problems like constipation and diarrhea.
Can dogs eat cooked shrimps?
Cooking the shrimps is the ideal way for you to prepare this seafood for your dog. Be sure to serve it boiled or steamed. Do not add any ingredients like butter, spices, oil, salt, sauces, garlic, onions, and chives.
Eating foods that are high in fats and contain large amounts of spices and salt can cause gastrointestinal issues and pancreatitis.
On the other hand, garlic, onion, and chives are toxic to dogs if consumed excessively. Sauces are a big no-no since they may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs.
Can dogs eat shrimp tails?
Shrimp tails are made of chitosan, which is a natural polysaccharide found in the exoskeleton of marine crustaceans.
It gives the shrimp tail a brittle and sharp texture. This makes shrimp tail a choking hazard for dogs, especially for small dog breeds.
If ingested, it can get stuck in your dog’s intestines or irritate his gastrointestinal tract. So, make sure to remove the tail before giving the shrimp to your dog.
Can dogs eat shrimp shells?
Shrimp shells are dangerous to dogs as they can cause choking when swallowed. Make sure to peel them off along with the vein found along the back of the shrimp.
Don’t throw away the shells though. They can be used to make healthy and delicious seafood stock for your dog.
Just boil them together with a handful of vegetables and strain when cooked. The shrimp broth makes a great flavor enhancer to your dog’s meal.
Can dogs eat breaded shrimp or fried shrimp?
Fried or breaded Shrimp is bad for dogs as it contains extra fat that can cause stomach upset and other health problems. Steam the shrimp instead, as it is the best way to cook it.
How to Prepare Shrimps for Dogs
Preparing this seafood treat for your dog requires carefully choosing the raw ingredients and cooking the shrimp.
Follow the guide below to safely prepare shrimp for your dog:
- Buy fresh shrimps only. Avoid buying non-organic farmed shrimps as they might be contaminated with antibiotic residue, which can lead to diseases.
- Cook the Shrimp by steaming or boiling without any additional ingredients. Wait until it has an internal temperature of 145°F before turning off the heat.
You will know if the shrimp is properly cooked once its flesh is opaque and pearly white. - Do not forget to remove the shell, tail, head, and vein before serving it to your dog.
