Can dogs eat Cod skin?

Overview

Yes. Cod skin is safe for dogs to eat. Dogs benefit from the omega-3 healthy fats as well as protein and essential minerals. With a lower mercury content, cod skin is a safe option for chew treats, which can help remove and prevent plaque buildup in dogs.

Benefits

Sodium nitrate is a natural compound that acts as a preservative for processed food. It's typically added to cured meats, such as bacon, ham, hot dogs, sausages, and luncheon meat to help prevent botulism.
Excessive consumption of sodium nitrate can lead to toxicity and cancer. When nitrates come into contact with bacteria from the dog's saliva, they are converted to nitrites. Some nitrites become nitric oxide, which helps reduce inflammation. However, nitrates that become nitrosamine are toxic and carcinogenic.
Consuming 7.0 to 10.8 mg/kg of sodium nitrate per day can lead to methemoglobinemia, which is a blood disorder wherein the cells are deprived of oxygen. More than 40 mg/kg per day of sodium nitrate is lethal for dogs.

Risks

Commercial cod skin is typically heavily seasoned with salt, which can cause electrolyte imbalances and salt poisoning in dogs. Some fish skin may also contain seasonings, spices, and other additives which can be harmful to canine health.

Servings

Avoid deep-fried cod skin as it's unhealthy for dogs. Instead, bake the cod skin until crispy. Give cod skin to dogs in moderation.
Cod skin chews can be given to dogs as an occasional treat.

Can dogs eat Cod skin?

Overview

Benefits

Risks

Servings

Similar Foods

You may also like

10 All-Natural Dog Chews: Their Benefits and Risks

Articles by food type

Fruit & Veg

Human Food

Meat & Offal

Diet & Recipes

Supplements

Herbs & Spices

Egg & Dairy

Seafood

Nuts & Seeds

Grains

Oils

Plants