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Can dogs eat Fish?

can dogs eat fishYes

Overview

dog-food-safety-information

Can dogs eat fish? Yes, fish is a great source of nutrients that are beneficial to dogs. Fish is high in protein which are necessary for muscle development. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish promote heart health. However, some fish are high in mercury and should be avoided.

Benefits

health-benefits
  • Fish is a rich source of protein which is essential in muscle growth and cell repair.
  • Fish is also high in calcium and phosphorous which supports bone and dental health. It is also a great source of essential minerals including iron, magnesium, zinc, iodine, and potassium.
  • Fish contains omega-3 fatty acids which provide heart-healthy benefits. It helps reduce the risk of heart disease in dogs. Some of the fish high in omega-3 include salmon, cod, sardine, herring, tuna, trout, and mackerel.

Risks

health-risks
  • Raw fish can harbor harmful bacteria like listeria and salmonella. When contaminated fish is consumed, it can make your dog ill.
  • Some fish have high mercury content. Larger and older fish are likely to have higher concentrations of mercury. Mercury builds up over time in their system and the longer the fish live, the more mercury they accumulate. Fish that are high in mercury include shark, tilefish, and swordfish.
  • Fish bones are a choking hazard and should not be given to dogs.
health-risks-dog

Servings

serving-suggestions
  • Clean the fish thoroughly before cooking. Fish can be steamed, grilled, baked, or boiled with no seasonings.
  • Dogs that get complete, balanced nutrition from their regular diet can have fish as an occasional treat. Dogs that need additional nutrition can add fish to their diet. Consult your vet about the correct serving size of fish appropriate for your dog's size and nutritional requirements.

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