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Can dogs eat Whitebait?

can dogs eat whitebaitsCaution

Overview

dog-food-safety-information

Whitebaits are safe for dogs to eat in small amounts as a healthy source of protein and omega fatty acids. However, whitebaits are not recommended for dogs with liver and kidney disease, as well as those prone to hyperuricosuria due to their high purine content.

Benefits

health-benefits
  • Whitebait refers to a group of juvenile or immature fish from various species of fish, such as herring, mackerel, bass, and sardines, among others. Whitebait is a rich source of protein essential for muscle, bone, skin, and coat health.
  • Whitebait is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain and heart health in dogs. Omega-3 fatty acids are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, arthritis, and certain types of cancer.

Risks

health-risks
  • Whitebait is high in purines, which are broken down by the body into uric acid. Dogs with certain health conditions, such as kidney disease or liver disease, may have difficulty processing purines and can develop a build-up of uric acid in their bodies, which can lead to the formation of bladder or kidney stones.
  • Some breeds of dogs, such as Dalmatians and Bulldogs, are more susceptible to a genetic condition called hyperuricosuria, which causes them to produce high levels of uric acid. In these dogs, consuming foods high in purines, such as whitebaits, can increase the risk of developing bladder or kidney stones.
health-risks-dog

Servings

serving-suggestions
  • Dehydrated whitebait can be given to dogs occasionally as a treat. Sprinkle whitebaits on top of your dog's meal as a topper.
  • Small and easy to eat, frozen whitebaits can be served raw to dogs.
  • Fresh whitebait can be lightly cooked and served with meals or as a dog treat.

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