Fish For Dogs - Yes or No?

We already know that seafood makes a great addition to our food, but can dogs eat fish? If yes, what kind of fish and what benefits do they get from it? If you take a closer look at ingredients often found in industrial food, you can easily spot fish as a common part of a well-balanced meal.

As you might imagine, fish is amazing for dogs and humans, but there are some things you should know about giving your dog fish and fish-based foods. Here is some vital information you should know.

What are the benefits?

Seafood is very beneficial for your dog’s body, and fish are a rich source of different valuable nutrients. Many dogs are allergic to the most common dog food protein source, chicken. That’s where fish-based industrial foods come in, and many owners can confirm different benefits they noticed after switching to fish-based dog food.

Not only is fish healthy, but it also tastes great. Look at your dog while you are preparing fish; they are probably pretty interested in the smell coming from the kitchen. The best nutritional benefits dogs get from eating fish are;

Omega-3 fatty acids - If you had any contact with nutritional science, you probably heard nutritionists talk about omega fatty acids. They are very healthy, and omega-3 fatty acids help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart problems.
Protein - Protein is another essential part of a well-balanced diet for humans as well as dogs. They are an energy source, and they are essential for repairing and building muscle and other tissue.
Collagen - Collagen is vital for the health of a dog’s joints, bones, and skin. This is especially good for senior dogs prone to arthritis.

dog eats fish

Fish also makes a great alternative source of protein. Some owners and nutritionists argue that fish protein is somewhat healthier. However, that might just be based on other health benefits fish-based diet offers.

What are the best fish to feed your dog?

There is a huge option of fish that are safe for dogs; the problem is, not all of them are available in industrial foods. Some are too expensive, and manufacturers can’t afford to produce dog food with these fish because that would drive the price through the roof. If you are interested in preparing fish at home and giving it to your dog, here are some safe and healthy options to consider.

Salmon
Flounder
Whiting
Light tuna fish (canned)
Herring
Catfish
Whitefish
Cod
Sardines
Tilapia

These types are also less likely to have mercury or different parasites that could potentially infect your dog.

Have you ever heard about the Giardia parasite? You can read more about it here - Giardia In Dogs.

How to prepare fish for your dog?

There are many ways to safely feed your dog fish. The safest option is probably industrial, fish-based foods that are already prepared and safe for your dog to consume.

Some industrial dog foods containing fish are based on salmon, herring, or whitefish. You should talk to your vet and ask for pointers and advice if you consider switching your dog to fish.

fish in basket

Fish for dogs prepared at home

Whatever you decide to implement in your dog’s diet, it is important to know one thing - spices are for humans; dogs don’t need them. Maybe a drop of olive oil, but even with that, you need to be careful. There is an easy and safe way to prepare fish for your dog, and al you need to do is follow these steps;

1. Get a fish that is safe for your dog.

2. Make sure you clean scales, head, guts, and bones.

3. Cut it into small pieces to make sure there are no bones left.

4. Cook it in water without adding salt and just a drop of olive oil.

5. Drain and add to your dog’s regular meal.

By following these steps, you will make sure your dog doesn’t accidentally ingest something that could harm them. Cooking it will make sure any bacteria or parasites do not survive.

Can dogs eat raw fish?

It is possible that dogs could eat raw fish and have no consequences, but it is not recommended. Fish can contain parasites and harmful bacteria, so if you are not undeniably, 100% sure the fish is safe, you shouldn’t feed your dog raw fish. It is just a risk no responsible dog owner should take. Make sure the fish is thoroughly cooked before giving it to your dog.

Some bacteria fish can contain can be harmful not only to dogs but also to humans. The three most dangerous bacteria that could be present in raw fish are:

Salmonella
Clostridium
Listeria

What fish are not safe for dogs?

This is also very important to know; you don’t want to end up feeding your dog something unsafe and causing them health problems. These are the types of fish you should avoid feeding your dog: