Can Dogs Eat Tilapia

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There are many fish species dogs can safely eat, and tilapia is one of them. Dogs can eat it, but there are a few things you should know before you decide to give your dog tilapia. Generally, fish are excellent protein sources rich in omega fatty acids. Fish-based dog food can be amazing, of course, if your dog is not allergic or dislikes the taste. Here is what you should know about feeding tilapia to your dog.

Is tilapia safe for dogs?

Yes. Tilapia is safe for dogs as long as it is deboned and thoroughly cooked. Most of these fish are produced in captivity and on a large scale. That comes with some drawbacks that dog owners should be aware of. Farm-raised fish is usually filled with carcinogens like PCBs, parasites, and even diseases. It is best to look for tilapia that was caught in the wild. Wild-caught tilapia contains;

• Vitamin D
• Protein
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Potassium

These nutrients can do wonders for your dog’s coat, skin, muscles, bones, and immune system.

How to feed tilapia to your dog?

There are different ways to feed your dog tilapia, and our advice would be to get a tilapia filet. You can get it fresh or frozen and look for those that are already deboned. Preparation can be irritating, and if you are not skilled, you can easily miss a bone or two. Fish bones can splinter easily, so if your dog swallows only one, it can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract.

Raw fish can contain dangerous bacteria and different parasites. If you’re feeding tilapia to your dog, you have to make sure it is thoroughly cooked. Parasites and bacteria like salmonella cannot survive the intense heat, so it is better to overcook the fish than risk infecting your dog. Here are some feeding tips;

• Don’t use spices
• Skip the oil
• Mix it with the dog’s usual kibble
• Use it as a treat

If you get high-quality tilapia, you can safely include it in your dog’s diet every day. Your dog will most likely love the taste; just make sure you don’t use things like onion and garlic. They are not safe for dogs, and you should keep them for the human part of the family.

World Dog Finder team