Why dogs can have it
Fish is rich in easily digested protein, and oily fish also contains omega fatty acids that are good for the skin and coat. That is why fish is used in dog foods, and cooked with nothing added it makes a good treat.
What matters is the bones and the preparation. Small fish bones can lodge in the mouth or throat. Raw fish can carry parasites and bacteria, while smoked, salted or pickled fish is high in salt. Fish fried in breadcrumbs or batter is very fatty.
How to give it
- Boil it or bake it in the oven without salt, oil or seasoning.
- Carefully take out every bone.
- Choose a plain fish fillet, not ready-made products with sauces or breadcrumbs.
- Give it in small pieces and only as a treat.
What to watch out for
- Small bones can lodge in the mouth, throat or gut.
- Raw fish can carry parasites and bacteria.
- Smoked, salted and pickled fish is high in salt.
- Fish fried in oil or batter can cause vomiting or diarrhoea.
- Some dogs are allergic to fish.
Different parts
Not every part of this food is equally safe.
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Bones
Not safeSmall fish bones can lodge in the throat, so they need to be taken out.
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Raw fish
Not safeRaw fish can carry parasites and bacteria, so give it only thoroughly cooked.
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Smoked and salted fish
Not safeSmoked and salted fish contains too much salt, so it is better not to give it.
What to give instead
- Salmon Yes, in moderation: well-cooked salmon without bones or seasoning is fine, but raw and smoked salmon are not suitable for dogs. In moderation
- Chicken Yes, plain cooked chicken without bones, skin or seasoning makes a good treat for a dog, but do not give bones or raw meat. Safe
- Eggs Yes, well-cooked eggs without salt or seasoning are a nourishing treat for a dog, but do not give raw eggs. Safe
- Turkey Yes, plain cooked turkey without skin, bones or seasoning is fine for a dog, but do not give festive turkey with stuffing and gravy. Safe
Looking for a treat?
The "Dog treats" category compares prices for 10,376 products across shops. It is a product category, not a recommendation of what to give.