Can My Dog Eat Shrimp?

Health

Yes! While shrimp allergies do exist in dogs, it’s not very common. For dogs that aren’t allergic, eating shrimp could actually be beneficial because they are low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates according to the American Kennel Club.

Shrimp is also a good source of important nutrients like Cobalamin (for gastrointestinal health), Niacin (for proper enzyme function), and Phosphorus (for bone health).

However, just like with everything else, shrimp should be given to your dog in moderation.

Here are a few simple rules for feeding shrimp to your dog:

1) Control the Amount

Shrimp should always be given in moderation because too much could elevate their cholesterol levels. It is best given as an occasional treat.

For dogs that aren’t fed kibble, shrimp could also be part of the feeding rotation, just not part of every meal.

2) Cook It Thoroughly

Whether or not you’re a supporter of raw feeding, raw shrimp should never be given to your dog. It’s common for raw shrimp to contain pathogens that are harmful and toxic to dogs.

The best way to cook shrimp for your dog is by steaming or boiling since frying will involve additional fat that isn’t healthy for dogs.

3) Peel Completely

The shrimp’s head and shell could get lodged in your dog’s throat and cause choking or injury.

Furthermore, these parts are difficult to digest and could cause an upset stomach. It’s always safer to peel the shrimp before allowing your dog to enjoy them.

4) Keep a Close Eye

Even if shrimp allergies are uncommon in dogs, it’s still a possibility. In the off chance that your dog is among the few that has this allergy, make sure you keep an eye on them after feeding on shrimp, especially on the first try.

Signs to look out for are swelling (face, legs, or joints), excessive scratching, paw licking or chewing, and an upset stomach. If you observe some of these symptoms after your dog has eaten shrimp, take them to the vet right away and avoid shrimp in the future.

Final Thoughts

Can your dog eat shrimp? Yes, it’s generally safe for dogs to eat shrimp and it is even a healthy source of essential nutrients. By following these few simple rules you can help to ensure your dog’s safety when they occasionally enjoy shrimp!

If you commonly wonder what your dog can and cannot eat, check out the rest of the articles in this series:

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