Can dogs eat raw salmon?
We tend to think that dogs only like raw meat, but many dogs enjoy and benefit from eating raw salmon. You will see lots of articles online saying raw salmon shouldn’t be fed to dogs. These articles are primarily American and refer to Pacific salmon caught off the west coast of America. Pacific salmon can contain a parasitic flatworm Nanophyetus salmincola, which can lead to salmon poisoning [1].
Salmon sold in the UK is mostly Atlantic salmon from Scotland and Norway, which is safe for dogs to eat raw. This is the salmon we use in our raw food for dogs.
Is raw salmon good for dogs?
Yes, salmon is full of nutrients that contribute to dogs’ health and wellbeing, including [4]:
- Protein: Salmon is a protein-dense fish. For instance, a 100g piece of salmon contains 20 to 25 grams of protein [3]
- Omega-3: Salmon is full of it, which contributes to lowering inflammation, cell formation, brain function, and healthy skin and silky fur
- B vitamins: B1 (Thiamin), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B5 (Pantothenic acid), B6, B9 (Folic acid), B12 and for energy production, reducing inflammation, and DNA production and repair
- Selenium: Supports thyroid health and is a powerful antioxidant
- Potassium: Contributes to muscle function
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Get Your Personalised PlanWhy should you not feed your dog raw salmon?
You shouldn’t feed your dog raw Pacific salmon because it may contain the flatworm parasite.
What are the risks for dogs eating raw salmon?
There is little risk to dogs who eat raw Atlantic salmon sourced from reputable suppliers or pre-prepared raw salmon meals made by raw pet manufacturers like us.
If you buy raw salmon from somewhere like a fishmonger to feed to your dog (lucky them!), pop it in your freezer for at least 3 days, then defrost it, and give it to your dog. This is as a precaution against any parasites that may be present and to inhibit bacterial growth.
What is salmon poisoning disease?
This is a misleading name as it’s not a toxin, and it’s not due to the salmon itself but the parasitic flatworm Nanophyetus salmincola that can be found in Pacific salmon from the Pacific Northwest waters.
If the flatworm is infected with a bacteria called Neorickettsia helminthoeca, the dog may develop salmon poisoning. Symptoms include [1]:
- Lack of appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Weight loss
- Discharge from eyes and nose
- Fever
- Tremours
- Seizures
If detected and treated early, the recovery rate is good. The good news is that salmon poisoning is very rare in the UK.
What should I do if my dog eats raw salmon?
If you know it’s Atlantic salmon and it’s already been frozen, you don’t have to do anything. If it hasn’t been frozen, put it in your freezer for at least 3 days. If this is the first time your dog has had salmon or you aren’t sure of the source, it’s advisable to keep an eye on them.
Can dogs eat cooked salmon?
Yes, some dogs prefer to eat slightly steamed or cooked salmon over raw. If cooking salmon, don’t add any seasoning or flavouring like salt, pepper, herbs, and partially onion or other foods which are toxic to dogs.
If you’re buying cooked salmon from the shops, be sure it also doesn’t contain any of these things.
Looking for a healthy diet for your dog?
Explore Our Raw Dog FoodWhat other types of fish can dogs eat?
Most dogs can eat a variety of fish and it’s great for your dog’s nutrition. Fish dogs can eat includes:
- Tuna (in small amounts)
- Cod
- Haddock
- Mackerel (Not King Mackerel)
- Sardines
- Anchovies
- Trout
If buying tinned fish, choose fish that’s stored in spring water not sunflower oil or salt water. If you can’t find tinned fish in spring water, it’s ok to use tinned fish in tomato or olive oil – just drain it off first. And, if you’re getting fresh fish from a shop or fishmonger, pop it in the freezer for at least 3 days before defrosting and giving it to your dog.
Learn more about which fish you can and cannot feed to your dog.
References
- Salmon poisoning, VCA Hospitals: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/salmon-poisoning
- Everything you need to know about food allergies in dogs, American Kennel Club: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/dog-food-allergies/
- Salmon, The Fish Society: https://www.thefishsociety.co.uk/pages/high-protein-fish#:~:text=Halibut-,Salmon,20%2D25%20grams%20of%20protein.
- Can dogs eat salmon, American Kennel Club: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-salmon/
FAQs
How likely is salmon poisoning in dogs?
Salmon poisoning is low risk when feeding Atlantic salmon, which is the type of salmon that is available in UK shops and fishmongers, and which we use in our meals.
Are dogs sensitive to salmon?
Some dogs can be sensitive to salmon, either as an allergy or as an intolerance. If you’re giving salmon for the first time, keep an eye on your dog and be aware of symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, red itchy or inflamed skin, recurring ear infections, and scratching [2].
Can salmon be too rich for dogs?
While dogs have a robust digestive system, some may find salmon too rich, and may result in a runny bum. But, given in moderation as part of a complete and balanced diet, salmon is a great source of nutrition.
Can dogs eat salmon skin?
Most dogs can eat salmon skin but it should be in moderation as it has a high fat content. Make sure there are no hard or sharp scales on the skin as they may damage your dog’s mouth and intestinal tract.
How should salmon be cooked for dogs?
If your dog prefers their salmon cooked, you can bake it in the oven or steam it. Frying it in oil or butter isn’t recommended as it increases the fat content. However, you choose to cook, remember it should be seasoning and flavouring free.
