Can Dogs Eat Shrimp? A Vet’s Point of View

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Yes! Dogs can also eat shrimps. In moderation according to your canine, shrimp has a lot of benefits. If you are looking for a healthy, safe and nutritious treat for your four-legged friend, shrimp can be your gateway. For a dog’s diet plan shrimp is a great choice as it is low in carbohydrates, calories and fats. So occasionally shrimp can be not just safe but a tasty point for your pup. Steamed shrimp are well and good for your dog but make sure to remove veins, tail and shell. 

Dive in deep for knowledge! 

Can dogs eat shrimp?

Absolutely yes! Dogs can eat the shrimps. Just remove the shrimp tail and shell because it can cause choking and the rest is safe for your dog. As the shrimp has high cholesterol so make sure to give in moderation.

Health benefits of shrimp for dogs

A quick list is given below: 

Minerals and vitamins

It includes niacin, vitamin B12 & B3. 

Niacin is for:

  • Nervous system health.
  • God coat and skin.
  • Appropriate digestion.
  • Fit metabolism.

Vitamin B12 & B3 are for:

  • Management of metabolism and digestion.
  • Aiding cognitive functions. 
  • RBCs growth. 

Phosphorus content

Although shrimp has lean protein, it also has a high phosphorus to protein ratio. Phosphorus involved in making the:

  • Healthy metabolism.
  • Strong bones and teeth.

Omega 3 fatty acids

Omega 3 fatty acids are vital for human and pet health. For dogs the omega 3 fatty acids involved in the 

  • Brain & heart health.
  • Better skin.
  • Gives coats having less dandruff.

Antioxidants

These are important for reducing the risk of many diseases. Also it is vital for both humans and pets. 

  • Antioxidants in shrimp helps in body protection from free radicals which can lead to disorders of liver heart and also cause cancer. 

Can dogs eat raw shrimp?

Harmful pathogens are present in raw and uncooked shellfish, so before giving your dogs shrimp, it is better to cook it. Remove the shrimp shell to avoid any obstruction and choking, specifically in small breeds. Breaded or fried shrimps can have unusual oils and fats which are harmful for your dog’s health, so steamed shrimps must be your choice. 

Raw shrimp can lead to:

  • Diarrhea.
  • Vomit and nausea.
  • Pain in abdomen. 

Optimal quantity of shrimp for dogs

Size of dogWeight of dog Shrimps Examples 
Extra small2 to 20 pounds Half medium Pugs. Chihuahuas. Shih Tzus. Yorkies. Pomeranians. 
Small 21 to 30 pounds1 medium Miniature Australian shepherds. Beagles. Basenjis. 
Medium 31 to 50 pounds2 medium Siberian huskies. Border collies. Basset hounds. Australian cattle dogs.
Large 51 to 90 pounds3 medium Labrador retrievers. German shepherd. Australian shepherd.  Pit bulls.
Extra large 91 plus poundsUp to 4 medium St.Bernards. Bernese mountain dogs.  Great pyrenees. Newfoundlands. 

Conclusion

Until now you have got your shoulders for your furry friend that can eat shrimp. Next time when you steam shrimps for yourself, don’t forget to make it for your four-legged friends. My canine lovers just note that every pup is different so you can consider the list given above. But make sure to consult your veterinarian first to avoid any problem later. Stay happy my canine philics!

FAQs

Can shrimp cause an allergic reaction to dogs?

When you give shrimp to your dog for the first, make it slowly and note the reactions. Because allergy development is caused by long term exposure to food. Your dog might experience intolerance for the first time when you give them food, so shrimp intolerance can also occur. If it is, it may lead to vomiting and diarrhea. 

What types of sea-food dogs can eat?

Dogs can safely eat some types of sea-foods like:

  • De Shelled crabs have amino acids, omega 3 fatty acids and vitamin B12.
  • Wild salmon includes vitamin D and omega 3 fatty acids.
  • Sardines contain niacin, selenium, calcium, proteins and omega 3 fatty acids.
  • Mussels have antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, omega 3 fatty acids and amino acids.
  • De Shelled lobsters zinc, proteins and omega 3 fatty acids.
  • Oysters are packed with zinc, iron, phosphorus, selenium, calcium, proteins and vitamin B12.

Can shrimp be bad for dogs? 

Shrimp does not have high values of sodium and cholesterol also when it is cooked properly they have a safe side for your dog. Just be sure that shrimp is cooked properly and the tail, veins and shell is removed as shell may lead to choking and intestinal blockage. Shellfish poisoning can cause, if the shrimp is not cooked properly because of the bacteria present in shrimp. 

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