With some moderation, dogs can typically eat all types of meat. Dogs need a varied diet, so it’s important to give them some extra vegetables for vitamins and minerals. Then there are human foods that you can share with your animal companion, but moderation is essential here as well. Now, you’re probably wondering: What about fish? Are sardines good for dogs or will they harm your pet? Can dogs eat fish?
The truth is sardines can actually be healthy for pets. In fact, many vets agree they should become regular treats. There are lots of benefits associated with them. There are a few dangers, as you have probably already guessed, as well as a few guidelines to follow when giving your dog sardines. In general, paying a little attention to the little things will help your furry friend. So, before giving sardines to your dog, what should you know about them?
How Many Sardines I Feed to My Dogs
My dogs consume one can of canned sardines per week, four sardines per can, and fish oil or oysters on the other days. Because I am concerned about oxidation and because I have four large dogs who will happily eat their share of sardines, I don’t keep leftover canned sardines in the refrigerator.
They receive two or three fish each per week (1 per day) when I feed them raw sardines, and fish oil or oysters the remaining days of the week. I feed sardines with bones whether they are canned or raw because, according to what I’ve read, the mineral ratio of the bones is ideal for sardines.
Given how infrequently this occurs in our routine, I don’t frequently feed my dogs a full meal of sardines.
When they are on sale at Costco, I will occasionally purchase canned sardines in olive oil, and I have learned to modify the recipe to account for the extra fat (and calories) the olive oil adds to their meal.
Because I feed small fish, mostly sardines, oysters, and occasionally mackerel, I don’t worry about mercury levels.
“Mercury is a dangerous neurotoxin that can disrupt brain function and harm the nervous system. It’s especially threatening to pregnant women and young children. As a general rule, smaller fish—think squid, scallops, sardines—contain less mercury than larger varieties like tuna and swordfish, which are higher up the food chain.” ~ NRDC.org
I enjoy Answers Pet Food’s fermented fish stock a lot. I switched to fermented fish stock when I lost my source for sardines from OC Raw because it contains Omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics, making it good for skin and coat health, joint health, cognitive health, digestive health, and it boosts the immune system – Oh My!
Another option is Bonnie & Clyde fish oil, which can be added to a dog’s meal and doesn’t have a strong fishy smell. Sardines, anchovies, and herring are used to make Bonnie & Clydes fish oil, which is also fortified with vitamin E from sunflower seeds. I switch out their oil for raw fish and canned, water-boiling oysters.
I used to be one of those people who advised choosing phytoplankton, but I changed my mind after learning how much I would need to give my dogs each day in order to meet their needs for Omega-3 fatty acids. In other words, I can’t afford this supplement.
Discover delicious food your dog deserves
The best course of action is to ask your veterinarian whether sardines are safe for your dog. They will be happy to provide you with guidance on whether these small fish are safe for your pet and how much they can consume.
No, sardines or any other type of raw fish should not be given to your dog. They can eat and digest the fish, but it is harder for them to digest and absorb the nutrients than when the fish is cooked.
The main issue with raw sardines is the potential presence of pathogens and parasites that could make you or your dog ill. Additionally, raw sardines contain the thiaminase enzyme, which degrades vitamin B1 in your dog’s body and may result in deficiency.
Sardines in cans are a very accessible and inexpensive source of oily fish. Given their accessibility, it makes sense to consider whether dogs can consume canned sardines to take advantage of the health benefits of the oily fish without spending a fortune.
Sardines in cans are safe for dogs to eat, but fresh fish is preferable. This is due to the fact that canned sardines always include extra ingredients that are bad for your dog to eat, such as salt, oil, or preservatives.
Some canned sardines, such as those that are tinned in water, are completely safe for dogs to consume and can make a nutritious and delectable treat for your dog. But not all canned sardines are beneficial to your dog.
Great for the heart
When you consider coenzyme Q10, you recall advertisements for human facial creams. However, this coenzyme is just as helpful for dogs. Sure, it won’t function like a face cream, but it will have a wide range of positive health effects. Coenzyme Q10 is often referred to as ubiquinol as well. From a scientific point of view, it is an antioxidant.
Antioxidants have more effects over a dog’s body. In addition to minimizing aging-related problems, they also enhance appearance and strengthen the immune system. Although ubiquinol already exists in your dog’s body, raising its levels will be even more beneficial. It is essential for the overall heart function. In canines with a current congenital condition, its necessity is even clearer.
FAQ
How often can dogs eat sardines?
To quickly learn how to eat fresh sardines, read on: For a dog weighing 0 to 30 pounds, feed half a sardine twice or three times per week in place of a meal. Sardines (instead of a meal) two to three times per week for a 30- to 60-pound dog. Two sardines (instead of a meal), two to three times per week, for a dog weighing 60 to 100 pounds.
Are canned sardines good for dogs?
Dogs can consume small amounts of canned or tinned sardines. Instead of using olive or coconut oil to prepare sardines, choose sardines packed in spring water because fatty foods can cause stomach upset, digestive problems like pancreatitis, or weight gain. You can also prepare fresh sardines.