We get emails all the time asking “can dogs eat shrimp?” Did you know that shrimp can be both delicious and nutritious for your pooch? If you’re anything like me, you’ve found that it can be a challenge to feed your dog healthy snacks that they will enjoy. Granted they’ll eat dang near anything, but “healthy for them” is the hard part. And shrimp fit that category.
In this article, I’ll answer your questions about feeding shrimp to your dog, including whether or not it’s safe, how much is too much, and how to safely prepare shrimp for your pup. Read on to learn more about the healthy benefits of shrimp for dogs!
Is Shrimp Bad for Dogs?
The short answer is no, shrimp is generally safe for dogs to eat in small portions when it is properly cooked. It is important to ensure that all shells are removed, as they can become a choking hazard or even lead to an intestinal blockage. And if the shrimp is not properly cooked, the bacteria found in shrimp can cause shellfish poisoning to your dog.
Can Australian Shepherds (and other breeds) Be Allergic to Shrimp?
It is unlikely that your dog would be allergic to shrimp if they have never had it before. Allergies usually develop from long-term exposure to a food. However, a food intolerance can happen the first time your dog eats something, so they may be intolerant to shrimp. If so, they may have diarrhea or vomiting.
If you know that your Aussie isn’t allergic, shrimp make excellent training treats. I bought some freeze-dried shrimp treats off Amazon that worked great. Take a second and check them out, there’s WAY more in the package than I expected! Pupford Freeze Dried Dog Training Treats – 285+ Puppy & Dog Treats – Low Calorie, Healthy Training Reward
Can Dogs Eat Raw Shrimp?
Dogs should not eat raw shrimp due to the presence of bacteria which may lead to shellfish poisoning. If your dog eats raw shrimp, watch for symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain. If such symptoms occur, please call your veterinarian immediately.
Can Aussie’s Eat Cooked, Boiled, or Fried Shrimp?
Yes, dogs can safely eat cooked shrimp. You can use any of the following methods to cook shrimp for your pup: boiling, steaming, grilling, baking. Just make sure not to add butter, oils, fats, seasonings, or spices, as these ingredients are not healthy for your dog. Garlic and onions are also toxic to dogs.
Is Shrimp Good for Dogs?
Yes! There are many health benefits to adding shrimp to your dog’s diet. Shrimp is a high-protein, low-calorie snack that also has vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including Vitamin B12, niacin, phosphorous, potassium, magnesium, iodine, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids.
If you’re looking for another GREAT treat that can be really healthy for your Australian Shepherd, try salmon. You have to prepare it correctly. I wrote an entire article about it that only takes a couple minutes to read. It’s worth your time if you’re looking for a healthy, high vitamin training treat. Read it here -> Can Dogs Eat Salmon? The Ultimate Guide to Knowing What Foods Are Safe for Your Dog
Conclusion
Shrimp can be an excellent treat for your pup as long as it is properly prepared and fed in moderation. Keep in mind that treats should only make up 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake, and be mindful of the potential risk of food allergy or intolerance. Lastly, make sure that raw or undercooked shrimp is avoided, and always look out for the signs of an upset stomach. With the proper care, your pup can enjoy the taste, texture, and nutritional benefits of shrimp!
