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Can Dogs Eat Sardines?
Yes, sardines packed in water make an excellent treat for dogs. They are a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, which can provide health benefits for your pup. As with any new food, introduce sardines gradually into your dog's diet to monitor for any adverse reactions.
So, how can sardines benefit your dog? Sardines offer several health benefits for dogs due to their nutritional content:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These fatty acids support brain health, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy skin and coat in dogs.
Protein - Sardines are a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle development, repair, and overall growth in dogs.
Vitamins and Minerals - Sardines contain various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and calcium. These nutrients are important for maintaining overall health, supporting the immune system, and promoting bone health in dogs.
Joint Health - The omega-3 fatty acids found in sardines have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce joint inflammation and alleviate symptoms of arthritis or other joint conditions in dogs.
Heart Health - Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for cardiovascular health in dogs. They can help maintain healthy blood pressure, reduce the risk of blood clots, and improve overall heart function.
How To Feed Sardines To Your Dog
It's important to feed sardines to dogs in moderation and ensure they are plain, without added salt, seasonings, or sauces. Additionally, always check for any bones and remove them before feeding sardines to your dog, as bones can pose a choking hazard or cause internal injuries. Introduce sardines slowly into your dog's diet.
How Many Sardines Can My Dog Eat?
Depending upon your pet’s size, start with a small amount and place the rest in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Start big dogs with 1 sardine and small dogs with 1/4 or 1/3 of a sardine for taste. Many pets will get very excited with their new treat, but give the sardines over a few days to avoid any tummy upset.
Small Dogs - 1/3 can per week divided over several meals
Medium Size Dog (30+ pounds) - 1/2 can per week divided over several meals
Large Dog (50+ pounds) - 1 can per week divided over several meals
Can Dogs Get A Stomach Ache From Eating Too Many Sardines?
Yes, dogs can potentially experience digestive upset if they consume too many sardines or any new food. While sardines are considered safe for dogs in moderation, feeding them excessively or introducing them too quickly into a dog's diet can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort. Sardines are high in fat, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, so if your dog has a history of pancreatitis, please check with your veterinarian first. Also, some dogs may have a fish allergy and that could also potentially cause an upset tummy from eating sardines. If you notice any signs of digestive upset or allergic reactions after feeding sardines to your dog, discontinue feeding them and consult with your veterinarian for guidance.
Article published Apr 14, 2024
Article updated Sep 14, 2024
Written by:
Susan Davis, Pet Health Nutritionist, CCN
All pet treatment protocols and pet treatment supplements have been reviewed and approved by a veterinarian
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