Tuna or any other type of fish is mostly associated with cats… not dogs.
However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s a type of food that only cats can enjoy.
In fact, including fish in your dog’s diet can actually be beneficial for them. You just need to find the right type of fish for your dog.
Here we’ll specifically look at tuna. Can dogs eat tuna? And, does the type of tuna matter? Let’s dive in and find out!
Can Dogs Eat Tuna?
Yes, tuna is a safe food for dogs to eat. However, dogs can eat tuna as long as it is properly prepared.
Cooked fresh tuna is the most ideal for dogs. Cook the tuna by just boiling it in water if you are feeding it to your dogs. Do not add any salt, pepper, onions or garlic.
Is Raw Tuna Okay For Dogs?
Some also choose to feed their dogs raw tuna fish, and this is okay, too. As long as all of the bones are removed.
How About Canned Tuna?
For those who are wondering whether or not they should feed their dogs canned tuna, well it depends.
You must choose canned tuna that is packed in water and not oil. This is because oiled tuna can lead to obesity and inflammation in your beloved fur babies’ pancreas.
Additionally, canned tuna with added flavorings are a huge no for dogs. Additives such as flavorings, spices, and oil should be kept away from dogs as far as possible. It is a well-known fact that spices pose a great threat to our dogs’ health.
Some Warning Before Giving Your Dog Tuna
With that said, because of its high mercury content, tuna fish should only be given to dogs at very minimal ratio, and on rare occasions. Do not make it a part of their regular diet.
If your dog is eating tuna for the very first time, keep track of their reaction. Some dogs may experience an allergic reaction to different types of fish.
It is always best to contact your veterinarian if your dog has previous medical issues to ensure that feeding them tuna is safe.
Learn More About What Human Foods Are Healthy or Harmful for Dogs
This article is part of our special series of articles about “What Human Foods Can Dogs Eat?”
Please check out other articles in the series including: Can Dogs Eat Turkey?