Are Dogs Allergic To Shrimp? Learn About 5 Canine-Safe Types Of Seafood and The Great Properties Of Shrimps.

Are there any seafood lovers out there? Let me join your club as I am also an avid fish fan, who loves to indulge in lobsters, salmon, cod, clams, and shrimp. Not only is seafood delicious, but it is very nutritious as well! Shrimps, for instance, are an excellent source of protein, which fills you up quickly and keeps all the “bad” cravings away. As good as they are, some people develop an allergic reaction to seafood, particularly to fishy tails. Now, what about our furry friends? Are dogs allergic to shrimp?

Logically thinking, one may conclude that if canines get the same types of ailments that the two-legged tend to get (like arthritis, diabetes, cataracts, ear infections, and even cancer), then they can get allergic to shrimps. We need to dig into the subject deeper to uncover the truth. But first, let’s talk about all the safe seafood options for your pet to consume risk-free. Any parent has to know what to give/not to give a mutt just to be on the safe side. 

are dogs allergic to shrimp
Are Dogs Allergic to Shrimp?

Safe Seafood Types for Dogs

Salmon

Speaking of this pinky, flaky fish: it can, by all means, be considered the “Neptune” of the seafood. It is one of the most nutritious types of fish your buddy can indulge in. Salmon contains a very high Omega-3,6 fatty acids percentage, loaded with vitamins, potassium, and protein. It has to become a necessary dietary staple for both the two-legged and four-legged alike.

Related Reading: Can Pugs Eat Salmon?

Flounder

Another aqua powerhouse! It is packed with protein, magnesium, phosphorus, and B-group vitamins and is a must-eat if your mutt has to lose weight. It also aids in keeping the bones strong and, therefore is perfect for those canine senior citizens prone to losing calcium as they age.  

Whitefish

It contains good cholesterol, fighting inflammation if present. It has many vital nutrients and is great for the healthy nervous system functioning. Hence, if you are striving to have strong immunity look no further. Whitefish can be added to any diet for the added health benefit.   

Herring

Herring has Omega fatty acids in its composition, which help lower bad cholesterol, as well as keep the eye health in check. This type of seafood is also a must-have for all those “great minds” out there as it helps the brain carry out many important functions. 

Shrimps

Just like their other fishy counterparts, shrimps are abundant in healthy fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and phosphorous. The safest shrimp-cooking methods for a dog to eat risk-free are the grilled, boiled, and steamed tails. Make sure you prepare them without any spices, salts, etc. Dogs don’t react well to spicy foods and can develop an upset stomach syndrome. In some worse cases, an anaphylactic shock. Yet, is it possible for a hound to have a bad reaction to shrimps? In other words, are dogs allergic to shrimp

Are Dogs Allergic to Shrimp?

Of course, any pet (no matter feline or canine) may be prone to developing some types of food allergies, including shellfish. What canines can be specifically allergic to in seafood is the protein source that saltwater inhabitants are abundant in. Some alarming after-consumption signs may include facial swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, and seizures. Not sure if your pet might develop a reaction? Give a small piece of cooked seafood first to see how it is going to handle it. Since we mentioned the word “cooked”, you may be wondering if a raw form is also an option. 

Can Dogs Eat Raw Shrimps?

You probably know very well that humans cannot eat raw meats since there’s always a risk of a foodborne illness like Salmonella and E. Coli. Even if you prepare, but undercook your steak, there’s still a chance that you may get sick. The same with pets. Under no circumstance should you feed a pooch uncooked meats as they can get very ill as well. 

When it comes to fish, the rules are similar. It is highly recommended to fully process seafood before you consume it. Yet, a lot of people are fascinated with Japanese cuisine, particularly sushi. And many sushi/sashimi rolls’ components are raw marine products like salmon, tuna, and shrimp. Technically, the two-legged can indulge in raw fish without any serious consequences, but in moderation (taken they are not allergic to any type of shellfish period). Now, can dogs eat raw fish? Another question might come to mind in a dog owner’s mind: “Are dogs allergic to shrimp in its raw form?” 

Things are not as simple with our four-legged pals. While humans can tolerate eating a little raw seafood once a week, it is better not to give it to your furry companion. The reason why is that canines’ stomachs are much more sensitive and eating unprocessed fish may cause severe reactions. Hence, raw shrimp are not a great meal option and should be given only in their cooked form. Try boiling, grilling, or steaming them for the best (and safest) results. 

dogs allergic to shrimp
Dogs Allergic to Shrimp

Curl-Up

We have just answered the question “Are dogs allergic to shrimp?” and found out that they can become allergic to any type of shellfish, not just shrimps. That’s why it is not only important to fully cook any type of seafood you want to share with your fluffy bud but also to administer it one small piece at a time to avoid possible adverse reactions. Understandably, you want your most devoted friend to share your seafood passion with you. However, let’s not forget that dogs’ tummies are extremely delicate and develop issues a lot quicker compared to us. Better be safe than sorry, for sure!

Related Reading: Can Dogs Eat Cooked Brussel Sprouts? Benefits and The Best Cooking Methods

FAQs

Should dogs eat shrimp?

They don’t have to, but, if a pet parent wishes to share some with his/her pooch, they can go right ahead! Shrimps have a ton of protein that acts as a building block for bone and muscle health. Just make sure that you fully cook any seafood you want to give your pal.

Can dogs have shrimp?

Yes, by all means! Like any other seafood kind, shrimps have the Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids which are perfect for eye and nervous system health. Normally, dogs shouldn’t be allergic to fishy tails. However, if you know that your mutt is allergic to other types of seafood, you should introduce shrimps one bite at a time.

Can dogs eat shrimp shells?

Absolutely not since shells are very hard to digest! And, in case your fur baby gets its fangs on some of those, they can obstruct the intestines, leading to massive abdominal blockages. A pooch might require surgery to get rid of the shrimp’s outer skin.

stuart and his dog

Family Dog Expert Author

Hi there! I’m Stuart, a devoted dog lover and family dog expert with over a decade of experience working with our furry companions. My passion for dogs drives me to share my knowledge and expertise, helping families build strong, loving bonds with their four-legged friends. When I’m not writing for SirDoggie, you’ll find me hiking, playing with my beautiful dog, or studying music.