Can Dogs Eat Salmon?
Does your dog whip out puppy eyes every time you cook fish? If so, you may wonder, “Can dogs eat salmon?” While salmon offers a number of health benefits for dogs, there are some considerations you should keep in mind before you begin incorporating it into their diet. Below we explore salmon’s health benefits and provide guidelines on how to best feed your pup all natural dry dog food with salmon, wet food with salmon, or fresh cooked salmon.
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Benefits of Salmon For Dogs
High Quality Protein Source
Protein plays a crucial role in a dog’s diet, supporting healthy muscle development, promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat, and more. As carnivorous animals, dogs need protein to stay healthy, making it an essential nutrient in their meals. Like other animal products, salmon is an amazing source of protein for your pup.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Salmon is not only a fantastic protein source but is also rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids. Essential fatty acids are crucial for maintaining your dog’s skin and coat health. These key nutrients help your pup’s skin retain more moisture, reducing the risk of dry skin and promoting the growth of shiny fur.
Great Source of Minerals
Salmon is also a great source of minerals, selenium, and potassium. Selenium is stored in your dog’s muscles and thyroid, helping support metabolism and healthy hormone functions. Potassium is your dog’s primary electrolyte. This mineral helps promote hydration as well as neural, organ, and muscle function.
May Be a Great Option For Dogs With Allergies
Fish allergies are not as common in dogs, which makes salmon an excellent choice of protein for dogs with allergies. If your furry friend experiences sensitivity or adverse reactions to common protein sources like chicken or beef, introducing salmon into their diet might provide a nutritious and hypoallergenic alternative. Always check with your veterinarian if you have questions on what proteins would be a good fit for your pet.
How to Incorporate Salmon Into Your Dog’s Diet
Now that you understand salmon’s benefits, you may be eager to add this ingredient to your dog’s diet. However, changing your dog’s food shouldn’t be done haphazardly. The tips below will help ensure that you’re safely incorporating salmon into your pet’s routine.
Don’t Feed Your Dog Raw Salmon
Raw salmon may contain parasites and bacteria, which can be harmful to your dog’s digestive system and overall health. Additionally, raw salmon might contain small, sharp bones that pose a choking hazard or risk of internal injuries. To ensure your dog’s safety, it is best to cook the salmon thoroughly, removing any bones, before offering it to your dog.
Avoid Seasonings and Additives
When preparing salmon for your dog, avoid using any seasonings, sauces, or additives. These can contain ingredients that may be harmful to dogs, such as garlic, onion, or excessive salt. Plain, cooked salmon without any additional flavorings is the best option for your furry friend.
Find a Balanced Dog Food That Includes Salmon
Choosing an all natural dog food that utilizes salmon is one of the simplest and safest ways to begin mixing this ingredient into your dog’s diet. Nature’s Logic offers two salmon inclusive recipe options for dogs, a canned Duck & Salmon Feast and Duck & Salmon Meal Feast. Both contain 100% all natural ingredients, ensuring your pup gets the nutrients they need to thrive.
Supplement With Salmon Treats
Enrich your dog’s diet with the health benefits of salmon by incorporating salmon flavored treats into their routine. Nature’s Logic Skin & Coat Care Biscuits with Benefits is baked with salmon and rich in healthy oils, helping support their skin and coat health.
Consult Your Veterinarian
It’s important to consult your veterinarian before significantly changing your dog’s diet or incorporating a new protein, like salmon, into their meals. Your vet knows your dog’s health needs and can provide personalized advice and recommendations on their nutrition.
A Fishy Treat For Your Furry Friend
When thoughtfully incorporated into your dog’s diet, salmon boasts numerous health benefits. Interested in incorporating Nature’s Logic salmon products into your dog’s routine? Find a store near you.
