Can Dogs Eat Shrimp?
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Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
UPDATED: Jan 8, 2024
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We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.
UPDATED: Jan 8, 2024
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
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If you are a seafood lover, you might also be a big fan of shrimp. After all, it’s a good source of protein and the most reasonably priced seafood you can purchase. And it tastes great too! Shrimp can be added to salads, sautéed or even just boiled.
While we humans need to watch the cholesterol in shrimp, its high protein content, low calories and excellent protein source make it a great, healthy option. So, when you are getting ready to sautee’ some shrimp or add it to a salad, can you give your dog a taste to sample?
Shrimp can be added to a dog’s diet but only when it’s prepared in a specific way.
Of course, before you share any human food with your dog, make sure to check with your veterinarian to see if she or he is OK with it.
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Is Shrimp OK For Dogs To Eat?
Shrimp, in small doses, is fine for dogs to eat but ONLY when they are cooked.
If you want to share some shrimp with your dog, raw shrimp has different dangerous pathogens that can cause your dog to be sick.
Steamed shrimp is the best way to feed your pup shrimp without any sauces, sprays or spices.
The good news is that when you cook the shrimp, it cooks away the dangerous toxins. For more on what food is safe or not safe to feed your pup, our ultimate guide to safe food for dogs can give you some guidance.
Related: 10 Things You Must Know Before You Buy Pet Insurance
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Benefits Of Shrimp For Dogs
Shrimp are filled with nutrients that are beneficial for dogs including vitamin B12, phosphorous, anti-oxidants, and niacin.
Vitamin B12 helps your dog metabolize food properly to help keep his gastrointestinal tract healthy. Niacin, which is vitamin B3, helps with energy function, blood circulation, and even fat and energy production. And phosphorous can help your dogs’ bones stay healthy while anti-oxidants can help with the aging process.
All that in shrimp?! Who knew?
Shrimp is also a good source of protein, low fat, and very few calories which is helpful when snacking. Shrimp does have a lot of cholesterol which is why it’s recommended in small amounts.
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When Shrimp Is Dangerous to Dogs
Shrimp, when raw, can be dangerous to dogs because of the bacteria in raw shrimp. This can easily be avoided by cooking the shrimp.
The shells of the shrimp can also be a choking hazard to dogs, particularly small dogs so make sure to remove the shell immediately.
If you are sharing shrimp with your dog, the best way to do so is to steam it.
Any salt or any other spices, butter or any type of breading should not be added to or on the shrimp if you want to give your pup a piece or two.
And shrimp does have a high cholesterol amount which can cause not only weight gain but be hard on a dog’s cardiovascular system. And if your diabetic, the extra cholesterol might cause your dog to have a bad reaction or interfere with any medication your dog is taking.
If you see any of the following symptoms after your dog eats shrimp, your pup might be allergic and you should take your dog to the vet as soon as possible:
- Sneezing
- Diarrhea
- Swelling
- Vomiting
- Coughing
How To Share Shrimp With Your Dogs
If you want to share some shrimp with your dogs, first make sure your vet is OK with your feeding it to your pups.
If your vet is OK with it, below are some thoughts on how to share it:
First, make sure to peel the shrimp and remove the skin or tails. Both can be very hard on your dog’s digestion and your dog can easily choke on it.
Cut the shrimp into small pieces and steam or bake it without any seasoning, butter or anything except for the shrimp.
Of course, any spice at all and particularly onions and garlic can be very harmful to your dog.
The best ways to share shrimp:
- Put a few pieces in his wet food to add a little variety
- Just give it your dogs plain as a healthy snack
- Some dogs love shrimp while others might simply turn their noses to it!
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Other Fruits And Vegetables Your Dog Might Enjoy
If your dog isn’t a fan of shrimp, there are some other food items that your dog might enjoy:
Foods That Are Unsafe For Dogs
Some of the other food items that are best to keep away from your dogs are:
Shrimp Can Be Fed To Dogs Sparingly
Shrimp can be added as a treat to your dog’s diet for a little low calorie, protein treat. And only when cooked!
Similar to most new food, make sure to give your dog a small dose to make sure your pup doesn’t have a bad reaction to it.
If your dog does have a negative reaction, make sure to take your dog to the vet right away.
In a case like this, pet insurance would help you pay for the vet visit and any other treatment or medication needed if your dog had a bad reaction to shrimp.
We recommend Healthy Paws as the #1 pet health insurance provider!
The best part is that you don’t have to worry too much about the costs when pet insurance plans like Petplan, Figo, and Healthy Paws will pay for up to 90% of the vet bill.
Of course, pet insurance would also pay for any other health conditions that your dog might encounter.
The best pet insurance companies will also pay for most hereditary conditions for your dog throughout your pup’s life (as long as they aren’t pre-existing).
Pet insurance allows you to get the best medical care for your dog without having to worry too much about the price. Which can be an equal relief!
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Finding safe alternative foods for your dogs to eat can be tricky. We have a long list of articles about every food you could possibly consider feeding your dog. One thing we recommend is that you consider looking into pet insurance for your pet and you can start by checking out the best rates for dog and puppy insurance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe for dogs to eat shrimp?
Shrimp, in small doses and when properly cooked, is safe for dogs to eat.
Can dogs eat raw shrimp?
No, raw shrimp is not recommended for dogs as it may contain dangerous pathogens. Cooking the shrimp eliminates these risks.
What are the benefits of shrimp for dogs?
Shrimp is rich in nutrients beneficial for dogs, including vitamin B12, phosphorous, antioxidants, and niacin. It also serves as a good source of protein, low in fat and calories.
When is shrimp dangerous for dogs?
Raw shrimp can be dangerous due to bacteria, and shrimp shells pose a choking hazard. Shrimp should be cooked, and shells, tails, and any added seasonings should be removed.
How to share shrimp with dogs?
If your vet approves, peel the shrimp, remove shells and tails, cut into small pieces, and cook without seasoning. Avoid any spices, butter, or breading.
What are the signs of a shrimp allergy in dogs?
If your dog shows symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy after eating shrimp, it may be allergic. Consult your vet promptly.
How much shrimp can be fed to dogs?
Shrimp can be given as an occasional treat, in small amounts, to avoid excessive cholesterol intake.
Are there alternative foods for dogs besides shrimp?
Yes, there are various dog-friendly foods like fruits and vegetables. Always ensure they are safe for canine consumption.
Can dogs eat other seafood?
Certain seafood, when properly prepared, can be safe for dogs. However, it’s crucial to research each type before sharing with your pet.
How can pet insurance help if a dog has a bad reaction to shrimp?
Pet insurance can cover vet visits, treatments, and medications in case of adverse reactions, providing financial assistance for unexpected healthcare costs.
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap pet insurance rates.
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Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.