Can dogs eat salmon?

Why

Raw or undercooked salmon can carry a parasite that causes a fatal illness in dogs, and the bones pose a choking or internal injury risk. Even cooked salmon should be served plain without added seasonings, oils, or butter that can upset your dog's stomach.

If you do feed it

• Ensure the salmon is fully cooked to kill any parasites and remove all bones before serving.
• Serve only as an occasional treat in small, bite-sized pieces, not as a regular meal replacement.
• Avoid any salmon that is smoked, cured, or seasoned with garlic, onions, or excessive salt.
• Start with a very small amount to check for any digestive upset or allergic reaction.

Watch out for

• raw or undercooked salmon
• salmon bones
• smoked or cured salmon
• salmon with garlic, onions, or heavy seasoning
• salmon skin (can be hard to digest)

Better choices