Can dogs eat prawns?

Quick takeaways about dogs and prawns

• Yes, dogs can eat prawns, but they should be cooked – and only give them in moderation.
• Avoid feeding dogs raw prawns to prevent the risk of harmful bacteria.
• Prawn shells can be a choking hazard, so always remove them before feeding.

 

Whether your dog has accidentally snaffled a prawn or you want to share a little seafood snack with them, many owners get confused about whether prawns and other shellfish are safe for dogs.

The answer is – yes, prawns can be safe, but only when prepared correctly. Read on to find out how.

 

Can dogs eat prawns?

Prawns can be a safe and delicious treat for dogs. They are a good source of protein and contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can support skin and coat health. However, moderation is key.

 

Raw or cooked prawns – which is best?

Cooked prawns are the best way to serve your dog. Make sure they're thoroughly cooked to kill any potentially harmful bacteria, like salmonella.

Always serve prawns plain, without any added sauces, spices, or garlic, which can be toxic to dogs.

 

What about frozen prawns?

Frozen prawns should be thoroughly cooked before serving to your dog. Never feed dogs prawns that are still frozen, as they can be a choking hazard.

 

What About king prawns and other seafood?

Dogs can eat king prawns just as they would regular prawns.

Other seafood like tuna and salmon is also safe for dogs – in moderation. Always watch out for bones and give tuna even more sparingly as it has a high mercury content, which can be harmful to dogs (and humans).

 

Are prawn shells safe for dogs?

While not toxic, prawn shells can be hard for dogs to digest and might be a choking hazard. It's best to remove all shells before feeding prawns to your dog.

 

Can dogs eat mussels?

Yes, mussels are another seafood option that is okay for dogs. They provide essential nutrients like zinc, manganese, and selenium. Just make sure they’re cooked and served shell-free as part of a balanced diet.

That said, you don’t need to feed your dog such fancy ingredients! As long as they’re getting complete and balanced food, you don’t need to add human food to their diet.

 

How much seafood can you feed dogs?

Simply put, not too much! When introducing seafood, including prawns, into your dog's diet, it should only constitute a small portion of their overall food intake.

Start with a small amount to ensure your dog doesn't have an adverse reaction.

 

How to prepare seafood for dogs

Always cook seafood thoroughly to eliminate any harmful pathogens.

Remove all bones from fish to prevent choking or internal blockages.

Serve seafood plain, without any harmful seasonings or sauces.

 

Can dogs have seafood allergies?

While seafood can be a healthy treat for many dogs, some can develop allergies.

Signs of a seafood allergy can include:

• Itching
• Stomach upset
• Wheezing

If you notice any signs after your dog has eaten seafood (even accidentally) talk to a vet as soon as possible.

 

Can dogs eat prawn crackers or prawn cocktail?

Avoid giving dogs both of these. They often contain ingredients and seasonings that aren’t good for dogs, like onions, garlic, and excessive salt.

 

Try our personalised meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients, including plenty of protein and vitamins to help keep your dog healthy and happy.