Can Dogs Eat Tuna? When Can Tuna Be Dangerous? | Purina (2024)

FAQs

Can Dogs Eat Tuna? When Can Tuna Be Dangerous? | Purina? ›

When fed very occasionally in moderation, dogs can eat tuna as it's unlikely to cause health issues. Every dog is different, so it's important to offer very small quantities at first to see how your dog reacts.

Because tuna fish live a long time – sometimes up to 40 years – they can accumulate a relatively large amount of mercury in their tissues over time. Mercury poisoning in dogs can cause kidney damage, diarrhoea, tremors, hair loss and even blindness.

“No tuna salad,” Dr. Bonk says. “While most ingredients are safe for dogs, they just don't need the additional calories that things like mayonnaise bring. Also, seasonings like salt, onion and garlic can be toxic or harmful if consumed in large enough amounts.”

Tuna is unsafe for dogs in large amounts, and should only be deemed a treat to be fed occasionally. Of course, it's also unsafe if it's spoiled or out of date, or if your pooch has an allergy. Canned tuna is only safe for dogs when it comes in spring water - the kind soaked in brine or oils should be avoided.

Large breed dogs can eat one can of tuna over the course of one week, but not every week. Small breeds can safely consume about half a can over one week. Your vet will guide you on the amount of tuna suitable for your pet, based on their size, weight, and medical needs.

But can dogs eat tuna? The answer is no. You shouldn't feed your canine companion the saltwater fish because it could lead to a number of different health problems.

Canned fish — such as tuna, salmon, and sardines — can last up to three years after they're packaged. Why? "Canning foods removes all air and places it in vacuum-sealed containers that are then heat processed," says Rumsey. "This destroys microorganisms and prevents new bacteria from getting in."

Now that you know what fresh fish should look and smell like, you'll be better equipped to sniff out spoiled fish. "If it smells pungently fishy and putrid (and doesn't make you want to eat it!), trust your nose. Its texture may also become slimy, less firm and more mushy, and it may turn gray. Shine is fine.

For tuna varieties, skipjack earns the Best Choice label from the FDA, while yellowfin and albacore receive the Good Choice label. The FDA suggests avoiding bigeye tuna, which has the highest levels of mercury. Before consuming canned tuna, it is best to consult with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

Signs can include blindness, excitement, abnormal behavior and chewing, lack of coordination, and convulsions.

What canned fish can dogs eat? ›

Safe Fish for Dogs

They also provide rich omega 3's and plenty of antioxidants. Whitefish such as flounder and cod can help a dog with a need for cooling proteins. Canned wild-caught sardines, mackerel, and canned tuna fish (not albacore) in water with no salt added will definitely make your puppy happy.

Other fish to avoid with high levels of mercury include albacore tuna, swordfish and king mackerel. If you do choose to serve up a small portion of tuna as a rare treat, look for tuna without any additives. “Another issue with tuna, and canned tuna specifically, is the carrier oil that is used,” Dr. Wilson says.

Eggs are nutritious for both people and dogs. They can be tasty treats or a hearty breakfast, whether they're hard-boiled, poached, scrambled, or over easy. A cooked entire egg or yolk can be good for your dog, unless your pet has a pre-existing health condition like acute pancreatitis or diabetes.

For organic mercury poisoning, 2.3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (10 mg/kg, by mouth, three times a day for 10 days) has been useful in dogs. If gastrointestinal tract decontamination has been successful, administration of penicillamine (50–100 mg/kg per day, by mouth, for 2 weeks) may reduce clinical signs.

Bananas are safe for dogs, but moderation is key. Bananas are high in sugar, so too much of it can put your dog at risk of developing medical conditions. You should give your dog only a few thin slices of banana once in a while. At least 90% of your dog's food should be regular dog food.

A tiny amount of tuna isn't enough to cause mercury poisoning. However, if they've gotten into a large amount, you'll want to keep an eye out for the following symptoms, which can be indicators of mercury poisoning: Anxiety or nervousness. Hair loss.

If your pup eats too much tuna, it can lead to mercury poisoning. Signs of mercury poisoning include: Vomiting blood. Watery or bloody diarrhea.