Salmon is often praised as a nutritional powerhouse for dogs, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients. But can dogs eat salmon?

The truth is that while it offers undeniable health benefits, salmon also carries risks, including exposure to toxins and parasites that could harm your dog.

Today I'm diving into the risks and benefits feeding your dog salmon, so you can make a more informed decision. You'll also find alternative omega-3 sources and safety tips for if you choose to include salmon in your dog’s diet.

Why Salmon Might Not Be Safe For Dogs

We all typically think of salmon as a healthy fish. But the health benefits (like healthy fats) may not outweigh the risks when it comes to giving your dog salmon.

Here's why salmon for dogs might not be all it's cracked up to be:

Radiation Concerns

The 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster released radioactive particles into the Pacific Ocean, affecting fish like salmon. Cesium-137 and strontium-90, radioactive particles found in Pacific salmon, can accumulate in a dog’s bone marrow, potentially increasing the risk of cancers like leukemia.

Chemical Contaminants

The oceans are home to persistent pollutants like PCBs, dioxins, and furans—man-made chemicals linked to serious health issues, including cancer, liver damage, and immune suppression. These toxins remain in the environment due to improper disposal and industrial leaks, making their way into the food chain and seafood like salmon.

Heavy Metal Exposure

Salmon often contains heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, and lead—by-products of industrial pollution that resist breakdown. These metals can lead to neurological disorders, kidney damage, and even blindness, posing significant risks to your dog's overall health.

GMO And Farmed Salmon Risks

Farmed salmon is a growing concern because it’s often genetically modified to grow faster and larger. These fish frequently contain higher levels of PCBs than wild-caught salmon, and without clear labeling, it’s nearly impossible to know if the salmon you’re buying is GMO.

Parasites In Wild Salmon

Wild salmon can carry parasites like roundworms or flukes, some of which are infected with Neorickettsia helminthoeca, the bacteria responsible for salmon poisoning disease. This condition can cause severe symptoms, including vomiting, fever, bloody diarrhea, and swollen lymph nodes, potentially turning fatal without prompt treatment.

Alternatives To Salmon For Dogs

Luckily, there are plenty of simple alternatives that you can feed dogs instead of salmon.

Green-lipped mussels are an excellent, sustainable alternative for omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA. These mussels naturally absorb omega-3s from phytoplankton, offering the same benefits as salmon without the contamination risks.

Animal brains and eyes are another rich source of omega-3s, particularly DHA, which supports brain and heart health. Though less common and harder to source, these organ meats are a natural, holistic option for meeting your dog’s nutritional needs.

Safe Practices For Feeding Salmon

If you’re determined to include salmon in your dog’s diet, being selective and cautious is key. Pacific salmon, especially from the Northwest, is a no-go due to the higher likelihood of carrying contaminants like PCBs, dioxins, and radioactive particles from the Fukushima nuclear disaster.

Farmed salmon is another risky option because of its potential for GMO origins and even higher levels of toxins. Your safest bet is wild-caught salmon from trusted sources, preferably from areas known for lower contamination levels.

Parasites are another concern, particularly flukes that can transmit salmon poisoning disease. Freezing salmon for at least a week before feeding is a reliable way to eliminate parasites and bacteria. If you’re shopping for salmon at the store, look for pre-frozen, high-quality cuts labeled as safe for raw consumption if you plan to prepare it yourself.

When it comes to preparing salmon, the cooking method matters. Steaming is your best option, as it thoroughly cooks the fish without stripping it of its beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Unlike frying or grilling, steaming avoids adding unnecessary fats or creating harmful byproducts.

Always remove the salmon’s skin before serving it to your dog. Although the skin might seem appealing as a treat, it contains the highest concentrations of harmful substances like heavy metals and dioxins. By taking this simple step, you ensure your dog gets the benefits of salmon without unnecessary exposure to these risks.

Different Types Of Salmon Products And Their Risks

Another thing to know if you decide to feed salmon: not all of it is equal.

Some types of salmon or parts of the fish are very high risk for dogs.

Here's what you should consider:

Salmon Skin

Many people wonder if they should let dogs eat salmon skin. Salmon skin is often considered a delicacy for humans, but for dogs, it’s a high-risk option. The fatty tissue in the skin acts as a storage depot for toxins like PCBs and dioxins, meaning it carries the worst of what salmon can offer without adding much nutritional value.

While feeding a small piece of skin occasionally might not cause immediate harm, the cumulative effects of these toxins can lead to serious health problems over time.

If you’re still considering feeding salmon skin, think about whether the risks are worth it. Instead, focus on offering your dog lean, toxin-free cuts of salmon that provide all the good stuff—like omega-3 fatty acids, salmon oil, and fish oil,—without the baggage.

Smoked Salmon

Can dogs eat smoked salmon? It might sound like a gourmet treat for your dog, but it’s far from safe. Smoked salmon is technically cured salmon, and the curing process typically involves high amounts of salt, which can cause dehydration and even salt poisoning if consumed in large quantities.

Some smoked salmon also contains added sugar, which isn’t ideal for your dog’s health.

On top of that, the smoking process can create harmful carcinogens called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These chemicals form when the fish is smoked at high temperatures, increasing the risk of long-term health problems.

If your dog accidentally eats smoked salmon, monitor them for signs of salt poisoning like extreme thirst, vomiting, or confusion, and provide plenty of water to help flush their system.

Canned Salmon

Canned salmon can be a quick and convenient option, but it’s not the healthiest choice for regular feeding. While it’s usually safe when packed in water and without added salt or oil, the canning process destroys some of the fish’s natural omega-3 fatty acids, diminishing its nutritional value.

Additionally, canned salmon often contains higher cholesterol levels, which might not be suitable for dogs with certain health concerns.

If you’re in a pinch and decide to use canned salmon, make sure to read the label carefully. Avoid products with added flavors, oils, or preservatives, and always opt for salmon canned in water. While it’s not ideal, it can be a safe occasional treat if you’re mindful of these considerations.

Raw Salmon

Letting dogs eat raw salmon can be a controversial topic. On one hand, raw fish, including salmon, is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for your dog’s skin, coat, and brain health. However, raw salmon, particularly wild-caught Pacific salmon, can harbor parasites like flukes infected with Neorickettsia helminthoeca. This bacterium causes salmon poisoning disease, a potentially fatal condition that affects only canines. Symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and swollen lymph nodes, can appear within days and require immediate veterinary attention.

On the other hand, for dogs with strong immune systems, raw fish is often well-tolerated, and the risk of parasite infection can be mitigated through proper freezing. Freezing raw salmon at -4°F (-20°C) for at least seven days, as recommended by the FDA, effectively kills parasites and ensures the fish is safe to feed.

For pet owners who want to incorporate raw fish into their dog’s diet, these precautions allow them to do so safely while reaping the nutritional benefits. Additionally, raw fish bones are softer and safer than cooked bones, making them less likely to cause choking or injury when properly frozen or fresh.

FAQ

Can I feed my dog cooked salmon? Yes, dogs can eat cooked salmon as long as it is properly prepared. Always choose fresh salmon, remove the salmon bones, and steam or bake it without any added seasonings to ensure it's a safe and nutritious source of essential fatty acids for your dog.

How much salmon can I give my dog? Limit salmon to no more than 100 grams per 10 pounds of your dog’s weight, served once a week. Feeding too much salmon can lead to an imbalance in their diet or expose them to contaminants like mercury.

Why can't dogs eat salmon? Raw or undercooked salmon can expose dogs to dangerous parasites or bacteria, leading to severe illness like salmon poisoning. Additionally, farmed fish and smoked salmon contain harmful contaminants and high salt levels that are unsafe for your dog.

Is salmon or chicken better for dogs? Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, while chicken is leaner and easier to digest for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Both options are nutritious, but pet owners should choose fresh salmon or boneless chicken depending on their dog’s dietary needs and health conditions.