Can Shih Tzu Eat Salmon and How to Make It a Healthy Part of Their Diet

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Posted Oct 18, 2024

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Close-Up Shot of a White Shih Tzu
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Shih Tzus can benefit from the nutritional value of salmon, but only in moderation.

Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and promote heart health.

Shih Tzus require a balanced diet to stay healthy, and salmon can be a nutritious addition to their meals.

It's essential to introduce salmon to your Shih Tzu's diet gradually to prevent digestive issues.

A small amount of salmon, about 1-2 ounces per 10 pounds of body weight, is a good starting point.

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Benefits and Risks

Adding salmon to your Shih Tzu's diet can be a great way to provide essential fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties.

Smaller, younger, wild-caught fish are generally safe options for dogs, including Shih Tzus.

Fish can provide a novel protein source for dogs, which can be beneficial for managing food allergies.

However, eating too much fish can lead to an upset stomach, and in some cases, more serious medical issues.

Dogs that eat too much fish may potentially get issues such as inflammatory bowel disease or joint diseases like arthritis.

What Do They Eat?

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Smaller, younger, wild-caught fish are generally safe options when considering adding fresh or processed fish to your dog's diet.

Dogs can eat fish, but it's essential to choose the right type to avoid any potential risks.

Smaller fish are generally safer because they tend to have lower levels of contaminants.

Fresh or processed fish can be a nutritious addition to your dog's diet, but it's crucial to introduce it gradually to prevent digestive upset.

Younger fish are also a better option because they tend to have lower levels of mercury, a toxic substance that can harm dogs if ingested in high amounts.

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Safe

When it comes to feeding your furry friend, it's essential to choose safe fish options. Salmon is a great choice, but only if it's fresh and not contaminated with mercury or parasites. According to Robert C. Backus, MS, DVM, Ph.D., dogs can eat all kinds of meat, including fish.

Some safe fish for dogs include whitefish, flounder, salmon, herring, catfish, cod, whiting, and light tuna fish (canned). These fish are generally less likely to have high tissue mercury levels or significant parasite burdens.

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Photo of a White Shih Tzu on a Blue Leash
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If you're considering adding fish to your dog's diet, make sure to look for brands that are packed in water and contain no added salt. You can also check for the MSC Certified (Marine Stewardship Council) blue fish label, which indicates that the fish is harvested from wild-caught fisheries with sustainable populations.

Here are some safe fish options for your dog:

  • Whitefish
  • Flounder
  • Salmon
  • Herring
  • Catfish
  • Cod
  • Whiting
  • Light tuna fish (canned)

Remember to always check the packaging and labels to ensure that the fish you choose is safe and healthy for your dog.

Nutritional Benefits

Fish can provide a novel protein for dogs, which can be particularly beneficial in managing and minimizing food allergies.

Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are vital for a healthy coat and healthy skin.

Fish skin can be a valuable source of collagen, which is especially important for the bone and skin health of senior dogs.

Smaller, younger, wild-caught fish are generally safe options when considering adding fresh or processed fish to your dog's diet.

Salmon contains essential fatty acids that deliver the same type of benefits to dogs as to humans.

Health Risks

Shih Tzu Puppies
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Eating salmon can be a healthy choice for dogs, but it's not without risks. Some dogs may not need the extra fatty acids or vitamin D found in salmon, so it's best to check with a veterinarian first.

Raw or undercooked salmon can contain bacteria and parasites that cause salmon poisoning disease, which can be fatal if left untreated. Symptoms include lack of appetite, vomiting, fever, diarrhea, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes.

Dogs that eat too much fish can experience an upset stomach. However, eating too much fish can also lead to more serious medical issues.

Salmon poisoning is treatable if caught in time, but it's crucial to seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your dog has eaten contaminated salmon.

Cooking and Preparation

Always prepare fish plain and free of additives that can be harmful to your dog, including garlic, onion, and butter.

Salmon must be thoroughly cooked to be safe for your dog, reaching an internal minimum temperature of 145 degrees.

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Prior to cooking, completely debone the fish filet to ensure it's safe and healthy for your Shih Tzu.

You can poach, steam, or broil the salmon, but make sure to remove the skin before serving as it's extra fatty and adds calories.

No oil, butter, salt, pepper, garlic, onions, or other seasonings should be added to the salmon, as they can cause health issues in dogs.

Amount and Frequency

Your Shih Tzu can enjoy salmon as a special treat or dietary supplement, but it's essential to follow the right amount and frequency.

For a healthy Shih Tzu, you can offer a certain amount of fish depending on their size. Here's a general guideline: Extra-small dog (2–20 pounds) = one 1-inch by ¼-inch square of fishSmall dog (21–30 pounds) = two to three 1-inch by ¼-inch square of fishMedium dog (31–50 pounds) = three to five 1-inch by ¼-inch square of fishLarge dog (51–90 pounds) = five to nine 1-inch by ¼-inch square of fishExtra-large dog (91+ pounds) = nine to ten 1-inch by ¼-inch square of fish

Remember, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the right amount of fish for your Shih Tzu's specific needs, age, weight, and medical conditions.

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How Much to Eat?

Close-up of a Shih Tzu Dog
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Feeding your dog fish can be a great way to add some variety to their diet, but it's essential to do it in moderation. Your veterinarian can guide you on the amount of fish your dog's diet should contain based on their age, weight, and medical needs.

If your dog requires a hypoallergenic, novel source of protein to manage medical conditions, fish can be a daily component of their diet. However, for healthy dogs, you can follow the portion recommendations below.

Here's a breakdown of the recommended fish portion sizes for dogs of different weights:

Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution and consult with your veterinarian to determine the best amount of fish for your dog's specific needs.

Adding to Your Dog's Diet

Adding fish to your dog's diet can be a great way to provide variety and nutrients. This can be done as an occasional treat in addition to a commercially available diet.

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Fish can be a nutritious addition to your dog's diet, but it's essential to do it safely. Fish bones, fins, head, tail, and scales should not be included in your dog's food, as they can cause oral trauma, pose a choking risk, or lead to intestinal perforation and damage to surrounding organs.

To ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients, consult a veterinary nutritionist before switching to a home-cooked diet. This will help you create a balanced meal plan that meets your dog's needs.

Adding fish to your dog's diet can be a great way to provide variety and nutrients.

Adding to Your Dog's Diet

If you're thinking of adding salmon to your Shih Tzu's diet, it's essential to consider how to do it safely.

Fish can be a nutritious addition to your dog's diet, but it's crucial to choose the right parts.

Salmon is a great option because it's high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which can be beneficial for your dog's skin and coat.

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However, some parts of the fish, like the bones, fins, head, tail, and scales, should be avoided.

These portions can cause oral trauma, pose a choking risk, or even lead to intestinal perforation and damage to surrounding organs.

If you're considering a home-cooked diet for your Shih Tzu, make sure to consult with a veterinary nutritionist first.

They can help ensure that you're including all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to keep your dog healthy.

Final Thoughts

Salmon is a great alternative to other protein sources for your Shih Tzu, and it's packed with nutrients.

Canned salmon is a cost-effective and easy way to provide your Shih Tzu with the health benefits of salmon, including soft salmon bones that are safe for them to eat.

Just be sure to observe your Shih Tzu after their first helping of salmon to ensure they don't have any fish allergies.

It's also a good idea to discuss any new additions to your Shih Tzu's diet with your vet beforehand to make sure it's safe.

As long as you follow these simple steps, canned salmon can be a wonderful addition to your Shih Tzu's meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fish is good for Shih Tzu?

For Shih Tzus, consider dog food made with shorter-lived fish species like salmon, lake whitefish, or herring, which are generally safer and more nutritious options.

Is salmon better than chicken for dogs?

For dogs intolerant to chicken, salmon can be a better alternative protein source, offering a poultry-free option to satisfy their dietary needs. However, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog.

Terry Williamson

Junior Writer

Terry Williamson is a rising star in the world of writing, bringing a fresh perspective to the topics she covers. With a passion for animal welfare and education, Terry has established herself as a go-to expert on canine companions. Her articles on the standard poodle and poodle breeds have been widely read and appreciated for their engaging style and informative content.