By: Dr. Juli, DVM @itsDrJuli
If your four-legged furry family members come running at the mention of tuna, you are not alone. This popular fish is not only a feline favorite but a staple in the diet of many people. Tuna can come in various forms and types, from canned to sushi-grade or seared on the grill. The strong smell and savory taste may also be hard for your pup to resist. But can and should dogs eat tuna?
The short answer is no. While tuna is not inherently toxic, regular consumption can lead to various health issues in dogs. It can be extremely dangerous and detrimental to some dogs' health. Understanding the ins and outs of the "chicken of the sea" will help ensure your dog remains free from the potential dangers of tuna.
Is Tuna Good for Dogs?
Humans regularly consume tuna because of its savory taste and numerous health benefits, including its high protein and low-calorie content. Tuna contains various vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including vitamin B12, selenium, and niacin. Additionally, it's loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which can support skin, hair, and cardiovascular health in people and dogs.
While these nutrients can be great for your dog's health, pups fed a complete and balanced diet generally do not need more of these vitamins and minerals. Tuna should only be used as a primary protein or nutrient source in your dog's diet if included in a veterinary-approved, AAFCO complete and balanced dog food. Also, always consult your veterinarian before feeding your pup any new food or treats. While it can be hard to resist your dog's sweet face when they beg for a bite of tuna, it's best to feed them a dog-specific treat.
Health Risks of Feeding Dogs Tuna
Although tuna is not inherently toxic to dogs, regularly feeding your dog or giving them certain types of tuna can cause various health problems for your pup. Tuna is a very salty fish that can be dangerous for dogs, especially those with underlying health problems like kidney disease, heart disease, or high blood pressure. Additionally, any dog who consumes a large amount of salt or salty foods is at risk for salt poisoning, which can be deadly. Immediately bring your pup for emergency veterinary care if they accidentally consume salt or show any of the following salt toxicity signs, including vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, excess thirst, excess urination, or seizures.
Additionally, feeding your dog the following tuna types can also put them at risk for a variety of health problems, including:
Raw Tuna
Sushi-grade raw tuna is a favorite among many people. However, feeding your dog any raw fish can put them at risk for intestinal parasites that the fish may be carrying. Additionally, raw tuna can contain harmful bacteria, leading to gastrointestinal (GI) distress or other illnesses in your pup. Raw, fresh tuna also contains the enzyme thiamine, which prevents vitamin B1 from being absorbed; however, this is counteracted when the fish is cooked.
Cooked and Seasoned Tuna
Most fish and meat are prepared with oils, spices, and flavorings that can be high in added salt and fat and too rich for your dog's digestive tract, leading to GI upset. Additionally, dogs who ingest rich, fatty foods have an increased risk for pancreatitis. This painful, inflammatory condition can be deadly in some cases.
Tuna Salad
Similar to cooked versions, tuna salads often contain a variety of seasonings and ingredients that may be toxic to dogs, including garlic or onions. Additionally, the high-fat mayonnaise content can cause GI upset or pancreatitis.
The Dangers of Mercury Poisoning
Environmental contamination of pollutants in our oceans is an ongoing concern. Industrial activities have led to mercury entering our waters and accumulating in fish, especially tuna. Tuna are large fish that can live up to 50 years, and their size, combined with their longevity, has resulted in high levels of mercury, a heavy metal that is toxic in high concentrations, in their bodies. The FDA provides resources for mercury levels in various kinds of seafood and has cautioned people, especially pregnant women and young children, against consuming certain types and quantities of tuna.
The same concern holds true for our canine companions. While the occasional bite of tuna will likely not cause any adverse effects, regular consumption of tuna can put your dog at increased risk of mercury poisoning, which can be deadly. Additionally, small breeds, puppies, pregnant dogs, or dogs with underlying health issues or compromised immune systems should never consume tuna.
Signs of mercury poisoning include:
- Vomiting, which may contain blood
- Diarrhea, which may contain blood
- Lethargy
- Decreased appetite
- Loss of coordination
- Tremors
- Hair loss
- Anxiety
- Changes in urination
- Vision loss
Get your dog immediate veterinary care if they show any of these symptoms of mercury poisoning.
Can My Dog Safely Eat Tuna?
Healthy adult dogs who occasionally consume a small amount of tuna for a special treat can likely do so without any adverse effects. However, they are still at risk for allergic reactions if they have food sensitivities. Healthy dogs are also at risk for pancreatitis when consuming a new treat, regardless of the amount or type. Always consult your veterinarian before offering your pup any new treats or food.
A small bite of cooked, plain tuna will likely not cause health problems, but ensure to monitor your dog for adverse reactions. If your dog accidentally consumes raw tuna or a large amount of canned tuna, cooked tuna, or tuna salad, immediately contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control to determine the required treatments. In some cases, you may be advised to induce vomiting or to take your pup to the closest veterinary emergency hospital. However, never attempt to cause your dog to vomit unless a veterinary professional advises you to do so.
Safe Alternatives to Feeding Tuna to Your Dog
Because tuna is packed with healthy omega oils, pet owners may be tempted to add it to their dog's diet. Omega fatty acids provide numerous benefits for dogs, including supporting their skin barrier, a healthy shiny coat, improved cognitive function, and helping decrease inflammation. However, the best and safest way to ensure your dog receives the health benefits of omega oil is to give them a veterinary-formulated supplement, like Native Pet Omega Oil.
For pups who enjoy the occasional fish treat, offering them lower mercury alternatives like plain cooked salmon or white fish are better options for a fish-based protein source with little to no mercury content. Always check with your DVM before incorporating a new protein or food into their diet to ensure it does not counteract their current diet. Additionally, dogs fed an AAFCO-approved diet should only be given fish in small amounts as an occasional treat to prevent weight gain or GI problems. Generally, treats or additional calories should not comprise more than 10% of your dog's daily intake to avoid weight gain.
Although tuna is not inherently toxic to dogs, it can cause various health issues when fed regularly as a part of your dog's diet. Giving your dog a lot of tuna can also put your furry friend at risk for mercury poisoning and salt poisoning. The nutrient benefits of tuna can be mimicked by providing your dog with a veterinary-approved omega oil supplement and a complete and balanced diet.
For more information and tips on your dog's health, check out the Native Pet blog.
