Fish & Seafood: what's safe, what isn't.
Fish is often well tolerated and rich in skin-friendly omega-3s — which makes it a useful novel protein. Always cooked, deboned, and never raw or seasoned.
- Raw fishNever feed
Risks parasites and 'salmon poisoning' — always cook fish for dogs.
- TunaCan trigger
Fine in small amounts, but high mercury means it shouldn't be a staple.
- Shrimp & shellfishCan trigger
Can trigger reactions and must be fully cooked and shelled.
- CrabCan trigger
Okay cooked and shelled in small amounts; a possible allergen.
- White fish (cod, pollock)Usually safe
Gentle, lean and often novel — common in sensitive and hydrolysed diets.
- Salmon (cooked)Usually safe
Rich in omega-3s and well tolerated by most, though a minority react.
- Fish oilUsually safe
An omega-3 supplement that often helps itchy skin — not a protein source.
- SardinesUsually safe
Small, omega-3-rich and low in mercury — a great occasional fish.
Fish can be a great novel protein for a trial — but introduce only ONE protein at a time, or you can't tell what helped.
Start the guided trialMore food categories.
Educational only — not veterinary advice, and not a diagnosis. “Never feed” items are toxic; if your dog eats one, contact your vet or an animal poison line immediately.