Can Dogs Eat Fish Fingers?
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Fish is frequently recommended to feed your dog and provides them with many health benefits.
A great source of protein, fish contains vitamins, minerals and omega-3 fatty acids to support brain health along with your pooch’s skin & coat.
If fish is so good for dogs, this raises the question, can dogs eat fish fingers?
Here’s what you need to know.
Table of contents
Can Dogs Eat Fish Fingers?
No, dogs should not eat fish fingers.
This is due to the added ingredients such as seasonings, salt and oils making them unhealthy for dogs which could make them sick.
In addition, recently cooked fish fingers will be hot and burn your dogs mouth, throat and digestive tracts.
Fish fingers also typically have breadcrumbs or batter that can be difficult for a dog to consume and cause digestive upset.
Can Puppies Eat Fish Fingers?
The same applies for puppies and they should not eat fish fingers due to the added fat, seasonings and ingredients such as breadcrumb that is not suitable for dogs.
A puppy’s digestive system is not as developed as an adult dog making consuming foods that aren’t suitable for dogs even more difficult.
If a human food is not suitable for an adult dog it is not recommended for it to be eaten by a puppy either.
The breadcrumb in a fish finger would be even more difficult for a puppy to break down in their stomach being more likely to have a negative impact after eating fish fingers.
Are Fish Fingers Safe For Dogs?
Fish fingers are not safe for dogs and can cause digestive issues or make your dog sick.
Smaller dogs or dogs with more sensitive tummies are more at risk of these type of side effects.
Larger dogs may not have noticeable side effects after consuming a small amount of fish fingers but this doesn't mean that they aren't affecting your dog's overall gut health.
You should keep a close eye on your dog if they have eaten any amount of fish fingers and call your vet if they show any signs of unusual behaviour or they are sick.
Hot foods such as cooked fish fingers are not safe for your dog to eat as they will burn their mouth, throat and digestive tract.
In all cases, prevention is better than a cure and keeping any human food out of the reach of dogs mouths is important!.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats A Fish Finger
Now you know not to feed your dog any fish finger from your plate at dinner time, the only chance they get is if they are left tot heir own devices with a fish finger within reach.
If your dog has snook their way into your meal with fish fingers and eaten part of one, keep a close eye on them and contact a vet if you see any unusual behaviour or they are sick.
If your dog has eaten a whole fish finger or more please contact a vet immediately.
In all cases, prevention is better than a cure and keeping any human food out of the reach of dogs mouths is important!
Ingredients In A Fish Finger Problematic For Dogs
Let’s take a look at some of the ingredients in a fish finger and why they aren’t healthy for dogs.
Breadcrumb Or Batter Coating - This coating is usually made from refined flour with added seasonings which can be hard for your dog to digest. Even dogs with the best digestive systems can have stomach issues eating these types of foods and they contain no nutritional value.
Added Salt - Excessive salt can lead to dehydration in dogs and adds more strain on the kidneys.
Seasonings - Dogs do not have the comprehensive digestive system like humans and certain seasonings can be toxic to dogs.
Common seasonings appearing in fish fingers include paprika or onion powder which will cause stomach upset in dogs.
Added Fats - Fish fingers contain added fats that increase calorie consumption for dogs leading to weight gain and a risk factor for pancreatitis.
Ingredients in a fish finger that are good for dogs?
Fish - Although typically in a fish finger the fish itself isn’t as good quality compared to plain fish.
More Suitable Treats For Dogs
Looking for some safer and healthier alternatives for your dog that they will still love? Here's some ideas:
- Plain prepared fish such as mackerel, salmon, whitefish or cod.
- Tailored dog treats such as Years Sea Cookies - Subscribers can add this to their account.
- Dog-safe vegetables such as carrots, celery or pumpkin.
- Fruits such as blueberries, banana, apple or watermelon.
You can also explore a whole range of dog-friendly recipes that are safe and nutritious for your pooch.
Final Verdict: Should Dog Eat Fish Fingers?
Dogs should not eat fish fingers as they are made with ingredients that are harmful to dogs and can make them sick. There is no nutritional benefit for your dog as the only dog-friendly ingredient is fish and typically not of good quality.
Don't feed any amount of fish fingers to your dog and try to keep any hot food away from reach of your pup's mouth.
If your dog may have eaten a fish finger keep a close eye on them and if they show any signs of reaction, contact a vet immediately.
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