Your dog looks at you when you eat something, because he wants to taste it. But as a caring owner you must think that can Chihuahuas eat fish? Is it good for my dog? And if I give my dog fish, how much is safe for my dog. Fish is good for the dogs because it’s a great source of protein that is a very essential nutrient for dogs, but moderation is key.
If you want to add fishy treats to your dog’s diet then here are all the things that you need to know. For this read our guide!
Can Chihuahuas eat fish?
Yes, Chihuahuas can eat fish, moderation is always key. According to the American Kennel Club fish provide essential benefits to dogs. Fish is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish that are healthy for dogs.
However Chihuahua owners should consider the precautions before feeding fish to the dogs. Fish bones can cause choking hazards and get stuck in Chihuahua throat and intestine. The fish that is cooked in seasonings or oil is not good for dogs and leads to many health issues.
Health benefits of fish for Chihuahua
If cooked correctly fish is very beneficial for the dogs. Because it contains low fats, high in protein and is easy to digest. It also has omega-3 fatty acids that are good for the brain, joints, eyes, coat and skin. Omega-3 also provides supplements to the dogs that are suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, osteoarthritis and kidney disease.
Fish is provided as an alternative to meat to those dogs with meat allergies. When you first give the fish to your dog, start with a small amount. If your dog easily tolerates the fish, gradually increase the amount, but consult the vet first.
Risks of feeding fish to Chihuahua
Fish is itself not bad for dogs but its way of preparation can cause issues. Fish cooked in oil can cause gastroenteritis issues in dogs or even cause serious illness such as pancreatitis. Seasonings can also cause serious health issues especially if fish contain onion and garlic. Fish bones can cause choking hazards and get stuck in Chihuahua throat and intestines.
Safe type of fish for Chihuahua
Dog foods that are containing fish, they are more likely to find short lived fish because longer lived fish contain mercury that can cause metal toxicity. Fish are generally safe for dogs include
- Salmon
- Arctic char
- Whitefish
- Cod
- Flounder
- Canned light tuna (in spring water)
- Catfish
- Herring
- Walleye
- Whiting
Types of fish that are not safe for dogs
Large fishes that have a long lifespan are toxic for dogs. They accumulate heavy metals and mercury that are dangerous for dogs. Unsafe fishes for dogs that should be avoided:\
- Shark
- Tilefish
- Swordfish
- King mackerel
- Albacore tuna (canned)
Can dogs eat raw fish?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association the consumption of raw fish is not recommended on any stage of dog’s life including puppies and pregnant dogs. Raw fish can cause great risks of transmitting parasites embedded in skin, internal origins and muscle tissues.
Raw fish consist of Salmon, this poisoning can cause diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and sometimes death if left untreated. Raw fish has E.coli which can lead to similar stomach and intestinal-related diseases. So, raw fish should be avoided.
Can Chihuahuas eat fried fish?
Chihuahuas should not eat fish that is cooked in oil and seasonings because it leads to many health issues. Although fried fish is fully cooked that can become less likely to transmit parasites but still a risk that your Chi can experience GI issues like vomiting and diarrhea. The heavy butter and oil can cause pancreatitis in Chihuahua or other dogs.
How to cook fish for dogs? How to serve fish to Chihuahuas?
How to cook a fish for dogs depends on the type of fish. When you cook fish for your dog, it should be plain and free from any additives that can be harmful for your dog. The additives include onion, garlic and butter. Steaming and grilling are both good ways to prepare fish but it does not require oil and butter because these have unnecessary oil and fats.
Always buy without bones fish for dogs because if you offer your dogs fish with bones the bones can get stuck in their throat and intestines and harm your dog’s gum.
When you serve your Chi fish, start with a small amount and note the symptoms closely if your Chi gets any issue then avoid giving fish to your dog. Before starting fish consult the vet, he will suggest a quantity according to your dog’s size.
Conclusion
To sum up, Chihuahuas can eat fish, moderation is always key. According to the American Kennel Club fish provide essential health benefits to dogs. Fish is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish that are healthy for dogs.
However Chihuahua owners should consider the precautions before feeding fish to the dogs. Fish bones can cause choking hazards and get stuck in Chihuahua throat and intestine. The fish that is cooked in seasonings or oil is not good for dogs and leads to many health issues.
When you serve your Chi fish, start with a small amount and note the symptoms closely if your Chi gets any issue then avoid giving fish to your dog. Before starting fish consult the vet, he will suggest a quantity according to your dog’s size. q
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