Yes absolutely, dogs can enjoy prawns in moderation and when you cook it well.
What Are The Health Benefits of Prawns?
- Good source of protein
- Contains omega-3 fatty acids
- Rich in vitamins B12 and E
What are the risks involved in feeding your dogs prawns?
- It can cause allergic reactions in some dogs
- If you do not prepare it well, it can choke your pup and you also risk food poisoning
- It has a high cholesterol content
How to prepare prawns safely for your dogs
Trust me, preparing prawns well is very important to prevent your dog from choking or having any digestive problems. Here are the steps for safe prawn preparation:
Cooking: Always feed your dog cooked prawns. Raw prawns can contain harmful bacteria.
Peeling and deveining: Remove the shell, tail, and legs completely. The shell can choke them and cause intestinal blockages. Devein the prawn to remove the digestive tract.
Size adjustment: • For large dogs: give them whole, peeled prawns. • For small dogs: Chop or mash the prawns into smaller pieces.
Portion control: • Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 small prawns • Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 medium prawns • Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 large prawns
Note: Give your dog the prawns as an occasional treat, and do not exceed 10% of their daily caloric intake.
Allergic reactions: Some dogs may be allergic to shellfish. So when you want to introduce prawns, give them small amounts and watch for signs of allergic reactions such as itching, swelling, or gastrointestinal distress. If you notice any symptoms, please stop feeding them the prawns and contact your Vet.
What are the benefits of prawns for dogs?
When you feed your dogs prawns in moderation, it offers several nutritional benefits for dogs:
Lean Protein Source: Prawns are low in fat and calories while being high in protein and this protein is essential for muscle maintenance and growth in dogs.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acid: Omega-3s support skin health and can promote a shiny coat. It may even help reduce inflammation in your dog if he has joint issues.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Prawns offer vitamin B12 which supports nervous system function and helps form blood cells. That’s not all they also give selenium; an antioxidant that supports immune system health. Furthermore, it offers zinc and iodine which are important for your dog’s skin health, wound healing, and also supports thyroid function.
What are the other alternatives?
If your dog is allergic to prawns, go for these healthy alternatives
- Cooked, skinless salmon: It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein.
- Cooked chicken breast: The perfect lean protein source that your dog can easily digest.
Contact your veterinarian
Before you go ahead and introduce any new food to your dog’s diet, including prawns, please consult your veterinarian. They can advise you based on your dog’s specific health needs, age, and any existing medical conditions. Your vet can help you determine if prawns are a suitable treat for your dog and guide you on appropriate serving sizes.
Read More: Can Dogs Eat Mackerel?
