Fish & seafood · updated 2026-09-12
Can dogs eat salmon?
Yes — cooked, boneless and plain.
Why
Salmon gives omega-3 fatty acids that help skin, coat and joints. Raw or undercooked salmon can carry a parasite (Neorickettsia) that causes 'salmon poisoning disease', potentially fatal in dogs. Small bones are a choking risk; smoked salmon is too salty.
How to serve it
Bake or steam plain, check for bones, flake. Tinned salmon in water (not brine or oil) is fine.
If they eat too much
Raw salmon: vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, swollen lymph nodes within a week — emergency. Fatty amounts: pancreatitis.
How much salmon for my dog?
A daily maximum for a healthy adult dog, kept inside the 10% treat rule. Enter body weight.
Up to 38 g a day — roughly 3 tablespoons (a small handful) · cooked, boneless, plain.
Treats of all kinds should stay under about 10% of daily calories. Puppies, kittens, seniors and pets with a medical condition: ask your vet first.
And for cats?
Safe. Yes — cooked salmon is a favourite. Can cats eat salmon? →
Related foods for dogs
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This guide is general information for healthy adult dogs, based on published veterinary guidance (ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, AKC, VCA). It is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your dog's weight, age and medical history. If you are unsure, ask them before sharing any human food.