Can Dogs Eat Oysters? Risks, Benefits, Proper Preparation

Quick Summary

• Yes, dogs can eat oysters as these are a good source of protein. However, like other seafoods, dogs should only be fed cooked oysters to avoid the risks of salmonella and shellfish poisoning.
• Oysters can provide dogs with the right amino acids, omega-three fatty acids, zinc, selenium, iron, vitamin D as well as B12, and copper.
• Consult with the vet before feeding your dog oyster. Start feeding your dog small amounts then increase it a little if everything goes well.

The answer to the question, “can dogs eat oysters?” is intriguing as dogs have sensitive digestive systems. However, technically, yes you can feed oysters to your dog. They are agreeable to seafood which provides several benefits. It is a good alternative for dogs that are allergic to chicken as oysters have omega-three fatty acids as well as minerals like iron and selenium. They are also a good source of zinc which is essential for most dog breeds.

I always get asked a lot whether or not a dog could eat this or that. As I often advise, even the foods that dogs can safely eat should be fed to canines in moderation, especially if the food has not been a part of your dog’s diet originally—and the same rule applies for oyster feeding.

Below, I will go over the many health benefits of oyster to dogs, the risks, as well as the safe amount you should be giving Fido.

Health Benefits of Oysters for Dogs

The great thing about seafood is that dogs do not usually have allergies in them. The most common allergens are beef and chicken. Oysters would be a suitable alternative if your pet is allergic to these protein sources.

Protein affords the right amino acids that lead to the development of muscles, not to mention tissue strength and healthy skin. The omega-three fatty acids, which are available from oysters, are also good for the heart as they prevent inflammation and boost dogs’ immune system.

Oysters are also a source of zinc as well as selenium. That is significant for immune system health, thyroid health, healing and metabolic processes. Selenium assists in healthy reproduction and fights free radicals that could lead to cancer.

Oysters come available with high iron levels, which is great for the red blood cells in dogs. These cells transport oxygen throughout the body tissues through hemoglobin. The iron also improves strength and energy levels. Most dog foods with these benefits have a high-calorie downside, but this is not the case with oysters. They are also rich in nutrient levels like vitamin D as well as B12 and copper.

Health Risks of Feeding Oysters to the Dog

Though oysters seem to be very beneficial, they also present problems in certain cases for dogs. For one, your dog may have an allergy to oysters. It is rare but entirely possible. Like other new foods you would like to introduce to dogs, it would be advisable to start feeding them slowly because there is always a possibility of an allergy.

Your dog may also have a low tolerance for such foods, which adds to the need for caution. Oysters are also filter feeders, which means they take in toxins from the environment that remain within them and could end up making the dog sick.

There is a way to reduce the risk, though, such as sourcing the oysters from a reputable place. You can also ask the fishmonger whether they test for toxicity levels. Oysters should be sourced during the colder months as it is easier to keep oysters fresh and cold. You can also give your dog canned oysters but make sure to choose the ones in water. Those packed in oils and spices are usually high in salt content. Avoid smoked oysters too.

Thirdly, despite the fact that oysters have low calories, there is a risk of overfeeding the dog. The fat and caloric content depends on not overfeeding them with alternative treats. Anything outside of the normal diet should not be more than 20 percent of what they feed on.

Dog owners should not feed the dog raw oysters as well. Raw fish and oysters may carry salmonella, which would facilitate a bacterial infection in the dog. That means there is a need to cook them for long before feeding them—much like cooked fresh pet food. It is not important which approach you use, though, as steaming, grilling or fried oysters are all okay.

The important thing would be to make sure they reach an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. At that temperature, the harmful bacteria which could pose a risk to the dog would die [1]. It is also not advisable to add oils or other seasonings that would cause the dog to be sick. Dogs are very sensitive to seasoning as some are toxic to them.

How Many Oysters Should You Feed a Dog?

Oysters are not the most economical dog treats out there, so the price may affect how much you intend to feed Fido. They can also cause problems when given in excess to the dog, considering oysters are very rich—I do not recommend feeding your dog too much oysters.

If you have never given them to the dog, please consult with the vet and start small. You can introduce oysters by starting with one or two to ensure no adverse reactions. If everything goes well, this number can be increased a little. Factors like the dog’s size and tolerance to seafood also determine how many oysters they should be fed.

FAQs

Can dogs eat oysters?

Yes, dogs can occasionally eat cooked oysters and other types of seafood. They can eat oysters as a good source of protein and carry vitamins with nutritional health benefits. However, they should be fed in moderation to dogs as it can also cause adverse effects if they are overfed.

Can oysters make a dog sick?

Feeding oysters to dogs usually is not a problem, unless they are provided raw. They can harbor salmonella, and other toxic algae due to the fact oysters are filter feeders. These can cause significant health issues in dogs.

Can dogs eat oyster shells?

Oyster shells are not safe for dogs as they are choking or blocking hazards. If your dog eats an oyster shell, please call the veterinarian because it may lead to blockage in the dog’s intestines or stomach.