Last Updated on 11/17/2021 by Veronica Jones
Dogs are curious creatures, and they love to eat food. So, it is completely normal for your dog to be interested in human foods, including seafood. However, not many dog owners know if it is safe to let dogs eat seafood.
So, you might be wondering, “Can dogs eat scallops?” If you want to find out about letting dogs eat scallops, the health risks, health concerns, and more, here is everything you need to know.
Can Dogs Eat Scallops?
Yes, dogs can eat scallops. Scallops are a healthy option as a treat for dogs to have in moderation. However, you will need to prepare the scallops properly before letting your dogs eat scallops. Improperly cooked scallops can be dangerous to a pet’s health.
Are Scallops Safe for Dogs?
Yes, scallops are safe for dogs. Generally, it is safe to feed scallops to dogs, but only when they are fully cooked. Raw scallops and fried scallops are very dangerous, and should never be given to dogs. When served raw or fried, it can lead to many problems that can affect your dog’s overall health.
What Should I Do if Dogs Eat Scallops?
If your dog sneaks one cooked scallop, there may be nothing to worry about. Most dogs can eat scallops in moderation, and properly cooked scallops may not cause any issues. In fact, scallops have a lot of nutritional value that many dogs can benefit from. However, your dog may need to see a vet if they eat improperly prepared scallops.
Health Benefits of Feeding Your Dog Scallops
The nutritional value that scallops offer to dogs is fantastic. Scallops are a great source of protein, which is an essential nutrient for dogs because it is an essential energy source. Dogs need protein from animal sources, so this is a great snack to give your dog a small protein boost.
Scallops have magnesium, which helps absorb minerals and vitamins in your dog’s body. Magnesium also helps maintain a healthy immune system. Scallops have phosphorus, which helps form teeth and bones.
Scallops also have potassium, which helps keep your dog’s muscular system strong while boosting their overall health. Plus, potassium prevents kidney stones and osteoporosis, which can be dangerous conditions if not treated.
Side Effects of Feeding Your Dog Scallops
So, if the answer to, “Can dogs eat scallops?” is yes because it is healthy, are there any side effects? Letting your dog eat scallops in small portions is usually fine. However, large amounts of scallops or improperly prepared scallops can be harmful to dogs and cause many side effects.
An Upset Stomach
A common adverse reaction to improperly prepared scallops is stomach upset. Stomach discomfort usually occurs from fried scallops. Fried scallops have lots of other ingredients, like oil, butter, seasonings, etc.
A dog’s diet is not accustomed to having these ingredients in its digestive system. The oil works like a laxative in your dog’s stomach. The oil may irritate your dog’s body, causing vomiting, diarrhea, etc.
Bad Bacteria
Improperly cooked or raw scallops are very dangerous for dogs because they can carry harmful bacteria. Raw seafood has many parasites and bacteria that usually only go away from being cooked. Some things that these bacteria and parasites can cause include shellfish poisoning, roundworms, tapeworms, salmonella, etc.
Can Dogs Be Allergic to Scallops?
Yes, dogs can be allergic to scallops because shellfish is a very common allergen found in dogs. Shellfish allergies can cause many symptoms, such as vomiting, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea or skin irritation. In more severe cases, an allergic reaction can be fatal. Therefore, your dog would need to see a vet immediately if they show symptoms of a shellfish allergy.
What Part of Scallops Can Dogs Eat?
Dogs can eat cooked scallop meat. However, dogs cannot eat the scallop shell. The scallop shell is a choking hazard. Moreover, biting and swallowing the shell creates sharp pieces. These sharp pieces can harm your dog’s digestive system.
How Many Scallops Can Dogs Eat?
Most dogs can have 1-2 scallops every month as a small treat. While it is healthy, that does not mean it should be a regular snack. Moreover, scallops cannot replace a dog’s regular diet of dog food.
How to Prepare Scallops for Dogs
Rinse your scallops and steam them for 6-7 minutes, they should be opaque. Let them cool to room temperature before serving them to your dog. If your dog has never tried scallops before, only give them one to see how they react.
Can Puppies Have Scallops?
No, puppies cannot have scallops. Puppies should only stick to their dog food because new food can shock their bodies, creating adverse reactions.
All in All
Scallops are a safe and delicious treat to give to dogs in moderation. It has lots of nutrients, but it should only be an occasional treat. Moreover, the scallops need to be properly cooked, free of seasonings, oils, etc.
Looking for More Great Articles About What Your Dog Can (or Can’t) Eat?
- Can Dogs Eat Lobster? What Happens if a Dog Eats Lobster?
- Can Dogs Eat Fish Sticks? EVERYTHING You Need to Know!
References:
- PetMD, “The Power of Protein”, https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/the_power_of_protein, Date Accessed – 17 August, 2021
- MedicalNewsToday, “Why do we need magnesium?”, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/286839#_noHeaderPrefixedContent, Date Accessed – 17 August, 2021
- VCA Hospitals, “Hypokalemia (Low Potassium Levels) in Dogs”, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/hypokalemia-low-potassium-levels-in-dogs, Date Accessed – 17 August, 2021
- Seafood Health Facts, “Seafood Safety Overview”, https://www.seafoodhealthfacts.org/seafood-safety/general-information-healthcare-professionals/seafood-safety-overview, Date Accessed – 17 August, 2021
