Tuna can be a beneficial nutritional supplement for dogs, as long as it is administered correctly. Find out how to safely include fresh or canned tuna in their diet. Learn about its benefits in protein, omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients for your pet's health.
Tuna is known for being a food rich in high biological value proteins and unsaturated fatty acids, but is it suitable for dogs? The answer is yes, as long as it is offered in the right quantity and form. Below, we explain how to include tuna in your dog's diet safely and beneficially.
Fresh Tuna: Is It Safe for Dogs?
Yes, dogs can eat fresh tuna. You can cook it by boiling it with other foods or grilling it with a few drops of olive oil. However, there are two important aspects to keep in mind:
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Condition: Make sure the tuna is fresh and in good condition. Spoiled tuna can cause histamine poisoning in your dog, a compound that is not eliminated by heat.
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Removing bones: It is crucial to remove all bones from tuna before feeding it to your dog to avoid injury to their mouth or digestive tract.
Canned Tuna: Is It Safe for Dogs?
Yes, dogs can eat canned tuna, but not all forms are suitable. Opt for tuna in brine, olive oil or sunflower oil, preferably low in salt. Make sure to drain the oil or water before adding it to your dog's food. Avoid canned tuna in marinade, tomato sauce, or other seasoned forms.
Benefits of tuna for dogs
Tuna is a blue fish with approximately 12% fat, rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids help reduce cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, tuna contains high biological value proteins, providing a large amount of essential amino acids.
Tuna is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamins: Vitamin D, B vitamins (B3, B6, B12).
- Minerals: Selenium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and magnesium.
These nutrients are essential for your dog's overall health, supporting vital functions such as metabolism, immune system and bone health.
How to feed tuna to your dog
There are different ways to incorporate tuna into your dog's diet, depending on the type of food he follows:
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As a treat: If your dog eats commercial food, you can offer tuna as an occasional treat. It is not recommended to mix it with your dog's food due to different digestive processes.
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Mixed or Homemade Diet: If you decide to feed your dog homemade food or a mixed diet, consult a veterinarian who specializes in animal nutrition to ensure that you are covering all of his nutritional needs. Tuna can be an excellent source of protein and fat, but it should be combined with other foods for a balanced diet.
Additional considerations
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Fat and energy: Tuna is very energy-dense due to its high fat content. If your dog is overweight or has conditions that promote overweight, such as hypothyroidism, opt for leaner meats or fish such as chicken, turkey or white fish.
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Mercury content: Large predatory fish, such as tuna, may have high levels of mercury. To avoid methylmercury poisoning, do not include tuna in your dog's daily diet. Alternate with other protein sources.
Ultimately, tuna can be an excellent addition to your dog's diet if fed correctly. It should not be fed daily, but should be alternated with other sources of protein. Offering a varied and balanced diet is crucial for your dog's health. Always consult with a veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog's diet.
Take care of your dog's health with a balanced diet and make sure you provide him with the necessary nutrients for a happy and healthy life!
