Before You Serve: Can Dogs Eat Smoked Salmon and What Are the Risks Involved?

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Ever found yourself wondering if you can share that delicious slice of smoked salmon with your four-legged buddy?

Well, you’re in the right place to get the scoop on this fishy dilemma.

Picture this: You’re enjoying a sunny day outdoors, your loyal Labrador by your side, eyeing that tasty morsel in your hand.

Before you give in to those puppy dog eyes, let’s dive into the world of smoked salmon and its effects on our canine companions.

Smoked Salmon 101: What’s the Big Deal?

First things first, let’s break down what smoked salmon actually is.

It’s not just your average cooked fish – this delicacy goes through a unique process.

Imagine a salmon filet getting a spa treatment of salt and smoke, resulting in that distinctive flavor and texture we humans love so much.

But here’s the kicker: smoked salmon isn’t technically cooked.

The curing process uses salt to preserve the fish, but it doesn’t cook it in the traditional sense.

And that’s where things get tricky for our furry friends.

The Shocking Truth: Should Your Pup Partake?

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but here it is: smoked salmon is a no-go for dogs.

I know, I know – it seems unfair, especially since salmon is often found in commercial dog foods.

But there’s a world of difference between cooked salmon and its smoked counterpart.

The culprit? That curing process we talked about earlier. The high salt content used in smoking salmon can spell trouble for your pooch.

It’s like the difference between giving your dog a nice, fresh sardine and a super salty one – one’s a treat, the other’s a potential health hazard.

Why Smoked Salmon and Dogs Don’t Mix

Let’s break down the risks:

1. Sneaky Seasonings: Smoked salmon often comes dressed up with herbs and spices. While they might tantalize our taste buds, ingredients like garlic and onion can be toxic to dogs.
2. Salt Overload: Remember that curing process? It involves a ton of salt, which can lead to sodium poisoning in dogs. Watch out for signs like weakness, muscle tremors, or neurological symptoms. It’s no joke – this can quickly lead to dehydration and other serious issues.
3. Bacterial Baddies: Just like raw salmon, the smoked variety can harbor nasty bacteria like salmonella or E. coli. There’s also a risk of parasites, which in rare cases can lead to a condition called salmon poisoning. It’s a small risk, but why take chances with your fur baby’s health?

The Silver Lining: Cooked Salmon to the Rescue!

While smoked salmon is off the menu, cooked salmon can be a fantastic addition to your dog’s diet.

It’s packed with those heart-healthy omega-3s that can work wonders for your pup’s muscles, digestion, and coat.

Whether you’re whipping up homemade dog food or just want to give your furry friend a special treat, cooked salmon is a great choice.

You can use canned salmon (budget-friendly!), share the skin from your own cooked filet, or even give them some pieces of the whole fish.

Just remember – keep it plain and skip the seasonings and salt.

Oops! My Dog Ate Smoked Salmon – Now What?

Stay calm!

If your pup only nabbed a small amount, they’ll likely be fine.

Keep an eye out for increased thirst or any unusual symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea.

If you notice anything off or if your dog has underlying health issues like high blood pressure, it’s best to give your vet a ring.

However, if your four-legged friend managed to scarf down a large quantity of smoked salmon, don’t wait – contact your vet right away.

The Bottom Line: Keep the Smoked Salmon to Yourself

When it comes to smoked salmon, it’s best to keep it as a human-only treat.

The potential risks just aren’t worth it for our canine companions.

Instead, stick to plain, cooked salmon as a healthy and delicious way to pamper your pup.

Remember, being a responsible pet parent means making informed choices about what goes into your dog’s bowl.

By keeping smoked salmon off the menu, you’re ensuring your furry friend stays happy, healthy, and ready for all of life’s adventures!