Seafood is not a type of food that we typically associate with giving to our dogs. But, if we are eating it, our dogs may be interested and hungry. Some seafoods are scallops and shrimp. By the way, can dogs eat scallops and shrimp? Well, let us find out that information by reading the text below.
Can Dogs Eat Scallops and Shrimp?
Yes, dogs can eat cooked scallops and shrimp in moderation as long as the Scallops and the shrimps are fully cooked with no added seasonings. Need to know that scallops contain magnesium, protein, potassium, and phosphorus, among other vitamins and minerals, and of course can benefit your dog’s health. Keep in mind that it is best to feed the dogs plain, cooked scallops out of the shell in small portions. Raw seafood will carry harmful bacteria, oil, and seasonings that can upset your dog’s digestive system. Thus, it is important to feed your dog small bites of scallops outside of the shell to prevent choking.
Lots of dog breeds may have allergic reactions to scallops, so you have to consult your veterinarian before serving your dog this seafood. If your dog has handled shellfish fine before, or after your veterinarian gives you the green light, then you are able to feed your dog scallops in small doses to monitor reactions and possible side effects. If diarrhea or an upset stomach occurs, this seafood may not agree with your dog’s digestive system.
Also, fully cooked shrimps are nutritious to dogs. Not only are they low in carbs, fat, and calories, but also, they are packed full of phosphorus, antioxidants, and B vitamins. Aside from that, cooked shrimps are delicious and of course your dog will enjoy them.
Are Scallops Good for Dogs to Eat?
Yes, Scallops are good for dogs in moderation and also if the Scallops are fully cooked. You have to remember to only allow your dog to eat the white and orange part only and not the black stomach sac, frilly membrane, or the shell because these are toxic to dogs. Scallops are packed full of all the goodness which your dogs need.
Here is the nutritional profile of boiled or steamed Scallops:
Nutritional profile of cooked Scallops (28 grams)
Name, Unit | Amount |
Calories, cal | 38.8 |
Sodium, mg | 187 |
Carbohydrate, g | 1.8 |
Total Fat, g | 0.278 |
Protein, g | 6.8 |
Potassium, mg | 104 |
Calcium, mg | 3.4 |
Iron, mg | 0.193 |
Magnesium, mg | 12.5 |
Phosphorus, mg | 141 |
Zinc, mg | 0.513 |
Copper, mg | 0.011 |
Selenium, µg | 7.23 |
Thiamin, mg | 0.004 |
Riboflavin, mg | 0.008 |
Niacin, mg | 0.357 |
Vitamin B-6, mg | 0.037 |
Folate, µg | 6.8 |
Choline, mg | 36.6 |
Vitamin B-12, µg | 0.717 |
Vitamin A, µg | 0.567 |
From this nutritional profile, you are able to see that with only 1 ounce of cooked Scallop, there are nearly 39 calories and 187 mg of sodium. This is why it is important that dogs eat cooked Scallops in moderation. Eating too many Scallops or eating this seafood regularly will put your dog at risk for weight gain and salt poisoning. Now, let us discuss why cooked Scallops are good for dogs.
Here are some benefits of Scallops for dogs.
Protein
In only 1 ounce of cooked scallops, there are nearly 7 grams of protein. All dogs need protein to have strong and healthy muscles, organs, and skin. Without a sufficient amount of protein intake, it assists to keep your four-legged friends lean and energetic.
Magnesium
Also, all dogs need an essential mineral called magnesium. In only 1oz of cooked Scallop, there is 12.5mg of magnesium. This key nutrient will help dogs have proper heart functions, aid in muscle growth, and also facilitate nervous system signaling. The dogs that have magnesium deficiency (or hypomagnesemia) can experience kidney damage, heart issues, malnutrition, and cardiac issues.
Potassium
Potassium is as important to dogs as magnesium. Our dogs need potassium because this important mineral helps aid in the transfer of electric signals between the nerves, muscles, and organs. Also, it helps in the transfer of nerve impulses throughout your dog’s body.
Phosphorus
Scallops contain the mineral phosphorus. It is very essential for strengthening dog bones and teeth.
How to Feed Scallops to Your Dog?
Dogs are able to eat this type of food, but there are several factors to consider before you feed scallops to your dog.
Here is a way to feed scallops to your dog:
- Feed your dog plain scallops.
You have to feed your dog only plain scallops. Need to note that seasonings, garlic, and onion make for a delicious portion of scallops, but it is only for humans. These add-ons will be able to upset your dog’s digestive system, so you have to serve your dog scallops which are cooked but plain. - Cook without extra fats.
Fatty foods are able to lead to pancreatitis for your dog. Keep the scallops to prioritize your dog’s overall health. - Thoroughly bake the scallops.
You are able to bake or grill scallops to prepare them for your dog. Remember that Raw seafood will carry harmful bacteria and lead to shellfish poisoning. Also, raw scallops contain Salmonella, tapeworms, roundworms, and other dangerous viruses and bacteria. The dogs have a sensitive metabolism, thus processing these harmful bacteria will be more challenging, leading to stomach discomfort. Also, avoid frying the scallop, fried foods are high in oil and butter. - Remove the shells.
The scallop shell is not edible and will cause choking. So, you have to be sure to properly dispose of this part of the food before feeding your dog. - Cut into small pieces.
Scallops can be large, so you have to dice them up and serve them in smaller bits to prevent a choking hazard. You are able to sprinkle the cooked scallops over the dog food or serve them on their own as a treat. - Serve the scallops after they have cooled.
Your dog may be excited to try this new food, however let the scallops cool first to prevent your dog from burning their mouth.