Home › Foods for dogs › Salmon Skin
Can Dogs Eat Salmon Skin?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Is salmon skin safe for dogs?
Salmon skin is the fatty outer layer of a salmon fillet, often crisped when cooked. Cooked, plain salmon skin is okay as a rare treat, but it is very fatty and can trigger pancreatitis, and raw salmon can carry parasites that make dogs seriously ill.
How to reduce the risks if you offer salmon skin
- Cook it thoroughly with no oil, salt or seasoning
- Offer a small piece only occasionally
- Skip it if your dog has had pancreatitis
What to avoid
- Raw or undercooked salmon and skin
- Smoked or salted salmon skin
- Crispy fried salmon skin
How much salmon skin can my dog have?
If you decide to offer salmon skin despite the cautions above, give just one tiny taste and check with your vet first, especially if your dog has any health condition. When in doubt, skip it.
Signs your dog may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat salmon skin?
Because salmon skin needs extra caution for adult dogs, it is best to avoid it for puppies.
What if my dog ate too much salmon skin?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your dog ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
Should salmon skin be a regular part of my dog's diet?
No. We recommend not making salmon skin a regular part of your dog's diet.
More questions dog owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Cats Eat Salmon Skin?