Can Dogs Eat Scallops?

Scallop- not a dish exactly but a common term given to the species of marine shell like looking mollusks which is an invertebrate species with over 85000 variants. For the human tongue, these are delicious and sweet flavored and they are very rich in nutrients. So definitely a treat for the tongue and the gut both for humans. Now, the question here is whether dogs like to eat scallops, or not? And are scallops even good for dogs? The answer is, yes!

Do Dogs Like Scallops?

Scallops are usually sweet and the fresh ones can literally taste like water. Anything sweet is likely going to be a treat for your dog’s taste buds given their liking for everything sweet like treats, cakes, etc.

Are Scallops Good for Your Dog?

Scallops contain magnesium, potassium, protein, and phosphorus, among other vitamins and minerals, and can benefit your dog’s health. And each of these nutrients are very essential for your dog’s growth, especially in the early growing stage. Let’s see the benefits of each of these nutrients² –

Vitamins – are good for their eyesight, especially for the matured ones, as they help prevent cataracts and helps avoiding night blindness and even dry eyes. They are essential fat-soluble vitamin that has functions supporting bone growth, reproduction, cellular differentiation and immune response in dogs. They also boost energy metabolism and assists skin tissue maintenance. For the young puppies, they help support their overall growth.

Potassium – It aids in the functioning of electrical charges in the heart, nerves, and muscles. It also helps to revive the dogs energy if it is feeling tired all the time.

Proteins – It is important for dogs to repair their muscles as well in case of any injury or for gaining strength. Scallops contain proteins which can help repairing muscles and other body tissues. In addition to proteins, they are also rich in potassium which can help improve your dog’s nerves and muscles.

Magnesium – It helps regulate blood glucose levels and aids in the production of energy and protein. Other benefits include maintaining normal nerve to muscle function, support a healthy immune system and keep the heart beat steady.

Phosphorous – It is a mineral which helps a dog keep its teeth and bone healthy and also keep the metabolism on track

Niacin – Niacinamide, also called vitamin B3 is a nutritional supplement and immunomodulator used in conjunction with other medications to treat inflammatory skin conditions in dogs, such as lupoid or pemphigoid conditions

They are other nutrients as well in Scallops. So all in all, it becomes a super food for your doggy. But does that mean they should be fed lots and lots of Scallops for them to stay healthy? The answer is – No.

How Much Scallop Is Good Scallop for Your Dog?

Scallop may not be a part of a dog’s regular diet. So first of all, it should be tested to check if the dog is not allergic to it. When introducing it, it should be limited to 1-2 small pieces. Now if we conclude that the dog eats it just fine then the quantity can be increased as per the dog’s size. Let’s break this down according to the breeds and sizes of the dogs.⁴

For e.g.: Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Pugs

For e.g.: Basenjis, Beagles, Miniature Australian Shepherds

For e.g.: Basset Hounds, Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs, Siberian Huskies

For e.g.: Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Australian Shepherds

For e.g.: Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, St. Bernards, Great Pyrenees

How Can You Feed Scallop to Your Dog?

We have established that scallops are good for your dog, but there is a method in which they should be served otherwise it can lead to some unfavorable outcomes. Below are some cautions to be taken before serving a scallops to your dog.¹

But make sure you don’t get too greedy for love from your doggo and end up feeding a lot of Scallops to him / her. More Scallops ≠ More Love

What Can Happen if Your Dog Eats An Unusual Amount of Scallop?

If your dog ate some Scallop when you were busy making that Vegas plan with your friends or probably listening to Coldplay or you were feeling a lot of love towards your doggo and ended up feeding more than recommended amount, keep an eye out for the following symptoms of an upset stomach. You should contact your vet right away if you see¹ –

Expert Insights From Spot

While sharing our favorite foods with our pets can be tempting, it's important to remember that not all human foods are safe for dogs. Spot's internal data shows that pet insurance claims for dietary indiscretions average $642*, highlighting the importance of caution and research before sharing snacks with your pet.

Seafood Your Dog Can Eat

Dogs can safely consume seafood. If they eat shellfish like crabs or lobsters their shells, legs, and tails should be removed to avoid the possibility of puncturing their internal organs. Dogs can also eat fin fish, like salmon, shrimp, and some tuna (in moderation) if their bones are removed for the same reason. Your dog might benefit from staying away from canned tuna if it comes in a package filled with salt water or contains any extra salt. Likewise, seafood given to dogs should not be seasoned at all.

Seafood can have bacteria and other toxic elements in it when they’re undercooked. Because of this, seafood should always be thoroughly cleaned and cooked before it’s offered to your dog.

Conclusion

Keep it plain and simple when it comes to Scallops and use them as an occasional treat for a good training session or good behavior for your dog and you’re good to go. Your dog will definitely enjoy it.

Happy Mood and Health to your Doggo and lots of Love and Licks to you!