The short answer is yes, dogs can eat halibut. When it comes to nutritional benefits, halibut provides a great amount of lean protein and also a ton of Omega-3 fatty acids.
Just remember that there are a few rules and considerations you need to take note of when preparing and serving halibut for your dog, including making sure all of the fish bones have been removed.
As always, you must ask your regular vet before sharing any human food with your companion dog, including fish. Here’s what you need to know about halibut and dogs.
Why is halibut good for dogs?
When it comes to nutritional benefits, halibut is a great source of lean protein for dogs. This means that halibut can also become a solid protein replacement if you find out that your dog is allergic to other sources such as turkey or chicken.
Beyond protein, halibut also packs a lot of Omega-3 fatty acids, which can boost your dog’s immune system and also keep their coat in tip-top condition.
How can I safely give halibut to my dog?
If you’ve decided to serve halibut to your dog, make sure that it is properly cooked. In general, raw fish increases the risk of salmonella and listeria.
When cooking halibut for your dog, make sure to keep things plain and simple. Steam or poach the halibut in plain water. Avoid the temptation to add extra seasonings or salt, as these could prove to be harmful to your dog.
Before you serve any halibut to your dog, double-check to make sure that all of the fish bones have been removed. Not only are fish bones a choking hazard, but they are also incredibly brittle and sharp. Consumption could lead to serious medical complications.
In terms of exactly how much halibut you can safely feed to your dog, this will depend on several factors, including your dog’s age, weight, breed, and nutritional needs. Your vet can help you figure out a safe and healthy amount of halibut to feed to your dog.
Finally, it’s worth noting that halibut can be an expensive fish, so also consider cheaper options like whitefish if you’re thinking of adding halibut to your dog’s diet.
