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Yes, dogs can eat salmon skin as long as it has been cooked properly and has no other ingredients. Raw fish contains bacteria and other parasites that can harm your dog.

Salmon Skin
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Safe: This food is generally considered safe by the veterinary community. Dogs can eat this food sometimes or in small amounts but contains little to no nutritional value.

Food Safety Beneficial when cooked and occasionally given as a treat in small amounts.
Nutritional Value Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin B-12. Adding salmon skin to your dog’s diet can keep its coat shiny and healthy.
Potential Risks If the salmon’s skin is raw or undercooked, your dog can be harmed by the bacteria in the skin. In severe cases, your dog can also suffer from salmon poisoning disease. Feeding too much salmon skin can also lead to weight gain and health conditions like pancreatitis.
Every dog is different. For specific feeding guidelines, including quantities and beneficial foods that are best for your dog, please consult your vet.

How Much Salmon Skin is Safe for Dogs?

10 oz of cooked salmon skin without additives is safe for a smaller dog. This portion may vary according to your dog’s size. Make sure to give the salmon skin as a once-in-a-week treat, or the high-fat content can make your dog’s diet unbalanced.

How to Safely Prepare Salmon Skin for Dogs?

As mentioned before, it is essential to properly cook the salmon skin before feeding it to your dog, or it can turn toxic. Ensure to serve the salmon skin completely plain and do not add any other ingredients.

You can air-fry or bake salmon to make it crispy and appealing for your dog. You can decide whether to remove the scales on the skin since they are not harmful to dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Salmon skin should be given to your dog occasionally since it contains a high amount of fat. Eating too much salmon skin can cause conditions like pancreatitis in your dog.

  • It is essential to properly cook salmon skin before feeding it to your dog. Feeding your dog undercooked salmon skin can cause symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea.

About the Writer
Dan Greco , Dog Dad

Having been a dog dad for 5 years, I know how hard it is to make sure your dog gets the right nutrients and stays away from hazardous foods. With the help of a veterinarian who specializes in nutrition, I created this blog to help dog owners quickly access food information they need.

photo of vet holding a pup
About the Contributor
Dr. Hillary Wolfe , Veterinarian & Certified Food Therapist

Dr. Wolfe holds a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Kansas State University and holds nutrition certifications from the NAVC and CIVT. Her business, Tula Veterinary Nutrition, hosts online courses that teach owners how to cook for their pet for optimal health and longevity. Follow her on Instagram at @doctorwolfe.dvm for dog nutrition tips, recipes and insights.