Can dogs eat mussels?

Steam fresh mussels in plain water until the shells open, usually about five minutes, and discard any that stay closed. Remove the meat, let it cool, and chop it. Two or three mussels are a good portion for a medium dog. Frozen, pre-cooked mussel meat without sauce is a convenient option.

Mussels have roughly 170 calories per 100 g of cooked meat.

Moules marinieres are cooked in white wine with shallots, garlic, and butter. Other popular versions use cream, chili, or Thai curry paste. All of these add alliums, alcohol, fat, or spice. Do not let your dog lick out the pot or finish the broth.

Pickled mussels and smoked mussels in oil are salty and not good choices either.

Mussels, clams, and other shellfish can accumulate toxins from harmful algal blooms. These toxins are not destroyed by cooking and can cause paralysis in dogs and people. Coastal authorities sometimes post warnings about shellfish harvesting. Dogs that pick up shellfish washed up on the shore are at risk.

Keep your dog on a lead near rock pools and mussel beds if it tends to scavenge.

Shells are sharp and can cut the mouth or become lodged in the gut. Put them in a lidded bin as soon as the meal is over. On beaches, broken shells can also cut paw pads. Rinse your dog's paws with fresh water after a rocky beach walk and check between the toes for small cuts.