Can dogs eat sardines?

Sardines sit near the bottom of the food chain and live short lives, so they build up far less mercury than tuna or swordfish. They also provide protein, vitamin D, and long-chain omega-3 fats. The canning process pressure-cooks the fish, leaving the spine and small bones soft and crumbly.

Each small canned sardine carries roughly 25 calories, so portions add up quickly.

Look for sardines in spring water or olive oil with no salt added. If they are in oil, drain them well to cut calories. Sardines in brine are much saltier. Tomato sauce versions often contain onion or garlic, and chili, lemon, or mustard flavors add irritants your dog does not need.

Fresh sardines should be cooked through before serving.

A single sardine is a reasonable treat for a 10 kg (22 lb) dog; a large 30 kg (66 lb) dog can have two or three. Once or twice a week works well. Mash them into the meal or freeze small pieces in a stuffed rubber toy for enrichment.

Because sardines are rich, some dogs get loose stools if they eat a whole tin at once.

Leftover sardines keep in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two days. Do not store them in the opened tin. Expect fishy breath for a few hours; it fades on its own and is no cause for concern. If your dog is not used to oily fish, start with half a sardine.