Are shrimps safe for dogs to eat?

I’m from the Philippines, and I have a 2-year-old female German Shepherd. People in my province say that shrimps can cause a skin irritation called ‘Kagid’ in dogs if they eat them. I’m not sure if this is true. I tried searching on Google, but it said that shrimp is harmless to dogs. Since I don’t have a vet nearby, I can only ask online or the people around me, who still insist it’s true. This question isn’t too serious, just something I’m curious about. Thanks for any answers!

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Dogs may safely eat shrimp, however some may be allergic to it. ‘Kagid’ seems to be the name used locally to describe an allergy to shellfish. If you’re concerned, feed your Shepherd just dog food and refrain from offering them shrimp. Hearsay is typically less dependable than online sources. For a brief consultation, think about giving a larger-city veterinarian a call; they might be able to offer advice over the phone.

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Hi Amanda… and how is Philippines? It’s great that you’re looking out for your dog’s health. The whole shrimp causing skin irritation, or ‘Kagid,’ in dogs is an interesting topic. Lemme try to explain from my perspective and hopefully i can help.

Shrimp and Dogs: The Basics

Shrimp, in general, is safe for dogs to eat in moderation. It’s packed with protein, vitamin B12, and phosphorus. However, it should always be fully cooked and plain—no seasoning, garlic, or onions, as those can be harmful to dogs.

Local Beliefs vs. General Knowledge

The advice from people in your province about shrimp causing ‘Kagid’ (skin irritation) isn’t something widely documented in scientific sources, but it doesn’t mean it’s completely off the mark. Sometimes, local experiences highlight specific issues that might not be well-known elsewhere.

Possible Reactions

Dogs, like humans, can have individual allergies or sensitivities. While shrimp is safe for many dogs, some might have an allergic reaction, which could show up as itching, redness, swelling, or even gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea.

What You Can Do

If you’re curious and want to test it out, try giving your German Shepherd a small piece of shrimp and watch her closely over the next day or two. Look out for any signs of itching, redness, or other unusual behavior. If she seems fine, she probably doesn’t have an issue with shrimp. But if you notice any skin problems or other reactions, it’s best to avoid giving her shrimp in the future.

When in Doubt, Be Cautious

Since you don’t have easy access to a vet, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Trust your observations and your dog’s reactions. If she does well with shrimp, great! If not, there are plenty of other treats and food options out there.

Hope this helps clear things up a bit!

Hello @Amanda, Yes, dogs can eat shrimp safely in moderation as it can also be a good source of protein and nutrients like vitamin B12 and minerals. However, when feeding them shrimp, follow these guidelines:

  • Cook the shrimp well to kill any harmful bacteria.
  • Serve it plain, without seasonings, spices, or sauces.
  • Remove the shells, tails, and heads to avoid choking or digestive problems.
  • Give shrimp as an occasional treat, not a regular part of their diet, because it has high cholesterol.

Always introduce any new food, including shrimp, into your dog’s diet gradually and observe for any signs of allergic reactions or digestive upset.

If cooked correctly and served in moderation, shrimp can be a safe treat for dogs and puppies.

Yes, shrimp can be an occasional treat for most dogs, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and feed it in moderation.

Yes it is safe, however, you must properly cook it for it to be safe

If properly cooked, yes they are

Dogs can eat shrimp as long as it’s thoroughly cooked.

Many people have allergic reactions to shrimp/shellfish which can be deadly in many cases.