Can dogs have shrimp?

General
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I live in the Philippines and have a 2-year-old female German Shepherd. In my province, people say it’s a “proven fact” that shrimp can cause “Kagid” in dogs, which is an itchy skin irritation that gets worse if scratched. I am not sure if this is true. Google says shrimp is harmless to dogs, but I know that’s not always reliable. I don’t have a vet nearby, so I can only ask online or locals, who insist it’s a fact. This isn’t a serious concern, just something I’m curious about. Thanks for answering!

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It’s understandable to be cautious about feeding shrimp to your German Shepherd due to local beliefs. While shrimp itself is not inherently toxic to dogs, some dogs may be sensitive to shellfish or seafood in general, leading to digestive upset or allergies. If you’re unsure and can’t consult a vet locally, it might be safest to avoid feeding shrimp to your dog. Monitor for any signs of itching or discomfort if you do decide to introduce it gradually into their diet.

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As long as the prawns is cooked through, dogs can eat it.

Shrimp and shellfish allergies affect a lot of people and can often be fatal.

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Shrimp and Dogs:

  • Shrimp is generally considered safe for dogs in moderation, offering protein, vitamins, and minerals.
  • However, some dogs may have shellfish allergies, leading to symptoms like itchy skin, vomiting, diarrhea, or other allergic reactions.

“Kagid” and Shrimp:

  • There’s no direct scientific evidence linking shrimp consumption to “Kagid” (itchy skin irritation) in dogs.
  • “Kagid” can stem from various causes, including allergies (food, dust mites, pollen), parasites like fleas, bacterial or yeast infections, or dry skin.

Steps to Take:

  • Consider Alternative Causes: Given the diverse origins of “Kagid,” factors other than shrimp may be responsible.
  • Observe Your Dog: If your dog hasn’t shown signs of “Kagid” after consuming shrimp occasionally, shrimp may not be the trigger.
  • Watch for Other Symptoms: If “Kagid” persists and you suspect shrimp as the cause, monitor for additional allergy symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or respiratory issues.
  • Consult Reliable Resources: While not a replacement for veterinary advice, trusted online sources like the American Kennel Club (https://www.akc.org/) and VCA Animal Hospitals (https://vcahospitals.com/) can offer general insights into dog health. Always verify the credibility of information obtained online.
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It truly depends on your dog. Certain dogs eat quite fine and don’t react to anything, but other dogs are extremely allergic to shrimps.

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Yes, dogs can enjoy shrimp in moderation and when prepared properly, Shrimp should always be cooked thoroughly to avoid any risk of bacteria or parasites that could harm your dog, raw shrimp can contain bacteria that can make your dog sick. Shrimp is high in cholesterol and sodium, so only offer it to your dog as an occasional treat. Like humans, some dogs may have allergies to shellfish, so it is again wise to monitor them the first time they try shrimp.