What are the benefits of shrimp for dogs?

Shrimp is low in fat and calories while being high in protein. It contains beneficial nutrients including vitamin B12, niacin, phosphorus, and antioxidants. However, shrimp is high in cholesterol, so it should only be an occasional treat.

Can Dogs Eat Shrimp? Safe Feeding Guide (2026)

Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp for Dogs

Shrimp isn't just a tasty treat - it offers several nutritional benefits when fed in moderation:

High-quality protein: Essential for muscle health and repair
Low in fat and calories: Good for weight management
Vitamin B12: Supports brain function and metabolism
Niacin (B3): Helps with enzyme function and energy production
Phosphorus: Essential for healthy bones and teeth
Antioxidants: Contains astaxanthin which has anti-inflammatory properties

Nutrient	Per 3oz Cooked Shrimp	Benefit for Dogs
Calories	84 kcal	Low-calorie treat option
Protein	18g	Muscle maintenance
Fat	0.9g	Very low fat content
Cholesterol	166mg	High - limit portions
Vitamin B12	1.4mcg (59% DV)	Brain and nerve health

How to Safely Prepare Shrimp for Dogs

Proper preparation is essential to make shrimp safe for your dog:

Step 1: Choose Fresh or Frozen Shrimp

Buy high-quality shrimp from a reputable source. Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp both work well.

Step 2: Remove Shell, Tail, and Vein

Always peel shrimp completely and remove the digestive tract (the dark vein running along the back). The shell, tail, and legs can be choking hazards and may cause intestinal issues.

Step 3: Cook Thoroughly

Cook shrimp until it's pink and opaque throughout. Safe cooking methods include:

Steaming: Best option - retains nutrients without added fat
Boiling: Quick and easy, no added ingredients needed
Grilling: Without oil or seasonings

Step 4: Serve Plain

Never add butter, garlic, onions, salt, or any seasonings. These can be toxic or harmful to dogs. Garlic and onions are particularly dangerous.

Warning: Avoid These

* Garlic butter shrimp (garlic is toxic to dogs)
* Fried shrimp (too much fat and breading)
* Shrimp cocktail (cocktail sauce contains onions)
* Seasoned or spicy shrimp
* Raw shrimp (bacteria risk)

Portion Guidelines by Dog Size

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake. Here's a general guide for shrimp portions:

Dog Size	Weight	Shrimp Portion	Frequency
Small	Under 20 lbs	1-2 small shrimp	Once a week max
Medium	20-50 lbs	3-4 small shrimp	Once a week max
Large	Over 50 lbs	5-6 small shrimp	Once a week max

First-time feeding: Start with just one small piece of shrimp and wait 24-48 hours to check for any allergic reactions before offering more.

Risks and Side Effects

While shrimp is generally safe, there are some risks to be aware of:

Allergic Reactions

Some dogs are allergic to shellfish. Watch for these signs after feeding shrimp:

Itching or scratching
Hives or skin rash
Swelling of face, ears, or lips
Vomiting or diarrhea
Difficulty breathing (emergency - call vet immediately)

High Cholesterol

Shrimp is high in cholesterol. While occasional treats won't cause problems for most dogs, those with existing health conditions (especially related to heart or weight) should avoid high-cholesterol foods. Consult your vet if your dog has health issues.

Choking Hazard

Shells, tails, and even whole shrimp can be choking hazards, especially for small dogs. Always remove all shell pieces and consider cutting larger shrimp into smaller pieces.

Digestive Issues

Too much shrimp can cause upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea. Stick to the recommended portions and introduce shrimp slowly.

What About Other Shellfish?

Shellfish	Safe?	Notes
Shrimp	Yes (cooked)	Must be cooked, peeled, plain
Lobster	Yes (cooked)	Same rules as shrimp, high in sodium
Crab	Yes (cooked)	Remove all shell pieces, high in sodium
Oysters	Caution	Only fully cooked, risk of contamination
Clams/Mussels	Caution	Only cooked, can accumulate toxins
Scallops	Yes (cooked)	Cooked and plain, in moderation

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dogs eat shrimp?▼

Yes, dogs can eat shrimp in moderation. Shrimp must be fully cooked, peeled, and deveined before feeding to dogs. Raw shrimp can contain harmful bacteria and parasites. Only feed plain shrimp without butter, garlic, or seasonings.

How much shrimp can I give my dog?▼

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calories. For small dogs, 1-2 small shrimp occasionally is enough. Medium dogs can have 3-4 shrimp, and large dogs can have 5-6 shrimp. Start with a small amount to check for allergies.

Can dogs eat raw shrimp?▼

No, dogs should not eat raw shrimp. Raw shrimp can contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, as well as parasites. Always cook shrimp thoroughly (steamed, boiled, or grilled without oil) before feeding to your dog.

Can dogs eat shrimp shells and tails?▼

No, always remove shrimp shells, tails, and the vein before feeding to dogs. Shells can be a choking hazard and may cause digestive issues or intestinal blockages. The sharp edges can also irritate the digestive tract.

Can dogs be allergic to shrimp?▼

Yes, some dogs can be allergic to shellfish including shrimp. Signs of an allergic reaction include itching, hives, swelling (especially face/ears), vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any reaction, stop feeding shrimp and consult your vet.

The Bottom Line

Shrimp is safe for dogs when cooked properly and served in moderation. Always cook shrimp thoroughly, remove all shells and tails, and serve plain without any seasonings. Start with a small amount to check for allergies, and keep shrimp as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your dog's diet.

If your dog has any existing health conditions, consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods like shrimp.

Can Dogs Eat Shrimp? Safe Feeding Guide

✓ Safe

✗ Not Safe