Yes, dogs can eat clams. Along with being a good source of protein, clams also provide healthy levels of zinc and iron, plus Omega-3 fatty acids. Just make sure that you only serve cooked clams to your dog, and always make sure your dog doesn’t have access to the clam shells.
As always, you must ask your regular vet before sharing any human food with your beloved canine, including shellfish. Here’s what you need to know about clams and dogs.
How are clams good for dogs?
Clams are a type of shellfish that provides a good level of protein. They’re also high in the minerals zinc, magnesium, and iron, which can help boost your dog’s energy levels and keep their joint in healthy condition.
Additionally, clams are a great source of Omega 3 fatty acids, which can help out with any inflammation issues your dog might be suffering from.
Always serve cooked clams to your dog. Raw clams might not necessarily be toxic to your dog, but eating raw shellfish comes with a higher chance of upsetting your dog’s stomach.
How can I safely give clams to my dog?
When cooking clams for your dog, make sure to steam them simply and avoid adding any extra spices and seasonings that might not agree with your canine friend, especially anything containing garlic or onions, which are toxic to dogs.
Additionally, it’s best to avoid serving canned clams to your dog due to the levels of sodium and preservatives that are often added to them. You can find canned clams without added salt, which should be okay to serve as a treat. When serving clams to your dog, make sure you remove the clam meat from the shells. This is because the shells could become a choking hazard or affect your dog’s teeth.
Your vet can help formulate precise feeding guidelines for your dog if you’re looking to add clams to your canine’s diet on a more regular basis.
