You may have already guessed the answer to this one and are checking online for confirmation, however yes indeed, dogs can eat tuna.
You may also be here wondering if dogs can eat canned tuna and the various juices that come with it, (brine, olive oil, water etc). To that we say yes, however in moderation.
And common sense should prevail, the canned tuna that comes packaged with flavorings such as tomato sauce or spices should be well avoided, these do not constitute a healthy dog food diet.
Can Dogs Eat Tuna – The Benefits
For a while now we have been advised that the omega family of acids within foods are good for us. Tuna is no different. The fish is positively full of omega-3 fatty acids, and are responsible for a long list of cardiovascular benefits. These benefits apply to dogs as well.
To name just a few, Omega 3 can hep prevent irregular heart rhythms, prevent blood clots, improve cholesterol levels, they can also help reduce inflammation with blood cell walls.
These cardiovascular benefits all go towards reducing the risk of arrhythmia within your dog, as well as sudden death due to heart ailments.
Tuna & Essential Vitamins
The reported medical benefits continue due to the amount of vitamin B6 that tuna contains. This along with folic acid, help to lower the levels of homocysteine found within both humans and dogs.
The high amount of vitamin B6 found in tuna, along with folic acid, lowers levels of homocysteine, a by-product compound of the methylation cycle. (Follow this link for an explanation of the methylation cycle in humans.)
Too much homocysteine can be very harmful to artery walls, that in turn can lead to atherosclerosis.
In short, feeding your dog tuna will help prevent all manner of potential cardiovascular issues. The fish is a one stop heart fixing machine, and a very healthy type of dog food.
The list does not end there however. Tuna is also a great source of Vitamin B12 and Selenium. Another ingredient that helps lower the levels of homocysteine in the body.
And just for good measure, omega 3 is said to be good for a dogs eye sight. If your pet has ailing sight issues, tuna is one food you should definitely be feeding them.
Finally, tuna is exceptionally high in protein, and essential element of any healthy dog food diet and required to ensure doggie muscle growth and strength.
Can Dogs Eat Tuna – Any Precautions?
The good news is, (after hearing about all these benefits your dog can have by eating tuna) is that dogs can digest the fish with ease. While sensible moderation is always encouraged, a dog could easily much through a bowl of tuna without any potential stomach upset.
However, it is a good idea to feed your dog tuna as an accompaniment to their normal dog food, (especially dog biscuits). Tuna can get stuck within your dogs teeth, so to have biscuits or kibble at the same time will help clear the dogs mouth of any remaining traces of offending fish.
Keep your dog’s teeth clean of tuna bits by mixing the fish with kibble
Of course we also state the usual caveat with any food that your are feeding your dog for the first time. With tuna being so high in protein as well as fat, it is advised that you proceed with caution the first occasion you feed your dog tuna, in order to ensure there are no adverse reactions.
As we have already stated, canned tuna is fine for dogs although watch for any sauces that contain excessive flavorings. Also, do not over do it with canned tuna as it is said to be high in sodium and mercury.