Can Dogs Have Sushi? – Your pet will be one lucky dog if you decide they deserve sushi.
The sushi market has seen a growth of over 23% in sales from 2021 to 2022. Most people consider sushi healthier than any fried food.
Sushi refers to dishes made from vinegared rice accompanied or combined with fish and other edible species, and that is where we should start relating to dog health.
Can Dogs have Sushi?
Sushi refers to dishes made from vinegared rice accompanied or combined with fish and other edible species.
The principal diet should be plain rice accompanied by cooked fish or seafood for dogs. However, not all sushi types are good for dogs to consume.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), raw animal-based protein, including sushi, is dangerous for pets and should not be fed.
Safest Ingredients to Include in Sushi for Dogs
When preparing sushi for your dog, opt for:
- Plain Cooked Rice: A part of virtually every sushi dish, rice makes it into the dog-safe list because it is generally non-hazardous to the dog’s digestion.
- Cooked Fish: Fish such as salmon and tuna are perfect; they contain omega-3, which is good for the coat and skin of the dog.
- Nori: This edible seaweed is non-toxic, and it is safe to consume very little of it, especially when it is plain and unseasoned.
How to Prepare Sushi at Home That Is Safe for My Dog
To make dog-friendly sushi at home:
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that you use quality fish and that it is properly cooked to ensure it does not contain bacteria or parasites.
- Avoid Harmful Additives: Avoid using wasabi, soy sauce, and harmful seasonings.
- Roll It Up: Mix rice and fish that have been cooked, then put this in plain seaweed. However, your dog should chop it into tiny bite sizes.
- Serve in Moderation: Offering sushi occasionally rather than frequently is advisable.
Health Benefits of Giving Sushi to Dogs
If prepared correctly, sushi can offer several health benefits:
- Low in Calories: Sushi is also less caloric than processed dog treats, making it a healthier option.
- Rich in Nutrients: Fish like salmon and tuna are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, phosphorus, and potassium, contributing to a dog’s overall health.
Risks of Giving My Dog Sushi with Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is relatively unsafe because it contains high amounts of sodium. For instance:
- Sodium Levels: Soy sauce is rich in sodium; taking a tablespoon of soy sauce will give you about 878 mg of sodium, which is toxic to dogs. Mentioned signs include vomiting, general weakness, and seizures.
- Alternatives: Choose low-sodium options or eliminate soy sauce from the dish’s preparation to enhance flavor.
How Much Sushi Is Too Much for a Dog to Eat?
Thus, raw fish and sushi should only make up 10% of your dog’s daily food consumption.
For instance, it is believed that a small dog weighing 10 pounds should be fed about 300-340 kcal in a day.
Sometimes, they eat sushi items that add to their calories without providing all the necessary nutrients.
Also Read: Uva Ursi for Dogs – Dosage, Benefits, and Safety
Also Read: Liquid Paraffin for Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide
Conclusion
It may be tempting to feed your dog sushi, but caution is essential. If the size of the piece of plain, cooked sushi is small, it will not cause your pet any harm, but giving your pet frequent servings of this food is not advised.
It is highly advisable to consult your veterinarian, especially if you have any issues regarding your pet’s diet or health.
It is possible to make sushi at home with safe products for the pet and also to show some moderation while serving so that your pet can enjoy a delicious snack without harming its health.
Sources:
https://ichisushi.com/can-dogs-eat-sushi/
https://mywaggle.com/blogs/pet-food/can-dogs-eat-soy-sauce-exploring-the-risks-and-considerations
https://www.alldayieat.com/blog/can-dogs-have-sushi/
https://penniesplacesandpaws.com/diy-dog-sushi-treats/
https://www.tryoriginlabs.com/blogs/pet/can-dogs-have-soy-sauce-the-surprising-truth
https://dope.dog/blogs/dog-health-wellness/can-dogs-eat-sushi
https://thepetarc.com/can-dogs-have-sushi/
