Besides being tasty, crab contains proteins, omegas, and healthy minerals. These nutrients are important for the body. But can Frenchies eat crab? Read on for answers and much more.
Can Frenchies Eat Crab?
Yes. Frenchies can safely eat crab in moderation. But the crab should be plain with no seasonings or additives. Consuming crab in small amounts boosts your dog’s overall health.
Crab Fun Facts
Crabs have been in existence for a long time. Here are some of the interesting facts about crabs.
- Crabs have four pairs of walking legs and a pair of pincers.
- Crabs can squeeze into narrow crevices thanks to their flat bodies.
- Crabs have claws on their two front legs.
- Crabs swim and walk sideways.
- Crabs can live anywhere; in the ocean, on land, and even in freshwater.
- Crabs have a protective shell that makes it difficult to prey on them.
- Crabs have different lifespans. Small crabs can live for 3-4 years, while blue crabs have a lifespan of approximately 8 years. Horseshoe crabs can live for 20-25 years, while the biggest Japanese crab can live for decades.
- Crabs have teeth in their tummies.
Types of crabs
There are more than 4500 crab species. Here are the famous and edible ones:
Blue crab
It is found on the East Coast of the United States. This crab’s size ranges from 3 ½ -5 ½ inches. Although naturally blue, these crabs turn reddish when cooked.
Dungeness crab
Found in the coastal waters of Mexico, this crab is brown to purple and weighs between 1 ¾-4 pounds.
Horseshoe crab
This crab has been in existence for as long as 500 million years. It resembles the shape of a horseshoe, and this is where its name came from. It has a large shell compared to its edible parts.
King crab
This is a giant crab. It is also called Alaskan King Crab or Japanese crab. It measures up to 10 feet and can be as heavy as 25 pounds. Though big, only ¼ of its body(the legs and claws) is edible. Only male king crabs are harvested.
Stone crab
Also known as Moro, this crab has large hard edible claws. It is mainly found in Florida, U.S. Crabs’ claws are cut off by fishermen, who then throw the crabs back so they can regrow them. Within 18 months, crabs’ claws will grow back. One claw is all they have left to protect themselves.
According to the legislation, these claws must be cooked for seven minutes before being frozen or put on ice. The iodine flavor frequently detected in meat appears to be eliminated by freezing.
Snow crab
Also known as rock crab, this crab is mainly found along the east coast of the United States. A closer look reveals a spider-like creature due to its spidey legs.
Peekytoe crab
Also known as sand crab, this crab is found in the rocky parts of Northern America. Its brown claws with light tips distinguish it from other crabs.
The Benefits of Crabs for Frenchies
Consuming crabs sparingly is beneficial. Here are the benefits of crabs for Frenchies.
Nutrition
Crab is rich in proteins. A serving of crab has 16 grams of protein. Proteins are the building blocks of healthy muscles. It also includes vitamins and minerals.
Tasty
Crab is a tasty meal making it an excellent selection for picky eaters. The taste will tempt those selective feeders.
Digestive and nervous system wellness
Crab is rich in vitamin B12 responsible for properly functioning the nervous and digestive systems.
Improved immunity
Crab is a powerhouse of zinc and selenium which supports the immune system and thus prevents frequent infections.
Joint health
Crab has glucosamine which promotes joint and hip wellness. It prevents hip dysplasia in French Bulldogs.
Risks of Feeding Crabs to French Bulldogs
Although crab has benefits for your Frenchie, it also comes with risks.
Allergies
Some French Bulldogs can be allergic to seafood, including crab. Introduce crab gradually while watching out for any allergic symptoms.
Parasites
Raw crabs have a parasite called Paragonimus westermani, a lung fluke that causes cysts in the lungs.
Injuries
Crabs have shells that can cause injuries. The sharp edges are dangerous as they cause mouth injuries and blockages.
High cholesterol and sodium
Consuming crabs in moderation is okay. However, frequent consumption exposes your dog to the risk of sodium poisoning. High cholesterol levels are unhealthy for Frenchie’s cardiac health.
Which Types of seafood can dogs eat?
Deboned, properly cleaned, and low-mercury seafood is safe for dogs. Here’s a list of seafood that your Frenchie can eat:
Salmon
Cooked salmon is safe for dogs. It contains omega fatty acids and proteins for skin, coat, and muscle wellness. Ensure the salmon is not farmed and serve it in moderation.
Sardines
Due to their limited exposure to contaminants and poisons (due to their diet of sole plankton and short lifespan), these little fish are frequently considered the safest in the ocean. Serve them cooked or raw. Sardines in cans typically contain a lot of sodium, which can harm your dog’s health.
Seaweed
This is a superfood for your Frenchie. Just sprinkle some of this mineral in your dog’s bowl and wait for positive results.
Krill oil
Made from minuscule crustaceans, this oil is rich in omegas, making it an excellent substitute for fish oil. Add 1-2 tablespoons to your Frenchie’s meal.
Anchovies and herring
Though small, these fish are rich in omegas. Serve them raw or cooked. You should, however, avoid canned fish as it includes other unhealthy additives.
Types of Seafood That Aren’t Safe for Dogs
Some seafood is not safe for dogs. They come with a host of problems for your dog’s well-being.
Tuna
Though tasty, tuna has loads of mercury, and frequent consumption exposes your Frenchie to the risk of mercury poisoning, which can be fatal. Canned tuna has additives and preservatives that are harmful.
Shellfish
These include lobsters, shrimp, and crabs. Raw shellfish is harmful. Shrimp has loads of toxins, while lobsters are loaded with sodium. Crab, however, has iodine which is harmful in large amounts. Cooking, however, makes shellfish safe for Frenchies.
Bivalve mollusks
They include scallops, crams, and oysters. Cooked bivalve mollusks in small amounts are safe, but consuming them raw exposes dogs to the risk of toxicity which causes issues like paralytic shellfish poisoning.
Which Crab Recipes and Parts Can Be Eaten Safely by Frenchies?
Raw Crab
Uncooked crabs may be fun for dogs, but consuming them increases the risk of infections. Cooking destroys harmful bacteria and pathogens.
So, can Frenchies eat raw crab? No. Raw crab has harmful bacteria and parasites that cause health problems in dogs. Watch out for abnormal behavior if your dog accidentally eats a raw crab on the beach.
Cooked Crab
Cooking kills parasites and makes crab meat safe for your dog. Cooked crab meat has high-quality nutrients that work together to support your dog’s overall well-being.
So, can Frenchies eat cooked crab? Yes. Cooked crab is safe for your French Bulldog. It has proteins, vitamins, and minerals that boost muscle, immune, coat, and skin functions.
Crab Shell
Crabs have hard shells, which can get lodged in your dog’s throat. This is harmful, as it can cause choking and blockages. Blockages may require emergency surgery.
So, can Frenchies eat crab shells? No. Frenchies cannot eat crab shells. Crab shells have sharp edges, which expose your Frenchie to the risk of choking and blockages.
Crab Meat
Cooked crab meat is healthy and nutritious for your dog. It has amino acids, vitamins, and omegas. These nutrients support muscle, coat, skin, and kidney functions.
So, can Frenchies eat crab meat? Yes. Frenchies can safely eat cooked, plain crab meat. Ensure the meat is devoid of seasonings like onions and garlic, which are harmful.
Crab Legs
Crab meat is healthy for dogs. However, crab legs contain lots of salt and few nutritional benefits. It is, therefore, best to avoid them.
So, can Frenchies eat crab legs? No. Frenchies cannot eat crab legs. Crab legs have high amounts of salt, raising the chances of salt poisoning. Watch out for signs of dehydration.
Fresh Crab
As mentioned, cooking is the best way to serve crabs to dogs. Raw crab has intestinal parasites which cause health issues and infections in dogs. Cooking destroys parasites.
So, can Frenchies eat fresh crab? Yes. Freshly cooked crab is safe for dogs. Raw fresh crab, however, increases the chances of infection as it has a lot of parasites.
Crab Eggs
Eggs are the best source of proteins for dogs. But crab eggs are an exception as they contain high levels of sodium.
So, can Frenchies eat crab eggs? No. Crab eggs contain sodium which may cause sodium poisoning in dogs. Dehydration is the main sign of sodium poisoning.
Imitation Crab
Artificial colors and preservatives are included in imitation crab. This makes it unhealthy for dogs. Dogs require natural ingredients.
So, can Frenchies eat imitation crab? No. You should never give your Frenchie imitation crab. Its artificial additives make it unhealthy for dogs. Small amounts of imitation crab may not be harmful, but avoiding them is best.
Crab Sticks
Imitation crab is the main ingredient in crab sticks. Imitation crab has sodium and other artificial additives, which are unhealthy for dogs.
So, Can Frenchies eat crab sticks? No. Crab sticks have unhealthy ingredients, including sodium which is harmful.
Crab Rangoon
Some Frenchies can be lactose-intolerant, and crab rangoon has cream cheese which is not good for such dogs.
So, can Frenchies eat crab rangoon? No. Besides having no nutritional value, crab rangoon has cream cheese which can harm lactose-intolerant Frenchies.
Crab Cakes
Salt, onion, and garlic are the main ingredients that make up crab cakes. These three ingredients are harmful to dogs.
So, can Frenchies eat crab cakes? No. Crab cakes have ingredients, which though safe for humans, are harmful to dogs.
Fried Crab
It has lots of fat, and fried crab is no exception. Fried crab also includes large amounts of sodium.
So, can Frenchies eat fried crab? No. Fried crab is fatty. Consuming lots of fat increases the chances of obesity, cardiac problems, arthritis, and pancreatitis. The high sodium content of fried crab also raises the chances of sodium poisoning.
Crab Dip
Consuming lots of salt and dairy raises the probability of obesity and salt poisoning. Crab dip has dairy and salt; giving it to your dog is not advisable.
So, can Frenchies eat crab dip? No. French Bulldogs cannot eat crab dip. Crab dip contains dairy and salt. These ingredients ( in large amounts) cause obesity and salt poisoning.
Crab Salad
Most crab salads include additives like onions and garlic, which may not be good for dogs. Plan crab salad, however, is safe for your dog.
So, can Frenchies eat crab salad? Yes. Frenchies can safely eat plain crab salad. Ensure the salad is devoid of other ingredients like onions.
Crab stuffed mushrooms
Slat, garlic, and cream cheese are the main components of stuffed crab mushrooms. This makes crab-stuffed mushrooms bad for dogs.
So, can Frenchies eat crab-stuffed mushrooms? No. Frenchies cannot eat crab-stuffed mushrooms as they are made with harmful ingredients. Crab stuffed mushrooms are bad for lactose-intolerant Frenchies.
Crab Sushi
Plain crab flesh is ideal. Soy sauce and other high-sodium substances are frequently used in sushi. Dogs can eat rice and crab, but you should exercise caution when using the additional ingredients in the sushi.
So, can Frenchies eat crab sushi? No. Crab sushi has a high sodium content and soy sauce. These are harmful to dogs.
Canned Crabmeat
It has artificial preservatives, salt, and sodium. Canned crab meat is no exception. It is, therefore, important to avoid it in dogs.
So, can French Bulldogs eat canned crab meat? No. Canned crab meat has preservatives, salt, and sodium, which are unsafe for dogs.
Best Ways To Prepare Crabs For Your Frenchie
Well-prepared crab has loads of health benefits for your dog. Here’s a recipe to try at home:
Crab cake
Ingredients
- 4 ounces of crab meat
- ¾ cups of organic rice flour
- 2 organic chicken eggs
- 1 organic lemon.
Procedure
- Preheat oven to 300 degrees
- Zest the lemon
- In a large bowl, mix crab, eggs, and lemon zest
- Using your hand or a scooper, form tablespoons of rolls
- Roll the balls in the rice flour
- Place the balls on a cookie sheet
- Bake for 15-25 minutes
- Allow to cool. You can refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Which Dog Food Brands Use Crabs in Their Foods?
Although crabs are rare ingredients, some dog food companies include them in their recipes:
- Wysong: Their recipe Wysong Adult Dry Food, starts with real chicken and has a crab meal with a high % protein content of 30%. Proteins have amino acids, building blocks of strong and healthy muscles. Probiotics, antioxidants, and omegas boost digestive, immune, and coat wellness.
- Wholistic Pet Organics: Their recipe Wholistic Pet Organics Joint Support Supplement offers joint support for your Frenchie while ensuring improved digestion. It has high levels of glucosamine sulfate (crab and shrimp), which prevents hip and joint problems.
How Many Crabs Should Frenchie Eat?
Crabs are treats, and they should be served in moderation. The best guide is to serve 1 crab for every 18 pounds. So if your dog weighs 54 pounds, it will do well with 3 crabs.
This should, however, not be a daily intake as too much crab is unhealthy. Introduce crabs gradually, starting with small amounts until your dog gets accustomed to them.
How to Feed Crabs to Your Dog
Here are the tips for serving crabs to your Frenchie:
- Cook the crab meat.
- Serve plain crab.
- Remove the shells.
- Serve in moderation.
- Monitor your dog for any negative reactions. Consult the vet immediately if you notice any abnormal behavior.
Can Frenchies have cooked crab?
Yes. Frenchies can safely eat cooked crabs. Cooking lowers the chances of parasites and bacteria, making crab meat safe and healthy.
Is it safe for dogs to eat crab?
Yes. It is safe for dogs to eat cooked crab. Raw crab has intestinal parasites and bacteria which cause infections in dogs.
Is it okay for Frenchies to eat crab shells?
No. Crab shells are harmful to Frenchies. They have sharp edges, exposing dogs to the risks of choking and blockages. These problems are life-threatening.
Is crab or shrimp okay for Frenchies?
Both crab and shrimp are okay for Frenchies if they are properly cooked. These seafood have minerals and vitamins like selenium and vitamin B12, which support your Frenchie’s overall well-being.
Why do dogs eat crab?
Dogs eat crab because it is tasty. This delicacy delights your dog’s taste buds. It is also rich in nutrients like proteins and omegas for muscle and skin functions.
Can dogs have crab and fish?
Yes. Well-prepared crab and fish are okay for dogs. Raw crab and fish are a no-go zone as they expose your dog to infections.
Can dogs safely eat seafood?
Yes. Most seafood, like salmon, is okay for dogs. Some seafood, however, is unhealthy. Such seafood includes canned tuna and shellfish.
Can dogs eat shrimp?
Yes. Dogs can eat shrimp. Shrimp has antioxidants like selenium which are essential for the proper functioning of the immune system.
Can dogs eat whole crabs?
No. Dogs cannot eat whole crabs. Whole crabs contain legs and shells, which are a choking hazard. The shells can also cause blockages which can be fatal if not treated immediately.
Is crab shell digestible to dogs?
No. Crab shells are hard for Frenchies to digest. They are sharp, and consuming them can cause gastrointestinal obstruction, which requires emergency surgery.
Can dogs eat dead crabs?
No. Dogs should not eat dead crabs. Dead crabs may have parasites and bacteria that cause diseases. Their hard shells are also a choking problem.
Can dogs eat crabs on the beach?
No. Though fun, dogs cannot eat crabs on the beach. Raw crab increases disease chances since it harbors intestinal parasites and bacteria.
What Happens When a Dog Eats Crab Raw?
Raw crab has parasites and bacteria. Consuming it, therefore, causes bacterial infection in dogs. Common signs to watch out for include diarrhea, lethargy, vomiting, and fever.
Final Thoughts
So, can Frenchies eat crab?
Yes. Cooked crabs are safe for Frenchies.
Crab is full of nutrients, including proteins, minerals, and vitamins which are important for proper growth and development. Raw crab is, however, harmful to dogs. Ensure you cook crab properly to prevent infections.
Always consult the vet before feeding crabs to your French Bulldog.