Fish has loads of nutritional benefits for our bodies. It is rich in nutrients like vitamin D and proteins. This healthy food is also a powerhouse of omega fatty acids essential for cognitive wellness. But can French Bulldogs eat fish? Do fish offer similar benefits to dogs? Read on for answers.
Can Frenchies Eat Fish?
Yes. Frenchies can safely eat fish. Fish is a novel protein source, which comes in handy for dogs with chicken or other protein intolerances. You can find it in commercial dog food or prepare it at home.
Benefits of Fish for Frenchies
Your Frenchie can also benefit from consuming fish. Here are the main benefits of fish:
Fish is rich in proteins.
Proteins are excellent sources of amino acids, building blocks of strong and healthy muscles. Frenchies that cannot tolerate other protein sources can benefit from fish as an alternative protein source.
Fish is rich in omega fatty acids.
Omega fatty acids benefit cognitive wellness, reduce inflammation, and boost your Frenchie’s coat and skin health.
Fish is an excellent source of collagen.
Fish skin is rich in collagen, which benefits your Frenchie’s bones and skin functions.
7 Risks of Feeding Fish to French Bulldogs
Fish is a healthy protein source for Frenchies. However, Consuming fish has significant health risks, some of which can be deadly. You should understand the hazards before determining whether a fish-based diet is best for your Frenchie.
Harmful bacteria
Raw fish contains harmful bacteria, including listeria and salmonella. Common symptoms to watch out for include vomiting, diarrhea, and a distended tummy.
Allergic reactions
Like other protein sources, Frenchies can get allergies from consuming fish for too long. Diarrhea, itchy skin, obsessive chewing, loss of fur, and vomiting are common symptoms of fish allergies in dogs.
Anaphylactic shock, a potentially fatal allergic reaction, is uncommon yet possible. Your dog will enter anaphylactic shock right after eating fish. This can be fatal if not treated immediately.
Parasites
Raw fish contains parasites. The risk of intestinal parasites such as tapeworms, roundworms, and flukes is significant. They could result in diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss.
Choking hazard
Fish have small bones that may not be visible to the naked eye. This exposes your dog to the risk of choking, which can be fatal.
Lots of oil
Canned fish is rich in oil. Though healthy, consuming lots of oil exposes your dog to other health issues, including pancreatitis and obesity. Sardines and anchovies have lots of oil and may not be the best fish for your Frenchie.
Mercury poisoning
Some fish, like swordfish and tuna, have high mercury levels. Consuming them may therefore lead to mercury poisoning in Frenchies. Mercury poisoning is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Common signs to watch out for include hair loss, blindness, loss of coordination, and tremors. The kidneys can also be damaged in the process.
Enzymes and sodium
Raw fish have an enzyme known as thiaminase. The enzymes break down vitamin B1. Proper cooking destroys it. Consuming fish in large amounts inhibits thiamine absorption, leading to thiamine deficiency.
The increased sodium content is another hazard of consuming fish, which can lead to serious health issues.
6 Types of Fish Frenchies Can Eat
You cannot just feed any fish to your Frenchie. Healthy fish have a low parasite and mercury levels. Here are some healthy fish to serve your Frenchie:
- Salmon.
- Catfish.
- Cod.
- Flounder.
- Whitefish.
- Herring.
Types of Fish Frenchies Cannot Eat.
Consuming certain fish is harmful to your Frenchie. This is according to FDA guidelines. Here are the fish to avoid:
- Swordfish.
- Shark.
- Tilefish.
- Albacore tuna(canned).
- King mackerel.
These fish have high mercury levels and parasites. Farm-raised fish may also contain harmful chemicals.
Which Fish Recipes and Parts Can Be Eaten Safely by Frenchies?
Fish Skin
It is the outer surface of a fish. Like fish, fish skin is an excellent source of proteins and omega fatty acids. It is also rich in other nutrients like vitamins D and E, iodine, selenium, and taurine. The skin has anti-inflammatory properties that lower the risk of inflammation. It also supports skin wellness. High-mercury fish skin is harmful, especially if your dog’s immunity is low.
So can Frenchies eat fish skin safely? Yes, your Frenchie can consume fish skin. It is, however, important to cook the skin thoroughly to remove toxins and mercury. You should also ensure the skin has no scales.
Fish Sticks
Also referred to as fish fingers, fish sticks are a popular dinner on many families’ weekly menu rotations since both children and adults love them. Fish is the first ingredient in this dish, which is high in protein. The high omega content in fish sticks makes them good for cardiac and skin health. Fish sticks can, however, have bones, which can be a choking hazard for small dog breeds.
So can Frenchies eat fish stocks? The answer is yes. The taste and safety, however, differ depending on the type of seafood and the preparation method. Serve fish sticks moderately, as they are unhealthy food choices for your Frenchie.
Fish Oil
It is a fatty oil from fish tissue. The oil is rich in omega fatty acids, which boost cardiac functions and reduce joint inflammation. Consuming it also reduces skin and coat problems in Frenchies. Frenchies cannot produce omega fatty acids on their own. Moreover, fish oil boosts your Frenchie’s immunity, thus preventing chronic diseases like cancer. However, consuming it in large quantities may contribute to obesity, which harms all dog breeds.
So can Frenchies eat fish oil safely? Fish oil promotes brain, coat, immune, and skin wellness. Serve them moderately to avoid obesity.
Fish Sauce
This is a condiment that includes water, salt, and anchovies. Although fish sauce has a great flavor, it has a strong smell. This may make you wonder whether the fish sauce is tasty for your Frenchie. Its strong flavor results from a long fermentation procedure. Its salty flavor makes it an excellent recipe for picky Frenchies.
So can dogs eat fish sauce? Yes, Frenchies can consume this tasty condiment. However, you should give them in small amounts, as consuming lots of salty foods can lead to dehydration. Give fish sauce along with other foods and water. This reduces its saltiness.
Fish Fillet
Fish filets are rich in protein and low in fat. This makes them great options for healthy muscles and weight. Strong muscles are important for all dog breeds. A healthy weight lowers the risk of pancreatitis and heart problems in Frenchies. Filets with onions or garlic are toxic to all dog breeds.
So can Frenchies eat fish filets safely? Yes, Fish filets have proteins and support a healthy weight, making them healthy selections for Frenchies. Avoid raw and breaded fish filets, as they contain bacteria and fat. This will make your Frenchie sick.
Fish Scales
The outer coverings protect fish against parasites, injuries, and predators. The scales comprise materials comparable to those found in teeth or bone and can be exceedingly sharp. Fish scales are good sources of collagen, which supports skin and bone functions. They also contain EPA and DHA for the heart. Their sharpness makes them a choking hazard for all dog breeds.
So can Frenchies eat fish scales safely? Although you can give fish scales to your dog, they are not a healthy choice as they can cause life-threatening blockages and injuries.
Fish Cake
This is ground or minced seafood combined with a starchy ingredient. Cod, tuna, salmon, cod, or haddock are just a few examples of fish that can be used to make fish cakes. They can be grilled, baked, or fried, depending on the recipe. It is rich in vitamin D, omega fatty acids, and proteins. It promotes heart, skin, brain, coat, and muscle wellness.
So can French Bulldogs eat fish cake? Yes, Fish cakes are safe for dogs to eat, but a few factors must be considered before offering them this treat. Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and other necessary elements that are good for the health of your Frenchie. But certain fish can have high mercury concentrations or other chemicals that harm your dog’s health.
Selecting a low-mercury fish when cooking fish cakes at home is crucial. When purchasing a fish cake for your French Bulldog, read the ingredients list carefully.
Fish and Chips
Fish and chips are a delicacy in every home, and pet parents would love their Frenchies to taste this mouth-watering recipe. This is a protein-dense recipe. It also includes carbohydrates for energy.
So can Frenchies eat fish and chips? No. Frenchies cannot eat fish and chips. The risks outweigh the benefits. Fish and chips are deep fried and hence contain lots of fat. This causes obesity and other health issues in French Bulldogs. Seasonings are also added, making this delicacy unhealthy for French Bulldogs.
FishHead
Most people discard fish heads when eating fish. But fish heads are highly nutritious. It is where the brain is located and includes high protein levels, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin A. This lowers inflammation while boosting immunity. The head is also delicious, making it an excellent selection for picky Frenchies.
So can Frenchies eat fish heads safely? Yes, Frenchies are susceptible to joint issues like hip dysplasia, and fish heads are rich in vitamin A, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Do not give your Frenchie raw fish heads, as they contain harmful parasites and bacteria.
Fish Fingers
They are also known as fish sticks. As discussed above, your French Bulldog can safely consume them. However, moderation is key since fish fingers contain sodium, which can cause dehydration in Frenchies.
Fish Balls
They are packed with proteins and amino acids. Amino acids support muscle power without negatively affecting your Frenchie’s heart wellness.
So can Frenchies eat fish balls? Yes. Frenchies can eat fish balls in moderation. Caution is key, as some fish balls are fried, making them too oily for your French Bulldog’s well-being. You should also avoid eating fish balls with seasonings or spices.
Fish Broth
Boiling fish in water results in a thick soup called fish broth. Fish broth is nutritious and tasty. This makes it a healthy selection for selective Frenchies. Fish broth is also protein-dense for a muscular look. It suits senior Frenchies whose teeth are weak. Consuming fish broth also hydrates your French Bulldog.
So, can Frenchies eat fish broth safely? Yes, fish broth is nutritious and healthy for your Frenchie. Besides keeping your dog hydrated, it also removes toxins from the body. Do not add garlic or onions. You should also remove all bones before serving fish broth to your Frenchie.
Tuna Fish
Tuna is a high-mercury fish. However, this fish is loaded with proteins and omega fatty acids. It is safe for humans as it promotes cognitive and cardiac health.
But can French Bulldogs eat tuna safely? French Bulldogs cannot eat tuna due to its high mercury content. The accumulation of mercury leads to mercury poisoning, which can be fatal. However, you don’t worry too much if your Frenchie steals a tiny amount of tuna from your plate when you’re not looking. A small amount of tuna does not result in mercury poisoning in dogs and is not intrinsically hazardous to them.
Cooked Fish
Cooking destroys parasites while retaining all important nutrients. Cooked fish promotes joint, heart, skin, coat, and immune wellness thanks to its high protein, omegas, vitamin, and mineral levels.
But can French Bulldogs eat cooked fish safely? French Bulldogs can eat cooked fish, as it poses no health risks. French Bulldogs are prone to skin infections and skin fold dermatitis, and cooked fish has loads of omegas to reduce the chances of skin and coat problems.
Steamed Fish
Consuming steamed fish ensures a healthy coat, skin, heart, and brain thanks to its omega fatty acid content. Moreover, steamed fish has thick bones and strong muscles in all dog breeds.
Protein for a muscular look. Additionally, steamed fish is less fatty, so your dog won’t gain unhealthy pounds.
So, can Frenchies eat steamed fish safely? Yes, steamed fish is safe for your dog. Its healthy nutritional profile supports your dog’s general health. It should, however, not be your Frenchie’s only meal.
Grilled Fish
This fish tastes good, and picky dogs would love it. It has proteins and is low in fat, making it a healthy selection. It also contains calcium, iron, and vitamin D. Its high omega content keeps the heart strong.
So, can Frenchies eat grilled fish safely? Yes, grilled fish has healthy nutrients that work together for your Frenchie’s overall well-being. But like any fish, you should serve it in moderation.
Raw Fish
Like cooked fish, raw fish is rich in nutrients like proteins and omegas. However, it comes with the risk of diseases since it has bacteria and parasites.
So, can Frenchies eat raw fish? No. Salmonella and Listeria are two dangerous bacteria that could be present in raw seafood. They cause health problems and harm other family members, especially children.
Small children, who might come into contact with your Frenchie’s saliva more frequently than adults, and those with weakened immune systems should be especially concerned about this. If you decide to feed your dog raw food that includes fish, follow the FDA’s guidelines for meal preparation.
Best Ways To Prepare Fish for Your Frenchie
Preparing fish for your Frenchie is easy. You only need the right ingredients and procedures. Here are two methods of preparing fish:
Fish and sweet potato recipe
Ingredients
- Fresh fish.
- Sweet potatoes.
- Olive oil.
Procedure
- Bake or steam the fish until it is well cooked.
- Let the fish cool, and then remove the bones.
- Cut the fish into bite-size pieces.
- Boil sweet potatoes until tender.
- Mash the sweet potatoes.
- Mix with fish: ½ cup sweet potatoes and 1 cup fish.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil for every cup of food (optional).
Tilapia recipe
Ingredients
- 60 ounces of tilapia.
- 31.9 ounces of sweet potatoes
- 24.6 ounces of barley.
- 26 tablespoons of canola oil
- 10 ounces of mixed veggies (kale, broccoli, green beans, and cauliflower).
- 3 grams of Morton’s iodized salt
Procedure
- Bake the tilapia at 360 degrees for 45 minutes. Keep the tilapia juice.
- Peel and slice sweet potatoes into 2-4 inches.
- Cook sweet potatoes for 20 minutes.
- Following the instructions, start barley on the stove.
- Remove the sweet potatoes and microwave your frozen veggies.
- Mix sweet potatoes, veggies, and canola oil. Puree until smooth.
- Mix everything in a large pot and add salt.
Which Dog Food Brands Use Fish in Their Foods?
Most dog food brands include fish in their recipes. This makes it easy for you to buy the best for your Frenchie. Here are key brands that use fish in their foods.
- Orijen dog food: Their recipe, Orijen Six Fish, has 85% fish and 15% veggies and fruits. The meal includes herring, mackerel, monkfish, silver hake, flounder, and Acadian redfish.
- Canidae: Their recipe Canidae Pure Salmon Dry Food is a grain-free recipe with fewer ingredients to reduce the risk of allergies. Salmon, salmon meal, and menhaden fish meal are the leading ingredients for proteins and omega-3 fatty acids.
Can puppies or pregnant dogs eat fish?
Yes, pregnant dogs and puppies can safely consume fish. Fish provides proteins and omegas for proper growth and cognitive development. The fish should be well-cooked to destroy parasites and bacteria.
How much fish should Frenchies eat?
The amount of fish to serve your Frenchie varies with weight, size, and health status. Fish treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s food. Give fish 2-3 times a week. Understanding the daily caloric needs of average Frenchies will help you determine the amount of fish to serve your dog. Here’s a guide. Please note that 154 g of salmon has 154 calories
| Weight in pounds | Total daily calories ( including treats) | Recommended calories ( all treats per day) |
| 10 | 200-275 | 20-28 |
| 20 | 325-400 | 32-40 |
| 30 | 500-575 | 50-57 |
| 50 | 700-900 | 70-90 |
| 70 | 900-1050 | 90-105 |
| 90 | 1100-1350 | 110-135 |
Is tilapia good for Frenchies?
Yes. Tilapia is good for Frenchies if it is well-cleaned and deboned. It should also be thoroughly cooked to remove toxins that harm your Frenchie.
Can fish affect my dog’s mood?
Fish can improve a dog’s temperament. Similar to how it affects people, it helps dogs feel happier. This is due to the presence of tryptophan in fish, which is necessary for synthesizing serotonin.
Can old dogs eat fish?
Yes. Old Frenchies can safely eat fish. Fish has omegas for joint health. Additionally, fish has collagen, which supports bone wellness during your dog’s golden years.
Should I boil fish for my dog?
Yes. Boiling fish for your Frenchie is healthy as it destroys bacteria and parasites. Boiling fish results in fish broth, which hydrates and detoxifies your French Bulldog.
Can dogs eat fish when sick?
Yes. Sick dogs will benefit from the high levels of proteins, omegas, and vitamin A in fish. Consuming fish boosts your dog’s immunity, thus preventing further health issues.
Can an anemic dog eat fish?
Yes. Anemic Frenchies can eat fish. Fish is rich in iron, which boosts your dog’s blood volume. Ensure the fish is well-cooked and boneless.
Can dogs with kidney disease eat fish?
Yes. Frenchies with mild kidney issues can benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids. However, dogs with chronic kidney issues require fewer proteins and low sodium. Fish is a protein-dense food, and it may contain sodium.
Can dogs eat fish to help with diarrhea?
No. It is best to avoid fish for Frenchies with diarrhea. Fish has loads of fat, which can worsen the problem. However, serving fish broth helps restore lost fluids.
Final Thoughts
So, can Frenchies eat fish?
Besides being tasty, fish has healthy nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, omegas, and minerals, that support your Frenchie’s overall wellness.
The fish should, however, be properly cooked to remove parasites and bacteria. High-mercury fish are harmful to Frenchie’s health. Serve fish moderately, as too much causes obesity.