We all look forward to that occasional lobster dinner.
This delicious seafood is nutritious and healthy for our bodies.
But can Frenchies eat lobster? We answer this and give you insights on lobster and Frenchies.
Can Frenchies Eat Lobster?
Yes. Frenchies can eat lobster occasionally as a treat.
However, there are precautions. Lobster is safe for Frenchies if it is well-prepared. Otherwise, it can harm your dog.
What is Lobster?
A lobster is a seafood that belongs to the crustacean family. Lobsters have lengthy bodies and powerful tails. They have five pairs of legs. Three of these legs have claws. Lobsters live in crevices or burrows beneath the surface of the ocean.
Lobster Fun Facts
Here are some interesting facts about lobsters:
- Lobsters have a long lifespan: Females can live up to 54 years, while males can survive for approximately 31 years. Some females have even lived for 70 years.
- Lobsters have many predators: Humans, eels, crabs, and seals consume lobsters.
- Lobsters can be cannibalistic: Lobsters will consume one another when there are many of them and few predators.
- Lobsters come in different colors: Most lobsters have shades of gray, brown, blue, and green. Because lobster color typically reflects the surrounding environment, lobsters can hide from predators.
- Lobsters have blue blood: There are molecules known as hemocyanin in a lobster’s blood. These molecules carry oxygen throughout the body. These molecules also have copper, which gives lobsters blue blood.
The Benefits of Lobster for Frenchies
Lobster is a healthy and nutritious seafood. Below are the reasons why you should include it in your dog’s treats:
Proteins
All dogs need protein, which is abundant in lobster. It is a wonderful protein-rich treat for dogs because dogs need diets high in protein for energy and muscle building. More than 70 grams of proteins are in 400–500 grams of lobster.
Vitamins
Lobster has vitamins A, B6, B12, C, and D. These vitamins support immune, skin, coat, bone, and tooth wellness.
Minerals
Copper is abundant in lobsters. Copper lowers the chances of anemia. Moreover, lobsters have magnesium and iron, which carry oxygen, support enzyme function, and provide energy.
Omega fatty acids
Lobsters are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lowering inflammation risk, and thus supporting cardiac, joint, coat, and skin health.
Risks of Feeding Lobsters to French Bulldogs
There are benefits and risks to consuming seafood. Here are the risks of feeding lobsters to Frenchies:
Bacteria and parasites
Raw lobster is loaded with bacteria and parasites, which raise the risk of infection in dogs and humans.
Allergies
Though rare, Frenchies can become allergic to lobsters. Common signs to watch out for include itchy skin, vomiting, diarrhea, and hot spots.
Sodium
Lobster has healthy minerals and vitamins. But it also includes high sodium amounts. Consuming lobster in large amounts may lead to sodium poisoning, which causes dehydration in Frenchies. Look for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, depression, and fever.
Additional ingredients
The best lobsters for Frenchies are plain ones with no additives. Seasonings like garlic and onions are harmful to your French Bulldog.
Choking and blockages
Lobster shells and bones are hard, and consuming them exposes your Frenchie to the risk of injuries, choking, and blockages. Blockages can be fatal and require an emergency visit to the vet.
Obesity and pancreatitis
Lobster has lots of fat and cholesterol. These are harmful in large amounts. They increase the chances of chronic health issues, including pancreatitis, cardiac problems, and obesity.
Mercury poisoning
Lobster and other seafood have heavy metals like copper and mercury. Mercury poisoning is dangerous for your French Bulldog. You will notice signs like low appetite, convulsions, and a lack of coordination. Failure to detect it early may lead to a coma or even death.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction
Here are the common signs of an allergic reaction:
- Bald spots and itchy skin
- Hot spots
- Inflamed or red skin
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Ear infections
- Stomach cramps and gas
- Increased scratching and licking
What Happens If My Dog Eats The Lobster’s Shell?
The hard shell has the potential to break up into tiny, sharp fragments that could cut your dog’s mouth, teeth, and gums. When ingested, the pieces of the shell could cause injury.
They may cause damage to the esophagus, stomach, and possibly the intestinal tract of your dog. Ingesting a lobster shell calls for an immediate visit to the vet.
What About Allergies?
Like people, Frenchies may experience dietary allergies, including an allergy to shellfish. Since lobster and other shellfish are unusual food sources for dogs, there is little information on their allergies.
However, this does not mean that such allergies cannot occur. Start with small amounts of lobster and monitor your Frenchie for at least 24 to 48 hours to look for a bad reaction.
Sometimes it could take days for this to happen. So if there is no change in your Frenchie’s behavior after several days, it is not allergic to lobsters.
Which Lobster Recipes and Parts Can Be Eaten Safely by Frenchies?
Raw Lobster
Uncooked lobster has parasites and bacteria. These pathogens are harmful to dogs.
So, can Frenchies eat raw lobster? No. Frenchies should never eat raw lobster or any raw seafood. Uncooked seafood has bacteria that cause infections and stomach upsets.
Steamed Lobster
Steaming is a good way to kill bacteria in lobsters. It also softens the lobster and makes it easy to chew and digest.
So, can Frenchies eat steamed lobster? Yes. Steamed lobster is safe for French Bulldogs as it has no bacteria or parasites. Proper digestion also ensures maximum nutrient absorption. Lobster Meat
Boiled Lobster
Like steaming, boiling destroys harmful pathogens in lobster. Boiling makes lobster a healthy treat for dogs.
So, can Frenchies eat boiled lobster? Yes. French Bulldogs can safely consume boiled lobster. Boiling destroys bacteria and parasites.
Lobster shell
A well-prepared lobster has high-quality nutrients that support your dog’s overall wellness. Its shells are, however, dangerous, as they can cause choking, blockages, and injuries.
So, can Frenchies eat lobster shells? No. Frenchies cannot consume lobster shells. Your Frenchie’s digestive system cannot digest the spiky and hard shell. The sharp shell can irritate and injure your Frenchie’s stomach, intestines, and throat. Additionally, the shell greatly increases the risk of blockages and choking, particularly in small and toy breeds.
Lobster bisque
Natural ingredients are best for your dog. Lobster bisque is mainly made with natural ingredients and has no preservatives.
So, can Frenchies eat lobster bisque? Yes. Lobster bisque does not have harmful ingredients. You should, however, avoid lobster bisque with garlic. Common signs of garlic toxicity in dogs include diarrhea and vomiting.
Lobster eggs
Proteins are important in your dog’s body. Lobster eggs have proteins to boost the immune system and muscle wellness while providing energy.
So, can Frenchies eat lobster eggs? Yes. Lobster eggs are safe in moderation. You should, however, ensure that your Frenchie is not allergic to lobster eggs. Common signs of an allergic reaction include vomiting and diarrhea.
Lobster legs
The high protein, fiber, and mineral levels in lobster meat are good for your dog’s health. Boiled lobster legs may have trace amounts of these nutrients, which can still benefit your dog. Lobster legs are, however, not safe for puppies and small-breed dogs.
So, can Frenchies eat lobster legs? Yes. French Bulldogs can eat small amounts of boiled lobster legs. Lobster legs have a lot of cholesterol. Vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and loss of appetite are signs of consuming too much cholesterol.
Lobster tail shell
All lobster shells are choking hazards for dogs. They are dangerous, especially for small dog breeds and puppies. Lobster tail shells are no exception.
So, can Frenchies eat lobster tail shells? No. The exterior, or “tail shell,” of a lobster, which protects its body, is hard. These can cause your dog to have severe digestive issues, including vomiting and diarrhea after consumption.
They might also contain chitin, a chemical compound frequently found in pesticide products. The effects of consuming too much chitin include nausea, diarrhea, weakness, and appetite loss.
Lobster brains
Lobsters lack a conventional human-like brain structure. Instead, they have a set of ganglia—a collection of neuron cell bodies—scattered over them, each containing only 100,000 neurons (compared to dogs’ 500 million). Their neurological system resembles an insect’s.
So, can Frenchies eat lobster brains? No. Frenchies cannot eat lobster brains. Lobster brains increase the chances of paralytic shellfish poisoning, characterized by excessive drooling, an unstable gait, and vomiting.
Best Ways To Prepare Lobster For Your Frenchie
Lobster is a delicacy in many homes. You can safely prepare lobster for your Frenchie. This ensures you use the right ingredients. Here’s a recipe to try at home:
Grilled lobster
Ingredients
- 6 oz of lobster meat.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- A pinch of salt
Procedure
- Brush the lobster with olive oil and season with salt
- Place the lobster in a grill grate and cook for 5-6 minutes
- Flip the lobster and then cook for 2-3 minutes
Best Ways To Serve Lobster To Your Dog
Here are excellent tips on how to serve lobster to your Frenchie:
- Select a fresh lobster
- Wash it thoroughly
- Remove the shells
- Steam or boil until well-cooked
- Serve plain lobster
- Introduce lobster gradually
Which Dog Food Brands Use Lobster in Their Food?
Deboned, deshelled, and well-prepared lobster has healthy nutrients for your Frenchie. Though rare, some dog food manufacturers include lobster in their recipes.
- North Paw: Their recipe, North Paw Atlantic Seafood Grain-Free with Lobster Dry Food, uses herring, fish, and lobster meals, which contribute to a protein content of 34%. It has no grains or chicken making it an excellent selection for Frenchies with grain allergies or chicken intolerance. It has DHA and EPA for cardiac, joint, and coat wellness. The high-calorie 488 kcal/cup ensures your dog stays active throughout the day. Sweet potatoes provide fiber for proper digestion.
How Many Lobsters Should Frenchie Eat?
Most adult dogs in good health can consume a few little pieces of lobster meat. Due to their smaller physiques, small Frenchies should only consume 1-2 tiny nibbles at a time. Lobster should be a treat. Sick and overweight Frenchies should, however, not eat lobster.
How to Feed Lobsters to Your Dog
Cooking is the best way to serve lobsters to your dog. You can boil or steam the lobsters. Never add any seasonings. Seasonings like onions, spices, and garlic are harmful. Serve the lobsters at room temperature.
Give lobster as an added ingredient in kibble or canned food. You can also make it a special treat to reward your dog.
Other Seafood that Your Dog Can Eat
Small and short-lived fish species are best for your dog. This is because they have low mercury levels. Here are some examples:
Anchovies and herring
Their small size should not deceive you. Anchovies and herring, though small, are powerhouses of omega fatty acids for joint, cardiac, and skin wellness. Ensure they are properly cooked with no additional seasonings.
Sardines
These small fish have a short lifespan and hence do not accumulate mercury. They are also rich in protein for a muscular look.
Types of Seafood That Aren’t Safe for Dogs
Seafood with a longer lifespan has high mercury levels. This is because they accumulate mercury over time. Below are some of the seafood that is not safe for Frenchies:
Imitation crab and fish sticks
They are made from whitefish and have a lot of starch, which is harmful in the long run. Though not poisonous, imitation crab and fish sticks have no nutritional value.
Sushi
Besides having raw fish, sushi can include other unhealthy seasonings like vinegar and garlic, which may harm your dog.
Is it safe for dogs to eat lobster?
Yes. Cooked lobster is safe in small amounts. It has proteins, minerals, omegas, and vitamins that support muscle, the immune system, the skin, and overall well-being.
What if my dog eats a piece of lobster shell?
Lobster shells are dangerous for dogs. Even a small piece of lobster shell can cause injuries, blockages, and choking. Consult the vet immediately after your dog eats a lobster shell.
Can dogs eat lobster or crab?
Dogs can eat lobster or crab. Both lobster and crab have similar risks and benefits. Serve them sparingly and avoid bones and shells.
Can dogs eat shrimp or lobster?
Yes. Dogs can eat shrimp or lobster. These seafood have proteins and omegas for muscle and coat health. But moderation is key.
What seafood can dogs not eat?
Dogs cannot eat tuna, king mackerel, or sushi. Tuna and king mackerel have high mercury levels, while sushi uses raw fish and other unhealthy ingredients.
Can Frenchie eat seafood?
Yes. Frenchies can safely eat certain seafood. Such seafood includes cooked salmon, shrimp, and sardines. Cooking destroys bacteria and parasites.
Can dogs eat cooked shrimp?
Yes. Dogs can safely eat well-prepared shrimp. Shrimp, in small amounts, supports muscle and cardiac wellness thanks to its high protein and omega content.
What type of seafood can dogs eat?
Dogs can eat low-mercury seafood. Small fish and those with short lifespans are the best for dogs. This is because they do not accumulate much mercury and other heavy metals.
Can Frenchie Eat Lobster? The Takeaway
There’s all the information about lobsters and Frenchies.
Lobsters are safe for French Bulldogs. Lobsters have essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, minerals, and vitamins for your Frenchie’s overall well-being. They should, however, be well-cooked, deboned, and deshelled.
Raw lobsters have bacteria and parasites, which raise the chances of your Frenchie getting infections. Cooking destroys these pathogens.
Shells and bones are choking hazards. They can also cause injuries and blockages. Blockages can be fatal if not detected and treated early.
Serve lobsters as a treat. Always consult the vet before introducing lobsters to your French Bulldog’s diet.