Home

>

Dog

>

Food & Nutrition

>

Can Dogs Eat Tuna?

Can Dogs Eat Tuna? 

Updated on July 18, 2024
Reviewer Profile Photo
Reviewed by Petco’s Animal Care
Education and Compliance (ACE) Team
bowl of tuna

No, dogs shouldn’t eat tuna. While there’s no immediate risks if your dog eats a little bit off the floor or counter, canned tuna contains ingredients that are unhealthy for your dog and raw tuna can quickly put your dog in danger if fed regularly. However, it’s fine if enjoyed as an ingredient in commercial dog food.

Why dogs shouldn't eat tuna

First, tuna contains high levels of mercury. Dogs—and even humans—that eat tuna often can potentially fall victim to mercury poisoning. Humans are advised to limit their tuna intake according to their weight, but there are no such guidelines for dogs. Mercury poisoning can harm a dog’s kidneys, digestive tract, cardiovascular system and nervous system.  While other types of fish containing much lowermercury levels may be appropriate for dogs as a treat, tuna should only be offered to your dog on rare occasion and in small amounts or ideally avoided altogether.  

If your dog sneaks a bite while you are preparing a tuna sandwich or searing an ahi tuna steak and you’re wondering, “Is tuna okay for dogs?” the answer is that there is probably not a huge risk. However, if you’ve been feeding your dog tuna often and you suspect your dog has consumed too much mercury, immediately reach out to your veterinarian.   

Why is tuna toxic to dogs? 

Consumption of high amounts of mercury can be poisonous in both dogs and humans. Tuna are exposed to mercury when this metal enters oceans, rivers and lakes through industrial activities. The mercury in the water then accumulates in the ecosystem, including in fish. The longer a fish lives and the bigger it is, the more mercury it contains in its tissues. Tuna are large fish with long lifespans—some live as long as 40-50 years—resulting in the accumulation of high mercury concentrations.   

 Signs of Mercury Poisoning from Tuna 

Common symptoms of mercury poisoning in canines include:  

  • Diarrhea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Tremors 
  • Nervousness  
  • Difficulty urinating 
  • Abdominal swelling 
  • Poor coordination 
  • Blindness  
  • Hair loss  

These signs may occur in a dog after mercury accumulates in their bodies following long-term ingestion of tuna. Mercury poisoning requires immediate veterinarian treatment.  

What to do if Your dog eats tuna 

If your dog sneaks a small amount of tuna off your plate, you probably don’t have to worry too much. Tiny portions are unlikely to cause serious issues. But if you discover that they’ve consumed a more considerable amount, contact your veterinarian immediately to help ensure mercury poisoning doesn’t occur.   

How can I prevent my dog from eating tuna? 

It can be a challenge to keep dogs away from food they’re not supposed to eat. For example, you may also have a cat who eats wet food containing tuna. If your dog tends to get into the cat’s food, try feeding them in separate rooms blocked by a door or gate. Also consider feeding your cat a wet food made with another type of fish. Although less common when compared with dogs, cats can get mercury poisoning from eating tuna over the long term as well. 

 If your dog loves seafood, there are many options besides tuna to satisfy their cravings. Consider other types of fish that are appropriate for dogs, such as salmon or whitefish. Many dog foods are made with fish ingredients that are okay for pups to enjoy.  

Filed Under

Sponsored