Can Dogs Eat Tuna? Vet-Approved Answer & Guide

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

Yes, dogs can eat tuna in moderation, and this protein-rich fish can be a tasty and nutritious addition to your pup’s diet. However, before you start serving tuna, there are a few important things to consider. While small amounts of plain, cooked tuna are generally safe, excessive consumption or tuna with added seasonings, oils, or high mercury content can pose health risks. Plus, what about canned tuna? Is fresh tuna better? Can too much tuna lead to mercury poisoning? This guide will explore the benefits, potential risks, and the safest way to incorporate tuna into your dog’s diet.

Is Tuna Good For Dogs?

Yes, tuna can be a healthy occasional treat if served in moderation, cooked, plain, and boneless. Opt for fresh tuna whenever possible, but if using canned tuna, choose unsalted, water-packed varieties (avoid oil-packed or flavored cans).

If you choose to give your dog tuna, avoid raw tuna and heavily processed tuna products. Since tuna has a higher mercury content than other fish, consider safer alternatives like salmon or sardines for regular feeding.

Benefits

100 grams (3.5-ounce oz) of tuna contains the following nutrients:

Tuna Nutrition Chart (100g)

Nutrient Analysis

Tuna Components and Dog Safety

Risks & Considerations Before Feeding Tuna to Dogs

Tuna can be safe and beneficial for dogs when consumed in moderation due to its nutritional content, but it also poses risks. Here are the considerations to keep in mind:

Are Dogs Allergic to Tuna?

Risks

The following symptoms may indicate a bad reaction to tuna.

What Should I Do If My Dog Reacted Badly to Tuna?

You should immediately stop feeding your dog tuna if he reacts negatively. Remove all access and ensure they have access to fresh water to maintain hydration. It’s important to call your veterinarian if your dog is experiencing any of the symptoms listed above or if you’re concerned about your dog’s condition.

Dogs showing worsening symptoms, such as blood in their vomit or stool, difficulty breathing, weakness, or collapse, should be taken to the veterinarian immediately.

How to Safely Feed Tuna to Dogs

When feeding tuna to your dog, it’s best to follow a few simple guidelines to keep them safe:

• Feed fresh, cooked tuna or unsalted, water-packed canned tuna
• Do not feed tuna products with seasonings, oils, garlic, onions, or salt
• Remove bones to prevent choking or internal injury
• Never feed raw tuna, which may contain parasites or bacteria
• Limit portion sizes
• Feed in moderation, no more than once a week to avoid mercury buildup
• Monitor for allergies (itching, swelling) or digestive upset

Way to Feed Tuna

As with any new food, starting slowly and feeding gradually is recommended to give the digestive system time to adjust. 

How Much Tuna Can Dogs Eat?

Treats should only constitute 10% of your dog’s diet, with the remaining 90% coming from well-balanced dog food. This guideline also applies to healthy treats like tuna. Below, you’ll find general guidelines for safely portioning tuna based on your dog’s weight.

Dog Size	Tuna Serving	Breed Examples
Extra-small (2-15 lbs.)	1 teaspoon per week	Shih Tzu, Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Maltese
Small (16-25 lbs.)	1-2 teaspoons per week	Boston Terriers, Beagles, Dachshund
Medium (26-60 lbs.)	1 tablespoon per week	Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, Border Collies
Large (61-90 lbs.)	1-2 tablespoons per week	Golden Retrievers, Pit Bulls, Boxers, Labrador Retrievers
Extra-large (91+ lbs.)	2-3 tablespoons per week	Bullmastiffs, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Great Pyrenees

Can Puppies Eat Tuna?

Yes, puppies can eat tuna, but only in moderation and in very small amounts. Since puppies have more sensitive digestive systems, it’s best to start with just a tiny portion—such as a teaspoon of plain, cooked tuna—to see how they react. Feeding too much tuna at once can lead to digestive upset, as puppies’ stomachs are still developing and may struggle to process rich proteins and fats. Additionally, fresh, cooked, or canned tuna in water is the best option—avoid tuna packed in oil or with added salt, seasonings, or preservatives, as these can harm puppies. Avoid giving multiple new foods on the same day when introducing any new food, including tuna. Puppies may have food sensitivities or allergies, and if they experience any digestive issues, introducing only one new food at a time makes it easier to identify the cause. Try offering a teaspoon of plain, cooked tuna, then wait a few days to observe how your puppy’s digestive system reacts before considering offering more. If using canned tuna, ensure it is packed in water with no added salt to prevent any risk of dehydration or sodium overload, especially for smaller puppies.

Best Canned Tuna For Dogs

The safest canned tuna for dogs is low-mercury, water-packed tuna with no added salt. Brands that offer simple, natural ingredients without artificial preservatives are the best choice. StarKist Chunk Light Tuna in Water on Amazon is among the most favorite ones dog owners feed their dogs.

Alternatives

Here’s a list of alternatives to tuna that are safer and as nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line

Tuna can be a safe and nutritious dog treat when fed in moderation and prepared properly. It provides high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals that can benefit your dog’s health. However, due to risks like mercury toxicity, high sodium content, and potential choking hazards, tuna should only be given occasionally and in small amounts. Always choose cooked, plain, and boneless tuna, and avoid flavored or seasoned varieties. If your dog has health conditions like kidney issues or allergies, consult your veterinarian before introducing tuna. By following these guidelines, you can safely share this fishy treat with your furry friend while keeping their health and well-being a top priority. If you’re looking for other healthy snack options, check out the best dog treats to find safe and nutritious alternatives.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.