Salmon flesh is not only delicious but also offers numerous nutritional benefits for both humans and dogs. Incorporating salmon into your dog’s diet can provide numerous health benefits, from improved coat and skin health to enhanced brain function, heart health and joint support. Its rich nutritional profile, including high levels of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, makes salmon a valuable addition to a balanced canine diet and a good protein replacement if your dog is allergic to more common sources like chicken.
These are some of the main nutrients found in salmon flesh and their associated benefits:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon flesh is a great way of supplementing omega-3 fatty acids, which play a crucial role in promoting healthy skin and coat. They also support cardiovascular health, eye health, reduce inflammation, and have been connected to cognitive function (one study[1] suggests that certain Omega 3 fatty acids are necessary for neurologic development in puppies).
Protein
Salmon flesh is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Protein is made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of tissues, enzymes, hormones, and antibodies, and is vital for maintaining healthy muscles, organs, skin and coat.
Vitamins
Salmon flesh contains various vitamins, including vitamin D, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. B vitamins support energy metabolism, nerve function, and the production of red blood cells. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, thus promoting bone health. Salmon is one of the few dietary sources of Vitamin D, which dogs need because they are unable to produce vitamin D as humans do through exposure to the sun.
Minerals
Rich in minerals like selenium, potassium, and phosphorus, salmon flesh supports various bodily functions in dogs. Selenium acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage, while potassium maintains proper electrolyte balance and supports muscle function. Phosphorus is essential for bone health and energy metabolism.
Astaxanthin
Salmon flesh contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that gives salmon its pink-orange color. Astaxanthin helps protect cells from oxidative damage, supports immune function, and may have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for dogs. Astaxanthin is found in much higher levels in wild line caught salmon than in farmed salmon.
Low in Mercury
Compared to some other types of fish, salmon tends to be lower in mercury, making it a safer choice for regular consumption. This is particularly important for dogs, as high levels of mercury can be harmful to their health.
Collagen
Collagen is a structural protein found in salmon skins that supports healthy joints, tendons, ligaments, and skin elasticity in dogs. Including collagen in your dog’s diet can aid in joint health and mobility, particularly beneficial for aging or active dogs prone to joint issues.
Incorporating salmon and salmon skins into your dog’s diet can provide a wide range of health benefits, including improved coat and skin health, enhanced immune function, and support for overall vitality. Ensure that it is properly cooked and, as always, feed in moderation. Remember that salmon oil is high in calories (according to Food Data Central, 100g of salmon oil contains no less than 902 kcal!). Boneless salmon scraps can be cooked sous vide and frozen for use in baked treats or toppings.
Nutrition facts (per 100g)
Salmon, sockeye, raw
For full nutrient content see Food Data Central
[1] Bauer, J. E. (2007). Responses of dogs to dietary omega-3 fatty acids. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 231(11), 1657-1661. Retrieved Apr 16, 2024, from https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.231.11.1657
Want to know more? These studies may be useful:
Hamre K, Sissener NH, Lock EJ, Olsvik PA, Espe M, Torstensen BE, Silva J, Johansen J, Waagbø R, Hemre GI. Antioxidant nutrition in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) parr and post-smolt, fed diets with high inclusion of plant ingredients and graded levels of micronutrients and selected amino acids. PeerJ. 2016 Nov 8;4:e2688. doi: 10.7717/peerj.2688. PMID: 27843721; PMCID: PMC5103829.
Kirby, N. A., Hester, S. L., & Bauer, J. E. (2007). Dietary fats and the skin and coat of dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 230(11), 1641-1644. Retrieved Apr 16, 2024, from https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.230.11.1641
Important Considerations:
- Always consult your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes, particularly where there are pre-existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.
- As some commercial foods contain salmon as an ingredient, check the label to see whether it’s in your dog’s food before giving more. Excessive intake of any foods can have adverse effects.
- Ensure (where possible) that you use high-quality, organic products specifically formulated for pets (or better still, human grade ingredients) to avoid any potential adverse effects.
- Introduce new foods gradually to avoid adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset or diarrhoea.
- I provide nutritional information purely as a helpful guide. Nutritional information on ingredients is obtained from the US Department of Agriculture’s FoodData Central site (https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/index.html) and any nutritional information provided in recipes is based on an online calculator: calories and other information will vary based on brands, ingredients and other factors.
- Check nutrient levels and recommendations for your dog’s weight, age and activity. For example this nutritional guideline produced by FEDIAF.