Fine as a treat
Can dogs eat sardines?
Sardines in water are one of the better fish options — small, low in mercury and rich in omega-3. Choose water rather than oil or brine.
Why
Small, short-lived fish accumulate far less mercury than tuna. The soft bones are safe and are a useful calcium source.
How to prepare it
Tinned in spring water, drained, no added salt.
Never in this form
In brine, in oil, or with tomato sauce.
Portion
About 208 kcal per 100 g. One or two sardines for a medium dog, occasionally.
Also check for
- brine
- oil
- tomato sauce
How confident is this
established
Well established in the veterinary literature and consistent across sources.
- USDA FoodData Central
Further reading
Check another food
Informational only, and not a substitute for veterinary advice. Individual dogs vary, and this page cannot account for your dog's age, size, health conditions or medication. If you are worried, phone a vet — that call is always the right call.