Conditions apply
Can dogs eat prawns, shrimp and shellfish?
Thoroughly cooked, shelled shellfish is safe in small amounts. Raw shellfish and the shells are not.
Signs to watch for
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- itching or hives if allergic
Why
Raw shellfish can carry bacteria and parasites, and some contain thiaminase. Shells, tails and legs are sharp and are a genuine obstruction and laceration risk. Shellfish is also a common allergen.
How to prepare it
Cooked through, shell, tail, head and legs removed, plain.
Never in this form
Raw shellfish. Shells and tails.
Also check for
- shells and tails
- garlic butter
- raw preparation
How confident is this
established
Well established in the veterinary literature and consistent across sources.
- USDA FoodData Central
- Merck Veterinary Manual, Toxicology of Food-Associated Hazards
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.