Skip to content
Pawrennial

Can dogs eat tuna?

Only with care.

Tuna isn't toxic, and a bite of canned tuna won't harm your dog. But it's not recommended as a treat: tuna is high in mercury, which builds up over time, and canned tuna often contains added salt. Raw tuna can carry parasites and bacteria.

Mercury

Large fish like tuna build up much more mercury than smaller fish like salmon. Regular tuna can lead to mercury poisoning, whose signs include tremors, loss of coordination, vision loss, vomiting blood, and kidney problems. See your vet straight away if you notice these.

If you do share canned tuna

  • Only rarely, and only a small spoonful
  • Packed in water, not oil or brine, with no added salt
  • Never raw tuna, or tuna mixed with mayonnaise, onion, or seasoning

Better fish options

Plain, cooked, boneless salmon or whitefish is lower in mercury and a better occasional treat.

Helpful tools and guides

Frequently asked questions

My dog ate a can of tuna. What should I do?

One can is unlikely to cause mercury poisoning, but it may cause stomach upset, especially if it was in oil or salty. Call your vet if your dog vomits repeatedly or seems unwell.

Can dogs eat raw tuna or sushi?

No. Raw fish can carry parasites and bacteria, and sushi often includes rice seasonings, soy sauce, or wasabi.

Is tuna in dog food safe?

Commercial dog foods are formulated with safe amounts. The concern is feeding extra human tuna regularly.

Sources

Sources last checked: . How we calculate

Tools for your dog