Can Dogs Eat Crab?

Crab is a much-loved meat, particularly in beachside towns across the country. Its popularity is likely due to the fact the seafood is full of flavor, as well as having the benefits of being high in protein and full of vitamins and minerals too.

If you’ve just tucked into this delicious seafood and have a piece left on your plate and a pair of eyes begging for a piece, you may find yourself wondering, Can dogs eat crab? Or is this meat best avoided altogether? Keep reading to find out all you need to know.

Can Dogs Eat Crab?

Yes, in most circumstances dogs can eat crab meat in small amounts. However, there is a risk of an allergic reaction to crab meat and it’s also high in iodine, a chemical that some dogs may be particularly sensitive to. So, while it’s not poisonous, it’s best to exercise caution when feeding your dog crab meat. It’s also best to always check first with your vet before feeding any human foods to your dog.

Is Crab Good for Dogs?

Not necessarily. Crab meat does contain protein and vitamins such as B12, but these are things your dog will get from their complete and balanced diet, so there’s no need to supplement your pet’s diet with them.

Additionally, as we only recommend ever offering crab meat to your pup in small amounts, your dog will be unlikely to see any of the benefits linked to eating crab anyway.

One thing to be aware of is that crab meat is high in sodium and cholesterol, so it’s not the healthiest meat to offer to your dog on a regular basis.

Also, if your dog’s a bit of a hunter and happens to catch a crab on the beach, don’t let them eat it. Raw crab often has intestinal parasites which could cause a whole host of health issues. Additionally, the shell is incredibly sharp which could cause damage to your dog’s mouth or gastrointestinal tract, and large pieces of shell or claw could also result in dangerous intestinal blockages.

How to Feed Crab to Dogs

Never give your dog raw crab meat as this often contains intestinal parasites and has bacterial risks. Always make sure you cook crab before offering it to your dog. Avoid adding any fat or seasoning to the crab you offer your pup too, as this contains unnecessary calories, and some types of seasoning can also result in digestive issues or even be toxic.

And, if you do decide to offer crab to your pup, only ever offer small pieces of plain meat as an occasional treat or, better yet, stick to dog-friendly treats instead!

As with all human foods, we would recommend asking your vet before offering crab meat to your pup. They’ll be able to tell you whether the seafood is safe to offer to your dog or if it should be avoided altogether.