Do Dogs Eat Salmon Skin?

In addition to its health benefits, salmon is a natural and flavorful source of protein most dogs will enjoy. Salmon skin is dog-approved and people-approved canine food, so please share it freely with your pooch. You may not want it, but he'll take it and come back for more.

In most forms, salmon -- skin included -- is safe for dogs to eat as long as it is properly cooked. If you've grilled salmon and want to share some leftover fish or fish skin with Fido, feel free. Avoid feeding salmon that has been cooked with substances toxic to dogs, such as garlic and onions. Avoid bone-in salmon since bones can splinter in your pup's mouth and become lodged in the throat or gastrointestinal tract.

Salmon is high in natural omega-3 acids, which promote glossy coats and healthy skin in dogs. Omega-3s support your pup's immune system. Some dogs with allergies may get relief by eating salmon, Modern Dog Magazine says.

Avoid feeding raw salmon to your pup, since it can cause salmon poisoning disease. Cooking the salmon kills the parasite that causes this disease, which is why cooked salmon is safe for dogs. If untreated, salmon poisoning disease can be fatal. The disease is toxic only to dogs, hence bears and other critters can eat raw salmon without consequence.

Give your dog the benefits of salmon on a regular basis by adding a fish oil pill to his diet or slipping salmon oil into his dinner dish. Find dog treats including salmon jerky and dog foods that contain salmon at any pet store. These provide the same benefits as fresh salmon and salmon skin but may be more cost-effective.