Why can't dogs have fish? - briefly
Dogs should not be fed fish due to the risk of thiaminase poisoning. This enzyme is present in raw fish and can lead to neurological issues in dogs if consumed regularly.
Why can't dogs have fish? - in detail
Dogs should not be fed fish due to several reasons that pertain to their health and well-being. The primary concern is the presence of thiaminase, an enzyme found in raw fish that breaks down thiamine (vitamin B1), which is essential for dogs' nervous system function. Prolonged consumption of raw fish can lead to a thiamine deficiency, resulting in neurological symptoms such as seizures, paralysis, and even death. Additionally, bones in fish pose a choking hazard or can cause internal damage if ingested, while the high content of phosphorus and magnesium in fish can interfere with calcium absorption, potentially leading to imbalances that affect bone health. Furthermore, uncooked fish may contain parasites like Neospora and Toxoplasma gondii, which can cause serious illnesses in dogs. Cooking fish thoroughly can mitigate some of these risks, but it is generally advisable to avoid feeding fish to dogs altogether due to the potential health complications.