Can dogs eat anchovies? Yes, a few plain, rinsed
Quick answer: Yes, in moderation — dogs can have anchovies in small amounts as an occasional treat.
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
A few plain, rinsed or unsalted anchovies occasionally as a small treat.
Why
Plain, low-salt anchovies are fine for dogs in small amounts and are rich in omega-3.
Make treat time better
LickiMat OH Bowl for Dogs — Slow Feeder with Tongue-Cleaning Tips
A vet-developed dog feeding bowl with raised rubber tips that clean the tongue as your dog licks — calming, dishwasher safe, and available in three sizes.
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Tarhong Concentric Circle Slow Feeder Bowl for Dogs & Cats
A stylish slow-feeder bowl that encourages healthier, calmer mealtimes — available in blue, grey, or white.
£14.99
Bugalugs Scottish Salmon Oil for Dogs & Cats 500ml
A 100% natural daily supplement rich in omega 3, 6, and 9 from high-quality Scottish salmon — supports skin, coat, joints, and brain health.
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Tarhong Medallion Slow Feeder Puzzle Dog Bowl
A stylish BPA-free puzzle bowl that slows down greedy eaters — available in three sizes and a choice of colours.
From£10.99
Can dogs eat anchovies, and why?
Plain, low-salt anchovies are fine for dogs in small amounts and are rich in omega-3. Tinned anchovies packed in salt or oil are too salty, so rinse well or choose unsalted.
Dogs are omnivores, so most of their diet should be a complete, balanced dog food, with treats on top. They cope with a wide range of foods, but rich, fatty or sugary ones can cause stomach upset and, over time, weight gain or pancreatitis.
How to feed anchovies to dogs
- •How much: A few plain, rinsed or unsalted anchovies occasionally as a small treat.
- •How often: An occasional treat, not a daily food. Treats — including fruit and veg — should make up no more than about 10% of a dog’s daily calories.
- •Young pets: Puppies have more delicate tummies and specific growth needs, so introduce any new food in tiny amounts and check with your vet.
- •Preparation: Always wash fresh produce, remove any pips, stones, seeds, peel or tough skin where relevant, and serve it plain — never with salt, sugar, oil, butter or seasoning.
More foods dogs might eat
More for dogs
Handy kit for feeding dogs well:
LickiMat Wobble & Splash Enrichment Bowls for Dogs
Wobbling rubber enrichment bowls that add movement and challenge to treat time, encouraging slower eating and longer-lasting fun.
£16.99
Bugalugs 100% Coconut Oil for Dogs 340g
A pure, additive-free coconut oil that you can sprinkle on food, spread on a LickiMat, or offer straight — dogs genuinely love the taste.
£16.99
Chase Buddy Boredom-Busting Dog Toy
An interactive chase toy that gives a restless dog somewhere to put its pursuit instinct, providing mental and physical exercise indoors or in the garden.
£14.99
Pedigree Dentastix Light Dog Dental Chews
Pedigree DentaStix Light dental chews across small, medium and large sizes
From£2.35
Feeding & nutrition guides
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat anchovies?
In moderation. Plain, low-salt anchovies are fine for dogs in small amounts and are rich in omega-3.
How much anchovies can a dog have?
A few plain, rinsed or unsalted anchovies occasionally as a small treat.
Can dogs eat anchovies every day?
It’s best as an occasional treat rather than a daily food. Treats — including fruit and veg — should make up no more than about 10% of a dog’s daily calories.
Can puppies eat anchovies?
Puppies have more delicate tummies and specific growth needs, so introduce any new food in tiny amounts and check with your vet.
Free printable: safe & toxic foods for dogs
anchovies is just one food — get the full one-page checklist of what’s safe, fine in moderation, or dangerous for dogs. Vet-sourced, yours to print and keep.
Check anchovies for another pet
Sources
Our verdict on whether dogs can eat anchovies draws on established UK and US veterinary and welfare organisations. Individual pets, quantities and preparation vary — always confirm with your own vet.