Can dogs eat tuna?
Quick answer: Yes, in moderation — dogs can have tuna in small amounts as an occasional treat.
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
A small spoonful occasionally; choose tuna in water, never in brine or oil.
Why
A little plain tuna in spring water is fine for dogs, but not as a regular food.
Can dogs eat tuna, and why?
A little plain tuna in spring water is fine for dogs, but not as a regular food. Tuna can contain mercury and the salty brine versions are unhealthy.
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 tuna to dogs
- •How much: A small spoonful occasionally; choose tuna in water, never in brine or oil.
- •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
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding dogs well:
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat tuna?
In moderation. A little plain tuna in spring water is fine for dogs, but not as a regular food.
How much tuna can a dog have?
A small spoonful occasionally; choose tuna in water, never in brine or oil.
Can dogs eat tuna 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 tuna?
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
tuna 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 tuna for another pet
Sources
Our verdict on whether dogs can eat tuna draws on established UK and US veterinary and welfare organisations. Individual pets, quantities and preparation vary — always confirm with your own vet.