Can dogs eat Clams?

Overview

Can dogs eat clams? Yes, clams can be added to dogs’ diets. However, make sure to choose the ones that are tested for contamination. Clams can acquire toxins from microalgae. Dogs that ate contaminated clams are in danger of paralytic shellfish poisoning.

Benefits

Dogs can eat clams. Clams are low in fat and high in proteins and omega-3 fatty acids, which support a dog's cell growth and heart health.
Clams contain B vitamins, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and other minerals essential for the proper functioning of the organs.

Risks

Since clams are filter feeders, they may pick up toxins such as dinoflagellates from microalgae. These poisonous compounds can cause paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) in dogs.
To prevent PSP from occurring, purchase clams from sources that test their products for contamination. The clams should also come from clean, cooler waters.
Raw clams may contain parasites and bacteria.
Clamshells are a choking hazard and should be removed before serving.

Servings

Only give cooked clams to your dog.
Scrub the clams with a brush under running water to remove the sand and impurities.
Soak the clams in cold water for 20 minutes; when the clams breathe, saltwater and sand will come out of the shells.
Cook the clams by boiling them. Give one or two clams occasionally to your dog as a treat, without the shells.