Not veterinary advice. This page is general information from published sources, not a diagnosis. If your dog ate something toxic, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right now (a fee may apply).

🍤 Seafood

Can dogs eat shrimp?

Safe to eat
Yes, dogs can eat plain cooked, shelled shrimp in small amounts.

Why

Shrimp is high in protein, vitamin B-12, and phosphorus while low in fat and calories. Raw shellfish can harbor harmful pathogens, so shrimp should be cooked, with steaming preferred, and the shell removed to avoid choking or obstruction. Because shrimp is high in cholesterol, only occasional small servings are appropriate.

How much is safe

One or two cooked, peeled shrimp are enough for most dogs; offer only a partial piece to small dogs.

Helpful for treat time

Dog fish-oil supplement ↗KONG stuffable treat toy ↗

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More foods in this group

🐟 Salmon (cooked)🐠 Sardines🐟 Tuna🍎 Apple🍌 Banana🫑 Bell Pepper

Frequently asked questions

Can dogs eat shrimp?
Yes, dogs can eat plain cooked, shelled shrimp in small amounts. Shrimp is high in protein, vitamin B-12, and phosphorus while low in fat and calories. Raw shellfish can harbor harmful pathogens, so shrimp should be cooked, with steaming preferred, and the shell removed to avoid choking or obstruction. Because shrimp is high in cholesterol, only occasional small servings are appropriate.
How much shrimp can a dog have?
One or two cooked, peeled shrimp are enough for most dogs; offer only a partial piece to small dogs.
What should I do if my dog ate something toxic?
Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away (a consultation fee may apply). Have the food, the amount, and your dog's weight ready. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.

Source & last checked

  • Safety rating from AKC ↗
  • Last checked: 2026-07-20
  • Every dog is different — size, age, allergies, and health conditions matter. When in doubt, ask your veterinarian before introducing a new food.
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