VET APPROVED
REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY
Dr. Lauren Demos
DVM (Veterinarian)
The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
If you have made a delicious bowl of clam chowder, you may notice your dog’s interest in the tempting aroma. As the weather gets colder, you might wonder if it’s safe for your furry friend to share a bowl of clam chowder with you.
Basic clam chowder is generally safe for dogs in small amounts, and clams can be a healthy addition to their diet. However, if the recipe includes onion or garlic, it’s best to keep clam chowder away from your dog.
What Is Clam Chowder?
Clam Chowder is a dish that originated in the Northeastern United States. It caught the attention of French and British settlers in the region who found an abundance of clams while fishing at sea. New England clam chowder is the most popular variation.
This hearty soup is a favorite during the winter months, often prepared over fireplaces and stovetops. Common ingredients include diced potatoes, bacon, onions, and clams. A variation known as Manhattan clam chowder uses a tomato-based broth instead of cream and potatoes.
Can Dogs Eat Clam Chowder?
In general, dogs should avoid human food as their digestive systems may not tolerate certain ingredients well. The primary components of clam chowder (New England) are clams, bacon, flour, milk, and potatoes. While these ingredients are safe for dogs, toxic elements like garlic and onion should be avoided.
Your dog can have a bit of your clam chowder leftovers as long as it doesn’t contain garlic or onion. If you are unsure of the ingredients in store-bought clam chowder, it’s best to make your own at home to ensure your dog’s safety. Clams can be beneficial for your dog’s health, so homemade clam chowder can be a treat for them.
Is Clam Chowder Safe?
The safety of feeding clam chowder to your dog depends on the ingredients used. Clams are safe for dogs and offer essential nutrients like protein, iron, zinc, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Clams
Clams belong to the mollusk family and filter the water they inhabit, potentially accumulating toxins. While cooking helps reduce risks, clams from certain regions may contain trace amounts of heavy metals like mercury, which can be harmful to dogs in large quantities. Some dogs may also be allergic to clams, showing symptoms such as stomach issues, excessive licking, or skin problems.
Potatoes
Potatoes are safe for dogs when cooked, but their starch content should be monitored to prevent overconsumption.
Bacon
While bacon is safe for dogs in small amounts, it’s essential to watch the salt content in dishes like clam chowder where bacon is a minor ingredient.
Milk
Small amounts of milk are generally safe for dogs, but excessive consumption can lead to health issues. Flour used in chowder is safe for dogs.
Seasoning & Spices
Common seasonings like onion and garlic, found in clam chowder recipes, are toxic to dogs and should be avoided. These ingredients can harm a dog’s red blood cells, leading to severe health problems.
Healthy Alternatives to Clam Chowder
In addition to a balanced diet, there are alternative ways to incorporate clams into your dog’s meals. Cooked clams can be provided as a treat, and specialized pet stores offer dried clam treats. Broths and meal toppers designed for dogs are safe options to introduce clams to your pet’s diet.
You can also prepare a nutritious soup for your dog using safe ingredients like carrots, celery, sweet potatoes, peas, and chicken.
Conclusion
Dogs may enjoy the taste of clams and clam chowder, but moderation is key to avoid health risks. Clams can be beneficial for dogs when provided in controlled amounts. Avoid sharing clam chowder with your dog if it contains onions or garlic, and opt for homemade chowder to ensure ingredient safety. Treat your dog to clams as an occasional indulgence or as a meal enhancer in the form of broths or sauces.
- See Also: Can Dogs Eat Miso Soup? Vet-Approved Facts
Sources
- https://www.qualitydogresources.com/can-dogs-eat-clam-chowder/
- https://puplore.com/can-dogs-eat-clams/
- https://www.hepper.com/can-dogs-eat-clam-chowder/
