Short answer: Fish skin suits most dogs, as long as you match the size to your dog's size and chewing style. Thin pieces and rings are suitable for small dogs and quick treat moments. Cod sticks and tougher skin are for dogs that like a longer chew. Fish skin is crunchy and contains no bone, but always give it under supervision, put out fresh water and count it towards your dog's daily treat allowance.
What exactly is dried fish skin?
Fish skin is the skin left over after the fish has been filleted. It is dried into a brittle, crunchy treat. This collection includes salmon, cod, redfish and catfish. Salmon is naturally an oily fish, and cod is a lean white fish. You can tell from the skin: salmon skin feels oilier and usually smells stronger. The exact composition varies from batch to batch, so always go by the label. Looking for more variety? Have a look at our fish treats for dogs or other types of dried skin.
Which fish skin suits my dog?
Pay particular attention to your dog's size and the way they chew. How long a piece lasts varies greatly from dog to dog, so the table is only a rough guide.
| Product | Shape | Texture | Chewing time | Suitable for |
|---|
| Canis Kabeljauwhuid | flat, thin pieces | crunchy, breaks easily | short | small dogs, first introduction |
| Canis Kabeljauwhuid Ringen | rings of skin | crunchy | short to medium | small and medium-sized dogs |
| Canis Kabeljauwsticks | pieces of cod in a fish-collagen casing | firmer than loose skin | longer | dogs that love a long chew |
| Canis Zalmhuid | pieces of skin | crunchy, slightly oilier | short to medium | dogs that like a strong flavour |
| Canis ACTIEKNALLER Zalmhuid met vlees | salmon skin with meat | crunchy | short to medium | variety, read the label first |
| Canis Roodbaarshuid | pieces of skin | crunchy | short | variety |
| Canis Meervalhuid | pieces of skin | tough skin | medium | dogs that want a bit more resistance |
Does your dog react to certain proteins? Then check the label of the salmon skin with meat to see which ingredients it contains besides salmon.
Is fish skin safe for dogs?
Fish skin isn't a hard chew like antler or horn. It also contains no small bones, which reduces the risk of a broken tooth. Even so, it's a treat to give with care:
- Choose a size your dog can't swallow in one go. Large dogs sometimes wolf down flat pieces quickly.
- Stay with your dog while they chew and take away the last small piece.
- Always put out fresh water.
- During teething, from roughly 3-4 to 6-7 months, it's best to give puppies small pieces of thin skin. You can read more about this in when puppies can start having chews.
- Is fish skin new to your dog? Start with a small piece and one type of fish at a time. If any problems arise, see your vet.
Chewing can complement dental care, but it doesn't replace toothbrushing. You'll find a broader overview in which chews are safe for dogs.
How much fish skin can you give?
All treats combined should provide no more than about 10 per cent of your dog's daily energy intake. Fish skin simply counts towards this, just like rewards during training. If you give a lot of treats, reduce the main food slightly. Salmon skin is higher in fat than cod skin. For dogs that gain weight easily, it's therefore better to choose cod more often or give smaller pieces of salmon. If you'd like to work it out precisely, use the calculation table in how many treats a dog can have per day.
How should you store fish skin?
Store fish skin in a cool, dry place and keep it well sealed. This keeps the treat crunchy and limits the fishy smell in your home. Oily salmon skin in particular can start to smell rancid over time. If you notice this, throw it away. Ideally, take the treats out of the bag with dry hands and wash your hands after giving them.
Ingrid's tip: Break a flat piece of cod skin into small pieces and keep them in a sealed container. That way you have a light, crunchy reward with you when you're out and about, without your coat pocket smelling of fish.
Frequently asked questions
Is fish skin suitable for dogs with a food allergy?
It can be, but give one type of fish at a time and introduce it gradually. That way you can see what your dog reacts to. If the symptoms persist, talk to your vet.
Why does fish skin smell so strong?
The smell comes with dried fish. Salmon skin usually smells stronger than cod skin. Keeping it well sealed helps to keep the smell under control.
Can my dog have fish skin every day?
Yes, as long as it stays within the treat allowance of about 10 per cent. Alternating between types of fish makes it more interesting for your dog.
What should I do if my dog swallows fish skin in one go?
Choose a larger or tougher size, such as the cod sticks. You can also hold the piece while your dog chews. Either way, stay with them.
Sources
About the author
Ingrid Kooijman is the founder of Canis Snacks. She selects natural single-protein dog treats, sells them online and at markets in Brabant, and answers dog owners' questions about food and chews every day. Questions about these treats? Email info@canissnacks.com.
Not sure which treat suits your dog? Try the treat guide →
