My dog

Schedules, units and retailers all change with this.

Can dogs eat it?

Can dogs eat sardines?

Yes, in moderation Yes, as an occasional treat. Choose sardines tinned in spring water, not oil, brine or tomato sauce.

Why

RSPCA Australia says tinned fish such as sardines can be offered as an occasional treat but not constantly, canned in spring water rather than oil or brine. AKC calls sardines especially beneficial and says their bones are soft and digestible, while RSPCA Australia advises taking care to avoid fish bones. Never feed raw or undercooked fish (AKC).

How to give it safely

Tinned in spring water, drained, with no added salt or sauce. If you are unsure about the bones, follow RSPCA Australia and remove them. AKC suggests fish no more than twice a week.

This is general guidance, your vet sets the actual schedule. Puppies, small dogs and dogs with a health condition can react to smaller amounts. Check with your own vet before changing what your dog eats.

Other foods people ask about

Bacon Only with care Best not. Bacon is very fatty and salty, and a large amount can trigger pancreatitis, which can be serious. Beef Yes, in moderation Yes. Plain, cooked, lean beef is a good protein treat. Skip seasoned burgers, raw meat and cooked bones. Chicken Yes, in moderation Yes. Plain cooked chicken with no bones or skin is a good protein treat. Never give cooked chicken bones. Cooked bones No, toxic No. Cooked bones splinter into sharp pieces that can choke a dog, cut the gut or cause a blockage. Never give them. Ham Only with care A small sliver now and then will not hurt most dogs, but ham is salty and fatty, so it is a poor regular treat. Lamb Yes, in moderation Yes. Plain cooked lamb with no bones, string, fat or seasoning is a good treat.

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Sources

Last reviewed 2026-09-29.