Yes, if it is plain and cooked by steaming or boiling; as well as in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
No, if it is cooked in oil with things added (such as oil, salt, garlic, onions or chives).
What is octopus?
An octopus is a cephalopod that is caught from oceans all over the world (other cephalopods include squid and cuttlefish). They are an important seafood item in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines. These eight-tentacled creatures of the sea come in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from small thumb sized octopuses to metres-long giant octopuses!
We humans eat octopus both cooked and raw. When raw, the octopus can be slimy and chewy (an almost rubbery) texture. The taste of raw octopus can be subtle, or sometimes salty and sweet, reminiscent of the sea from which it comes. When cooked, the octopus usually has a white flesh with a purple skin covering. Depending on how it is prepared and its cooking method, the meat can be crunchy – or very tender and soft. Cooked octopus has a delicate, subtle flavour on its own.
Can dogs have octopus?
If the octopus is cooked in a dog friendly way (that is, by boiling or steaming and served plain) then it is usually fine. However, if the octopus is cooked in any method that adds oils, fats and extras – then the answer is no. A lot of the time you will find octopus prepared in a not-so dog friendly method at restaurants and take-away places, especially if it contains garlic, onions or chives. And if your dog is having issues eating any octopus – then avoid it altogether – not all dogs are exactly the same!
Can dogs have raw octopus?
You may also wonder about raw octopus, and if it is safe to feed this to your dog. Some people believe that raw foods are best – however we do not recommend it. Wild caught octopus can contain nasties like pathogens and other microorganisms which can make your dog sick. Proper cooking will tend to kill pathogens and minimise the chances of making your dog unwell.
Is octopus good for dogs?
Octopus can be good for dogs provided it is prepared properly. It is a good source of protein and also vitamins and minerals. Just like many seafoods, octopus contains omega-3 fatty acids which aid brain and eye development in puppies. However, like all foods, octopus should be served in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Too much can be bad for your dog. This is because octopus contains mercury, which can accumulate in the body of living organisms – to dangerous levels – through excessive consumption.
How to prepare octopus for dogs?
Don’t feed your dog octopus unless it is fit for human consumption. Here are some things to note when preparing octopus for your dog:
- Only use octopuses sold for human consumption (some octopus species are poisonous and not safe to eat!)
- Remove the entrails, eyes and beak before cooking
- Tenderise the octopus before cooking
- Steam or boil the octopus (do not serve it raw!)
- If using a large octopus, cut it up into manageable pieces to avoid the risk of choking
- Serve it plain to your dog – do not add any other seasonings, oils or ingredients to it, unless it is dog friendly!
- Serve it in moderation – you may have to trial feeding small amounts first
Conclusion
Octopus can be a great food source for your dog – just make sure to prepare it properly and serve it in moderation. It is one of the foods that can be enjoyed by humans and dogs alike. However, start with small servings or consult your veterinary surgeon if you are unsure, as all dogs are unique in their own way!
