Make the Right Food Choices for Your Dog
At PawSheets®, we know that every dog owner wants good health for their buddy.
There’s a lot of information out there about what to feed and what not to feed your dog. PawSheets thought you might be wondering if sardines are a healthy addition to your dog's diet. Let’s dig in and see why sardines could be a healthy add-in option, and how often to serve them safely.
Are Sardines Good for My Dog?
Fish, in general, can be a nutritious treat for dogs. Salmon and sardines are especially beneficial, as they are packed with omega-3 fatty acids that support your dog's skin, coat, and overall health. The American Kennel Club recommends giving sardines as an occasional treat, preferably those packed in water with no added salt. Just like with green beans, salt can turn a healthy food into a problem, so always check the label and avoid anything packed with added salt.
What About Mercury in Sardines?
Mercury is often a concern with fish, but sardines are naturally low in mercury, making them a good choice. They feed on plankton more than other fishes so as a result sardines are one of the safest, lowest mercury fish options.
What Brand of Sardines is Best?
If you’re choosing canned sardines, you don’t need to worry about the small, soft bones—they’re edible and safe for dogs. If you’re buying fresh or frozen sardines, understand that the bones can be tough, so opt for deboned fish when possible.
Look for sardines with the blue Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) label or sustainably wild caught. 
This ensures your purchase supports responsible fishing practices. Choose sardines packed in water with no salt, and avoid any with oil, seasonings, or pickling. Sardines are naturally oily, so extra oil is unnecessary and adds calories, so plain is best.
Here is some information on a few brands along with the sodium content:
✔️ Beach Cliff - No Salt Added in Water: 55 grams sodium (wt: 70 grams)
✔️ Bumble Bee -No Salt Added in Water: 55 grams sodium (wt: 70 grams)
✔️ Wild Planet - No Salt Added in Water: 70 mg sodium (wt: 85 grams)
❌ King Oscar - Low Sodium in Water: 130 mg sodium (wt. 85 grams)
❌ King Oscar - Olive Oil: 350 mg sodium (wt. 85 grams)
If you accidentally buy sardines with added salt, rinsing them in a strainer with water helps reduce the sodium content.What Makes Sardines a Great Food for Dogs?
There are few foods that are tasty, healthy and don’t break the bank. Sardines packed in water with no added salt are:
- Affordable
- Shelf-stable
- Healthy
and most dogs find them delicious!
How to Serve Sardines
When introducing any new food, including sardines, start slowly—just a little at a time to see how your dog responds. Consulting your veterinarian is always a good idea. Many owners find that offering sardines two or three times a week strikes a good balance between health benefits and maintaining a healthy weight.
Hey, sardines are healthy for humans too!
Please share your thoughts.
PawSheets does not offer medical advice or brands to purchase. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing a new food to your pet.