Hi there, sorry if this is a dumb question, I just got a puppy named Max last week. I read conflicting things online and I'm unsure—can dogs eat smoked salmon? Want to make sure I'm feeding Max the right stuff. Thanks for any advice!

Hi there! No such thing as a dumb question, especially when it comes to caring for your new puppy Max. 😊

In short, feeding Max a little bit of smoked salmon every now and then isn't likely to cause harm. However, it's best to avoid it if you can. Smoked salmon is often high in salt and may contain seasonings that aren't great for puppies. The main concern would be the potential for parasitic infection, although this is pretty rare with commercially prepared smoked salmon.

If Max managed to sneak a little bite, no need to worry too much, but keep an eye out for these symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Weakness or lethargy
• Increased thirst or urination

If he shows any of these signs, monitor him closely. Mild symptoms often resolve on their own, but you can help by:

• Offering him plenty of fresh water
• Giving him a few bland meals, like boiled chicken and rice, until his tummy feels better
• Making sure he gets lots of rest

If his symptoms are severe, like persistent vomiting or diarrhea, or he seems dehydrated, it's a good idea to reach out to a vet sooner rather than later. This would be more of an emergency situation, especially with puppies.

Better to avoid giving him smoked salmon in the future. When in doubt, plain unseasoned cooked fish is a safer choice.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.