Can Dogs Eat Lobster?

Yes, dogs can eat cooked lobster in limited amounts.

A type of edible seafood, lobster is enjoyed by humans around the world. It is known for having a hard shell, a long body, and a muscular tail. Its white, tender meat is typically eaten with melted butter and lemon juice. 

Just like crab, lobster can be served to dogs with caution and in moderation. Lobster is rich in copper, selenium, zinc, phosphorus, vitamin B12, magnesium, and vitamin E. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are needed by dogs. But because it is packed with sodium and fat, dogs should only eat limited amounts of lobster.

How to feed lobster to your dog: Boil or steam fresh lobster without adding unnecessary flavourings. Salt, butter, garlic, lemon, herbs, and spices should never be mixed with lobster for dogs. 

Cook until its internal temperature is 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The shell should turn bright red, while the meat becomes opaque white. When fully cooked, remove the meat from the shell and dispose of the shell properly. If your dog accidentally ingests it, he may suffer from choking, get mouth or throat injury, and experience intestinal blockages. Top the chopped lobster meat over his meal or give it as a treat.  

Never give your dog raw or undercooked lobster. This may cause serious illness due to bacteria such as salmonella, listeria monocytogenes, vibrio vulnificus, and campylobacter jejuni.

In summary: Lobster can be enjoyed by your pooch with his veterinarian’s approval. But since it is an expensive type of seafood, it would be better to give affordable options such as crab or shrimp. Either way, make sure he isn’t allergic to lobster by offering a tiny piece before integrating it in his diet. After feeding, check for itchy skin, paws, or ears, vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, lack of energy, and aggression. These are all symptoms of a food allergy.

Aside from seafood, find out which meats, grains, fruits, and vegetables you can feed your dog. Check out our comprehensive “can dogs eat” category.

References: 

Wikipedia: Lobster

Can Dogs Eat Shellfish? Is Shellfish Safe For Dogs?

Can Dogs Eat Seafood? Benefits and Risks

Food Allergies in Dogs