The Japanese delicacy sushi has a fan following all over the world. Made from vinegared rice and often paired with seafood such as squid, eel, yellowtail, salmon, tuna, or imitation crab, it’s a favorite for many people. And for dog owners, it can be tempting to share a bite with their furry friends. But is sushi actually good for dogs?
Do Dogs Like Sushi?
The ingredients in sushi are a mix of juicy and crunchy textures; something dogs tend to enjoy. Crunchy vegetables like cucumbers and carrots appeal to their love of texture, while the slightly sweet vinegared rice may also attract them since dogs often have a taste for mild sweetness. But does that mean you should let your dog have sushi? The answer is both yes and no.
Is Sushi Good for Your Dog?
Let’s break down some common sushi ingredients:
Brown and white rice are nutritious and easy for dogs to digest, providing healthy fiber.
Cooked fish offers a good source of omega-3 fatty acids that support brain, joint, and heart health.
Shrimp contains vitamin B3, vitamin B12, and phosphorus, all beneficial for dogs in moderation.
Seaweed can also be a nutritious addition, containing vitamins and minerals that support the thyroid and immune system.
Mangoes provide fiber and vitamins A, C, E, and B6.
Carrots are healthy, low-calorie snacks that promote dental health.
Benefits of These Nutrients
Vitamins – Support healthy eyesight, bone growth, reproduction, immune function, and skin health. They can also help prevent cataracts and night blindness in older dogs.
Omega 3 – Aid brain development in puppies, reduce inflammation, and support heart and kidney health.
Dietary Fiber – Promotes digestion and helps prevent constipation or diarrhea.
There are plenty of healthy nutrients in sushi, but that doesn’t mean your dog should eat large amounts of it. Sushi can be shared in very small portions and only if the ingredients are safe and fully cooked. Raw fish, high sodium, or certain seasonings can make sushi harmful to dogs. So, while an occasional bite might be fine, it shouldn’t become a regular treat.
How Much Sushi Is Good for Your Dog?
Humans tend to indulge in sushi easily. Those bite-sized rolls dipped in soy sauce are almost impossible to resist. And for us, eating 10–12 rolls in one sitting isn’t a big deal (in fact, it can be pretty satisfying). But let’s not get carried away and assume the same applies to dogs. When it comes to feeding sushi to your pup, moderation is key. One to two rolls per week is plenty. And let’s be honest, many wallets wouldn’t allow much more than that anyway.
Here’s a quick breakdown by size:
Extra-small dog (2-20 lbs.) = a small piece of Sushi per week
Examples: Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Pugs
Small dog (21-30 lbs.) = half a roll of Sushi per week
Examples: Basenjis, Beagles, Miniature Australian Shepherds
Medium dog (31-50 lbs.) = 1 Sushi roll per week
Large dog (51-90 lbs.) = 1-2 Sushi rolls per week
Examples: Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Australian Shepherds
Extra-large dog (91+ lbs.) = 1-2 Sushi rolls per week
Examples: Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, St. Bernards, Great Pyrenees
How to Feed Sushi to Your Dog?
While we humans can pop an entire sushi roll in one bite, dogs shouldn’t. Break the roll into smaller pieces before serving, and don’t give them too much at once. If possible, split the weekly portion into two smaller servings instead of one.
Potential Health Risks of Sushi for dogs
While sushi can contain some nutritious ingredients, it also comes with certain risks if not prepared or portioned properly. Here’s what to watch out for:
Avocados – Although nutrient-rich, they contain persin, which can be harmful to dogs. Best avoided.
Tempura – Anything deep-fried is hard for dogs to digest and can upset their stomach.
Raw Fish – May contain harmful bacteria or parasites such as salmonella, which can affect a dog’s skin, stomach, and overall health.
Sauces – Spicy condiments like wasabi, spicy mayo, and soy sauce can cause digestive irritation and are not recommended.
Cream Cheese – High in fat, which can lead to obesity, heart problems, or pancreatitis.
Salmon (raw) – Even sushi-grade salmon can carry bacteria such as salmonella and listeria, which can be dangerous or even fatal to dogs. Always serve fish cooked and plain.
What Can Happen if Your Dog Eats Too Much Sushi?
Dogs can find sushi just as irresistible as humans and might sneak extra pieces when you’re not looking. If your pup eats more than the recommended amount, keep an eye out for the following symptoms and contact your veterinarian if you notice any:
Conclusion
You can absolutely share a little taste of sushi night with your dog — just keep it simple, plain, and avoid the red-flag ingredients. Your pup will love being part of the experience, and after enjoying their special treat, you can expect plenty of happy licks and cuddles as thanks.
Happy mood and health to your doggo, and lots of love and licks to you!
We’ve also put together helpful lists of foods your dog can safely enjoy:
Fruits Your Dogs Can Eat
Vegetables Your Dogs Can Eat
Beans Your Dogs Can Eat
Junk Food Your Dog Can Eat
Creative manager by day, pet enthusiast all the time! After 19 years with my dog (hopefully he wins the award for oldest pet in the world), I enjoy spending my days brainstorming tail-wagging content, and sniffing out the latest trends in the pet world.
"Can Dogs Eat Sushi: A Comprehensive Guide." Dope Dog, n.d., https://dope.dog/blogs/dog-health-wellness/can-dogs-eat-sushi.
Saylor, April. "Can Dogs Eat Seaweed?" PetMD, 04 Dec. 2023, https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-seaweed.
Rogers, Chris Dinesen. "Can Dogs Have Sushi? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ." Dogster, 18 Mar. 2025, https://www.dogster.com/dog-nutrition/can-dogs-have-sushi.
The information presented in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for the advice of your veterinarian.
