Yes, sardines can be a great addition to your dog’s diet!
These small but mighty fish provide a wide range of benefits, from improving skin health to supporting heart function.
Sardines are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins B3, B12, D, selenium, and coenzyme Q10.
They also deliver a high-quality source of lean protein, which supports muscle growth and the development of connective tissue — perfect for puppies! Plus, they help to reduce inflammation and promote dental health, making sardines a nutritional powerhouse that your dog will love.
That’s why sardines are a featured ingredient in our Grass-Fed Beef Bowl, providing essential omega-3s, coenzyme Q10, and more.
Why we love sardines: real food nutritional benefits
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, these help keep your dog’s brain sharp, support eye health, reduce inflammation in joints, and give their skin and coat a healthy glow. They also have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. By adding sardines to your dog’s meals, you’re giving them a real boost where it counts.
Contains Coenzyme Q10 — an antioxidant powerhouse that helps keep your dog’s heart strong and circulation healthy. This antioxidant also supports the brain and liver, and even dental health, making it a versatile nutrient for dogs of all ages. Whether it’s helping with overall vitality or improving gum health, coenzyme Q10 is a vital part of what makes sardines such a great choice.
A lean, healthy protein packed with amino acids, sardines provide essential building blocks for muscles, skin, and cartilage development. This protein is full of amino acids that help build muscles, strengthen tendons and ligaments, and keep skin and cartilage in good shape. It also supports healthy hormone production.
A natural source of calcium for strong bones, sardines provide a natural source of this mineral to help support healthy bone development. The optimum lower ratio of 1.1-1.3 (calcium) to 1 (phosphorus) in Lyka's meals (designed by vet nutritionists) helps keep a healthy balance while leaving room for the occasional bone. Always check with your vet before giving bones to your pup.
Rich in iron, sardines are an excellent source of this powerhouse mineral that helps transport oxygen throughout your dog’s body, keeping energy levels high. It helps maintain stamina and overall vitality, ensuring your dog is ready for whatever the day brings.
How many sardines can my dog eat each day?
When it comes to feeding sardines, moderation is key. Sardines can be fed as a nutritious treat, but should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily intake. Stick to about one small sardine per 10 kg of your dog’s weight, a few times a week. This keeps your pup’s diet balanced while still providing a powerful nutritional boost.
How sardines can help support dog skin allergies and joint health
Sardines aren’t just a tasty treat — they’re packed with nutrients that can help address common health issues, including skin allergies. The omega-3 fatty acids found in sardines play a crucial role in reducing inflammation, which can contribute to itchy, irritated skin. For dogs with allergies, omega-3s help soothe and calm inflamed skin, reducing redness and discomfort.
Beyond skin health, sardines also contribute to a shiny, healthy coat. Dogs prone to dry or flaky skin can benefit from the fatty acids in sardines, which help lock in moisture and maintain skin hydration. If your dog suffers from seasonal or food-related allergies, adding sardines to their diet can provide relief and support overall skin health.
Omega-3s also promote joint health, making sardines a great choice for dogs with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. By helping reduce inflammation in the body, these fatty acids can help support mobility and reduce discomfort in aging or active dogs.
What to watch out for when feeding your pup sardines
While sardines are generally safe, there are a few things to consider. Always feed sardines packed in water, without any added salt, oil, or spices — these extras can upset your dog’s stomach or be harmful.
Dehydrated sardines are also a great, clean option (like Lyka’s Sardine Snaps, a perfect topper or treat).
Also, if your dog has a sensitive stomach or a history of allergies, start with a small amount and monitor for any signs of digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhoea.
Good health starts with good nutrition, and like us, dogs feel the difference when they eat real food (like sardines!).
Lyka’s meals are custom-portioned to suit your dog’s specific needs, delivering over 50 nutrient-rich ingredients. Whether it’s improving skin health or boosting energy levels, Lyka’s fresh meals, powered by real ingredients help your dog thrive.
🐶 Read more: The life-changing benefits of real food for dogs →
