Herring
Last updated: February 11, 2026
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Herring Herring is a small, oily fish (Clupea harengus) used fresh or as meal in dog food, providing high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
What It Is
Herring is a small, oily fish (Clupea harengus) used fresh or as meal in dog food, providing high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Compare to Similar Ingredients
- vs. salmon: Both are oily fish rich in omega-3s. Herring has slightly higher omega-3 content than salmon and is more sustainable, being lower on the food chain with less mercury risk.
- vs. whitefish: Herring is an oily fish exceptionally high in omega-3 fatty acids, while whitefish is leaner with lower omega-3 content but milder flavor. Herring provides more anti-inflammatory benefits.
- vs. sardines: Both are small, oily fish rich in omega-3s and low in mercury. Herring and sardines are nutritionally very similar, with sardines being slightly smaller and herring often larger.
Why It's Used in Dog Products
Manufacturers include herring in dog food, treats, and supplements for several reasons:
- High-quality, highly digestible protein source
- Exceptionally rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA)
- Low mercury risk (small fish, low on food chain)
- Sustainable and abundant wild-caught source
- Contains vitamin D, B12, and selenium
- Natural anti-inflammatory benefits
Nutritional Profile
Quality Considerations
When evaluating herring in dog products, it's important to understand protein density, amino acid profile, digestibility, and sourcing quality. This ingredient's quality and appropriateness can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and the specific formula it's used in.
Herring is an outstanding protein source for dogs. As a small, oily fish, it provides exceptional omega-3 content naturally—among the highest of any fish. Low on the food chain means minimal mercury and contaminant accumulation. Wild-caught herring is abundant and sustainably managed in most regions. Whether used as fresh herring or herring meal, it delivers complete protein, omega-3s, and micronutrients. Premium, species-specific ingredient.
Potential Concerns
While herring can be appropriate in dog nutrition, pet owners should be aware of allergies, protein digestibility, and quality variations between named and generic sources. Individual dogs may respond differently to the same ingredient based on their health status, age, and sensitivities.
Herring is one of the absolute best fish-based proteins available. It rivals or exceeds salmon in omega-3 content, with the added benefit of being a smaller fish with lower contaminant risk. The built-in EPA and DHA support heart, brain, joint, and skin health without requiring additional fish oil. Wild-caught, sustainable, and named—everything we want in a fish protein. Whether listed as herring, herring meal, or dehydrated herring, this is a top-tier ingredient that adds serious nutritional value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is herring safe for dogs?
Yes, herring is safe for dogs when used appropriately in properly formulated dog food. Generally recognized as safe when used appropriately As with any ingredient, individual dogs may have sensitivities, so monitor for any adverse reactions when first introducing products containing this ingredient.
What does herring do in dog food?
Herring in dog food. Dog food manufacturers include this ingredient to provide high-quality, highly digestible protein source and provide exceptionally rich in omega-3 fatty acids (epa and dha).
Can herring cause allergies in dogs?
Any protein source can potentially trigger allergies in sensitive dogs. Signs of food allergies include itchy skin, ear infections, digestive issues, and excessive paw licking. If your dog shows these symptoms, consult your veterinarian about an elimination diet to identify the trigger ingredient.
How much herring should be in dog food?
Quality dog foods typically list primary protein sources like herring within the first 3-5 ingredients. The exact percentage varies by formula, but protein-focused foods generally contain 25-35% total protein for adults, and 28-40% for puppies or performance dogs. Check the guaranteed analysis rather than relying solely on ingredient order.
Related Ingredients
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