Before sharing any turkey with a dog, it’s crucial to know which parts are safe for them, despite how difficult it may be to turn down those puppy dog eyes. Have no fear, Oakland Veterinary Referral Services (OVRS) is here to help.
Now that Thanksgiving is approaching, it’s helpful to know which parts of the bird are suitable for dogs to eat. If the majority of dogs are anything like mine, your dog is most likely by your side from the moment you put the turkey in the oven until you store the last of the leftovers.
Yes, dogs can eat raw turkey necks! In fact, raw turkey necks are a great source of protein, glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium, phosphorus, and other essential nutrients. They can also help to keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy
However, it is important to feed raw turkey necks to your dog safely. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you do just that:
Benefits of Raw Turkey Necks for Dogs
Raw turkey necks offer a variety of benefits for dogs, including:
- High-quality protein: Raw turkey necks are a great source of protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin: These nutrients are important for joint health and can help to prevent arthritis.
- Calcium and phosphorus: These minerals are essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Other trace minerals: Raw turkey necks also contain other essential trace minerals, such as iron, zinc, and copper.
- Dental health: The act of chewing on raw turkey necks can help to keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.
How to Feed Raw Turkey Necks to Your Dog
Here are some tips on how to feed raw turkey necks to your dog safely:
- Choose the right size: The size of the turkey neck should be appropriate for your dog’s size. A small dog should be given a smaller turkey neck, while a large dog can handle a larger one.
- Thaw the turkey neck: If the turkey neck is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before feeding it to your dog.
- Supervise your dog: Always supervise your dog while they are eating a raw turkey neck. This will help to prevent them from choking.
- Don’t feed cooked bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause serious injuries to your dog. Only feed your dog raw bones.
- Start slowly: If your dog is new to eating raw bones, start by giving them a small piece of turkey neck and gradually increase the amount over time.
FAQs About Raw Turkey Necks for Dogs
Here are some frequently asked questions about raw turkey necks for dogs:
- Are raw turkey necks safe for dogs? Yes, raw turkey necks are safe for dogs to eat as long as they are fed safely.
- Can puppies eat raw turkey necks? Yes, puppies can eat raw turkey necks, but it is important to choose a size that is appropriate for their small mouths.
- Can cats eat raw turkey necks? Yes, cats can eat raw turkey necks, but it is important to choose a size that is appropriate for their small mouths.
- Where can I buy raw turkey necks? You can buy raw turkey necks at most pet stores or online.
Raw turkey necks are a healthy and nutritious treat for dogs. They offer a variety of benefits, including high-quality protein, glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium, phosphorus, and other essential nutrients. However, it is important to feed raw turkey necks to your dog safely. By following the tips above, you can help to ensure that your dog enjoys all the benefits of this healthy treat.
Additional Resources
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Please consult with your veterinarian before feeding your dog any new food, including raw turkey necks.
Turkey as a Safe Protein for Dogs
In general, turkey is a great source of protein for dogs that also gives them access to important vitamins and minerals and overall nutritional benefits they need. Since it is an easy meat for dogs to digest, turkey is usually a great option for dogs. If your dog suffers from an inflammatory condition, turkey is considered a better protein choice than chicken. Chicken is a very common food allergy for dogs. If your dog suffers from this poultry allergy, you might want to consult your veterinarian about whether or not turkey is a good choice.
The Safest Parts of the Bird
Dogs can safely consume both the white and dark meat portions of turkeys, but white meat is typically a better source of protein. Choose white meat pieces for your dog if you want to give them a small amount of turkey to satisfy their craving without adding too many extra calories. Puppies can also safely consume the giblets, which are the liver, kidneys, heart, and gizzard; just chop them up into small, easily chewable pieces. Avoid feeding your dog the neck, though, as the bones inside could be dangerous.