Can Dogs Eat Chicken Hearts?

Yes, dogs can eat chicken hearts. You wouldn’t believe it, but chicken hearts are a superb nutritional treat! They are loaded with minerals and full of nutrients like protein, vitamins, and iron. Plus, they contain taurine, which is great for heart health. However, like always, there’s a catch on how to prepare them and how often they can eat them. It’s best to cook the hearts thoroughly to avoid bacterial contamination and serve them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Table Of Contents

Health benefits of chicken hearts for dogs
- Chicken hearts give energy for zoomies
Can dogs eat raw chicken hearts?
- Raw chicken hearts for dogs: safety first
How often should I feed the dog chicken heart?
How to prepare chicken hearts for dogs
- Don't give your dog a lot of chicken hearts!
Freeze-dried chicken hearts as an excellent treat
FAQs

We also have an article about a complete chicken meat guide for dogs, where we emphasize that protein should make up 25% of a dog’s diet. Our goal is to ensure dogs get the best natural treats possible, packed with all the essential nutrients they need. Chicken hearts are a fantastic option, but it’s important to serve them correctly and in moderation, as too much of anything is not good.

Health benefits of chicken hearts for dogs

Chicken hearts are a fantastic nutritional treat for dogs. Dogs love them, and they have a ton of health benefits. These little organs are nutrient-dense and give your dog a vitamin and mineral boost. As with humans, vitamins and minerals play a part in supporting overall health and well-being. Let’s dive into the specific benefits of including chicken hearts in your dog’s diet.

High in protein: Chicken hearts are high in protein, as all other organ meats. Dogs need 25% of their diet to be protein, as it’s responsible for muscle development and repair. In addition, protein keeps them healthy and pretty, as it directly improves their skin and coat and gives them the energy to have zoomies and play! Including protein-rich foods like chicken hearts in your dog’s diet can ensure they stay strong and active. Additionally, the amino acids in protein aid in producing hormones and enzymes vital for various bodily functions.

Rich in vitamins: Chicken hearts contain several vital vitamins, particularly B vitamins like B12 and riboflavin. Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell production and neurological function. Riboflavin helps convert food into energy and supports healthy skin and eyes. These vitamins are crucial for maintaining your dog’s overall health and preventing deficiencies that could lead to health problems.

Source of taurine: Taurine is an amino acid found in chicken hearts essential for heart health. It supports cardiovascular function, helps regulate electrolytes in the body, and plays a role in bile salt formation, which is necessary for fat digestion. Adequate taurine levels can prevent heart diseases, particularly in breeds predisposed to taurine deficiency.

Iron and zinc: Chicken hearts are rich in minerals like iron and zinc. Iron is vital for producing hemoglobin, which transports oxygen in the blood. Zinc supports the immune system, aids wound healing, and maintains healthy skin and coat. These minerals are essential for various metabolic processes and overall health.

Supports joint health: Chicken hearts contain natural glucosamine, which is beneficial for joint health. Glucosamine helps maintain the cartilage in joints, reducing the risk of arthritis and joint pain. Including chicken hearts in your dog’s diet can support their mobility, especially as they age, and help keep them active and comfortable.

Chicken hearts give energy for zoomies

Including protein-rich foods like chicken hearts in your dog’s diet can ensure they stay strong and active. They provide the energy needed for zoomies and help keep their hair and fur shiny and healthy.

Dogs need a mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Proteins are essential for muscle growth and repair, fats provide energy and support cell function, carbohydrates supply energy, and vitamins and minerals are vital for various bodily functions. When dogs eat commercial food, one of the most common add-ons is fresh or cooked vegetables and protein.

Additionally, some dog owners supplement their pets’ diets with omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and joint supplements to support specific health needs. So, now you see why including organ meat like chicken hearts is often a go-to snack, as it’s super healthy!

Can dogs eat raw chicken hearts?

While dogs can eat raw chicken hearts, and raw meat and organ meat are often part of some dogs’ diets, there’s a risk of bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. Therefore, it’s better to serve them cooked. If your dog ate raw chicken hearts by accident (perhaps snatching them off your table), don’t worry—they should be fine. However, it’s always best to follow the advice to cook chicken, including hearts, gizzards, and chicken meat in general, to ensure your dog’s safety.

Raw chicken hearts for dogs: safety first

While dogs can eat raw chicken hearts and other raw organ meats, there’s a risk of bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. It’s safer to serve them cooked.

How often should I feed the dog chicken heart?

Chicken hearts are organ meats and should be fed to your dog in moderation. For an active dog, 10% organic meat in the diet is okay. Very active dogs can tolerate about 15%. However, if your pet is overweight, limit organ meat intake to less than 10%. Balancing their diet with other protein sources, vegetables, and grains ensures they get all the necessary nutrients without overloading on organ meats. Please call your vet for professional advice when including something new in your dog’s diet.

How to prepare chicken hearts for dogs

You can cook chicken hearts for your dog in several ways. One method is to fry them by spraying a pan with olive oil mist until they are light golden brown. Alternatively, you can boil them, which is a simple and healthy option. If you want to go a little extra, then you can make a homemade chewy treat and dehydrate chicken hearts using a food dehydrator.

Don’t give your dog a lot of chicken hearts!

While chicken hearts are nutritious, they should not make up more than 5% of your dog’s diet to avoid excess vitamin A, which can cause loose stools. Runny poo is never fun!

Freeze-dried chicken hearts as an excellent treat

Freeze-dried chicken hearts make an excellent treat for dogs. Thanks to the freeze-drying process, these treats retain most of their nutritional value, including essential vitamins and minerals. They are high in protein, which supports muscle development and energy levels and rich in taurine, which is vital for heart health. Additionally, freeze-dried chicken hearts contain B vitamins, iron, and zinc, all of which are essential for your dog’s overall well-being. Lightweight and easy to store, these treats are a convenient and healthy option for rewarding your dog.

When prepared correctly, chicken hearts are a nutritious and tasty treat for dogs. Whether boiled, fried, or dehydrated, they offer essential vitamins and minerals that can benefit your dog’s health.

Love, life, and fur forever!

FAQs

Can dogs eat raw chicken hearts?

While dogs can eat raw chicken hearts (as nothing bad will happen to them) due to the risk of bacterial contamination, it’s better to cook them.