Can Dogs Eat Chicken Gizzards?

Yes, dogs can eat chicken gizzards. They are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, which instantly makes them a nutritious superfood. Chicken gizzards are a part of the bird’s digestive system. They help birds break down tough foods like seeds. While not common in American diets, gizzards are a delicacy in cuisines around the world, such as in Eastern Europe. These organs are among the healthiest, packed with lean protein and low in fat, making them a nutritious option.

raw chicken gizzards on a black board with spices and herbs and a dog

Table Of Contents

Health benefits and how often to give your dog gizzards
- How often to give your dog gizzards?
Can dogs eat raw chicken gizzards?
How to prepare chicken gizzards for your dog
What to do when dogs eat too many gizzards
FAQs

Gizzards are nutrient-dense, and they have high levels of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. And they are especially nutritious when you serve them boiled or steamed, without any seasonings, as that will be the easiest for dogs to digest. In this article, we’ll list the health benefits of chicken gizzards and provide a guide on how to prepare them for your dog. We also wrote about other chicken meat and parts for dogs, so you can check that out as well.

Health benefits and how often to give your dog gizzards

Chicken gizzards are packed with nutrients that can benefit your dog’s health. Here are some key benefits:

High in protein: Essential for muscle development and energy.

Rich in vitamins: Chicken gizzards contain B vitamins that support overall health.

Good source of minerals: They provide iron and zinc, which are vital for immune function and metabolism.

Supports joint health: On top of everything, chicken gizzards contain glucosamine, which can help maintain healthy joints.

How often to give your dog gizzards?

As always, you need to follow the protein rule for dogs (up to 25%) and to make sure that treats are only 10% of their diet. So, with gizzards, you really get both! You can serve gizzards a few times a week as part of a balanced diet. Start with small portions to make sure your dog tolerates them well. If you’re unsure, consult your vet for personalized advice based on your dog’s specific dietary needs.

Remember, while gizzards are healthy, they should be part of a varied diet that includes other meats, vegetables, and grains to ensure your dog gets all the nutrients they need.

Can dogs eat raw chicken gizzards?

We don’t recommend feeding your dog raw chicken gizzards. Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, which can make your dog sick. Feeding raw gizzards can cause runny poo and upset their stomach. Cooking the gizzards eliminates harmful bacteria and makes them easier to digest.

While there’s little evidence supporting BARF (Bones and Raw Food) diets, they are popular in the United States. If you’re unsure, it’s best to stick to serving cooked meat to ensure your dog’s safety and health.

How to prepare chicken gizzards for your dog

Cleaning the gizzards

It’s absolutely essential that you clean the chicken gizzards properly! Store-bought gizzards are usually pre-cleaned, but it’s still good to check.

Inspect the gizzards: If uncleaned, the gizzards will contain pebbles, dirt, and other debris used by chickens to grind their food.

Locate the pouch: Chicken gizzards have a pouch housing the debris. Carefully cut along the length of the gizzard until you find the pouch, which is often yellow, green, or gray.

Remove the pouch: Grip both sides of the gizzard and pull to expose the pouch. Remove it without puncturing it to avoid soiling the gizzard.

Rinse thoroughly: After removing the pouch, rinse the gizzards under cold water to clean any remaining debris.

Cooking the gizzards

Boil the gizzards: Place the cleaned gizzards in a pot of boiling water. Boil for 20-30 minutes until they are fully cooked.

Cool and chop: Let the gizzards cool down, then chop them into small, bite-sized pieces suitable for your dog.

Serve plain: Avoid adding any seasonings, as spices can be harmful to dogs.

Chicken gizzards are an amazing dog food

Gizzards are a tasty (but yucky!) treat and a nutritious bomb! If you have patience and can prepare them for your dog, they are super nourishing food.

What to do when dogs eat too many gizzards

If your dog eats too many gizzards, monitor them closely for signs of digestive issues like diarrhea or vomiting. Hold off on feeding them for 12-24 hours to let their stomach settle, and make sure they have plenty of fresh water. After the fasting period, put them on a bland diet. A bland diet of boiled chicken and cooked rice will to soothe their digestive system. If symptoms persist or if you’re concerned, contact your vet for advice.

And there you have it—you can cook and give your dog chicken gizzards to help them get nourishing minerals and protein!

Love, life, and fur forever!

FAQs

How many chicken gizzards can I feed my dog?

Feed chicken gizzards in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For small dogs, 1-2 gizzards per meal are sufficient. Larger dogs can have more, but it’s best to consult your vet for specific recommendations.

How do I cook chicken gizzards for my dog?

Boil chicken gizzards until they are fully cooked, usually about 15-20 minutes. Let them cool, then cut them into small, manageable pieces before serving.

What is better for dogs, chicken liver, or gizzards?

Both chicken liver and gizzards are nutritious, but the liver is higher in certain vitamins like A and B12. Gizzards are also a good source of protein and minerals. Offering a variety of organ meats can provide a balanced diet.