Can Dogs Eat Turkey Necks?

Of all turkey bones, turkey necks are the safest option, but they also come with a risk. Turkey necks are raw, meaty bones made of soft, pliable bones and turkey meat. Specifically, turkey necks are made of roughly 40% bone and 60% muscle meat, making them a good chewy dog treat. However, many vets don’t recommend poultry necks at all, as there are certain risks associated with bacteria and infection. However, there’s a way to include them in your dog’s diet, but please talk to your vet to see if it’s worth the risk.

Table Of Contents

Why turkey necks can be safe for dogs
Nutritional and other benefits of turkey necks for dogs
Risks and what you need to know about turkey necks
The best ways to give dogs turkey necks and safety tips
FAQs

In a previous article, we covered the topic of turkey bones in-depth, but in this one, we’ll review specific cases where people give their dogs turkey necks, including the potential benefits and risks. The goal of this article is to provide safety tips, so even if you do decide to give your dog turkey neck, you are safe, and you know what to do.

Why turkey necks can be safe for dogs

Cooked turkey necks are very dangerous for dogs. High temperature breaks bones into hard, glass-like structures, and dogs can break and splinter as they chew on them. These small splinters can cause serious damage. Never give your dog cooked bones!

On the other hand, raw, freeze-dried, or dehydrated poultry bones are considered safe treats for dogs. Unlike cooked poultry bones, their texture is quite soft and brittle. When dogs chew on raw bones, they can crush them but not break them into shards. This is particularly true for turkey and chicken bones, where the bones have connective tissue and meat. Some of the best bones for chewing include chicken feet, chicken necks, duck feet, duck necks, and turkey necks. While they have nutritional benefits, they also come with a risk of bacteria.

Nutritional and other benefits of turkey necks for dogs

Turkey necks are a very popular treat for dogs, and for good reason. Here are some of the key benefits:

High-quality protein: Turkey necks are a good source of protein. Protein is important for muscle growth and optimal energy levels.

Joint health: Turkey necks are rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, known to improve joint health and mobility. These compounds can help with arthritis, especially in older dogs.

Essential minerals: They provide important minerals for strong bones and teeth. These minerals also support muscle function and nerve transmission.

Dental benefits: The chewing action required to eat a turkey neck helps clean your dog’s teeth naturally, reducing plaque and tartar buildup. This can improve your dog’s oral hygiene, leading to fresher breath and healthier gums.

Safe chewing: Unlike cooked bones, raw or dehydrated turkey necks are soft and pliable, which means they crush rather than splinter. This makes them a safer option for your dog, though you should always supervise them while they’re chewing.

Risks and what you need to know about turkey necks

While turkey necks offer many benefits for dogs, a lot of vets and dog nutritionists will tell you they are quite dangerous. We think you should make an informed decision but understand the following risks:

Choking hazards: One major risk of feeding turkey necks is choking. Some dogs might get too excited and try to swallow large chunks without adequately chewing. Always supervise your dog when they are eating a turkey neck.

Blockages: Large, undigested pieces of bone can block your dog’s digestive tract, causing a serious issue that might require veterinary intervention. To minimize this risk, make sure your dog is calm and not eating too quickly.

Bone fragments: Although raw turkey necks are generally safer than cooked bones, smaller bone fragments can still cause internal injuries. Ensure the necks you give are appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing ability.

Bacterial contamination: Raw poultry bones, including turkey necks, can have bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, which can be harmful to your dog and your household.

Dietary balance: Feeding turkey necks should complement a balanced diet, not replace it. Overfeeding bones can lead to an imbalance in nutrients, particularly calcium and phosphorus, affecting your dog’s overall health.

While turkey necks can be a nutritious treat for your dog, you must know the risks. Always stay with your dog when they are eating bones and choose the appropriate size. Consult your vet if you have any concerns or if your dog has specific health conditions that might be affected by eating bones.

The best ways to give dogs turkey necks and safety tips

If you follow safety protocols, feeding your dog turkey necks is possible. If your vet approves, you can try to give your dog a raw or frozen turkey neck. This will help them clean their teeth and give them a fun chewing activity. Here are the essential safety tips to keep in mind:

Choose the right size: The turkey neck should be big enough that your dog can’t swallow it whole. This helps prevent choking and ensures that your dog has to chew it properly.

Avoid if your dog is a gulper: If your dog tends to gulp their food, it’s best not to give them raw turkey necks or any bones. Gulpers are at higher risk of choking and blockages because they may swallow large pieces without chewing.

Consult your vet: Your vet may be against the raw diet, but it’s important to listen to their expert advice. Educate yourself about the risks and benefits, and be cautious if your dog gets overly excited about meat, as they may forget to chew properly.

Buy high-quality meat: Always purchase organic, high-quality meat to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination.

Freeze for a treat: In the summer, you can freeze turkey necks to give your dog a refreshing and long-lasting treat. This can also help with teething in puppies or provide relief for older dogs with dental issues.

Supervise feeding: Always supervise your dog while they’re eating turkey necks. This allows you to step in if they’re not chewing properly or if you notice any signs of distress.

This way, you can safely add turkey necks to your dog’s diet and give them a nutritious and enjoyable treat. All in all, turkey necks can be a good chewing treat for your dogs, as they do have nutritional benefits. However, you have to be aware of the risks. Always choose the right size, supervise feeding, and call your vet if you’re unsure.

Love, life, and fur forever!

FAQs

Can dogs eat raw turkey necks?

Yes, dogs can eat raw turkey necks. They provide high-quality protein, essential minerals, and natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin. However, always supervise your dog while they’re eating and ensure the neck is the right size to prevent choking and blockages.

Can dogs eat smoked turkey necks?

It’s best to avoid giving dogs smoked turkey necks. The smoking process often involves added salt and seasonings, which can be harmful to dogs. Additionally, the texture of smoked bones can become harder and more brittle, increasing the risk of splintering.

Can dogs eat cooked turkey necks?

No, dogs should not eat cooked turkey necks. Cooking makes the bones hard and brittle, which can cause them to splinter and lead to choking or internal injuries. Always opt for raw, freeze-dried, or dehydrated turkey necks instead.