Turkey necks for dogs have become a popular chew, with many pet owners choosing to feed them as a treat or part of a raw diet. So, what are turkey necks? What are the benefits of feeding them and are they safe for dogs?
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This article will help you to understand the pros and cons of feeding turkey necks so you can make an informed decision before choosing to feed them to your dog.
Turkey Necks are moderate to high in calories and should be fed occasionally as a treat.
There are several risks associated with feeding Turkey Necks including bacterial contamination, intestinal blockages, constipation, and choking.
Turkey necks are a by-product of the meat industry, where welfare standards may vary so try to buy free-range products with animal welfare accreditation (RSPCA, Red Tractor, Soil Association).
As a dog owner you likely want to provide natural species-appropriate snacks for your pup. Raw turkey necks have grown in popularity for this purpose. But the big question is – are raw turkey necks actually safe and healthy for dogs? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the potential benefits and risks of feeding raw turkey necks to help you make an informed decision.
An Overview of Raw Turkey Necks
Raw turkey necks are an entire neck of a turkey without the head, skin, or crop. They contain bones, muscle meat, connective tissue, and cartilage. Turkey necks are larger than chicken necks, making them better suited for medium to large breed dogs.
Many proponents of raw feeding recommend turkey necks as a nutritious, natural chew that provides mental enrichment. But others have concerns over risks like choking and bacterial contamination.
So what does the evidence actually show about the safety of raw turkey necks for dogs? Let’s break it down.
Potential Benefits of Raw Turkey Necks
First. let’s look at the proposed benefits of feeding raw turkey necks
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Rich source of protein – Turkey meat is packed with high-quality, complete proteins.
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Provides natural chondroitin and glucosamine – Found in the cartilage and connective tissue to support joint health.
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Promotes dental health – Chewing may help remove plaque and tartar to keep teeth clean.
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Aids digestion – The natural enzymes help dogs absorb nutrients.
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Provides mental enrichment – Gnawing on the meat and bones relieves boredom and stress.
Possible Risks of Raw Turkey Necks
However, there are also several potential risks to consider:
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Choking hazard – Turkey necks contain small bones that could become lodged in the throat, especially if hastily swallowed.
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GI obstruction – Indigestible bones may cause a blockage in the stomach or intestines if large pieces are ingested.
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Tooth damage – Aggressive chewing on the hard bones may crack teeth or damage the enamel.
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Bacterial contamination – Raw meat may harbor Salmonella, E. coli, or other pathogenic bacteria.
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Nutrient imbalance – Too much bone could lead to excessive calcium or imbalance other nutrients.
So while raw turkey necks may provide some benefits, veterinarians and scientists continue to debate the associated risks.
Vet Recommendations on Feeding Raw Turkey Necks
Most veterinary nutritionists and organizations do not recommend feeding raw turkey necks to dogs due to the potential hazards. However, some vet perspectives include:
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“I do not advise feeding raw turkey necks to dogs due to risks of bacteria, choking, and nutritional imbalances. There are safer alternatives I would recommend.”
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“In low quantities, raw turkey necks may provide enrichment for some dogs. But extreme caution is warranted and they are not appropriate for all pets.”
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“Dogs eating raw turkey necks should be closely monitored and all pet family members should practice strict hygiene to prevent bacterial transmission.”
If you do choose to feed raw turkey necks, vets emphasize the importance of proper storage, handling, and sourcing to reduce risks as much as possible.
Safer Alternatives to Raw Turkey Necks
For pet owners looking for similar benefits but without the risks of raw turkey necks, some safer options include:
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Dehydrated turkey necks – Still provide enrichment but lower bacterial risk
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Raw meaty bones from beef or lamb – Less prone to splintering
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Dental chews – Help clean teeth without choking hazard
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Padded food toys – Provide mental stimulation and discourage boredom chewing
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Joint supplements – Provide chondroitin/glucosamine without raw meat dangers
The Takeaway: Weigh the Pros and Cons
Bacterial contamination (including Salmonella and E.coli)
Raw meat and bones may be contaminated with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E.Coli that can cause illness in dogs, particularly if they have an underlying illness or are immunocompromised (e.g. undergoing chemotherapy). Air-dried treats, like dehydrated turkey necks, still risk contamination with these bacteria.
Even if your dog does not show any signs of illness, bacterial infection can still be transmitted to humans during close contact. Young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised family members are at higher risk of becoming ill. If your pup or your family is considered high-risk, it might be best to avoid feeding turkey necks and look for other alternatives instead.
Otherwise, make sure to follow strict food hygiene practices including washing your hands regularly after handling treats and petting your dog.
Turkey necks contain small pieces of bone which are a possible choking hazard in dogs. Though turkey neck bones tend to be softer and crumble when chewed properly, some dogs will gulp them down quickly and have even been known to swallow them whole!
If a large piece is swallowed it could become stuck in the oesophagus on the way down to the stomach, or even lodged at the back of the throat. If a small piece of bone makes its way into the trachea (windpipe) this is an emergency as your dog will struggle to breathe. This is an important reason why your pup should be supervised closely when eating any type of chewable treat.
Choosing the right size chew to suit your dog can also help reduce risk, with turkey necks being better suited to medium, large, or giant breed dogs.
Poorly digested bone fragments can cause constipation in dogs which may vary from mild to severe. In severe cases, evacuation may be required and your vet will need to perform an enema under general anaesthetic.
Sharp bone fragments can also cause trauma to the intestines and gastrointestinal tract and even life-threatening perforation, which is why cooked bones should never be fed to dogs as they are more likely to splinter.
In some cases, large pieces of bone may also cause a blockage (obstruction) in the stomach or intestines. This is considered an emergency and requires urgent surgery to remove the obstruction.
- Your dog is overweight as turkey necks are moderate to high in calories. If you think your dog may be overweight, please consult your veterinarian for a weight loss plan.
- Your dog has an underlying illness such as pancreatitis or is currently receiving chemotherapy unless your veterinarian has advised otherwise.
- Your dog has an allergy or sensitivity to turkey products.
Turkey Necks for Puppies
Turkey necks are not suitable for puppies due to their large size and high quantities of bone. Growing puppies have very strict requirements for calcium and phosphorus and should be fed a high-quality commercial diet that meets these standards. Adding in treats containing bone risks unbalancing this important ratio and puts your pup at risk of developing problems bone and joint problems. Turkey necks are also a choking hazard for puppies that may struggle to chew them and are best fed to adult dogs.
Top Tips: Turkey Necks for Dogs | Dr. Alex Crow | PetHealthGuru | Dog Food | Veterinarian Tips |
FAQ
Can dogs have turkey neck raw?
Turkey necks can be given to canines of all ages, but when feeding to a senior dog, or one who has compromised tooth health, be especially diligent in making …May 14, 2019
What parts of a raw turkey can a dog eat?
While both white and dark meat portions of a turkey are safe for a dog to eat, white meat tends to be a better protein source. If you want to feed your dog a small amount of turkey to satisfy their craving without giving them too many extra calories, stick to the white meat pieces.
Can dogs eat raw necks?
Due to this information, we are recommending to all our clients not to feed any form of raw chicken, especially raw chicken necks.
Are raw turkey bones safe for dogs?
Turkey bones, whether cooked or raw, can cause severe health issues for dogs, including choking, internal injuries, and blockages.
Can dogs eat frozen turkey necks?
If your dog eats one of those splinters, it can cause severe injuries to its throat and stomach. The same goes for frozen turkey necks, which are a lot harder. As a result, you should always thaw them properly before offering them to your pet. Raw turkey necks have many benefits that can improve your dog’s health.
Can dogs eat turkey necks raw?
Turkey necks should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent spoilage. If feeding them raw, make sure to thaw them completely before feeding them to your dog. In conclusion, dogs can eat turkey necks, both raw and cooked, as long as they are fed in moderation and prepared properly.
Are turkey necks safe for dogs?
Allergy-friendly trend: Turkey necks are a great option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, as they are a simple and natural protein source. If your dog has allergies to other proteins, turkey necks may be a safe alternative for them. 7.
Should I Feed my dog turkey necks?
This article will help you to understand the pros and cons of feeding turkey necks so you can make an informed decision before choosing to feed them to your dog. Turkey Necks are available raw or dehydrated (air-dried). Turkey Necks provide excellent mental stimulation through chewing and may also help with dental health.
Are turkey necks safe to eat raw?
As with any raw meat product, it’s essential to follow strict hygiene and food safety practices. Fresh turkey necks should only be fed raw and never cooked, as cooking increases the risk of the bones shattering and can cause serious injury, as previously discussed. Did you know?
Can dogs eat turkey necks on Thanksgiving?
To cook turkey necks for your dog, you can boil them in water for about 30 minutes or until they are fully cooked. Make sure to remove any excess fat or skin before feeding them to your dog. Can Dogs Eat People Food, Like Turkey Necks on Thanksgiving?