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).
Turkey necks are a popular treat for dogs, offering protein, nutrients, and a tasty chew. But can dogs eat the entire turkey neck? What are the benefits and potential risks of feeding turkey necks to dogs? This complete guide covers everything you need to know about feeding turkey necks to dogs.
Overview of Turkey Necks for Dogs
Turkey necks are the neck of a turkey, containing vertebrae, muscle meat, cartilage, and connective tissue. They can be fed raw or dehydrated as dog treats.
Benefits: Turkey necks provide mental stimulation, encourage chewing, contain chondroitin and glucosamine for joint health, and offer protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Risks: Choking hazard, bacterial contamination, intestinal blockage, high calories. Not suitable for puppies.
Alternatives Dental chews, bully sticks, chicken necks.
Can Dogs Eat the Whole Turkey Neck?
Yes, dogs can eat the entire turkey neck as long as it is raw or dehydrated, not cooked. Cooked bones splinter and can puncture the digestive tract.
Whole turkey necks provide a long-lasting chew, clean teeth, and nutritional benefits. But they also carry risks like choking and blockages that require monitoring your dog closely during chewing.
What Parts of the Turkey Neck Do Dogs Eat?
Turkey necks contain
- Vertebrae – Small bones of the spine
- Muscle meat
- Tendons and connective tissue
- Trachea – Windpipe
Dogs can safely eat all parts of raw or dehydrated turkey necks The bones are soft enough to chew and digest The meat, cartilage, and tendons provide protein, nutrients, and dental benefits.
Benefits of Turkey Necks for Dogs
Feeding turkey necks to dogs offers several benefits:
Cleans Teeth: The chewing action scrapes plaque and tartar off teeth.
Mental Stimulation: Provides a rewarding long-lasting chew.
Nutritious: Good source of protein, vitamins, minerals. Contains chondroitin and glucosamine.
Joint Health: Natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin for arthritis.
Weight Management: Low calorie option, keeps dogs busy.
Are Turkey Necks Safe for Dogs?
Turkey necks do carry some risks, but can be safely fed to most dogs with proper precautions:
- Supervise chewing to prevent choking
- Avoid gulpers who swallow treats whole
- Feed appropriate size neck for dog’s breed
- Introduce slowly if new treat
- Practice food handling safety
Do not feed turkey necks cooked or frozen as they can shatter and puncture. Only feed raw or dehydrated.
Feeding Guide and Portion Size
The recommended feeding guide for turkey necks is:
- Large breeds: 1 whole neck 1-2 times per week
- Medium breeds: 1 whole neck 1-2 times per week
- Small breeds: Half a neck 1-2 times per week
Adjust portions based on your dog’s size and activity level. Reduce frequency for less active or overweight dogs.
Turkey Neck Nutrition Facts
Turkey necks offer a nutritious chew with:
- Protein: 60-70% dehydrated, 15-20% raw
- Fat: 10-15%
- Calories: Approximately 130 per dehydrated neck
They also provide vitamins, minerals, glucosamine, chondroitin, iron, zinc, phosphorus, and selenium.
Alternatives to Turkey Necks for Dogs
Some alternatives to turkey necks include:
- VOHC Approved Dental Chews: Effective plaque removers without raw bone risks
- Chicken Necks: Smaller size for small dogs
- Bully Sticks: Long-lasting chew with mental stimulation
- Stuffable Treats: Food puzzles provide enrichment
Talk to your vet about the best options for your dog’s needs and preferences.
Turkey necks can offer dogs a nutritious chewing treat that provides mental enrichment. When fed raw or dehydrated in appropriate portions, the risks can be low. But proper handling and supervision are essential. Monitor your dog closely and consider safer alternatives if unsure about feeding turkey necks.
Vitamins, Minerals & Compounds
Turkey necks contain calcium and phosphorus which are essential structural components of teeth and bones. Calcium is also responsible for many other vital bodily functions including hormone secretion, muscle contractions, and normal constriction and dilation of blood vessels. Turkey necks also contain high levels of B vitamins, especially vitamin B12, which is involved in the production of essential proteins and red blood cells and is also required for the reaction of several enzymes.
They also contain essential trace minerals such as iron, copper, selenium, and zinc. Zinc supports a healthy immune system and is important for maintaining healthy skin and coat. Copper aids the absorption of iron, both of which are essential for normal red blood cell function. Selenium is an antioxidant that also plays a role in thyroid function and metabolism, as well as the production of DNA. Selenium may also play a protective role in helping to prevent certain types of cancer, with preliminary studies suggesting some benefit in cases of canine prostate cancer.
Because turkey necks contain connective tissue and cartilage, they will also contain glucosamine and chondroitin, the building blocks that make up healthy cartilage. Supplementation with glucosamine and chondroitin has been clinically proven to reduce the impact of osteoarthritis in affected dogs, however, their levels cannot be accurately established in turkey necks and other natural chews. If your pup is suffering from osteoarthritis, joint supplements with an established therapeutic dose of these ingredients is a better option. Joint problems including osteoarthritis need to be correctly diagnosed by a veterinarian who will then recommend a suitable treatment plan.
Turkey necks are moderate to high in calories, with dehydrated chews higher in calories per kilogram than fresh turkey necks. Expect approximately 130 calories per dehydrated turkey neck chew, which for reference would be nearly 25% of the expected daily calorie requirement for a 30lb dog!
Due to their moderate to high calorie content, turkey necks should only be given as an occasional treat to avoid unwanted weight gain. Feeding one dehydrated turkey neck 1 to 2 times a week is more than enough for a medium-sized dog. Turkey necks should not replace a complete and balanced diet and are best avoided in overweight dogs. If your dog has any underlying health issues like pancreatitis, diabetes, or kidney disease, it’s always best to speak to a veterinarian before changing their diet or adding in new treats.
Benefits of Turkey Necks for Dogs
Cleans TeethEncourage chewing may help remove plaque and tartar.
Mental Enrichment Provides mental stimulation and may help relieve stress.
The belief that chews like turkey necks help to keep our pup’s teeth clean is just one of the reasons these treats are so popular. Certainly, the action of chewing something hard may help to reduce plaque and tartar, however, there aren’t currently any studies that prove these benefits. So, though they may be of some benefit in helping to keep your dog’s teeth clean, turkey necks should not replace routine dental care and regular vet checks. Any possible benefits would also be reduced in dogs that swallow these treats quickly, with little chewing!
Chewing is a natural behaviour for dogs and is both fun and stimulating for your pup. Providing an appropriate item for your dog to chew on also helps keep them away from inappropriate objects, like your shoes! Chewing can also help reduce boredom and is even believed to relieve stress. Turkey necks generally last for around 20-30 minutes, but may be less if your pup is a speedy chewer!
The cartilage and connective tissue found in natural chews, like turkey necks, contains chondroitin and glucosamine, the building blocks of cartilage. These ingredients are commonly found in supplements designed to promote joint health in dogs with osteoarthritis.
Though these ingredients may have a positive effect, there is currently no evidence available to determine the quantities present in turkey necks and whether this is clinically beneficial to dogs with joint disease. If your dog is suffering from joint problems, they require a diagnosis and treatment plan from a veterinarian.
Top Tips: Turkey Necks for Dogs | Dr. Alex Crow | PetHealthGuru | Dog Food | Veterinarian Tips |
FAQ
Can my dog eat a cooked turkey neck?
The only part that is not recommended for your dog is the neck as there are bones in that part.Sep 23, 2024
How much turkey neck can I give my dog?
You can feed about 10% of your dog’s daily (raw) dog food allowance in turkey necks.
What part of turkey can dogs not eat?
Avoid feeding your dog the neck, though, as the bones inside could be dangerous.Nov 14, 2022
What is turkey neck treat for dogs?
BJ’s Turkey Necks are not just chews, they’re a natural dental floss for your dog, helping to scrape away plaque and tartar and promoting good oral hygiene. It’s a treat that also serves as a healthy addition to a balanced meal, making it a versatile choice for your pet.
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.
Can dogs eat raw turkey necks?
Frozen – Frozen raw turkey neck bites are good for smaller dogs. Dehydrated – This is another safe way to give this treat to dogs. Freeze Dried – This is as safe as dehydrating. Smoked – This process weakens bones and isn’t good for dogs. If your dog is used to raw feeding, raw necks don’t pose as much risk.
Can dogs eat turkey neck bones?
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!
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?
Why do dogs eat turkey necks?
Dental health trend: Chewing on turkey necks can help keep your dog ‘s teeth clean and healthy. The act of chewing helps remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of dental issues such as gum disease and tooth decay. 4.
What can a dog eat if he has a turkey neck?
Chicken necks: If you have a small-breed dog, these treats offer similar benefits to turkey necks but are smaller in size. Dental chews: If keeping your pup’s teeth is your primary concern, the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VHOC) has an accepted list of products that have been proven to reduce plaque and tartar.