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).
Can Dogs Have Raw Turkey Necks? A Vet’s Guide to Safely Feeding This Treat
Turkey necks are a popular treat for dogs, praised for their tantalizing flavor and nutritional benefits However, raw turkey necks also come with some risks that have left many pet owners wondering – can dogs have raw turkey necks safely? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons, best practices for preparing and serving raw turkey necks, and alternative treats to consider
The Scoop on Turkey Necks for Dogs
First, let’s go over the basics Turkey necks are the neck of a turkey, consisting of bone, cartilage, meat, and skin They make an appealing chew for dogs because they contain meaty goodness as well as the allure of gnawing on a bone.
The potential benefits of raw turkey necks for dogs include:
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High protein levels to support muscle growth and maintenance. Turkey is a lean source of protein.
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Glucosamine and chondroitin, compounds thought to support joint health.
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Minerals like zinc and iron.
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Satisfies dogs’ innate desire to chew and gnaw on bones. This can have mental and dental health benefits.
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Provides enjoyment – most dogs relish the flavor of meaty bones!
However, there are also some potential risks to be aware of with raw turkey necks:
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Choking hazard – the size and shape of turkey necks makes them potentially risky for gulpers.
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Gastrointestinal obstruction – turkey neck bones can splinter and cause an obstruction or perforation if not chewed thoroughly.
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Bacterial contamination – salmonella, E. coli and other bacteria can be present on raw turkey necks.
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High fat content – too much fat can cause pancreatitis or other issues.
So, what do veterinarians and other experts say – can dogs have raw turkey necks safely? Let’s explore their guidance next.
Veterinarian Guidance on Raw Turkey Necks for Dogs
Many veterinarians approve of raw turkey necks for dogs, with proper precautions:
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Select an appropriate size. Choose a turkey neck that is suitable for your dog’s size and chewing abilities. Avoid large, tough necks for small dogs or aggressive chewers.
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Supervise always. Do not leave dogs unmonitored with any chews or bones. This includes raw turkey necks which carry risks if swallowed whole.
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Introduce slowly. When first offering a new treat like raw turkey necks, give small amounts and watch for signs of digestive upset.
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Balance with other foods. Turkey necks should not make up the bulk of your dog’s diet. Feed a balanced commercial or home-prepared diet.
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Store safely. Keep raw turkey necks frozen until ready to use. Thaw in the refrigerator. Discard after 1-2 days.
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Practice hygiene. Wash hands and disinfect surfaces when handling to avoid bacterial contamination. Monitor your dog closely for signs of food-borne illness.
Some veterinarians advise against raw turkey necks completely. Their concerns include:
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Choking/blockage risks outweigh benefits. The trachea and intestines can be easily damaged.
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Bacteria exposure is dangerous. Dogs’ strong stomach acid doesn’t make them immune to food-borne illness from raw meat.
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Bone splinters are hidden dangers. Small splinters can cause internal lacerations and aren’t always noticeable in stools.
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Benefits are overblown. Necks are high in fat and not a balanced source of joint-supporting compounds. Commercial foods are safer alternatives.
Ultimately, it comes down to weighing the risks vs benefits of raw turkey necks for your individual dog. Having an open discussion with your vet is the best way to decide if they are appropriate. They know your dog’s health history and can account for factors like age, breed disposition, and tendency to gulp food.
Preparing Raw Turkey Necks for Safe Feeding
If you do choose to feed raw turkey necks, following safety guidelines is crucial. Here are some best practices:
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Source safely. Obtain raw turkey necks from reputable suppliers who follow food safety protocols. Avoid necks with shards of bone or those that appear dried out or smelly.
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Rinse necks. Give them a thorough rinse under cool running water to remove bacteria from the surface. Pat dry.
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Portion necks. Cut into pieces appropriately sized for your dog to minimize choking risk and aid digestion. Feed larger dogs bigger portions.
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Defrost safely. Thaw necks in the refrigerator, not at room temperature where bacteria can multiply rapidly.
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Supervise closely. Stay nearby your dog as they enjoy their turkey neck. This allows you to intervene if any issues arise, like aggressive swallowing of large chunks.
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Refrigerate promptly. Put any leftover necks back into the fridge within 2 hours and use within 1-2 days. Discard old necks as they can spoil.
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Maintain hygiene. Wash surfaces, hands, bowls etc after handling raw turkey necks to avoid bacterial spread.
By following food safety guidelines, you can help make raw turkey neck consumption as low risk as possible while allowing your dog to reap the potential joint, dental and mental benefits. Monitor your dog closely afterwards for any signs of digestive upset.
Alternative Treats to Raw Turkey Necks for Dogs
While rewarding for dogs, raw turkey necks require caution and may not be suitable for all pups. Safer alternatives deliver the chewing satisfaction without the risks. Some options to consider include:
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Raw meaty bones: Try safer choices like lamb necks which are softer. Always source from reputable suppliers.
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Cooked bones: Roasting removes bacteria risks. Avoid cooked weight-bearing bones which can still splinter.
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Dehydrated treats: Look for all-natural dried turkey, chicken or other meat treats made by trusted pet food companies.
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Meat-flavored chews: Nylon or rubber chews infused with meat flavors provide longer-lasting chewing enjoyment minus dangers.
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Dental chews: Specialty treats reduce plaque while satisfying chewing urges. Opt for natural ingredients.
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Food puzzle toys: Mentally stimulate dogs by making them work for kibble dispensed from puzzle toys.
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Rawhide alternatives: Try durable, digestible options like Himalayan dog chews. Avoid rawhide which can cause obstructions.
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Frozen/canned food: Spoon high-value wet foods into toys like Kongs and freeze to create a delicious chew experience.
Talk to your veterinarian about alternatives that make the most sense for your dog’s needs. The right choice provides enrichment and chewing satisfaction without unnecessary gulping and choking risks.
The Bottom Line
Can dogs have raw turkey necks? With precautions, most healthy adult dogs can enjoy raw turkey necks occasionally as a treat. However, the risks are very real and this chew isn’t right for all dogs. Raw turkey necks should always be fed carefully, in moderation, under supervision. Weigh your individual dog’s tendencies before deciding. For pups who gulp or have sensitive digestion, a cooked or alternative treat is the smarter choice. By choosing safe, species-appropriate chews and toys, you can provide hours of fulfilling chewing enjoyment for your pup. Consult your vet if ever unsure about the best options for your dog.
What Are Turkey Necks?
As the name suggests, turkey necks refer to the entire neck of the turkey, without the head, skin, or crop (a muscular pouch that stores food). The neck contains the spine (including the bones or vertebrae), the trachea (windpipe), muscle, and connective tissue.
Turkey necks can measure up to 10-12 inches or so in length, are larger than both duck and chicken necks, and may be better suited to medium, large, or giant breed dogs.
There are five countries responsible for 80% of turkey meat production across the EU — the UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Poland. Turkey meat produced in the UK, including turkey necks, is usually clearly labelled or can be easily traced to its source. Turkey necks are considered a by-product of the poultry meat industry and are not intended for human consumption.
When purchasing turkey necks or turkey meat products, try to look out for farms that are free-range with a high standard of animal welfare. These products will have received accreditations from organisations like the RSPCA, Red Tractor and the Soil Association, meaning they meet strict farming and animal welfare standards.
There are two main types of turkey necks available as treats for dogs, dehydrated and raw. Dehydrated turkey neck products are usually slowly air-dried, but make sure to check the processing method before you buy. Products that have been dried at high temperatures should be avoided as this can make the bones more brittle and prone to shattering, risking serious injury to your dog’s mouth, throat, and gut. Dehydrated turkey necks can be purchased both from pet stores and online retailers.
Raw turkey necks are available fresh or frozen from butchers, supermarkets, and even online from raw pet food websites. 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.
Some pet owners choose to feed raw turkey necks to their dogs as treats or as part of a raw diet. This article is not designed to discuss raw feeding in-depth, only the use of these products as an occasional treat.
However, pet owners that choose to feed raw need to be aware of the risk of contamination with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E.coli. E.coli has been linked to severe illness and even death in humans, and immunocompromised family members and children are considered to be at higher risk.
The following links contain more information on raw food safety and answers to frequently asked questions about raw feeding dogs.
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.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Turkey Necks?
FAQ
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.
Are raw neck bones safe for dogs?
For those looking for a longer-lasting chew, recreational bones can also be offered – raw beef neck bones for dogs, for example, are a popular choice.
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 turkey necks?
Turkey necks are a good option for dogs with allergies to other proteins such as chicken or beef. They are a simple and natural protein source that can be easily digested by dogs with food sensitivities. 6. How should turkey necks be prepared for dogs? Turkey necks can be fed raw or cooked to dogs.
Are raw turkey necks good for dogs?
Raw turkey necks have many benefits that can improve your dog’s health. Here’s a brief roundup about them. Raw turkey necks are full of beneficial nutrients. For example, they have a high protein content, which benefits animals’ health in many different ways.
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 raw turkey heads?
Yes, you can safely offer raw turkey heads to your dog. Whether you have dry, freeze-dried, or normal raw heads, they’re a safe treat for your pet. This is because their texture is still soft, so when your furry friend chews them, they’ll crush gently without breaking into splinters.
How many turkey necks can you give a dog?
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 sure they can handle the bone well. There is no specific formula how many turkey necks you can give to your dog.
Are turkey necks healthy?
Turkey Necks are available raw or dehydrated (air-dried). Turkey Necks provide excellent mental stimulation through chewing and may also help with dental health. Turkey Necks are moderate to high in calories and should be fed occasionally as a treat.