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?
USA Recommendation: Northwest Naturals sourced their turkey from a USDA inspected and passed human facility in the US. Buy their freeze dried turkey necks here on Amazon >>
UK Recommendation: Anco source all their meat from the UK and Europe. Buy their turkey necks on their website >>
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 You Feed Turkey Necks to Dogs? The Pros and Cons Explained
Turkey necks have become a popular treat and chew for dogs in recent years Many dog owners wonder – can I feed turkey necks to my dog? Are they healthy or harmful? This article will examine the pros and cons of feeding turkey necks to dogs to help you make an informed decision.
What are Turkey Necks?
Turkey necks are the neck of a turkey without the head, skin or crop attached They contain the spine, trachea, muscle and connective tissue Turkey necks can range from 6-12 inches long depending on the size of the bird. They are a byproduct of the poultry industry, as the necks are not typically used for human consumption. Turkey necks for dogs are sold raw, dehydrated or freeze-dried.
Potential Benefits of Feeding Turkey Necks to Dogs
There are several potential benefits associated with feeding your dog turkey necks:
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Excellent source of protein – Turkey necks contain high quality, easily digestible protein which is essential for dogs. The protein supports muscle growth and maintenance.
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Promotes dental health – The act of chewing on the turkey neck may help remove plaque and tartar buildup on your dog’s teeth.
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Provides mental stimulation – Turkey necks can provide mental enrichment for dogs as they enjoy chewing them. This can relieve boredom and stress.
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Contains glucosamine and chondroitin – These compounds are found naturally in the cartilage and may support joint health and mobility in dogs. However, the quantities in turkey necks are unestablished.
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Calcium and phosphorus – Turkey necks provide calcium and phosphorus, which are important for bone health. But the ratio of these minerals needs to be carefully balanced, especially for puppies.
Potential Risks of Feeding Turkey Necks to Dogs
While turkey necks can provide some benefits, there are also potential risks to consider:
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Choking hazard – Turkey necks contain small bones that can pose a choking risk, especially for dogs that gulp their food. It’s important to supervise dogs when feeding any chew treat.
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Can cause obstructions or blockages – Large pieces of turkey neck may cause a blockage in the esophagus, stomach or intestines if swallowed. This can be life-threatening and requires emergency surgery.
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Contaminated with bacteria – Raw turkey necks may contain Salmonella, E. coli and other harmful bacteria. These can cause gastrointestinal illness in dogs and humans. Proper food handling is essential.
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High in fat – Turkey necks are relatively high in fat. This makes them a high calorie treat that may contribute to weight gain or pancreatitis. Avoid overfeeding.
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Not suitable for all dogs – Turkey necks are inappropriate for puppies, dogs with dental issues, gastrointestinal problems or those prone to gulping food.
Best Practices When Feeding Turkey Necks to Dogs
If you choose to feed your dog turkey necks, follow these tips to reduce risks:
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Supervise your dog – Do not leave dogs unsupervised with any chew or bone treat to prevent choking.
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Feed appropriate sizes – Choose a turkey neck size that matches your dog’s breed size. Avoid giving large breeds small necks and vice versa.
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Feed in moderation – Turkey necks are high in fat and calories, so feed occasionally as a treat, not daily. Start with small amounts to assess tolerance.
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Cook properly – Only feed raw or dehydrated turkey necks. Avoid bones cooked at high temperatures as they can splinter.
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Practice food safety – Wash hands and disinfect surfaces after handling raw turkey necks to prevent bacterial contamination. Don’t allow dogs to lick faces or preparation areas.
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Introduce slowly – When first feeding turkey necks, go slow to allow the dog’s digestive system to adjust.
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Provide plenty of water – Ensure fresh water is always available, especially when giving dehydrated turkey necks which can be rehydrated in the stomach.
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Monitor your dog – Pay attention to your dog when eating a turkey neck and look out for signs of choking or distress. Seek immediate veterinary care if concerned.
Alternatives to Turkey Necks for Dogs
If you decide turkey necks are not suitable for your dog, some alternatives to consider include:
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Raw meaty bones – Other raw bone choices like lamb necks, pork necks or beef ribs. Follow the same safety guidelines.
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Dehydrated chicken necks – Smaller than turkey necks so may be better for smaller dog breeds.
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Bully sticks – Digestible chews that provide mental stimulation. Avoid if your dog gulps treats.
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Dental chews – Look for treats with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Acceptance.
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Stuffed food toys – Use kongs or other puzzle toys stuffed with dog-safe foods like peanut butter, cream cheese, canned dog food or pumpkin puree.
The Verdict: Can You Feed Turkey Necks to Dogs?
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 eat the turkey neck?
- Always cook turkey necks before feeding them to your dog: to eliminate potential bacterial issues like salmonella.
- Monitor your dog closely while they chew on a turkey neck: as there is a choking hazard risk, especially for smaller dogs.
- Consider your dog’s size and dental health: when deciding if turkey necks are appropriate.
- Consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food to your dog’s diet, especially if they have any underlying health conditions.
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
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.
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.