How to Dehydrate Turkey Necks for Dogs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Dehydrated turkey necks have become a popular treat for dogs in recent years. They provide a long-lasting chew that is nutritious, delicious, and helps keep your pup mentally stimulated. Turkey necks are also naturally high in glucosamine and chondroitin, which supports joint health. However, raw turkey necks can harbor harmful bacteria like salmonella. To get all the benefits of turkey necks for your dog without the risks, many owners are learning how to safely dehydrate them at home.

Below is a complete step-by-step guide on how to dehydrate turkey necks for dogs. You’ll also find tips on proper storage, choosing the right neck size for your dog, and food safety recommendations when working with raw meat.

What You’ll Need to Dehydrate Turkey Necks

Dehydrating turkey necks is a pretty straightforward process but does require some special equipment

• A food dehydrator – Look for a dehydrator with adjustable temperature settings and a fan to circulate air, Stainless steel trays work best

• Meat thermometer – To accurately check internal temperatures and confirm the necks are fully dried out.

• Kitchen shears or sharp knife – For trimming excess fat from the necks and cutting them to size.

• Cutting board

• Quart-sized ziplock bags or airtight container – For storage once dehydrated.

Step 1: Select and Prepare the Raw Turkey Necks

Choose Fresh or Frozen

You can use fresh or frozen turkey necks to dehydrate. If frozen, be sure to thaw completely in the fridge before starting.

Check for Bones

Run your fingers over the necks to feel for any loose bones or cartilage. Remove any you find with a knife or shears.

Trim Off Excess Fat

Turkey necks will have some fat that can go rancid quickly. Cut off any large chunks or strips.

Cut to Size

The size you cut the necks depends on your dog’s size. For small dogs, trim to 3-5 inches. For medium/large dogs, 6-8 inches is a good chewable size.

Step 2: Arrange Necks on Dehydrator Trays

Lay the trimmed necks on the dehydrator trays in a single layer, leaving space around each for air circulation.

Step 3: Dehydrate at 135°F – 145°F

Set your dehydrator to a low temp of 135°F – 145°F. This will dry the necks slowly, preventing fat from becoming rancid. Dehydrate 8-12 hours, rotating trays occasionally for even drying.

Step 4: Confirm Necks are Completely Dehydrated

Finish dehydrating when necks:

• Are 70% reduced in original weight

• Feel hard and solid throughout

• Show no moisture when cut into

• Reach an internal temp of 145°F – 165°F

If any moisture remains, dehydrate another 2-4 hours.

Step 5: Proper Storage

Once cooled, store dehydrated necks in ziplock bags or airtight containers, excluding as much air as possible. Store in fridge for 2-3 weeks or freezer for 1-2 months. Inspect carefully before feeding and discard any with moisture or mold.

Food Safety Tips

Though dehydrating reduces bacteria, you should still follow safe practices when handling raw turkey necks:

• Wash hands thoroughly after touching raw necks

• Use separate cutting boards for raw poultry vs. cooked foods

• Disinfect all surfaces/utensils that touch raw necks

• Follow the 2 hour/4 hour rule – prep necks within 2 hours of fridge, refrigerate within 4 hours after prepping

• Monitor your dog closely when first feeding dehydrated necks and discontinue if any diarrhea or vomiting occurs

Choosing the Right Turkey Neck Size for Your Dog

It’s important to pick a neck size that suits your dog’s size to prevent choking hazards:

Small dogs (under 25 lbs) – 3-5 inch necks

Medium dogs (25-50 lbs) – 5-7 inch necks

Large dogs (50-90 lbs) – 6-8 inch necks

Giant breeds (over 90 lbs) – 8+ inch necks

No matter the size, always supervise your dog when feeding any chew treat like dehydrated necks. Remove and replace if the treat starts breaking into pieces that could pose a choking risk.

The Benefits of Dehydrated Turkey Necks for Dogs

Feeding your dog dehydrated turkey necks offers many advantages:

• Nutritional value – Turkey necks retain much of their protein, vitamins, and minerals after dehydrating.

• Joint health – Naturally high glucosamine and chondroitin levels support mobility.

• Dental health – The chewing action cleans teeth and reduces plaque/tartar.

• Mental stimulation – Provides a satisfyingly long-lasting chew.

• Safety – Dehydrating destroys bacteria like salmonella.

• Convenience – Long shelf life compared to raw necks.

So if you’re looking for a nutritious treat that provides both physical and mental enrichment for your dog, dehydrating your own turkey necks is easy, safe, and rewarding. Follow the steps above for the healthiest home-prepared chews.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do dehydrated turkey necks last?

Stored properly in an airtight bag or container, dehydrated turkey necks will last 2-3 weeks in the fridge or 1-2 months in the freezer.

Can dehydrated turkey necks splinter?

The slow dehydration process helps turkey neck bones retain elasticity and resist splintering. But dogs should still be monitored closely when chewing in case any pieces break off.

Are dehydrated or raw turkey necks better?

Dehydrated is safer since the process destroys bacteria like salmonella. It also extends shelf life unlike raw necks which must be fed immediately.

Can I dehydrate turkey necks in the oven?

You can dehydrate turkey necks in the oven at the lowest temp setting, usually 170°F. Prop the door open slightly and rotate trays. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness. It just takes longer than a dehydrator.

How long should I dehydrate turkey necks?

Turkey necks need 8-12 hours in a dehydrator at 135°F – 145°F. Larger 8 inch necks will be towards the longer end, around 12 hours. Check frequently once close to finished drying.

Conclusion

Dehydrating turkey necks is an easy process that even novice cooks can master in their own kitchen. With some simple equipment, basic prep, and following food safety guidelines, you can make nutritious customized chews your dog will love while avoiding the risks of raw turkey necks. Supervision is still recommended when feeding to prevent choking and monitor reactions. But the benefits of these gluten-free single-ingredient treats are certainly worth the small effort involved.