Unless you’re using the turkey neck in a tasty gravy, stock, or soup, many of us can’t think of anywhere else to put them besides the trash. It might seem wasteful, but if giblets aren’t your specialty, what’s the point in keeping them?
Well, when you have a dog in the house, you may not have to scrap your scraps just yet. Turkey necks can be offered to your dog. However, feeding your dog bones is controversial and does come with some risks you should be aware of.
If you do not need the giblets after unpacking your Thanksgiving bird, we’ll discuss how and why you can give your dog turkey necks to eat, and the risks to help you decide whether to do this or not.
Is It Safe for Dogs to Eat Turkey Necks?
Turkey necks have become a popular treat for dogs in recent years. They are an affordable meaty bone that provides mental stimulation through chewing. However, there are some risks to be aware of before feeding turkey necks to your dog. This article will explore the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision about whether turkey necks are safe for your canine companion.
What Exactly Are Turkey Necks?
Turkey necks are the neck of a turkey consisting of vertebrae, muscle meat, connective tissue, and skin. The neck does not contain the head or wattle of the turkey. Turkey necks for dogs are usually 10-12 inches long, depending on the size and age of the turkey. They can be fed fresh, frozen, freeze-dried, or air-dried.
Potential Benefits of Turkey Necks for Dogs
When fed safely and in moderation turkey necks can offer several benefits
Mental Stimulation and Enrichment
The act of chewing provides mental stimulation and enriches your dog’s environment. This is beneficial for reducing boredom and anxiety. Turkey necks take dogs 10-30 minutes to consume, providing extended chewing time.
Dental Health
Chewing meaty bones like turkey necks may help clean tartar and plaque off teeth. The abrasive action scrapes the teeth surfaces, while the gnawing motion promotes saliva production to wash away food debris. This effect depends on the individual chewing habits of your dog.
Nutrition
Turkey necks provide protein, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. However, the quantities can vary greatly depending on the specific product. It’s best to analyze the guaranteed analysis before determining the nutritional value.
Weight Management
Turkey necks are lower in fat and calories compared to many commercial dog treats. The high protein and low calorie content makes them a healthy alternative snack. Always monitor your dog’s body condition when making dietary changes.
Natural Source of Chondroitin and Glucosamine
Connective tissues contain naturally occurring chondroitin and glucosamine, compounds associated with joint health. However, the amounts are not standardized, unlike joint supplements designed for osteoarthritis.
Potential Risks of Feeding Turkey Necks to Dogs
While there are benefits, it’s crucial to consider the potential risks of feeding turkey necks to ensure your dog’s safety.
Choking Hazard
The bones present a choking hazard if swallowed whole or in large pieces. Dogs that gulp their food are at greater risk. Supervise your dog during consumption, and choose an appropriate size neck for their breed.
Gastrointestinal Obstruction
Bone fragments can get lodged in the esophagus, stomach or intestinal tract, causing a life-threatening blockage requiring emergency surgery. This risk increases if turkey necks are cooked instead of raw.
Constipation
Bone pieces that cannot be fully digested may harden into cement-like clumps that cause constipation. Signs include difficulty defecating, decreased frequency of bowel movements, and straining.
Internal Injury and Perforation
Sharp bones can potentially perforate or puncture the stomach, intestines, and rectum during passage. This can lead to severe infection and even death.
Salmonella and E. coli
Like any raw meat, turkey necks can be contaminated with Salmonella, E. coli and other pathogenic bacteria. Safe food handling and storage practices are critical. Dogs with compromised immune systems and humans are at risk of transmittable bacterial infections.
Pancreatitis
The high fat content of turkey necks poses a risk of pancreatitis in dogs prone to the condition. Pancreatitis can be life-threatening and requires emergency veterinary treatment.
Allergies
Some dogs may have an allergy or sensitivity to turkey protein. Diarrhea, vomiting, itching and hives are possible signs of an adverse reaction. Discontinue feeding if these occur.
High Calorie
Turkey necks are high in fat and calories compared to lean meats. They may contribute to obesity if fed too frequently without adjusting daily calorie intake.
Veterinarian Recommendations on Feeding Turkey Necks
Most veterinarians caution against routinely feeding turkey necks to dogs. Potential risks outweigh possible benefits for the majority of pets. Veterinarians may make the following turkey neck recommendations based on your dog’s specific needs:
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Only for extreme chewers that destroy toys easily and need an abrasive chewing outlet. Use caution and supervise closely.
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Only as an occasional high-value training treat for food-motivated dogs. Break into small pieces to reduce choking hazard.
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Avoid or use extreme caution in brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds prone to respiratory obstruction.
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Not recommended for dogs with a history of gastrointestinal problems.
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Not recommended for senior dogs with dental issues or dogs prone to periodontal disease.
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Rotate with other types of bones and chews to balance nutrients and reduce risk of bone pieces accumulating.
Ultimately, veterinarians analyze the unique characteristics and health of the individual dog when advising clients on turkey neck safety. What is suitable for one dog may be inappropriate for another.
Best Practices for Safely Feeding Turkey Necks
If you intend to occasionally feed turkey necks, implement these best practices to reduce risks:
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Purchase from a reputable supplier following food safety protocols. Avoid questionable sources.
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Select turkey necks free of sharp, jagged edges.
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Size the neck appropriately for your dog. Larger breeds can handle longer, meatier necks. Smaller necks for smaller dogs.
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Supervise closely each time to monitor chewing and immediately intervene if choking.
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Feed outside or in an easy to clean area to avoid messes and bacteria contamination indoors. Disinfect surfaces afterwards.
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Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw turkey necks to prevent bacterial infections.
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Store frozen or refrigerated at temperatures below 40°F. Defrost slowly in the refrigerator before feeding.
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Introduce gradually and limit to one turkey neck per week to assess tolerance.
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Do not substitute for balanced meals. Turkey necks should only comprise a minimal portion of the overall diet.
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Avoid feeding to puppies, dogs with underlying health conditions, or dogs taking medications without first consulting your veterinarian.
Alternatives to Turkey Necks for Dogs
The following turkey neck alternatives provide safer options:
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Dental chews designed to scrape plaque and tartar off teeth surfaces. Choose products awarded the VOHC Seal by the Veterinary Oral Health Council.
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Food puzzle toys that motivate mental stimulation and prolong feeding time. Examples include Kongs, snuffle mats, and interactive feeders.
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Recreational bones sourced from animals with softer bones like lamb. Avoid weight bearing bones from large ungulates like cows.
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Antlers from deer and elk which are harder, less likely to splinter, and worn down more slowly during chewing.
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Rawhide alternatives made from pizzle, yak cheese or pressed rawhide. Choose digestible options minimally processed without chemical tanning.
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Frozen carrots or apples for a refreshing crunchy treat that cleans teeth.
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Low-fat meat strips and jerky for a protein-rich training reward. Keep portions small.
The Bottom Line: Is It Safe to Feed Dogs Turkey Necks?
While turkey necks can provide some benefits, the substantial risks outweigh any potential advantages for most dogs. Veterinarians typically advise against routinely feeding turkey necks. With careful precautions, some dogs can tolerate turkey necks sparingly under supervision, but they are not necessary for a balanced canine diet. Safer, nutritious alternatives exist without the choking hazards and intestinal risks. Prioritize your dog’s safety and well-being when considering adding turkey necks or any novel food item. Your veterinarian can help assess if turkey necks are ever appropriate for your individual dog.
What Kind of Dogs Can Eat Turkey Necks?
Turkey necks can be fairly large, and some measure 10–12 inches and weigh over a pound. Large dogs are well-suited for these necks because their teeth and digestive systems will be able to better cope with the bones.
You can try turkey hen necks, about half the weight of a male’s if you have small to medium-sized dogs. You may even try sizing down to duck or chicken necks for the smallest toy breeds.
Feed Turkey Necks Outside
Raw turkey necks can spread dangerous bacteria around whatever surface your dog eats on. You never want to feed your dog on the carpet, and if you let them dine on a hard floor, you’ll have to thoroughly clean and sanitize it.
To make life as easy as possible, let your dog munch on their turkey neck outside.
Top Tips: Turkey Necks for Dogs | Dr. Alex Crow | PetHealthGuru | Dog Food | Veterinarian Tips |
FAQ
Can dogs eat cooked turkey necks?
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Safety first:Always cook turkey necks thoroughly to kill any harmful bacteria like salmonella.
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Choking hazard:Due to the small bones, turkey necks can be a choking hazard, so ensure your dog is large enough to handle them and cut them into manageable pieces if necessary.
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Monitor while eating:Keep an eye on your dog while they are chewing on the turkey neck to intervene if needed.
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Consider your dog’s health:If your dog has dental issues or is a senior, they may not be able to chew turkey necks properly.
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Consult your vet:If you have any concerns about feeding turkey necks to your dog, always consult your veterinarian.
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
Are neck bones safe for dogs?
- Beef neck bones: Can be eaten as a meal or snack, and are suitable for large and small dogs
- Chicken necks: Good for small dogs and puppies
- Lamb neck pieces: Good for medium and large dogs
- Turkey necks: Can be eaten by large and extra large dogs, but raw turkey necks can contain salmonella
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.
What meat should I never feed my dog if they have dementia?
A dog can be fed with any kind of fresh meat like chicken, pork, beef, fish or turkey. It is not advisable to feed processed meat to dogs because there are scientific studies that claim that these processed meat can increase the risk of developing dementia.
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.
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.
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?
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!