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 Give Turkey Necks to Dogs?
Turkey necks have become a popular treat for dogs in recent years. As pet owners seek out more natural and raw food options for their pups, many wonder – can you give turkey necks to dogs? The short answer is yes, turkey necks can be fed to dogs, but there are some important factors to consider before tossing your pooch a turkey neck.
What Are Turkey Necks?
Turkey necks are the neck of a turkey, containing vertebrae, cartilage, muscle meat, and connective tissue. They are an entire neck section, typically 6-12 inches long depending on the size of the turkey. Turkey necks provide a fatty, meaty chew for dogs.
Potential Benefits of Feeding Turkey Necks to Dogs
There are some potential benefits associated with giving your dog turkey necks
-
Teeth Cleaning – The abrasive action of chewing may help reduce tartar buildup on teeth. This is not a substitute for professional dental cleanings but may provide some benefit.
-
Mental Stimulation – Turkey necks take dogs time to chew, providing mental enrichment. This may help relieve boredom and stress.
-
Natural Source of Chondroitin and Glucosamine – These compounds support joint health and are found naturally in cartilage and connective tissue like that in turkey necks.
-
Protein and Fat – Turkey necks provide protein for muscle maintenance and fat for energy. Both should be fed in moderation.
Potential Risks of Turkey Necks for Dogs
While turkey necks can provide benefits, there are also some risks to consider:
-
Choking Hazard – Like any chew, turkey necks pose a choking risk if not chewed properly. They should be monitored and sized appropriately.
-
Salmonella and E. Coli – Raw turkey may harbor harmful bacteria like salmonella or E. coli. Proper food handling and hygiene is critical.
-
Gastrointestinal Upset – Too much fat or bone can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Overfeeding should be avoided.
-
Tooth Fractures – Aggressive chewers may crack teeth on turkey necks. Discontinue use if you notice any damaged teeth.
-
Intestinal Blockages or Obstructions – Swallowed bone fragments may cause gastrointestinal obstructions requiring surgery.
-
Pancreatitis – High fat treats like turkey necks may trigger pancreatitis in prone dogs. They are not recommended for overweight or diabetic dogs.
-
Nutritional Imbalances – Too much calcium from bone or phosphorus can disrupt balance growing puppies need. Only feed to adult dogs.
How to Choose Turkey Necks for Dogs
When selecting turkey necks for your dog, opt for raw or air-dried over cooked. Cooked bones become brittle and prone to splintering. Raw or dehydrated necks are safer options. Select products from reputable companies that follow food safety protocols. Choose necks from humanely raised turkeys when possible.
For small dogs, turkey necks may be too large. Chicken necks or other appropriately sized chews are safer alternatives. Only choose turkey necks your dog can handle based on their size and chewing habits. Monitor them closely when first introducing any new chew.
How to Prepare and Serve Turkey Necks for Dogs
To serve raw turkey necks, select necks and place them in the refrigerator to thaw gradually. Once thawed, rinse under cool water and pat dry. Turkey necks should always be served raw – never cooked.
For dehydrated or freeze-dried necks, follow package instructions for rehydrating if desired. Most can be served dry or rehydrated.
Turkey necks should be served at room temperature or slightly cool, not cold from the fridge or warm. Cold items may fracture teeth while warm foods carry more bacteria.
How Much Turkey Neck to Feed Your Dog
Turkey necks are high in fat and calories, so limit them to an occasional treat 2-3 times a week at most. For a 25-50 lb dog, one turkey neck per week is sufficient. Smaller dogs can have part of a neck while larger breeds may handle more.
Monitor your dog’s weight and adjust accordingly. Obese or older dogs should avoid turkey necks altogether due to the high fat content. Puppies also cannot have turkey necks as the calcium/phosphorus levels are improper for growing bones.
What to Do If Your Dog Has Trouble with Turkey Necks
Supervise your dog anytime they are eating a turkey neck or other chew. If they begin coughing, gagging or retching, take the neck away immediately. Try offering a smaller piece next time.
If your dog experiences vomiting, diarrhea or constipation after eating a turkey neck, do not offer another one. The fat or bone may be too much for their digestive system to handle.
See your veterinarian promptly if your dog shows signs of a blockage or obstruction after eating turkey necks including vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy or abdominal pain. Surgery may be needed to remove obstructions.
Signs of pancreatitis including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy or loss of appetite also warrant an urgent vet visit after consuming any high fat treat like turkey necks.
Alternatives to Turkey Necks for Dogs
If your dog did not tolerate turkey necks or you want to explore other options, consider:
-
Raw Meaty Bones – Bones like lamb necks or pork ribs provide similar benefits. Always feed raw, never cooked.
-
Antlers or Hooves – These hard chews promote chewing but last longer than turkey necks. Opt for all-natural products.
-
Bully Sticks – These digestible chews keep dogs busy for 30+ minutes. Choose sticks free of artificial ingredients.
-
Dental Chews – Look for products with the VOHC seal that are clinically proven to fight plaque and tartar.
-
Food Puzzles – These mentally stimulate dogs by requiring them to move pieces to access kibble inside. Introduce gradually.
-
Stuffed Kongs – You can stuff kibble, peanut butter and treats inside Kong toys for dogs to lick out over time.
The Bottom Line: Turkey Necks as an Occasional Treat
Overall, turkey necks can make a good occasional chew treat for dogs if sized and prepared properly. They provide some benefits like dental cleaning and enrichment. However, you must supervise your dog and introduce turkey necks carefully. Do not offer them too frequently or to dogs unsuited for a high fat, bone-dense chew. Always monitor your dog’s reaction and health closely when offering any new treat or food. Speak with your vet if you have any concerns over diet changes or your dog’s ability to tolerate turkey necks or other hard chews. With some precautions, turkey necks can provide enjoyment and enrichment for your dog!
Nutritional Information for Turkey Necks
Note: The percentages don’t add up to 100% as they are averages from several data sources. Ranges are given when there is a wide variation between products. Find out more about how we calculate nutritional information >>
Turkey necks are high in protein which is essential for muscle development, healthy skin and coat, and the production of hormones and enzymes – just to name a few of its many functions! Growing puppies naturally have a higher requirement for protein than adult dogs, though highly active dogs may also benefit from extra protein in their diet. Whilst most healthy dogs will tolerate high protein treats, they are best avoided in dogs with underlying kidney or liver disease.
Turkey necks are also relatively high in fat which can be an excellent source of energy, especially for active dogs. Fat also helps to absorb and utilise fat-soluble vitamins and is a source of essential fatty acids which contribute to healthy skin and coat and reduce inflammation. Turkey necks and other high fat treats should be avoided in overweight dogs or those with pancreatitis, diabetes or gastrointestinal problems.
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.
Top Tips: Turkey Necks for Dogs | Dr. Alex Crow | PetHealthGuru | Dog Food | Veterinarian Tips |
FAQ
Is a turkey neck safe for dogs?
Avoid feeding your dog the neck, though, as the bones inside could be dangerous.Nov 14, 2022
Can you give dogs raw neck bones?
Small dogs should have smaller bones that they can manage like: Raw Chicken Necks: Chicken necks are small and soft enough for most small dogs to chew safely.
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.
Is turkey better for dogs than chicken?
- Benefits: Turkey is a lean protein that can help build muscle mass. It’s also a good alternative for dogs with chicken allergies.
- Preparation: Turkey should be fully cooked, skinless, and unseasoned. Overcooked turkey can be difficult to digest.
- Serving: Turkey can be served in small portions.
Can a dog eat raw turkey necks?
If you choose to feed your dog a raw diet, you can give them raw turkey necks. However, if you prefer to feed your dog cooked food, you should fully cook the turkey necks before feeding them to your dog. To cook turkey necks for your dog, you can boil them in water for about 30 minutes or until they are fully cooked.
Should I give my dog turkey necks?
In addition to washing your dog’s teeth, you should give it turkey necks as a treat. You can also do the latter instead of the former if your dog won’t tolerate the brushing. Turkey necks help clear up plaque build-ups on teeth and gums, thus improving dogs’ dental health. However, this fact hasn’t been proven yet by studies.
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 frozen turkey necks?
If your dog eats one of those splinters, it can cause severe injuries to its throat and stomach. The same goes for frozen turkey necks, which are a lot harder. As a result, you should always thaw them properly before offering them to your pet. Raw turkey necks have many benefits that can improve your dog’s health.
Are turkey necks bad for dogs?
Some dogs may have difficulty digesting bones, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Additionally, turkey necks are high in sodium and can contain preservatives, which can be harmful to dogs in large amounts.
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!