How to Dehydrate Turkey Necks for Dogs

Dehydrated turkey necks have become an increasingly popular treat for dogs in recent years. They provide a long-lasting, low-calorie chew that is rich in nutrients and helps promote dental health. However, raw turkey necks pose a risk of bacteria like salmonella. Dehydrating turkey necks eliminates this risk while retaining all the benefits.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to safely dehydrate turkey necks at home to create a tasty, wholesome treat for your dog

Benefits of Dehydrated Turkey Necks

Dehydrating turkey necks offers a number of advantages over other dog treats:

• Nutrition – Turkey necks are loaded with protein, as well as important vitamins and minerals like zinc, iron, magnesium, and potassium. This nutrient profile remains intact through the dehydration process.

• Joint Health – Turkey necks are a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin, compounds that support joint health and mobility. This makes dehydrated necks ideal for dogs with arthritis or aging joints.

• Dental Health – The firm, chewy texture scrapes away plaque and tartar as dogs gnaw on the necks. This helps reduce bacteria and risk of periodontal disease.

• Low Calorie – With about 130 calories per ounce, dried necks are a lower calorie option than many other chews or treats. Great for dogs who need to watch their waistline!

• Easy Digestion – The dehydration process makes turkey necks easier to break down compared to raw, helping prevent digestive upset.

• Long Lasting – A dehydrated turkey neck can provide hours of chewing entertainment and mental stimulation as your dog works away at it.

Selecting and Preparing Turkey Necks

Choosing fresh, high-quality turkey necks is key for proper dehydration. Here are some tips:

• Source necks locally from a butcher or meat market whenever possible Avoid pre-packaged necks

• Select necks free from additives like salt, nitrates, or seasonings.

• Check for any shards of bone or cartilage – remove them with a knife.

• Rinse under cold water and pat dry. Cut away excess fat with kitchen shears.

• Portion into sizes appropriate for your dog. Small dogs do best with 3-5 inch segments. Large breeds can handle 6-8 inches.

Dehydrating Methods and Guidelines

Using a Dehydrator

A food dehydrator is the preferred method for making dried turkey necks. Follow these steps:

• Arrange necks on dehydrator trays without overlapping.

• Set temperature between 135°F and 155°F.

• Dehydrate for 8 to 12 hours. Rotate trays and check periodically.

• Necks are done when hardened with no moisture inside.

Using the Oven

You can also dehydrate turkey necks in the oven:

• Place necks on oven racks lined with parchment paper.

• Set oven to the lowest temperature, usually 170°F to 200°F.

• Prop door open slightly with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape.

• Dehydrate for 12 to 18 hours, checking frequently and rotating racks.

Tips for Proper Dehydration

• Use a meat thermometer to verify internal temperature reaches 145°F – 165°F when done.

• Lower temperatures around 135°F are best to prevent fat becoming rancid.

• Expect longer dehydrating times for larger 8 inch necks.

• If any moisture remains when cut into, dehydrate for 2 to 4 more hours.

Storage and Food Safety

Storing dehydrated turkey necks properly is key to preserving freshness and preventing spoilage.

• Allow necks to cool completely after dehydrating before packaging.

• Put necks in sealable bags or airtight containers, excluding as much air as possible.

• Store in refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. Freezer extends shelf life to 1-2 months.

• Inspect each neck carefully before feeding and discard any with signs of moisture or mold.

Other food safety tips:

• Use clean cutting boards, utensils, and wash hands thoroughly after handling raw necks.

• Follow the 2 hour/4 hour guideline – refrigerate prepped necks within 4 hours, dehydrate within 2 hours of fridge.

• Monitor dogs after first feeding for any gastro-intestinal issues and discontinue if diarrhea/vomiting occurs.

Choosing the Right Size Necks

It’s important to select an appropriate turkey neck size for your dog to prevent choking hazards.

Small dogs:

Weight: Under 25 lbs
Neck Size: 3 – 5 inches

Suits breeds like chihuahuas, toy poodles, pomeranians

Medium dogs:

Weight: 25 – 50 lbs
Neck Size: 5 – 7 inches

Good for beagles, bulldogs, corgis

Large dogs:

Weight: 50 – 90 lbs
Neck Size: 6 – 8 inches

Ideal for labs, german shepherds, golden retrievers

Giant breeds:

Weight: Over 90 lbs
Neck Size: 8+ inches

Great danes, mastiffs, and other big guys

No matter the size, supervise your dog with any chew and replace if pieces start breaking off.

FAQs About Dehydrating Turkey Necks for Dogs

How long do dehydrated turkey necks last?
Properly stored in the fridge, dried necks will last 2-3 weeks. Freezer extends shelf life to 1-2 months.

Can dehydrated necks splinter?
The low, slow dehydrating process helps turkey necks retain flexibility to resist splintering. But dogs should still be monitored for any pieces breaking off.

Is dehydrated or raw better?
Dehydrated is considered safer, as dehydrating destroys dangerous pathogens like salmonella that raw necks may harbor. It also extends shelf life significantly.

Can I use the oven instead of a dehydrator?
Yes, oven dehydrating is possible by using the lowest temperature setting (170°F) and propping the door open slightly. Expect longer drying times.

How long should I dehydrate turkey necks?
In a dehydrator set at 135°F – 155°F, turkey necks need 8-12 hours to fully dehydrate. Larger necks may take closer to 12 hours.

Conclusion

Dehydrating your own turkey necks allows total control over the ingredients and process for safety. Following proper dehydrating guidelines eliminates bacterial risks of raw necks while retaining all the nutritional benefits. Just be sure to select the appropriate size for your dog and always supervise chewing. With the satisfaction of a homemade treat they’ll love, dehydrated turkey necks can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet.