Can Dogs Eat Turkey Tails? A Complete Guide

Turkey tails are a popular seasonal treat around Thanksgiving and Christmas, but should you be sharing them with your dog? Many pet owners find themselves wondering, can dogs eat turkey tails too? This comprehensive guide takes an in-depth look at the pros and cons of feeding turkey tails to dogs so you can make an informed decision for your four-legged friend

What Are Turkey Tails?

Turkey tails are the tail feathers and skin of a turkey along with some attached fatty tissue. They contain minimal actual meat but are loaded with fat, skin, cartilage and small bones. Some pet food companies and pet supply stores sell turkey tails marketed specifically as dog chews or treats. However, vets caution against making turkey tails a regular part of your dog’s diet.

Nutritional Content of Turkey Tails

The primary component of turkey tails is fat Here is the nutritional breakdown

• High in fat – Over 60% of the calories come from fat, mostly saturated and monounsaturated fats. Too much dietary fat puts dogs at risk of pancreatitis or obesity.

• Moderate protein – Turkey tails contain around 20% protein. While decent, other meat sources offer higher, more optimal protein levels.

• Low in essential nutrients – Turkey tails provide minimal vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients. The fat content makes them more of an “empty calorie” treat.

• Bone content – Up to 20% of a turkey tail can be made up of bones, cartilage and connective tissue. This bone content makes them a risky chew treat.

Are Turkey Tails Safe for Dogs?

The quick answer is no, turkey tails are not recommended for dogs. The high fat content coupled with the bone pieces make them a less than ideal snack. Here’s why vets generally advise against feeding turkey tails to dogs:

• Pancreatitis risk – The high fat levels can lead to inflammation of the pancreas. Pancreatitis can be extremely painful and even fatal in dogs.

• Gastrointestinal issues – Too much fat and bone can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea.

• Choking hazard – Bones may splinter and pose a choking risk or puncture the esophagus or intestines.

• Weight gain – With heavy fat and light protein, turkey tails can quickly lead to obesity in dogs.

• Salmonella risk – Raw turkey may contain Salmonella bacteria that can cause illness.

So while the occasional turkey tail given as a treat to a healthy large breed dog is unlikely to cause harm, regular feeding or eating multiple tails could be detrimental.

Healthier Treat Alternatives

Rather than high fat turkey tails, consider these healthier snack options to share with your dog:

• Lean turkey or chicken without skin/bones
• Carrots and green beans
• Low-sodium canned fish
• Apple slices
• Peanut butter in moderation
• Plain yogurt
• Baked sweet potato slices
• Banana slices
• Freeze dried meat treats
• Dental chews

What If Your Dog Eats a Turkey Tail?

If your sneaky dog manages to grab an unattended turkey tail, stay calm and monitor them closely for signs of distress:

• Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite
• Make sure they are passing stool normally
• Withhold food for 12-24 hours
• Contact your vet if concerning symptoms develop

Dogs have a short digestive tract compared to humans, so they usually digest meals quickly. Signs of sickness generally show up within a few hours if your dog eats something they shouldn’t. While one accidentally consumed turkey tail likely won’t cause lasting harm, sustained feeding of them can be detrimental.

FAQs About Dogs and Turkey Tails

Here are answers to some common questions about whether dogs can eat turkey tails:

Can puppies eat turkey tails? No, the bones and high fat make turkey tails unsafe for puppies under 1 year old. Their developing digestive system may struggle to handle turkey tails.

How much turkey tail can dogs eat? Vets recommend not feeding any amount of turkey tail on a regular basis. At most, a single tail could be an very occasional treat for a large breed adult dog.

Are smoked turkey tails okay? No, smoking does not make turkey tails any safer. They are still too high in fat and contain risky bones. Both raw and smoked turkey tails are best avoided.

Can I cook turkey tails for my dog? It’s not recommended, even if cooked. The cooking process could make small bones more brittle and prone to splintering internally.

Conclusion

While turkey tails may seem like a fun seasonal snack, they provide little nutritional value for dogs beyond empty calories and fat. The risks of gastrointestinal issues, pancreatitis, and choking on bones far outweigh any benefits. For a healthier holiday season, stick to giving your dog bite-sized portions of plain turkey meat or vegetables. Avoid making turkey tails a part of your dog’s festivities.

Key Takeaways

• Turkey tails are very high in fat and pose a pancreatitis risk
• Bones within turkey tails are a choking hazard for dogs
• Vets recommend avoiding feeding dogs any turkey tails
• Better options: lean turkey meat, carrots, green beans, or dental chews
• Monitor dog closely if they eat a turkey tail by accident
• Sustained turkey tail feeding could lead to obesity or illness

So when you sit down to enjoy your own holiday meal, resist the urge to share any turkey tails with begging puppy dog eyes. Protect your dog’s health by keeping this fatty, bony snack off the menu. Show your dog some love by sticking to more wholesome, nutrition-packed treats and foods all season long.