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?
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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 Feed Dogs Raw Turkey Necks?
Turkey necks have become a popular treat for dogs in recent years. Their appeal lies in the belief that they provide dental benefits for dogs by helping clean teeth and freshen breath. Turkey necks are also valued as a source of mental stimulation and enrichment for dogs through chewing. However, the practice of feeding raw turkey necks to dogs is controversial, with some vets warning of potential dangers. This article provides a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of feeding raw turkey necks to help dog owners make an informed decision.
What are Turkey Necks?
Turkey necks are the neck of a turkey, containing vertebrae, muscle meat, connective tissue, and trachea cartilage. They range from 6 to 12 inches long depending on the size of the turkey. Turkey necks have become popular natural chews for dogs and are usually fed raw or dehydrated. Advocates believe they provide dental and mental enrichment benefits. However, others warn of risks like bacteria, choking, blockages, and nutritional imbalances.
Potential Benefits of Turkey Necks for Dogs
Proponents of feeding raw turkey necks to dogs point to several potential benefits:
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Dental Health – The abrasive action of chewing on turkey necks may help reduce tartar and plaque buildup. However, studies proving this effect are lacking.
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Mental Stimulation – Turkey necks provide dogs with an enjoyable chewing activity that relieves boredom and stress. The meat also adds taste and incentive.
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Natural Source of Chondroitin/Glucosamine – Connective tissue in turkey necks contains these compounds found in joint supplements. But the amounts are likely minimal.
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Promotes Raw Feeding – Some raw feeders add turkey necks to provide edible bone content. But raw diets must be balanced by a veterinary nutritionist.
While tempting to focus on potential gains, it’s vital to objectively weigh the risks of feeding raw turkey necks to dogs.
Risks and Dangers Associated with Turkey Necks
Several veterinary associations strongly advise against feeding raw meaty bones like turkey necks to dogs due to the following dangers:
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Bacterial Contamination – Raw turkey may contain Salmonella, E. coli and other harmful bacteria. These can cause gastrointestinal illness in dogs and even humans if transmitted.
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Choking and Blockages – Gulping down large pieces of bone may block the esophagus, intestinal tract or rectum, requiring emergency surgery.
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Tooth Fractures – Raw turkey bones tend to be softer but can still crack teeth if chewed improperly.
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Nutritional Imbalances – Too much bone content can lead to excessive calcium and imbalance vitamins and minerals in the diet.
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Perforations – Bone shards from turkey necks may puncture, perforate or lacerate the gastrointestinal tract. Peritonitis and sepsis may result.
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Constipation/Obstruction – Bone pieces may clump together and cause a life-threatening obstruction in the intestines.
Veterinarians also strongly advise against feeding any raw bones to puppies, as their developing digestive tract is extra vulnerable.
Overall, most vet associations conclude the risks outweigh potential gains of feeding raw turkey necks to dogs. But some vet experts believe the dangers can be managed with proper precautions.
Expert Veterinarian Opinions on Turkey Necks
Within the veterinary community, opinions differ on the suitability of turkey necks for dogs:
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Against – Organizations like the FDA, AVMA, and CVMA recommend never feeding raw meaty bones like turkey necks to avoid the dangers outlined above.
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Cautious – Some vets say dogs can consume raw turkey necks sparingly if precautions are taken, the dog is supervised, and the product is of food quality. But they generally advise dog owners to avoid them.
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Supportive – A minority of vets actively support feeding dogs food-grade raw turkey necks. They argue raw bones are safe for most dogs if guidelines are followed. But such vets typically recommend whole raw food diets, not just turkey necks alone.
In this divisive landscape, pet owners must weigh input from their personal vet along with risks versus possible rewards. There is evidence on both sides, although most experts lean towards avoiding raw turkey necks for dogs altogether.
Are Raw Turkey Necks Safe for Dogs? Best Practices
While most vets advise skipping raw turkey necks, some believe they can be fed safely if these precautions are strictly followed:
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Choose food-grade turkey necks only from regulated raw pet food suppliers. Avoid random turkey parts.
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Select turkey necks appropriate for the size of your dog. Too large increases choking risk.
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Supervise constantly to monitor chewing and immediate swallowing.
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Feed outside only – indoors raises risk of bacterial spread in home.
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Wash hands and disinfect surfaces thoroughly after handling raw turkey.
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Introduce slowly – don’t make turkey necks a daily treat. Feed occasionally at most.
However, there are no guarantees with any raw meat product. Many vets argue trouble isn’t worth the minimal rewards. Dog owners should consult their vet before trying to mitigate the risks of raw turkey necks.
Alternatives to Raw Turkey Necks for Dogs
As a natural chew, raw turkey necks for dogs can potentially be replaced with:
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VOHC Approved Dental Chews – Veterinary Oral Health Council products are proven to reduce plaque/tartar.
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Raw Meaty Bones – Some vets propose chicken wings or lamb necks as safer alternatives. But most advise avoiding all raw bones.
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Bully Sticks – Digestible beef chews offer comparable chewing time without raw meat dangers.
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Antlers or Hooves – Naturally shed antlers and hooves provide long-lasting chewing.
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Dental Treats – Companies like Greenies offer knobby treats to clean teeth without bones.
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Plaque-Reducing Dry Food – Some kibbles have additives to mechanically reduce plaque. Consult your vet.
To be cautious, dog owners are wise to explore options beyond raw turkey necks. Vet-approved dental care is vital for dogs. But raw turkey bones may not be worth the gamble compared to alternatives. Discuss concerns with your veterinarian.
The Verdict: Should You Feed Your Dog Raw Turkey Necks?
After reviewing all evidence and expert opinions, the verdict leans strongly towards avoiding raw turkey necks for dogs. Potential gains are questionable and better achieved through safer alternatives. Mass veterinary organizations conclusively advise dog owners to never feed raw meaty bones to dogs due to risk of sickness and death.
While a minority of vets believe raw turkey necks can be appropriate if rigorously implemented, they acknowledge significant hazards that are difficult to control fully. Unless your personal vet actively advocates for raw food diets, it is prudent to err on the side of caution. Ultimately, the dangers appear to outweigh potential rewards.
Vitamins, Minerals & Compounds
Turkey necks contain calcium and phosphorus which are essential structural components of teeth and bones. Calcium is also responsible for many other vital bodily functions including hormone secretion, muscle contractions, and normal constriction and dilation of blood vessels. Turkey necks also contain high levels of B vitamins, especially vitamin B12, which is involved in the production of essential proteins and red blood cells and is also required for the reaction of several enzymes.
They also contain essential trace minerals such as iron, copper, selenium, and zinc. Zinc supports a healthy immune system and is important for maintaining healthy skin and coat. Copper aids the absorption of iron, both of which are essential for normal red blood cell function. Selenium is an antioxidant that also plays a role in thyroid function and metabolism, as well as the production of DNA. Selenium may also play a protective role in helping to prevent certain types of cancer, with preliminary studies suggesting some benefit in cases of canine prostate cancer.
Because turkey necks contain connective tissue and cartilage, they will also contain glucosamine and chondroitin, the building blocks that make up healthy cartilage. Supplementation with glucosamine and chondroitin has been clinically proven to reduce the impact of osteoarthritis in affected dogs, however, their levels cannot be accurately established in turkey necks and other natural chews. If your pup is suffering from osteoarthritis, joint supplements with an established therapeutic dose of these ingredients is a better option. Joint problems including osteoarthritis need to be correctly diagnosed by a veterinarian who will then recommend a suitable treatment plan.
Turkey necks are moderate to high in calories, with dehydrated chews higher in calories per kilogram than fresh turkey necks. Expect approximately 130 calories per dehydrated turkey neck chew, which for reference would be nearly 25% of the expected daily calorie requirement for a 30lb dog!
Due to their moderate to high calorie content, turkey necks should only be given as an occasional treat to avoid unwanted weight gain. Feeding one dehydrated turkey neck 1 to 2 times a week is more than enough for a medium-sized dog. Turkey necks should not replace a complete and balanced diet and are best avoided in overweight dogs. If your dog has any underlying health issues like pancreatitis, diabetes, or kidney disease, it’s always best to speak to a veterinarian before changing their diet or adding in new treats.
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.
Do This to Keep Your Dog From Swallowing Turkey Necks Whole
FAQ
Can I give my dog an uncooked turkey neck?
… are high in protein and offer nutritional benefits, raw turkey necks contain harmful bacterial like salmonella and can cause food poisoning in dogs when eatenSep 23, 2024
What parts of a raw turkey can a dog eat?
While both white and dark meat portions of a turkey are safe for a dog to eat, white meat tends to be a better protein source. If you want to feed your dog a small amount of turkey to satisfy their craving without giving them too many extra calories, stick to the white meat pieces.
Are raw neck bones safe for dogs?
It’s important to understand what bones your dogs can eat (based on their size) and how much they can eat. Necks. Dogs and cats of all sizes can eat chicken necks. Duck necks are better for medium-sized dogs, while turkey necks are best for larger pups.
Are raw turkey necks good for dogs teeth?
Dogs chewing on turkey necks can help remove plaque and tartar from their teeth and gums as the soft bones and cartilage scrape them off gently. Consistent brushing of teeth alongside this practice can help prevent periodontal diseases, which are common in dogs. Benefits: turkey necks support strong bones and joints.
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.
What are the health benefits of ground turkey?
Ground turkey has multiple benefits. It is a good source of minerals, and B vitamins, rich in proteins, low in fat and it is lower in calories than common turkey.
What can a dog eat if he has a turkey neck?
Chicken necks: If you have a small-breed dog, these treats offer similar benefits to turkey necks but are smaller in size. Dental chews: If keeping your pup’s teeth is your primary concern, the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VHOC) has an accepted list of products that have been proven to reduce plaque and tartar.
Are turkey necks good for dogs?
Turkey necks are a good source of protein and can provide your dog with essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus. These nutrients are important for maintaining healthy bones and teeth in dogs. In addition to being a good source of nutrition, turkey necks can also provide mental stimulation for your dog.
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.
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!