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).
Raw turkey necks are a popular treat for dogs, but there are some important things to consider before feeding them to your canine companion. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the benefits and risks of raw turkey necks for dogs, proper preparation techniques, veterinarian recommendations, and safe alternatives
An Overview of Raw Turkey Necks for Dogs
Turkey necks provide many nutritional benefits for dogs. They are an excellent source of protein, essential fatty acids, and important vitamins and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and zinc. Turkey necks also contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which support joint health.
In addition, chewing on raw turkey necks can help clean your dog’s teeth and exercise their jaw muscles. The bone and connective tissue act as a natural abrasive to scrape away plaque and tartar as your dog chews.
However, there are some potential risks with feeding raw turkey necks that need to be considered. Raw poultry can harbor bacteria like Salmonella, which can make dogs sick. Raw bones may also splinter and cause obstructions or internal punctures.
Key Benefits of Raw Turkey Necks for Dogs
Here are some of the main benefits of adding raw turkey necks to your dog’s diet:
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Excellent source of protein: Turkey is a complete, high-quality source of protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass.
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Glucosamine and chondroitin: These compounds support joint health and may help reduce arthritis pain.
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Key vitamins and minerals Turkey necks provide calcium for strong bones and teeth zinc for immune function and B vitamins for energy metabolism.
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Dental health: Chewing scrapes plaque and tartar off teeth and provides an abrasive workout for gums.
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Mental enrichment: Working on a raw meaty bone keeps dogs entertained and satisfies their instinct to chew.
Potential Risks of Raw Turkey Necks for Dogs
While the benefits are substantial, be aware of these potential risks:
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Choking hazard: Gulping large pieces can lead to choking. Always supervise your dog with any chew.
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GI obstruction: Raw bones can splinter and block or puncture the digestive tract.
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Salmonella: Raw turkey may contain this harmful bacteria. Proper handling and storage are crucial.
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Nutritional imbalance: Too many turkey necks could throw off the overall balance of your dog’s diet.
Are Raw Turkey Necks Safe for Dogs?
Most veterinarians consider raw turkey necks reasonably safe for dogs but recommend taking precautions. The risks can be minimized by:
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Selecting the right size neck for your dog
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Supervising to prevent rapid consumption
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Storing properly to avoid bacterial contamination
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Preparing appropriately to reduce choking and splintering hazards
Overall, the general consensus is that the benefits outweigh the risks for most dogs. But as always, check with your vet for advice tailored to your individual dog.
Proper Handling and Preparation of Raw Turkey Necks
To safely feed raw turkey necks:
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Wash hands and prep area thoroughly before and after handling
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Rinse necks well under cool running water
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Trim off excess fat, skin, and gristle with a knife
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Cut necks into smaller pieces if needed for your dog’s size
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Give necks partially frozen to make chewing easier and slower
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Monitor your dog the entire time to prevent gulping of large chunks
Veterinarian Recommendations on Raw Turkey Necks
Many veterinarians approve of raw turkey necks in moderation for dogs not prone to gulping or aggression in eating. However, some vets advise against turkey necks due to the risks. It’s best to consult your own vet for advice specific to your dog.
Factors vets consider include your dog’s size, age, chewing habits, gastrointestinal sensitivities, overall diet, and more. Veterinarians can help you determine if turkey necks are a good option for your individual dog.
Alternatives to Raw Turkey Necks for Dogs
If your vet recommends against turkey necks or you prefer not to feed them, some alternatives to consider include:
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Other raw meaty bones like lamb necks, pork necks, or chicken frames
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Commercial dental chews made from vegetables or animal parts
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Recreational bones like sterilized femurs or horns
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Rubber chew toys (supervise use to prevent choking)
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Dental treats or kibble formulated to reduce plaque and tartar
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Canned sardines or mackerel for omega-3s
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Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements
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Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly
Key Takeaways on Raw Turkey Necks for Dogs
Raw turkey necks can provide substantial benefits but do carry some risks. With proper precautions, most healthy adult dogs can enjoy them safely and reap the nutritional and dental perks. As always, consult your veterinarian regarding the appropriate diet for your dog. Supervise your dog when giving any chew, and discontinue use if you have any concerns about gulping, aggression, or digestion issues.
Bacterial contamination (including Salmonella and E.coli)
Raw meat and bones may be contaminated with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E.Coli that can cause illness in dogs, particularly if they have an underlying illness or are immunocompromised (e.g. undergoing chemotherapy). Air-dried treats, like dehydrated turkey necks, still risk contamination with these bacteria.
Even if your dog does not show any signs of illness, bacterial infection can still be transmitted to humans during close contact. Young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised family members are at higher risk of becoming ill. If your pup or your family is considered high-risk, it might be best to avoid feeding turkey necks and look for other alternatives instead.
Otherwise, make sure to follow strict food hygiene practices including washing your hands regularly after handling treats and petting your dog.
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!
If a large piece is swallowed it could become stuck in the oesophagus on the way down to the stomach, or even lodged at the back of the throat. If a small piece of bone makes its way into the trachea (windpipe) this is an emergency as your dog will struggle to breathe. This is an important reason why your pup should be supervised closely when eating any type of chewable treat.
Choosing the right size chew to suit your dog can also help reduce risk, with turkey necks being better suited to medium, large, or giant breed dogs.
Poorly digested bone fragments can cause constipation in dogs which may vary from mild to severe. In severe cases, evacuation may be required and your vet will need to perform an enema under general anaesthetic.
Sharp bone fragments can also cause trauma to the intestines and gastrointestinal tract and even life-threatening perforation, which is why cooked bones should never be fed to dogs as they are more likely to splinter.
In some cases, large pieces of bone may also cause a blockage (obstruction) in the stomach or intestines. This is considered an emergency and requires urgent surgery to remove the obstruction.
- Your dog is overweight as turkey necks are moderate to high in calories. If you think your dog may be overweight, please consult your veterinarian for a weight loss plan.
- Your dog has an underlying illness such as pancreatitis or is currently receiving chemotherapy unless your veterinarian has advised otherwise.
- Your dog has an allergy or sensitivity to turkey products.
Turkey Necks for Puppies
Turkey necks are not suitable for puppies due to their large size and high quantities of bone. Growing puppies have very strict requirements for calcium and phosphorus and should be fed a high-quality commercial diet that meets these standards. Adding in treats containing bone risks unbalancing this important ratio and puts your pup at risk of developing problems bone and joint problems. Turkey necks are also a choking hazard for puppies that may struggle to chew them and are best fed to adult dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Turkey Necks?
FAQ
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.
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.
Can I give my dog raw chicken neck?
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Potential for APN:Studies have shown a possible association between feeding raw chicken necks and the development of APN, a paralyzing condition similar to Guillain-Barre syndrome in humans.
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Bacteria concerns:Raw chicken can carry bacteria like Campylobacter which could be harmful to your dog.
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Check with your vet:Always discuss any new food items with your veterinarian, especially when it comes to raw bones like chicken necks.