Turkey necks have become a popular treat for dogs in recent years. They provide a long-lasting chew that keeps your pup mentally stimulated. Turkey necks also contain glucosamine and chondroitin which may support joint health.
However, raw turkey necks come with some risks – they can harbor harmful bacteria like salmonella. To eliminate this risk while still providing all the benefits of turkey necks, many dog owners choose to dehydrate them at home
Below you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to safely dehydrate turkey necks for dogs, along with tips on storage, food safety, and how to choose the right turkey neck size for your pup.
What You’ll Need
Dehydrating turkey necks is a simple process but does require some special equipment
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A food dehydrator – Look for one with adjustable temperature settings and a fan or airflow to circulate hot air. Stainless steel trays are best.
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Meat thermometer – To check internal temperatures and make sure the turkey necks are fully dehydrated.
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Kitchen shears or sharp knife – To trim off excess fat and cut necks to size.
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Cutting board
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Quart-sized ziplock bags or airtight container – For storage.
Step 1 – Select and Prep the Turkey Necks
ChooseFresh or Frozen
You can use fresh or frozen turkey necks to dehydrate. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them fully in the refrigerator before starting the dehydrating process.
Check for Bones
Run your fingers over the turkey necks to check for any loose bones or cartilage. Remove any you find with a knife or kitchen shears.
Trim Off Excess Fat
Turkey necks will contain some fat which can go rancid quickly. Remove any large chunks or strips of fat with your shears or knife.
Cut to Size
The size of turkey neck you choose depends on the size of your dog. For small dogs, trim the neck down to 3-5 inches. For medium or large dogs, 6-8 inches is a good chewable size.
Step 2 – Dehydrate the Necks
Set your dehydrator to 135°F – 145°F. This low temperature will dry the turkey necks out slowly, preventing the fat from becoming rancid.
Arrange the trimmed necks on the dehydrator trays, making sure none are overlapping. Dehydrate for 8-12 hours. Check them periodically and rotate the trays if needed so they dry evenly.
Step 3 – Confirm They’re Fully Dehydrated
The turkey necks are finished dehydrating when they:
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Are 70% reduced in weight from their original raw state
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Feel hard and solid all the way through
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Show no signs of moisture when cut into
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Reach an internal temperature of 145°F – 165°F on a meat thermometer
If the necks feel soft or squishy in the center, dehydrate for 2-4 more hours until fully dried out.
Step 4 – Storage
Proper storage is important to keep your dehydrated turkey necks from spoiling.
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Let necks cool fully after dehydrating then place in a quart-sized ziplock bag or airtight container.
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Exclude as much air as possible.
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Store bags or containers in the fridge for 2-3 weeks.
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For longer storage of 1-2 months, place bags in the freezer.
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Before feeding, inspect each neck carefully for signs of moisture or mold. Discard any that look questionable.
Food Safety Tips
Though dehydrating helps reduce bacteria, you should still follow safe food handling practices:
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Wash your hands thoroughly after touching the raw turkey necks.
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Use separate cutting boards for raw poultry and cooked foods.
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Wash all utensils and surfaces that come into contact with the raw necks.
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Follow the 2 hour/4 hour rule – turkey necks should be dehydrated within 2 hours of leaving fridge, and refrigerated within 4 hours after prepping.
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Monitor your dog for any signs of gastrointestinal upset when first introducing dehydrated turkey necks. Discontinue use if any diarrhea or vomiting occurs.
Choosing the Right Size Neck
To avoid choking hazards, it’s important to choose a turkey neck size that suits your dog. Use the guide below:
Small Dogs
Dog weight: Under 25 lbs
Neck size: 3 – 5 inches
Miniature breeds like chihuahuas, toy poodles, and pomeranians do best with a smaller 3-5 inch turkey neck they can chew comfortably.
Medium Dogs
Dog weight: 25 – 50 lbs
Neck size: 5 – 7 inches
Medium dogs like beagles, bulldogs, and corgis can handle a 5-7 inch neck.
Large Dogs
Dog weight: 50 – 90 lbs
Neck size: 6 – 8 inches
Large breeds like labradors, german shepherds, and golden retrievers can chew a bigger 6-8 inch turkey neck.
Giant Breeds
Dog weight: Over 90 lbs
Neck size: 8+ inches
Giant size breeds like great danes and mastiffs need an extra large turkey neck of 8 inches or longer to chew safely.
No matter your dog’s size, always supervise them when enjoying any chew treat like dehydrated necks. Remove and replace the treat if it starts to break into small pieces that could present a choking risk.
FAQs
How long do dehydrated turkey necks last?
Stored properly in an airtight container or bag, dehydrated turkey necks will last 2-3 weeks in the fridge or 1-2 months in the freezer.
Can dehydrated turkey necks splinter?
The slow dehydrating process helps turkey neck bones retain their elasticity and resistance to splintering. However, your dog should still be monitored closely while chewing in case pieces break off accidentally.
Are dehydrated or raw turkey necks better?
Dehydrated is considered safer as the process destroys potentially harmful bacteria like salmonella. Dehydrating also prolongs shelf life. Raw turkey necks should only be fed immediately after purchased.
Can I dehydrate turkey necks in the oven?
You can dehydrate turkey necks in the oven using the lowest temperature setting, usually around 170°F. Prop the oven door open slightly with a wooden spoon handle to allow moisture to escape. Be sure to rotate the trays and use a meat thermometer to check doneness, as you would with a dehydrator. The process will just take longer.
How long should I dehydrate turkey necks?
Turkey necks need 8-12 hours in a dehydrator set between 135°F – 145°F. Expect closer to 12 hours for larger 8 inch necks. Check frequently toward the end until completely dried out.
Dehydrating your own turkey necks at home allows you to control the ingredients and process safely. With the proper dehydrating guidelines followed, you can eliminate the risks of bacteria while providing your dog with a nutritious treat they’ll love chewing on for hours. Just be sure to supervise them closely and choose the right neck size for safe chewing.
Why Dehydrating Turkey Necks for Dogs is Beneficial
Dehydrating turkey necks is a great way to provide your furry friend with a nutritious and delicious treat. Not only are turkey necks a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin, which are beneficial for joint health, but they also offer a satisfying chew for your dog. Dehydrating turkey necks allows you to preserve them without the need for artificial preservatives, making them a healthy and cost-effective option for your pet.
Steps to Dehydrate Turkey Necks for Dogs
Dehydrating turkey necks for your dog is a straightforward process that can be done at home with the right equipment. Follow these simple steps to create a tasty and nutritious snack for your furry companion:
- Preparation: Start by selecting high-quality, fresh turkey necks for your dog. It’s essential to choose turkey necks that are free from any additives or seasonings.
- Cleaning: Thoroughly rinse the turkey necks under cold water to remove any potential contaminants.
- Cutting: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the turkey necks into smaller, manageable pieces. This step is particularly important if you have a smaller dog or if you prefer to offer portion-controlled treats.
- Dehydrating: Place the prepared turkey necks on the dehydrator trays, ensuring that there is enough space between each piece for proper air circulation. Set the dehydrator to the appropriate temperature for meat, typically around 155°F, and allow the turkey necks to dehydrate for 8-12 hours.
- Checking for Doneness: After the initial dehydration period, check the turkey necks for doneness. They should be firm and dry to the touch, with no signs of moisture. If necessary, continue dehydrating for an additional 1-2 hours.
- Cooling and Storing: Once the turkey necks are fully dehydrated, allow them to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container for storage. Properly dehydrated turkey necks can be stored at room temperature for several weeks or in the refrigerator for an extended shelf life.