NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian first before giving your dog any new foods, especially “people foods.” What might be okay for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors, such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on prescription diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet.
You may be wondering if you can share some turkey from your sandwich or delicious turkey dinner with your canine. Or what about a slice of turkey lunch meat?
Turkey in and of itself is fine for dogs and quite healthy, but there are some stipulations.
Here’s some info on whether you should feed your dog turkey—whether it’s a turkey leg, breast meat, jerky, or ground turkey—plus potential benefits and hazards to look out for.
The holidays are a time for joy, togetherness, and lots of delicious food If you’re a dog owner, you may find your furry friend eagerly awaiting scraps of turkey from the holiday table But is it safe for dogs to eat oven roasted turkey breast? Let’s take a closer look at the pros, cons, and tips for safely feeding dogs this tasty meat.
The Benefits of Turkey for Dogs
Turkey can be a healthy treat for dogs in moderation Here are some of the benefits turkey offers when served properly
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High in protein. Turkey is packed with protein, which provides energy and helps build strong muscles.
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Low in fat. White turkey meat is very lean compared to dark meat. Great for weight control.
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Rich in vitamins and minerals. Turkey contains vitamin B, zinc, potassium and phosphorus.
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Occasional treat. Small servings of turkey add variety to your dog’s diet.
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Palatable taste. Most dogs love the flavor of turkey. It’s very appetizing and rewarding.
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Good training treat. Use tiny turkey pieces as a positive reinforcement for training.
Potential Dangers of Turkey for Dogs
While plain roasted turkey breast meat is fine for dogs, there are some hazards to be aware of:
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Bones – Can cause choking or internal punctures. Never feed bones.
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Skin and fat – Too high in fat which can cause pancreatitis. Avoid giving to dogs.
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Seasonings – Onions, garlic, salt and other seasonings can be toxic to dogs. Only feed plain meat.
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Raw meat – Contains harmful bacteria. Cook thoroughly before feeding.
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Rich diet – Too much can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. Feed sparingly.
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Allergies – Some dogs may be allergic. Discontinue feeding if allergy symptoms appear.
Serving Dogs Oven Roasted Turkey Safely
Follow these tips to safely allow your dog to join in the turkey feast:
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Remove all bones, skin, and visible fat before serving. Discard.
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Only feed your dog white meat without any dark meat or legs. White meat is much leaner.
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Chop or shred into small bite-size pieces to prevent choking.
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Make sure turkey is fully cooked to 165°F internal temperature. Check with a meat thermometer.
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Do not add any oil, butter, salt, pepper or other seasonings. Dogs should only eat plain meat.
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Place small portions in your dog’s bowl as an occasional treat, not a full meal replacement.
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Refrigerate promptly and discard any leftovers after 3-4 days to prevent bacteria growth.
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Introduce new foods slowly. Discontinue feeding if any digestive upset occurs.
How Much Turkey Can Dogs Eat?
Since turkey is a fatty meat, portion control is important. As a general guideline, here are suggested serving sizes of cooked turkey without bones or skin:
- Small dogs under 15 lbs: Around 1 oz
- Medium dogs 15-35 lbs: Around 2 oz
- Large dogs 35-75 lbs: Around 3 oz
- Giant dogs over 75 lbs: Around 4 oz
Consult your vet if you have a puppy or a dog with medical conditions. They may recommend more precise portion guidelines tailored to your dog’s needs.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some other common questions about feeding dogs turkey:
Can dogs eat turkey bones? No. Cooked bones splinter easily and can cause internal injuries.
Can dogs eat turkey skin? No. The skin is too high in fat which can lead to pancreatitis.
Can dogs eat smoked turkey? No. Smoked and processed meats contain too much sodium. Stick to plain roasted turkey.
Can dogs eat turkey necks? Yes, but turkey necks should be cut into small pieces to lower choking risk. Remove any bones first.
Can dogs eat raw turkey? No. Raw poultry carries a risk of salmonella poisoning. Cook turkey thoroughly before giving to dogs.
Can dogs be allergic to turkey? Yes, but it’s rare. Discontinue feeding if allergy symptoms such as itching or skin irritation occur.
Enjoying Turkey Safely Together
The holidays are meant for celebrating with loved ones, including your furry canine companions. By being mindful of proper preparation, portion control, and potential hazards, you and your dog can safely enjoy small amounts of tasty oven roasted turkey breast together this season. Just be sure to check with your vet if you have any concerns over new foods for your four-legged friend.
Serve Fully Cooked Turkey
Although some people might think that feeding a raw turkey neck to a dog is fine, raw turkey can have dangerous bacteria. It’s also a choking hazard. Make sure any turkey you feed your dog is fully cooked.
Can Dogs Eat Turkey Lunch Meat or Smoked Turkey?
No and no. Turkey lunch meat is packed with sodium and other seasonings that can cause gastrointestinal issues.
The same goes for smoked turkey. Smoked meats in general contain a high amount of sodium, as well as other seasonings that could be toxic to your dog.