is raw turkey neck good for dogs

Is Raw Turkey Neck Good For Dogs? The Surprising Truth and Safety Tips
Turkey necks have become a popular treat for dogs in recent years. Their popularity is driven by beliefs that they provide dental benefits for dogs by helping clean teeth and freshen breath. Turkey necks are also valued as a tasty chew that provides mental enrichment. However, the big question many dog owners have is whether raw turkey necks are safe and recommended for dogs. Let’s take an honest look at the pros and cons.

What is a Turkey Neck?A turkey neck refers to the neck of a turkey including the bones cartilage, muscle meat and connective tissue. Turkey necks for dogs are sold either fresh, frozen, or dried and can be purchased online and from many pet stores. They can be an appropriate size for medium to large breed dogs.

Potential Benefits of Turkey NecksThere are some theoretical benefits associated with feeding dogs turkey necks

  • Dental Health – The chewing action may help reduce tartar buildup and gently scrape plaque off teeth However, there are no scientific studies proving this benefit

  • Mental Stimulation – Dogs receive mental enrichment from chewing on turkey necks for 10-30 minutes. This can relieve boredom and stress.

  • Joint Health – Turkey necks contain glucosamine and chondroitin, compounds often used in joint supplements. But it’s unclear if the amounts present actually benefit dogs.

  • Nutrition – Turkey necks provide protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. But the quantities can vary making them hard to rely on nutritionally.

Potential Risks of Turkey Necks
While the potential benefits sound appealing, there are also definite risks to consider when feeding raw turkey necks:

  • Bacterial Contamination – Salmonella, E. coli, and other harmful bacteria can be present on raw turkey necks and sicken dogs or even humans. Proper food handling is essential.

  • Choking Hazard – Dogs may gulp down pieces of bone that can become lodged in the esophagus, trachea, or intestines. Always supervise your dog when feeding any chew.

  • Tooth Fractures – Aggressive chewers can actually crack their teeth on turkey necks. The hard bones may be too firm for some dogs.

  • Constipation or Blockages – Bone fragments that are swallowed may lead to constipation or cause obstructions requiring emergency surgery.

  • Nutritional Imbalances – When fed in excess, the phosphorus and calcium in turkey necks can unbalance your dog’s diet and affect bone development if fed to puppies.

As you can see, both the potential benefits and risks must be carefully considered before making a decision about feeding raw turkey necks to your dog. There are also some dogs that should not be fed turkey necks:

  • Puppies – The high bone content can lead to nutritional imbalances in developing dogs. Stick with a commercial puppy food.

  • Small Dogs – The size of even small turkey necks may pose a choking risk. Try an alternative like chicken necks.

  • Obese Dogs – Turkey necks are high in fat and calories. Opt for a low calorie treat if your dog needs to lose weight.

  • Dogs with Digestive Issues – The fat and bone content may aggravate sensitive stomachs or pancreatitis. Check with your vet.

Tips for Safely Feeding Turkey Necks
If you do choose to feed raw turkey necks, follow these tips to reduce the risks:

  • Source turkey necks from reputable suppliers following strict quality controls. Ensure they are human-grade.

  • Feed turkey necks in moderation – no more than one or two times per week. They should not replace balanced meals.

  • Select the right size neck for your dog and supervise them the entire time to prevent choking.

  • Handle raw turkey necks carefully and wash hands and surfaces afterwards. Store any leftovers securely in the fridge.

  • Introduce turkey necks gradually if your dog is not used to them or other raw meaty bones.

  • Ask your vet before feeding turkey necks if your dog has any health conditions or takes medications.

The controversy around raw turkey necks stems from the lack of scientific evidence proving their benefits outweigh their risks. Some vets encourage their use while others advise avoiding them. Get your vet’s opinion for advice tailored to your individual dog. If you do choose to feed turkey necks, proceed with caution, follow safe handling procedures, and supervise your dog closely.

is raw turkey neck good for dogs

Is Pure Life Raw made with human-grade ingredients?

We always source the best quality human-grade ingredients. Seriously, our pets eat better than us.

Check out our comprehensive FAQ here.

We partner with local farmers and distributors in California and pride ourselves on using meats, bones, and organs raised on pasture and grass-fed. Well never subject these fresh ingredients to HPP or pasteurization.

Benefits that Exceed the Tail Wags

Rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, Raw Turkey Necks offer a load of benefits and additional bone content to your pet’s raw diet.

  • These meaty bones act as a natural toothbrush, scrubbing the teeth and freshening breath!
  • RMB’s exercise the jaw, providing mental stimulation and stress relief
  • High protein levels supply amino acids to strengthen hair, skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage
  • Balanced source of calcium, phosphorous, and fats for strong bones and a healthy gut biome
  • Contains essential vitamins for joint health
  • Rich amino acids keeps your pet’s skin and coat glowing
  • Great for larger dogs, or to make bone broth!
  • Preventative for teeth and gum disease
  • ​​Feeding our dogs Raw Meaty Bones allows them to chew and tear through meat and bone like their ancestors, meeting their natural needs while reducing stress and anxiety

Can Dogs Eat Raw Turkey Necks?

FAQ

Can dogs get salmonella from raw turkey neck?

Some dog owners will choose to feed their dogs raw meaty bones as part of their diet, and in consultation with their vet. Raw turkey necks are a common choice for this purpose, but any raw meaty bone carries with it a risk of exposure to bacteria like salmonella.

What parts of a raw turkey can a dog eat?

The giblets (or the liver, kidneys, heart, and gizzard) are also safe for pups to eat, just make sure to cut them up into easily chewable pieces. Avoid feeding your dog the neck, though, as the bones inside could be dangerous.

Are turkey necks better than chicken necks for dogs?

Turkey necks make a great treat or snack for dogs and are especially great for larger dogs. These are, essentially, a larger version of our popular chicken necks which tend to be more suitable for smaller dogs and cats. Turkey necks are great for teeth and jaw muscles, as well as overall oral hygiene.

Can a dog eat raw turkey necks?

You can also add raw turkey necks to your dog’s weekly dental cleaning routine, even if you usually feed pre-made raw dog food (or even kibble). Good to know: Whole turkey necks from Raw Paws Pet Food come in different sizes and weigh between 8-13 oz.

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.

Are turkey necks good for dogs?

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.

Are raw turkey necks good for You?

Raw turkey necks are full of beneficial nutrients. For example, they have a high protein content, which benefits animals’ health in many different ways. It improves their muscle development, gives them healthy skin, and regulates hormones’ production, to name a few.

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