Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Feet?

Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Feet – Chicken feet can be found in many pet stores, and are often marketed as a healthy treat for dogs. Some people claim that chicken feet can provide health benefits like improving dental and joint health, especially for aging dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Feet

However, is it safe to give your dog raw chicken feet? Before you give your pooch a chicken foot to snack on, here’s what you should know.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Feet

Are Raw Chicken Feet Safe for Dogs?

While chicken feet do contain high levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help improve joint health, the biggest risk of feeding your dog raw chicken is the potential for parasites and bacteria. In fact, studies have shown that up to 48% of raw meat-based diets can be contaminated with Salmonella. Other bacteria like Campylobacter and Listeria have also been found in raw chicken, which can put your dog’s health at risk.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Feet

If you want to give your dog a treat that will improve their dental health and provide them with similar nutrients found in chicken feet, it’s safer to look for alternatives. Safe glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are available, and there are also many dental chews and treats on the market that do not pose a risk to your dog’s health.

Are Cooked Chicken Feet Safe for Dogs?

Cooking chicken feet can make them even more dangerous for your dog. The bones in chicken feet become very brittle when cooked, which can lead to sharp splinters that can cause punctures in your dog’s digestive system. This can cause life-threatening infections like peritonitis and sepsis. Even dehydrated chicken feet may not be safe, as the dehydration process can make bones brittle if the temperature is not carefully controlled throughout the process.

What About Other Raw Animal Products

Chicken feet are not the only raw treat available for dogs. Other raw treats like hearts, bully sticks, and necks may also be found in pet stores. However, as with chicken feet, these treats also carry a risk of bacterial infection. It’s important to research each treat and consider the potential risks before giving them to your dog.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Feet

Dehydrating meats is a popular way to create jerky style treats for pets, but this process does not always remove bacteria that could be present in the raw meat.

The USDA recommends freezing raw meat for up to three days before dehydrating, and keeping the meat at a steady temperature of between 130 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the dehydrating process to minimize the risk of bacterial growth.

Although chicken feet may seem like a natural and healthy option for your dog, the risks of feeding them outweigh the benefits. Safer supplements and dental treats are available, and it’s best to consult with your veterinarian before giving your pooch any unfamiliar treats or supplements.