Can my dog have turkey?

Generally speaking, plain turkey is a fantastic treat that you and your pup can enjoy together. Before your dog gobbles it up, just make sure it’s free of bones and seasoning. It’s also important to avoid lunch meat because of the high sodium content.

Your dog’s daily calorie requirements are based on factors like their age and size, and there are a few general feeding guidelines that are important to follow. If you’re unsure what’s right for your pup, your veterinarian can help. Keep in mind that treats should make up 10% or less of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Moderation is key.

👉 For reference, a 3-ounce serving of white meat turkey without the skin is 138 calories.

Turkey can be a wonderful addition to your pup’s diet. White meat turkey makes a healthy snack because it’s a lean, highly-digestible protein source that’s packed with nutrients. Keep in mind, though, that dark meat and turkey legs and skin are all higher in fat than white meat.

Nutrients found in turkey

• Protein. Protein is crucial for your pupper’s overall health. It provides essential amino acids and nitrogen Trusted Source The Merck Veterinary Manual Trusted provider of veterinary medicine. Go to source and is a fundamental requirement of a balanced diet.
• B vitamins. Vitamin B12 Trusted Source American Kennel Club (AKC) Registry of purebred dog pedigrees. Go to source assists with enzyme function and is beneficial for your dog’s nervous system and intestinal health.
• Phosphorus. Phosphorus is essential for healthy teeth and provides your pup with energy.

Before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet, it’s a good idea to seek the advice of your veterinarian. Below are a few of the potential risks.

Allergic reactions. Turkey allergies in dogs are rare but possible. Symptoms of food allergies include itchy skin and diarrhea. If your dog develops these symptoms after eating turkey, you should stop giving it to them. If your dog has a known chicken allergy, it‘s recommended to avoid all poultry, including turkey and eggs as well.

Improperly cooked or raw meat. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Trusted Source American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Not-for-profit organization representing 97,000+ vets. Go to source opposes feeding raw meat, including poultry, beef, pork, and fish, to dogs because it can make them sick. Raw turkey may contain disease-causing bacteria such as campylobacter, E. coli, and salmonella.

Obstructions. Turkey bones pose the risk of an intestinal blockage. An obstruction requires surgical removal of the substance causing the blockage and can sometimes be fatal.

Intestinal perforations. Cooked turkey bones could cause a perforation, resulting in a hole in the intestines or stomach. This can lead to peritonitis, an inflammation of the lining of the abdomen, which is very serious and can even be fatal.

Digestive upset. Vomiting and diarrhea can be common if a pup ingests too much human food or eats something they’re not used to eating.

Pancreatitis. Skinless white meat is a very lean protein, making it a safe choice for most dogs. If your pet is prone to pancreatitis, which can be a result of too much fat in your dog’s diet, you should contact your vet before feeding turkey to your pooch. Dogs prone to pancreatitis should never be given dark meat or turkey skin because of the high fat content.

Turkey is a safe snack when prepared without seasoning and fats such as butter and oil. Below are some additional tips to try when feeding your pup this food:

Be on the lookout for turkey bones — Turkey bones splinter easily Trusted Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals. Go to source and can be very dangerous for your dog. They pose a choking hazard and can also cause an intestinal blockage or puncture, all of which can be life-threatening.

Pass on pepper and other seasonings — As scrumptious as that fried Thanksgiving turkey breast tastes to you, added oils can lead to digestive upset for your dog. In addition, common ingredients such as onions and garlic are toxic to dogs, so steering clear of table scraps is best. Even though you may prefer a well-seasoned turkey, your dog won’t know the difference!

Skip the skin — Turkey skin should be avoided as it’s high in fat, which can lead to tummy troubles.

Start small  — Any time you introduce a new food to your dog, it’s best to start with a very small amount to see how they do. If they tolerate it, you can gradually increase the amount. But remember: Treats should only make up 10% of your dog’s daily food intake.

In addition to turkey, there are other safe foods that you and your pup can enjoy together. Some of our favs are sweet potatoes, carrots, green beans, mangos, and apples, all of which are super easy to give to your pooch. We suggest keeping a bag of mini carrots or sliced apples in the fridge, and when your doggo comes to you for a tasty treat, you’ll have one at the ready! Not only are these fruits and veggies nutritious and delicious, but they’re also a way for you to share a special moment with your best friend.