Can Dogs Eat Turkey Safely? (Thanksgiving & Bones Guide)

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Thanksgiving is a time for sharing delicious food with loved ones, and you might be tempted to include your furry friend in the feast. But is turkey safe for dogs? The answer is a qualified yes. Plain, cooked turkey meat can be a tasty and protein-packed treat for your canine companion, but there are some important considerations.

The Good: Lean Turkey Meat

Unseasoned, cooked turkey meat, specifically the white meat, is a good source of protein for dogs. Protein is essential for muscle development, energy, and overall health. A small portion of plain turkey can be a welcome addition to their regular diet or used as a high-value training reward.

The Bad: Skin, Bones, and Seasonings

This is where things get tricky. You absolutely should never feed your dog turkey skin. Turkey skin is high in fat, which can lead to digestive upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and even pancreatitis, a serious and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas. Also, avoid giving your dog dark meat due to its higher fat content.

Bones are a definite no-no. Cooked bones, including turkey bones, become brittle and can splinter easily. These splinters can cause serious damage to your dog’s digestive tract, leading to choking, cuts in the mouth or throat, intestinal perforation, and even death. Whether it’s a small wishbone or a larger leg bone, keep all turkey bones far away from your dog.

Seasonings commonly used on Thanksgiving turkey, such as garlic, onions, herbs, and spices, can also be harmful to dogs. Garlic and onions are toxic to dogs and can damage their red blood cells. Many herbs and spices, while not necessarily toxic, can cause digestive upset. Avoid feeding your dog any turkey that has been seasoned.

Safe Turkey Serving Suggestions

If you want to give your dog a little turkey, follow these guidelines:

Choose plain, cooked white meat. Remove all skin and bones.
Shred the turkey into small, bite-sized pieces.
Keep the portion size small. A few small pieces are plenty. Think of it as a treat, not a meal replacement.
Monitor your dog for any signs of digestive upset after eating turkey.

What to do if your dog eats something they shouldn’t

If your dog manages to snag some turkey skin, bones, or heavily seasoned turkey, contact your veterinarian immediately. They can advise you on the best course of action, which may include monitoring your dog for symptoms or bringing them in for an examination.

The Bottom Line

A small amount of plain, cooked turkey meat can be a safe and enjoyable treat for your dog. However, always avoid turkey skin, bones, and any turkey that has been seasoned. When in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and offer your dog a healthy, dog-friendly treat instead.