At Mersey Raw, we know firsthand how popular chicken feet are for dogs. These all-natural treats have proven popular, and many believe in the potential benefits they can offer to their dogs. But how good are they for dogs? Read on to learn more about feeding chicken feet to dogs.
Are Chicken Feet Safe to Feed to Dogs?
Yes, chicken feet are safe to feed to dogs if they’re prepared and served correctly. Safety and preparation are key when it comes to feeding your dog, and chicken feet are no exception! When it comes to feeding chicken feet to dogs, there are a few things we think you should know:
- Chicken feet are mostly made up of skin, tissue, cartilage, nails, and small bones
- Raw or air-dried chicken feet are the safest to feed to your dog
- Nails on chicken feet should be removed before feeding to your dog
- Cooked chicken feet can be dangerous to feed to your dog
Overall, chicken feet are safe and healthy for dogs to eat, as long as they’re not cooked and the nails have been removed. If you suspect your dog has an intolerance to chicken, feeding chicken feet may be unsafe, and you should consider a different type of treat.
Why Avoid Feeding Dogs Cooked Chicken Feet?
If dogs can eat chicken feet, why can’t they eat them cooked?
Let us explain…
Unlike raw or air-dried chicken feet, cooked chicken feet pose potential risks. When chicken feet are cooked, their bones become brittle and sharp, with the potential to splinter. This can be a huge risk to dogs, with the possibility of causing serious injury, such as choking, internal damage, and poor digestion.
Chicken Feet: Raw or Dried?
Raw and air-dried chicken feed are safe for dogs, offering similar nutritional benefits. However, one of the main differences between the two is convenience. Air-dried chicken feet are often more practical and easier to store at room temperature.
Not only do they offer a longer shelf life, but they’re also more readily available in local pet stores and online. Saying this, both raw and air-dried chicken are great treat options for dogs, and it’s up to you, the owner, to decide which is the best-suited option for your pet!
How Are Dried Chicken Feet Made?
Dried chicken feet are created via a dehydrating method. The process involves placing the chicken feet in a dehydrator or oven to remove any moisture. By doing so, the chicken feet dry out, locking in the healthy nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
Once the chicken feet are fully dehydrated, they’re best stored in an airtight container to ensure a long shelf life. While it’s possible to dehydrate chicken feet at home, it’s advisable to buy dried treats from reputable suppliers, such as ourselves here at Mersey Raw!
Reasons Why Chicken Feet Are Good for Dogs
So, why are chicken feet so good for dogs? Let’s find out!
1 - Nutritious
If you want to feed your dog a highly nutritious and healthy snack packed with essential vitamins and minerals, chicken feet are a great option.
2 - Dental Health
Chicken feet are the perfect snack for dogs to chew, helping reduce plaque buildup and keep breath fresh and gums healthier for longer. The action of crushing bones in chicken feet can help clean between dogs' teeth, which can often be difficult to do with brushing alone.
3 - Low Calorie
While your dog might not necessarily need to lose weight, opting for low-calorie, natural snacks is best. Unlike many processed foods, chicken feet can be a much healthier, potentially lower-fat option.
4 - Easy Digestion
Dried or raw chicken feet are species-appropriate treats for dogs, and unless intolerant, they can often be digested easily. However, it’s important to monitor your dog during treat time to look out for signs of possible stomach upset.
5 - All-Natural
Chicken feet are quite literally what they say they are - 100% chicken feet. They contain zero nasty additives or fillers.
Can Dogs Eat Chicken Feet Every Day?
Although chicken feet are great for dogs, it's not always best to feed them every day. While they offer several benefits, it's important to feed treats, such as chicken feet, in moderation alongside a balanced diet.
How to Safely Feed Chicken Feet to Dogs
Safety is key when it comes to feeding dogs. While some treats are considered safe for them to eat, risk can be involved in anything, and it’s always important to think about safety precautions:
- Feed only raw or air-dried chicken feet
- Make sure the nails are removed
- Supervise during feeding time
- Provide fresh drinking water or naturally hydrating bone broth
- Don’t exceed the daily recommended amount
- Watch out for signs of intolerance
If your dog shows potential signs of intolerance or allergies while eating chicken feet, consult a vet.
At What Age Can Puppies Have Chicken Feet?
Puppies can eat chicken feet once they’re over 12 weeks old. Chicken feet are relatively small, made up of skin, cartilage, and tiny bones. If you follow safety precautions as mentioned above and ensure your pup is of a suitable age, they can safely consume chicken feet.
Where to Buy Chicken Feet for Dogs
So, where can you buy chicken feet for dogs? Us, of course! At Mersey Raw, we pride ourselves on offering all-natural treats for dogs across the country to enjoy. We provide tasty, air-dried chicken feet, packed with nutrients to support your dog's health during treat time. Each pack contains 1kg of chicken feet and should be stored in a cool, dry place.
Browse our nutritious chicken feet today, or get in touch with any questions.