Some dog owners think that feeding their dogs raw chicken is healthier than regular food. The growing trend of raw diets for pets can leave one confused about diet options for their dogs. In this article, we answer the question, âCan dogs eat raw chicken?â We show you the advantages and the dangers of feeding raw chicken to your dog.
Although dogs can eat raw chicken, itâs not safe to feed it to them. Uncooked chicken contains harmful bacteria that will cause problems for your dog. Bacteria like salmonella and campylobacter can lead to infections that affect the digestive system and nerves. Also, the bones pose a risk to their digestive systems and cause vomiting and diarrhea.
If you have to feed your dog raw chicken, consult your veterinarian first. The meat should also be of the highest quality and handled safely to minimize the risks of contamination.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken?
A dog is naturally designed to eat raw meat without any complications. Their stomachs are highly acidic and their digestive tract is short, which makes it easier to process raw meats. However, the general rule of thumb is that raw chicken is unsafe for dogs.Â
Raw chicken contains dangerous bacteria that can cause infections, nerve disorders, and affect your dogâs digestive system.Â
The potential risks of feeding your dog raw chicken include:
Salmonella Infection
Salmonella is a popular bacteria found in raw and undercooked meats. If your dog consumes raw chicken, containing Salmonella, it will lead to food poisoning and other symptoms like lethargy, fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
You canât see salmonella with your naked eye. If your dog eats raw chicken, itâs better to take them to the veterinarian immediately. Ignoring these symptoms will result in serious complications of the immune system and chronic dysbiosis of the gut.
Campylobacteriosis
Apart from salmonella, raw chicken contains another bacteria called campylobacter. Consumption of raw chicken will result in campylobacteriosis. The symptoms of this bacterial infection include blood-stained stool, fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.Â
If you notice these signs in your dog, take them to the vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Chicken Bones
Chicken bones pose a danger to your dog. They can obstruct bowel movement, the intestinal tract, or the stomach. It can also rupture your dogâs internal organs and cause internal bleeding.
Malnutrition
If you make raw chicken a major part of your dogâs primary diet, it will lead to malnutrition. Dogs need a balanced and healthy diet if they are to be strong and healthy.Â
Benefits of Feeding Raw Chicken to Dogs
Although raw chicken is risky for dogs, it doesnât mean your dog canât enjoy it in moderation. Raw chicken is okay for your dog if itâs handled properly to minimize contamination risks. Chicken feet for dogs are okay if you cut off the nails. Also, raw chicken bones for dogs are safer than cooked bones.
If you buy your chicken from the grocery store, thoroughly rinse it first before serving your dog. This is to rinse off sodium thatâs often used in the majority of raw meats to preserve their freshness.
Despite the risks, raw chicken contains proteins, minerals like magnesium and potassium, and vitamin B12 that are beneficial to your dog. Some of the benefits of serving your dog raw chicken include:
Improved bone health
Healthy skin
Boosted joint health
The key to serving raw chicken is quality.
Conclusion
Can dogs eat raw chicken? Itâs safer and better in general not to serve raw chicken to your dog. The dangerous bacteria in raw chicken will do more harm than good for your dog. If you have to serve raw chicken, ensure the meat is quality and given in moderation. Also, you must do it in consultation with your veterinarian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs get Salmonella?
Yes. Raw chicken eaten has the highest chances of salmonella than cooked chicken.Â
Can dogs eat chicken nuggets?
Yes, but only as an occasional snack and in moderation.
What to do if a dog swallowed chicken bone?
If your dog swallowed chicken bone, take them to the veterinarian immediately.
