Can Dog Eat Chicken Feet?

Yes, dogs can eat chicken feet when they are served raw and nail-free. These natural treats are not only crunchy and enjoyable for canines, but they also offer several nutritional benefits including support for joint health, dental hygiene, and digestion.

However, many pet owners have valid concerns about the safety of chicken bones, the risk of bacterial contamination, and how to properly prepare and serve these treats without causing harm to their mutts.

This guide explores the nutritional value, risks, and safe feeding practices for chicken feet for dogs. It also covers healthy alternatives for dogs with sensitivities and explains why natural chicken feet treats are a safe and beneficial choice.

What Are Chicken Feet?

Chicken feet are the lower leg and foot parts of chicken consisting of the skin, small bones, tendons, and connective tissues. These make up a chewy, crunchy structure that is naturally rich in protein and digestible, making them a nutritious snack for mutts. Each foot has little bones wrapped in collagen and cartilage which becomes a beneficial serving for pups.

Poultry feet are used in broth, soups, and stews due to their high collagen content. Beyond human consumption, they are sold as chicken feet dog treats, often in raw chicken feet for dogs, dehydrated chicken feet, or air-dried. These natural options are loved by many pet owners who feed their dogs chicken feet for both nutritional value and dental health.

Chicken feet in any form are safe for dogs. The crunchy texture, high protein content, and low fat make them a good addition to a raw diet or as an occasional treat. The presence of glucosamine and chondroitin supports joint health, and mobility and is a satisfying natural dental chew for hounds, aligning with veterinarian-approved feeding practices.

What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Feet for Dogs?

Chicken feet for dogs contain nutrients like collagen, calcium, phosphorus, and digestive enzymes that support joint health, dental hygiene, and digestion. Rich in essential proteins, minerals, and hyaluronic acid, poultry feet are a beneficial addition to a canine’s diet.

Here is the nutritional composition of 100 grams of chicken feet.

• Energy: 150 KCAL
• Protein: 25 grams
• Fat: 5 grams
• Carbs: 0.14 grams
• Calcium: 15% of the daily requirement for a medium-sized dog
• Phosphorous: 10% of the daily requirement
• Collagen: 70% of total protein
• Glucosamine and Chondroitin: 450-500 mg (combined)

Protein and Collagen

Chicken feet are rich in essential lean proteins that support muscle growth and tissue repair. These chicken parts help maintain energy levels, and keep dogs active, supporting their physical development. Also, poultry feet contain a high amount of collagen, a major component of connective tissues, which enhances joint health, boosts skin elasticity, and supports skin, nails, and coat health. Regular intake of chicken feet improves mobility and reduces joint-related risks in dogs.

Calcium and Minerals

The tiny bones in chicken feet are an excellent source of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron, and zinc. These minerals cater to the canine’s need for strong bones, cartilage, and hormone transmission. These nutrients are the primary contributing factor for bone development and maintenance, especially in puppies and senior dogs. Balanced consumption of minerals helps promote proper muscle function and supports long-term skeleton health. 

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Chicken feet provide natural glucosamine and chondroitin to dogs. These nutrients help maintain healthy cartilage by retaining its elasticity and water and joint lubrication to provide comfortable mobility to canines.

Veterinarians use these compounds to treat arthritis, slow joint deterioration, hip dysplasia, and spinal disc injuries in dogs, especially larger breeds including Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Saint Bernards, and older dogs. 

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid, a water-retaining molecule, in chicken feet helps sustain joint fluid levels so your dog can be more flexible and move smoothly. This compound is great for dogs with hip dysplasia or age-related mobility decline. It works along with glucosamine to cushion the joint, promote connective tissue health,  reduce discomfort, and improve mobility, particularly in older dogs or pups.

Natural Dental Cleaning

Chewing on chicken feet removes plaque and tartar buildup. It helps kill harmful bacteria in the dog’s mouth, reducing the risk of gum and teeth diseases while promoting better dental hygiene and health. Their crunchy chewy texture is like a natural toothbrush for dogs. Unlike synthetic chews, chicken feet are fully digestible and less likely to cause gastrointestinal issues. These treats offer playful and functional dental benefits.

Low Fat

Due to their low-fat content, chicken feet are excellent for dogs on weight management diets or with fat sensitivities. Unlike fatty treats like pig ears or marrow bones, they are lower in calories but still packed with nutrients. Feeding chicken feet safely means dog owners can monitor their mutt’s fat intake without compromising on treatment quality. Pet nutritionists claim poultry feet are perfect for overweight and senior dogs.

Digestive Enzymes

Collagen, natural enzymes, and fibers in chicken feet help break down proteins for healthy digestion and better nutrient absorption. These enzymes support gut health and ease digestive pain in sensitive dogs. Adding dehydrated chicken feet to your dog’s diet will improve food processing in the digestive system. Regular consumption can reduce gastrointestinal issues and promote healthy gut flora.

How Often Can Dogs Eat Chicken Feet Safely?

You can feed 1-3 chicken feet per day to your dog, depending on the size, age, and diet of the canine. Feeding chicken feet for dogs requires moderation, as excessive intake may cause digestive upset, nutrient imbalances, and potential gastrointestinal issues.

To ensure safe consumption, it is important to follow veterinarian-approved guidelines based on dog size, breed, and health needs.

Frequency Guidelines by Dog Size and Breed for Feeding Chicken Feet

Balancing Chicken Feet with Regular Meals

Pet owners should provide chicken feet to dogs as an occasional treat or a supplement and avoid using it as a substitute. These chicken parts, although having lean protein, low fat, and many nutritious benefits, should not be made a staple in the canine’s diet.

Overconsumption of chicken feet may disrupt the calcium-phosphorous balance in dogs due to excessive bone content. This creates a nutritional imbalance affecting bone development and mineral absorption. Instead, you should use them as treats in combination with standard meals to provide proper nutrition.

Veterinarian-Recommended Portions of Chicken Feet for Dogs

Risks of Overfeeding Chicken Feet to Dogs

The risks of overfeeding chicken feet to dogs include the risks of gastrointestinal issues like constipation, especially in puppies, smaller breeds, and mutts with sensitive stomachs.

Frequent consumption of chicken feet means excessive fat intake which can contribute to weight gain, if not managed alongside physical activity.

Likewise, long-term overfeeding also leads to nutrient imbalances, undermining the protein's intended benefits.

Therefore, pet owners should limit the portions according to the aforementioned frequency guidelines and veterinarian-recommended portions to ensure dogs digest and absorb nutrients effectively.

Best Practices for Feeding Chicken Feet to Dogs

Here is a list of best practices dog owners should consider while feeding chicken feet to dogs.

• Serve whole feet to large breeds.
• Chop it into smaller pieces for small dogs and puppies.
• Remove nails and any excess skin before feeding to avoid digestive issues or choking hazards.
• Monitor for allergic reactions or signs of intolerance such as vomiting or diarrhea.
• Introduce chicken feet gradually into the diet.
• Use dehydrated chicken feet or raw chicken feet for dogs without any seasonings or additives.
• Always ensure fresh water is available when feeding your dog chicken feet.
• Store chicken feet treats in a safe, dry environment to prevent contamination.

What Should You Avoid When Feeding Chicken Feet to Dogs?

Two major things that you should avoid when feeding chicken feet to dogs include cooked bones and seasonings. Dog owners should understand what to remove, what to avoid serving, and how to prepare chicken feet safely to feed their canines responsibly.

Cooked Bones (Risk of Brittle Fragments)

When you cook chicken feet, their bone becomes brittle and risk splintering. This increases the risk of choking hazards, internal injuries like tearing and puncturing the digestive tract, and gastrointestinal problems such as blockages. In extreme cases, the sharp fragments can also lead to peritonitis (inflammation of the lining of the abdominal cavity) and sepsis (a life-threatening infection).

Unlike raw chicken which is fully digestible, cooked chicken feet lose their flexibility, and structural integrity, and become soft and brittle. So, veterinarians advise against feeding boiled, fried, or grilled chicken feet to dogs to prevent splinter-prone dangers.

Seasonings, Oils, or Additives

Animal nutritionists advise pet owners to feed unseasoned, plain, and raw poultry feet to dogs due to the risk of allergic reactions, digestion disruption, and health issues posed by seasonings, oils, and additives. Likewise, dogs should not consume processed chicken feet as it contains high levels of sodium which can strain the kidneys and contribute to hypertension, renal damage, and other long-term issues.

Below is a list of seasonings that are harmful to dogs.

• Garlic, onion, and chives: Damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.
• Chili powder: Mouth and digestive system irritation.
• Nutmeg: Toxic, Severe stomach upset, affects nervous system function.
• Cocoa Powder: Vomiting and diarrhea.
• Cayenne Pepper: Mouth and throat irritation.
• Mustard seed/powder: Toxic, Digestive upset.
• Pennyroyal: Toxic, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Weakness, Liver damage.

Are Cooked or Raw Chicken Feet Better for Dogs?

Raw and dehydrated chicken feet are better for dogs than cooked ones because they are safer to check and retain more natural nutrients.

While raw poultry feet provide maximum nutritional benefits, they also pose the risk of bacterial contamination. Dehydrated chicken feet are a safer, more crunchy, and digestible option with minimal contamination risk when prepared properly.

In contrast, cooked chicken feet can splinter and risk the digestive health of dogs. Also, improperly cooked or processed chicken feet may lose nutritional quality and introduce health hazards. Therefore, understanding the differences between these methods and forms helps ensure safe feeding habits for better dog health.

Pros and Cons of Raw Chicken Feet

While raw chicken feet provide the maximum nutritional value of the protein, the risk of bacterial contamination cannot be overlooked. The USDA’s baseline study on raw chicken parts found 26.3% positive for Salmonella and 21.39% for Campylobacter. So, freezing raw chicken feet for at least 48 hours is recommended to reduce bacterial risks.

Below is a table with a list of the pros and cons of feeding raw chicken feet to dogs.

Safe Cooking Methods (Boiling, Dehydrating)

Boiling and dehydrating chicken feet for dogs are safe cooking methods that eliminate bacterial contamination while preserving nutritional integrity.

When you boil/cook chicken feet at a high temperature, it kills harmful bacteria without degrading protein or collagen content. Cooked/boiled chicken feet provide 19.4 grams of protein and 14.6 grams of fats (100 grams serving).

Meanwhile, dehydrating chicken feet for dogs offers a crunchy, long-lasting treat that is easily digestible and safe for regular consumption. A 100% dehydrated chicken foot contains 49% protein, 27% fat, 6% moisture, and 75 calories per foot.

On the flip side, you should avoid frying as it adds excess fat and reduces digestibility. Frying chicken feet makes it unsuitable for canine diets. 

Risks of Undercooked or Processed Options

Undercooked or improperly cooked chicken feet may retain bacteria and can cause contamination and digestive issues. Processed ones contain preservatives, seasonings, or additives like sodium onion, salt, or garlic that are hazardous to dogs.

You must always handle raw meat with care. After handling raw chicken feet, sanitize surfaces and properly clean utensils, store at the correct temperature (40°F (4°C) or below), and do not cross-contaminate with other foods. For safe feeding, choose natural, vet-approved chicken feet treats with no processing or additives.

What Are Healthy Alternatives to Chicken Feet?

The healthy alternatives to chicken feet for dogs with allergies, sensitivity, or intolerance to chicken range from vet-approved dental chews to natural options like bully sticks and vegetable treats. These options are safe, beneficial, nutritious, and beneficial solutions for your canines’ dietary needs.

Selecting the right foods dogs can eat instead of chicken feet helps maintain oral hygiene, support long-term joint health, and satisfy your hound's natural urge to chew.

• Vet-Approved Dental Chews
  Commercial chews are good for oral health and are great for dogs with digestive sensitivities. These vet-approved products are safe, digestible, and effective at reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
• Natural Chews like Bully Sticks or Antlers
  Bully sticks or antlers provide chewing stimulation like chicken feet treats but are long-lasting and fully digestible. These natural products are additive-free and have nutritional value, especially for active or aggressive chewers.
• Vegetable-Based Treats (Carrots, Sweet Potatoes)
  Carrots and sweet potatoes are low-calorie, high-fiber treats that are safe for canines to eat daily. Their crunchy texture helps clean teeth and is a healthy alternative for weight-conscious or protein-allergic dogs.
• Raw Bones (Beef or Lamb)
  Raw beef or lamb bones provide natural dental cleaning benefits and are used in raw diets. Avoid weight-bearing bones that may be too hard and cause tooth fractures or digestive issues in some dogs.
• Antlers or Elk Horns
  Antlers or elk horns are durable, nutrient-rich options that satisfy the chewing needs of strong-jawed dogs. But sensitive dogs may risk tooth damage so monitoring is key when offering these chews.
• Rabbit Ears or Duck Feet
  Filled with hypoallergenic and cartilage-rich content, rabbit ears and duck feet are easily digestible treats that are great meat to feed dogs with allergies or sensitive digestion. They also support joint health and are a natural chew with minimal fat content.

Why Choose Organic Chicken Feet Treats for Your Dog?

Pet owners choose organic chicken feet treats for their dogs because they are a safe, nutritious, and beneficial option that supports their dog’s health, dental hygiene, and digestion. These fully digestible treats, when kept free from additives, seasonings, and preservatives, ensure that dogs receive only the collagen, protein, and minerals they need for optimal health. The crunchy, chewy texture also helps reduce plaque and improve dental health naturally.

At Doggies Deli, all chicken feet dog treats are fresh, handcrafted, and made with a focus on quality and safety. Using dehydrated chicken feet processed without oils or harmful additives, we deliver veterinarian-approved, natural treats that provide both enjoyment and nutritional benefits for every dog.