Can Dogs Eat Turkey?

Turkey is a staple in many family meals, especially around the holidays, but if your dog is eyeing a piece, you might wonder whether it’s safe to share. The good news is yes, dogs can eat turkey, and it can even be good for them when prepared safely. Turkey is a lean, protein-rich meat that provides several essential nutrients, but it’s not always as simple as sharing a few bites off your plate. Learn how to serve it safely and when it’s best to skip it.

Can Dogs Eat Turkey?

Yes, dogs can eat turkey! It can be a healthy part of their diet when it’s plain and served in moderation. Turkey is a great source of lean protein and contains valuable nutrients like:

• Vitamin B6

• Vitamin B12

• Niacin

• Zinc

• Selenium

• Phosphorus

• Magnesium

• Potassium

However, not all turkey is created equal. The way it’s prepared makes all the difference. Turkey that’s been cooked with oils, butter, salt, or seasonings can cause stomach upset or even toxicity in dogs. Always serve it plain and without skin, fat, or bones.

Is Turkey Safe for Dogs?

When it’s prepared correctly, turkey is perfectly safe for dogs. The key is to avoid the extras that humans usually add. Here’s what to watch for:

• Fat and skin: These parts are high in fat and can cause digestive upset or long-term issues like obesity and pancreatitis.

• Bones: Cooked bones are brittle and can splinter, leading to choking or internal injury.

• Seasonings and additives: Ingredients like garlic and onion can be toxic or harmful to dogs.

If you decide to feed your dog some turkey, keep it simple. Stick to small, bite-sized pieces of plain meat. Avoid lunch meat, jerky, smoked turkey, sausage, or turkey burgers - they’re often full of preservatives and sodium.

Can Dogs Eat Ground Turkey?

Yes, dogs can eat ground turkey if it’s plain and unseasoned. Ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein that’s easy to digest and mix into your dog’s bowl.

Just make sure you’re not buying pre-seasoned or flavored ground turkey from the grocery store. Many contain spices, oils, or added ingredients that aren’t safe for dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Turkey Bones?

No, dogs should never eat turkey bones. Cooked poultry bones are brittle and can splinter easily, potentially leading to serious health issues such as choking, punctures, or intestinal blockages.

If your dog accidentally swallows a piece of bone, contact your veterinarian right away. Even small bone fragments can cause damage to the digestive tract or require emergency surgery.

Can Dogs Have Turkey Bacon?

Dogs should not eat turkey bacon or turkey sausage. While these might sound like healthier alternatives, they’re usually packed with preservatives, sodium, and spices that aren’t safe for dogs.

Ingredients like garlic and onion—often found in these products—are toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. It’s best to skip processed meats altogether and stick with natural, unseasoned proteins.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Turkey?

If you’re interested in feeding raw, it’s safest to choose a commercially prepared raw diet that’s nutritionally balanced and tested for pathogens. For pet parents who want their dogs to enjoy the nutritional benefits of turkey without the risks, Steve’s Real Food Turkey Diet is the perfect choice.

Made with free-range turkey and a carefully balanced mix of fruits and vegetables, it provides high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. Every Steve’s Real Food recipe is formulated to be complete and balanced, meeting your dog’s nutritional needs while keeping food safety top of mind.

Because our products are made specifically for pets, they’re safe from bacteria. All of our food goes through a process called high-pressure processing (HPP), which uses cold water and pressure to kill any harmful bacteria. This gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your dog’s meal is both safe and healthy.

The Bottom Line About Turkey

Turkey can be a nutritious and tasty treat for dogs when prepared properly. It’s rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals that support muscle growth and overall health. But the key is to serve it plain, cooked, and free from skin, bones, and seasonings.

Avoid processed meats and raw turkey that isn’t made specifically for pets. And if you want to make feeding turkey easy, safe, and nutritious, try the Steve’s Real Food Turkey Diet. Use code WOOF25 for 25% off your first order today!