You want your pup to love the treats you give them, but don’t want to feel guilty for feeding them total junk. However, this can pose a problem since most dog treats are made from a blend of ingredients, some of which are difficult to pronounce. You’re never entirely sure what you’re giving your pooch. There has to be something better. Maybe you’re wondering can dogs have chicken feet? The answer is usually yes.
This probably brings you to another question. What are the benefits of giving a pooch chicken feet?
The health benefits of chicken feet for dogs
Did you know that chicken feet can have amazing health benefits for your furry best friend?
The little bird feet treats are packed with nutrients that help support your dog’s hips, joints, skin, coat, and dental health.
You may even notice your dog’s breath smells a little better.
However, don’t expect a burst of minty freshness when your pup opens its mouth.
So, what’s in chicken feet that benefits your dog?
Collagen
Collagen is the most common protein in humans and dogs. It plays a key role in everything from skin to joint health.
Collagen makes up a significant portion of your dog’s muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin, and nails.
Adding more collagen to their diet, you help them get enough of this key building block so they can stay their healthiest through the years. And doing that is easy since chicken feet are 27% collagen by total weight.
Glucosamine
You might be familiar with glucosamine for human joint health. It works similarly for dogs. Vets regularly use it to treat arthritis, hip dysplasia, spinal disc injuries, and more. It can also help dogs’ bodies repair damaged cartilage or the cushioning in their joints.
You don’t need a supplement to get a meaningful amount of glucosamine in your dog’s diet. While the leading maximum-strength supplements usually have about 600 mg of glucosamine, chicken feet naturally contain roughly 450 mg.
Chondroitin
Speaking of cartilage, chondroitin can be a huge help. This compound supports cartilage’s retention of elasticity and water, helping to keep your dog’s joints comfortably mobile.
For larger dogs and breeds with common hip problems, joint protection can be a game-changer for your pooch.
Teeth-cleaning
Beyond the health-boosting ingredients we just outlined, chicken feet can help your dog stay healthy by cleaning their teeth. When they chew on the chicken feet, the treats help to scrape away plaque. They’re a toothbrush your pup can eat.
Potential downsides of feeding your dog chicken feet
Have you ever noticed that everything in life has a potential downside? This even applies to chicken feet. Some lower-quality brands aren’t the best at removing nails from the chicken feet.
If an angry chicken ever scratched you, you know their nails are incredibly sharp. Imagine what one of those sharp nails can do to your dog’s insides if accidentally swallowed. This potential issue is easy to avoid if you stick with well-known brands. Following your vet’s recommendation can also help.
If your pup is allergic to chicken or otherwise predisposed to conditions like pancreatitis, you should avoid feeding your dog chicken feet.
Chicken feet are relatively high in fat and calories, so pets prone to gaining extra weight may want to snack on something else.
It’s also essential to ensure the chicken feet you give your dog are not raw or overcooked.
Raw feet increase the risk of developing a foodborne illness like Salmonella. Overcooking can also cause issues, like brittle bone bits.
Healthy alternatives to chicken feet
Even if chicken feet aren’t a good fit for your dog, your pooch still has healthy treat options.
Dental chews can improve your dog’s oral health. They are specially shaped to clean your dog’s teeth and achieve fresh breath. The downside is that they are not natural products and often are high in calories.
Duck feet are an excellent alternative to chicken feet if your dog is allergic to chicken, yet you still want the joint benefits of the high glucosamine and chondroitin. The downside is that duck feet aren’t always easy to find. Pig ears are another option and are usually easier to pick up in stores or online.
While dogs can eat chicken feet, and the benefits are great, it’s not the right treat for every pooch. Try another healthy treatment option if your pup isn’t doing great with chicken feet.
Final thoughts on chicken feet
Chicken feet can be a nutritious treat for many dogs. They offer several health benefits, including support for joints, dental health, and overall well-being.
Their high collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin content can help dogs prone to joint issues.
However, it’s essential to be mindful of potential downsides, such as sharp nails, allergies, and the need for proper cooking.
Healthy alternatives are available if your dog has specific dietary restrictions or health concerns, or if chicken feet aren’t suitable.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your dog’s needs and preferences, so consult your veterinarian before introducing new treats.