Can Dogs Eat Turkey? The Do's and Don'ts
Turkey can be a healthy and nutritious source of protein for dogs — when prepared correctly. However, there are a few important considerations before sharing your Sunday roast with your four-legged friend.
It’s essential that turkey is cooked plain, free from seasonings, garlic, onions, and bones, all of which can be harmful to dogs. These common additions in human recipes can be toxic or cause digestive injury.
- Understanding the Basics of Feeding Turkey to Dogs
- Can Turkey Be Good for Dogs?
- How Much Turkey Can a Dog Eat?
- Can Dogs Chew Turkey Bones?
- Can Dogs Be Allergic to Turkey?
- Is Turkey Skin Safe for Dogs?
- The Final Woof
Understanding the Basics of Feeding Turkey to Dogs
Turkey is a popular lean protein that offers several nutritional benefits for dogs when served appropriately. However, knowing which parts are safe and how to prepare them is key.
Can Turkey Be Good for Dogs?
Yes — turkey can provide dogs with valuable nutrients. It’s rich in high-quality protein and low in fat when served skinless, making it a healthy meat option.
To ensure it’s safe:
- Cook the turkey thoroughly.
- Avoid added seasonings, herbs, oils, or sauces.
- Never feed turkey ham or deli meats, which are processed and high in sodium and preservatives.
Healthy Components of Turkey:
- Protein
- Vitamins B3, B6, and B12
- Phosphorus
- Selenium
- Zinc
Note: Always remove skin and visible fat to reduce the risk of digestive upset or pancreatitis.
How Much Turkey Can a Dog Eat?
The right portion depends on your dog’s size, age, and overall health. Introduce turkey slowly and in moderation to prevent gastrointestinal issues.
| Dog Size |
Suggested Turkey Amount per Week |
| Small |
1-2 small slices |
| Medium |
2-3 medium slices |
| Large |
3-4 large slices |
Remember: Treats and snacks — including turkey — should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake!
Dog-safe treat options like Marleybones Chicken Treats provide an easy & nutritious option. Made with 60% fresh chicken and packed with hawthorn, carrots and sage, in a squishy soft triangle shape that are easy to break into smaller pieces for training.
Can Dogs Chew Turkey Bones?
No. It’s unsafe to let your dog chew cooked turkey bones. Cooked bones can splinter easily, posing serious risks such as choking, mouth injuries, or intestinal obstruction.
Bone Safety Tips:
- Never give cooked bones: They can splinter and cause internal damage.
- Avoid raw bones unless advised by your vet, as they may contain bacteria.
- Offer safe alternatives: Specially designed chew toys or dental treats (like those offered alongside Marleybones meals) help satisfy chewing instincts while promoting oral health.
Can Dogs Be Allergic to Turkey?
While turkey allergies in dogs are rare, they can occur. Symptoms may include:
- Itchy or irritated skin
- Rashes
- Diarrhoea or digestive upset
Often, reactions are caused not by turkey itself but by poor-quality ingredients or heavily processed foods containing turkey. If your dog reacts to plain, cooked turkey — particularly high-quality cuts such as breast or thigh — consult your vet to rule out a genuine food allergy.
Is Turkey Skin Safe for Dogs?
Turkey skin should always be avoided. It’s high in fat, which is difficult for dogs to digest and can contribute to pancreatitis or gastrointestinal discomfort.
Once the skin is removed, lean cuts such as turkey breast or thigh are excellent low-fat protein sources. Dogs requiring low-fat diets (for example, those managing pancreatitis or protein-losing enteropathy) can safely enjoy skinless turkey in moderation.
For the safe option to lean meat, Marleybones Pantry Fresh® Chic Chicken meals provide a convenient option. Fresh, British chicken is the number one ingredient (60%), plus garden veggies, superfoods and natural pre-biotics. Fresh, never frozen and zero preservatives. Stored on your shelf and ready to serve in seconds, Pantry Fresh® meals make feeding fresh easy!
The Final Woof
Turkey can be a tasty, nutritious addition to your dog’s diet — provided it’s served plain, cooked, and skin-free. Introduce it gradually, avoid bones and seasoning, and monitor for any signs of intolerance.
For a convenient, balanced option, Marleybones Pantry Fresh® already provide gently cooked, high-protein recipes made with responsibly sourced ingredients, ensuring your dog gets all the benefits of lean meat without the risks.
Treat your pup to the best.
Marleybones offers nutritious, fresh meals for your beloved friend.
Create a plan
