Can Dogs Have Raw Chicken?

In this article:

• Can dogs eat raw chicken?
• Why is raw chicken dangerous for dogs?
• What are safe ways to feed my dog chicken?
• What should I do if my dog ate raw chicken?

No—dogs should never eat raw chicken. Dogs who eat raw meat can be exposed to harmful bacteria that could make them seriously ill. Any chicken served to dogs should be thoroughly cooked to 165°F and served plain, with no seasoning.

Furthermore, the best way to serve chicken to your dog is as part of a complete and balanced food formulated by board-certified nutritionists.

And, of course, you should always ask your veterinarian before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet. They’re the most qualified to weigh in on your best friend’s individual nutritional needs.

For more details, read on. 

Dogs should never eat raw chicken

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) advise against dogs eating raw meat, including chicken, because when they do so it risks making them and the people in their households sick.

The FDA has also shown that commercial raw pet foods are far more likely to harbor Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes than other pet foods, and CDC notes that about 1 in every 25 retail packages of raw chicken contains Salmonella.

Other harmful bacteria on raw chicken can include Campylobacter and E.coli.

Instead, feed your dog cooked chicken (165°F/74°C internal temperature).

Why is raw chicken dangerous for dogs?

Bacterial contamination (pets and people): In an FDA study of 196 commercial raw dog and cat foods, 7.7% were positive for Salmonella and 16.3% for Listeria monocytogenes. This is dangerous not only to dogs, but also to the people who live with them. That’s because dogs who eat raw diets can shed pathogens in their saliva and feces.

What are safe ways to feed my dog chicken?

Cooked chicken is a safe food for most healthy dogs to eat, as long as they aren’t allergic to it.

The safest and healthiest way to feed your dog chicken is fully cooked and as part of complete and balanced food formulated by board-certified nutritionists, like The Farmer’s Dog. Treats and other extras of any kind should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s total calorie intake. Following this “10% rule” can help you avoid the serious health problems that can come with nutritional imbalance.

If you’re feeding your dog cooked chicken as a treat or an extra, follow these guidelines to make sure it’s safe.

• Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a thermometer to confirm.
• Keep it plain: boneless/skinless; no onions, garlic, heavy oils, or spices.
• Practice good kitchen hygiene: separate raw juices; sanitize prep areas; wash hands, bowls, and utensils. This will protect your whole family.  Never wash chicken before cooking, as splashing water can increase your exposure to harmful bacteria and contaminate your kitchen. 
• Refrigerate leftovers and discard within 3 days.

What should I do if my dog ate raw chicken?

If your dog eats raw chicken, call your veterinarian for advice. They’ll let you know what to watch for and whether a vet visit is necessary. In addition, watch for signs of illness including vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, drooling, straining to go to the bathroom, and any changes in behavior. Puppies, seniors, pregnant dogs, and those who are immunocompromised or on certain medication may be at a higher risk.

The bottom line

Dogs should not eat raw meat, including chicken. The risks of illness make it too much of a gamble. Fully cooked chicken is a safe extra for most healthy dogs without allergies as long as all treats are kept under 10% of their total calorie intake. And the best way to feed a dog chicken is not only cooked, but also as a part of a complete and balanced diet formulated by board-certified nutritionists. This is how it’s used in pre-portioned plans from The Farmer’s Dog.