Raw chicken can potentially be dangerous for dogs to eat. Chicken in its raw form may contain salmonella, E. coli, and other bacteria that can make dogs sick. However, the risks depend on the dog’s health, the source and handling of the raw chicken, and how much is consumed. While raw chicken does pose risks, some dog owners choose to feed raw diets, including raw chicken. Let’s look at the potential dangers and benefits to help you make an informed decision about whether raw chicken is safe for your dog.
Can Dogs Get Sick from Eating Raw Chicken?
Yes, dogs can get sick from eating raw chicken. Raw chicken may contain pathogens like salmonella and E. coli that can cause gastrointestinal illness in dogs. Some effects if a dog eats raw chicken include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea, sometimes bloody
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Lethargy
In most cases, these symptoms resolve on their own within a few days. However, salmonella and E. coli can also spread from the intestines to the bloodstream and lead to more severe illness. Dogs with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for harmful effects from contaminated raw chicken.
What are the Dangers of Salmonella and E. Coli?
Salmonella and E. coli are the two main bacteria found in raw chicken that can sicken dogs:
Salmonella
Salmonella infection is one of the most common foodborne illnesses. In dogs, salmonella poisoning can lead to:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
Salmonella can also spread from the intestines into the bloodstream, causing more severe illness involving:
- Endotoxemia (bacterial toxins in the blood)
- Bacteremia (bacteria in the bloodstream)
- Infections away from the GI tract
E. Coli
Certain strains of E. coli can produce toxins that bind to the lining of a dog’s intestines. This can cause severe damage and life-threatening complications like:
- Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis
- Endotoxemia
- Septicemia
- Multiple organ damage or failure
Puppies, older dogs, and those with weakened immune systems are most likely to develop complications from salmonella and E. coli.
What are the Chances of Getting Sick?
Many sources estimate the bacteria transfer rate from raw chicken to dogs is around 30%. However, not all dogs exposed to salmonella or E. coli will get sick.
The likelihood of illness depends on:
- The dog’s health and immune function
- The strain of bacteria present
- The amount of contaminated chicken consumed
- Proper handling and storage of the raw chicken
Healthy adult dogs are more resistant and may not have any symptoms. But at-risk groups like young puppies and senior dogs are more vulnerable to complications.
Can Dogs Get Salmonella from Licking Chicken Juice?
Yes, dogs can get salmonella just from licking juices from raw chicken or contaminated surfaces. Direct contact isn’t required to get sick.
Some ways dogs could be exposed indirectly:
- Licking drippings from thawing chicken packages
- Licking utensils, cutting boards, countertops contaminated by raw chicken
- Chewing on toys exposed to salmonella
- Drinking contaminated water
Even tiny amounts of juice or residue can harbor bacteria. So thoroughly disinfect any surfaces and wash your hands after handling raw chicken.
Can Dogs Eat Cooked Chicken Bones?
No, dogs should not eat bones from cooked chicken. Raw chicken bones are soft enough to chew, digest, and pass safely.
However, cooking makes chicken bones dry, hard, and brittle. They can easily splinter and get stuck in a dog’s mouth, throat, stomach, and intestines. This can cause:
- Choking hazards
- Mouth and throat injuries
- Internal wounds, bleeding, and perforations
- Blocked digestive tract
Never give your dog cooked chicken bones as the splinters pose a high risk of injury and obstruction. Only feed raw meaty bones still attached to chicken breast or thighs.
Are There Benefits to Feeding Dogs Raw Chicken?
Certain raw diets advocate raw chicken and other meats for potential benefits like:
- Shinier coats and healthier skin
- Smaller and less smelly stools
- Improved dental health from chewing
- Increased energy levels
However, no major studies conclusively prove raw chicken provides greater general health benefits compared to cooked chicken. Some perceived benefits may come from other aspects of raw feeding programs.
Talk to your vet before feeding raw chicken to discuss diet concerns like balancing nutrients and safely handling meat. Most commercial dog foods are cooked to eliminate pathogens that cause foodborne illnesses.
Is Raw Chicken Safe for Puppies?
No, raw chicken is not considered safe for puppies. Young puppies have developing immune systems and are at higher risk for dehydration and other complications from gastrointestinal infections.
Puppies also more frequently exhibit behaviors that increase their exposure, like mouthing toys and licking surfaces. Wait until your puppy is fully vaccinated and no longer teething or chewing before transitioning to a raw chicken diet under your vet’s guidance.
Tips for Safely Handling and Serving Raw Chicken to Dogs
If you choose to feed your dog raw chicken, follow these tips to help reduce the risks:
- Purchase chicken from reputable suppliers to avoid contaminated meat.
- Separate raw chicken from other foods during storage and prep.
- Wash hands, utensils, surfaces after handling.
- Defrost in fridge overnight rather than on counter.
- Disinfect bowls after each meal.
- Supervise while eating to prevent sharing or choking hazards.
- Start with small amounts to allow adjustment.
- Save bones for times when fully supervised.
- Never feed cooked chicken bones.
Also have a plan in place in case your dog experiences vomiting, diarrhea, or other symptoms after eating raw chicken. Seek prompt veterinary care if their condition appears concerning.
What are the Signs of Salmonella Poisoning in Dogs?
Watch for these signs your dog may have a salmonella infection from eating raw chicken:
- Diarrhea that may contain blood or mucus
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration
- Increased heart rate
- Lethargy and depression
- Abdominal pain and bloating
Symptoms often begin 12-72 hours after exposure. Seek veterinary treatment if diarrhea lasts over 24 hours or any signs of distress are present like inability to hold down liquids, high fever, or bloody stool.
When to go to the Vet
Contact your vet if your dog shows any of the following after eating raw chicken:
- Diarrhea lasting over 24 hours
- Repeated projectile vomiting
- Dark, bloody, or unusually foul-smelling stools
- High fever
- Signs of pain or bloating
- Dehydration – dry gums, weakness, excessive thirst
- Difficulty breathing or increased heart rate
- Not improving within 24 hours of symptom onset
Puppies, older dogs, those with other health conditions, and toy breeds are most susceptible to complications. Prompt veterinary treatment can help prevent severe dehydration, sepsis, or other life-threatening effects.
Conclusion
While raw chicken can contain salmonella, E. coli, and other pathogens, the level of risk depends on many factors. Healthy adult dogs may tolerate limited quantities without issues. However, puppies, seniors, and immunocompromised dogs have greater risk of complications.
To safely minimize the dangers, source raw chicken carefully, handle hygienically, supervise while eating bones, transition slowly, and see your vet with any concerns. Cooked chicken bones should always be avoided due to risks from splinters. While some owners choose raw chicken for potential benefits, always consult your veterinarian before making major dietary changes. With sensible precautions and veterinary guidance, raw chicken can be fed as part of a nutritious diet in healthy adult dogs. Monitor closely for any signs of illness and seek prompt medical care if concerned.