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By: Georgina – Owner of Norbert’s Treats
Published: May 2025 | Last Updated: May 2025
Yes, chicken feet are very good for your dog’s health in general. They’re a popular natural treat among dog owners in the UK for their health benefits and natural composition.
But they are not suitable for all dogs. Some dogs are intolerant to chicken and the size of them can pose a problem for greedy dogs.
Read on to learn more about chicken feet for dogs.
Chicken feet are exactly what they sound like—the feet of chickens, typically cleaned and prepared for canine consumption. They consist mainly of skin, tendons, cartilage, and small bones, and are often dehydrated or air-dried to create a crunchy, storable treat. These treats are free from artificial additives and preservatives, making them a natural option for dog owners seeking wholesome snacks for their pets.
They are a bi-product of the human meat industry and feeding these to your dog helps to prevent food waste from ending up in landfill. Due to their size, very little energy is required to dehydrate them. They are often sold in bulk bags, further helping to reduce the environmental impact of consuming meat. Less packaging, more enjoyment for your dog.
Chicken feet are naturally rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, compounds known to support joint health. These nutrients help maintain cartilage, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility, especially beneficial for older dogs or breeds prone to joint issues like arthritis. Each chicken foot contains approximately 450 mg of glucosamine, making them a cost-effective alternative to watered-down canine supplements.
The crunchy texture of dehydrated chicken feet acts as a natural toothbrush for dogs. Chewing on them helps scrape away plaque and tartar buildup, promoting healthier gums and fresher breath. While not a replacement for regular dental care, they can be a valuable addition to your dog’s oral hygiene routine.
Chicken feet are high in protein and low in fat, making them a suitable snack for weight management. They also provide essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Additionally, the collagen content supports healthy skin, a shiny coat, and strong nails.
While chicken feet offer numerous health benefits, it’s essential to consider safety aspects:
Only feed your dog dehydrated or air-dried chicken feet. Cooked chicken bones can become brittle and pose a choking hazard or cause internal injuries.
Always supervise your dog while they’re enjoying chicken feet, especially if they tend to gulp their food. Introduce the treat gradually and observe how your dog handles it. If your dog does not chew properly, try something longer lasting like a large buffalo roll.
Some dogs may have allergies to chicken. Monitor your dog for any adverse reactions, such as itching, swelling, or gastrointestinal upset, when introducing chicken feet into their diet.
Begin with one chicken foot to see how your dog reacts. If well-tolerated, you can offer them as an occasional treat. For young puppies, you may want to only let them nibble some of a chew for a short period until you know what agrees with them.
Treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Adjust their regular meals accordingly to prevent overfeeding.
Store dehydrated chicken feet in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness. Proper storage ensures the treats remain safe and palatable for your dog. Don’t wrap part-chewed items in cling film! This will encourage mold to grow. Leave them in a breathable paper bag or in a dark cupboard insead.
Yes, when properly prepared, chicken feet are safe for dogs. Dehydrated or air-dried chicken feet are the best, as they retain their nutritional value and are less likely to splinter compared to cooked bones.
Raw chicken feet can be slippery and may encourage greedy dogs to swallow them whole. But if your dog is a nice chewer and is careful when eating, raw, frozen or chilled chicken feet can provide a wholesome snack and supplement a fresh food diet for your pooch.
Some small bone is present in a chicken foot, but this is soft, digestible and very unlikely to splinter. Your dog is meant to eat the whole thing!
Puppies over 12 weeks old can safely enjoy chicken feet. However, always supervise them during consumption and introduce all new treats gradually to monitor for sensitivities.
Top tip: Hold one end of the chicken foot and observe them while chewing. Have a smaller, high value treat ready to give them when you take it away. This allows you to do a fair ‘swap’ with your dog, which will help to prevent guarding behaviours. It also helps nurture a trusting relationship with your puppy that will last a lifetime.
Chicken feet have very little odour and are around 13% fat. If they do smell strongly, they probably are not very fresh! So check with your supplier and the date on the packaging.
Large dogs may chomp through a chicken foot in a matter of minutes, whereas small dogs and puppies often take their time. For a cockapoo we usually find these last around 10 minutes.
Feeding frequency depends on your dog’s size and dietary needs. Small adult dogs may have 1-2 feet per day, while medium to large dogs can have 2-4. Always reduce your dog’s food intake if treats form a significant percentage of their diet (over 10%).
While generally safe, potential risks include choking hazards, especially if the dog doesn’t chew properly. Additionally, dogs with chicken allergies or pancreatitis should avoid chicken feet.
Yes chicken feet are a superb source of collagen. Chicken wings and necks are other good sources.
Yes chicken feet are a great source of glucosamine. This is a vital component of any dog’s diet as it helps cushion joints, reduce inflammation and repair cartilage.
Chicken feet can aid in dental health by naturally cleaning teeth during chewing. However, they should complement, not replace, regular dental care routines such as brushing and daily dental checks.
Collagen strips and rolls are made with pure beef collagen and are only 5% fat. They have a pleasant smell and are chewy too. Collagen helps support your dog’s joints and coat at any age.
Store dehydrated chicken feet in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Proper storage ensures they remain fresh and safe for consumption. Do not wrap part-chewed treats in cling film as this will cause mold to grow.
Yes, alternatives include duck feet, rabbit ears, and pig ears. These also offer similar benefits and can be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs. Deer sticks are an excellent low fat alternative if you have a sensitive dog.
If your dog is intolerant to chicken, they may well itch as a result of eating chicken. However, itching can be caused by environmental sensitivities too. Chicken is found in many commercial pet food brands so we recommend checking the ingredients in your dog’s food. We have plenty of chicken-free treats on our website.
Incorporating dehydrated chicken feet into your dog’s diet can offer numerous health benefits, including joint support, dental health, and nutritional value. As with any treat, moderation and proper supervision are key. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new items into your dog’s diet, especially if they have existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.
By choosing high-quality, natural treats like chicken feet, you’re contributing to your dog’s overall well-being in a wholesome and enjoyable way whilst also giving them a mental boost. Chewing releases endorphins which help to relax your pooch!
