VET APPROVED
REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY
Dr. Lauren Demos
DVM (Veterinarian)
The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
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It’s tempting to share some of your meal with your dog when they look at you with those pleading eyes. However, before offering any human food to your pet, it’s crucial to ensure that it is safe for them to consume. While some foods are perfectly fine as an occasional treat for your dog, others can be harmful. Some foods are even unhealthy for dogs, and it’s advisable to avoid them.
So, can dogs eat duck? Yes, dogs can eat duck, but it must be prepared correctly! Duck can also provide some nutritional benefits to your pet. Here’s everything you need to know before giving duck to your dog.
Benefits of Duck for Dogs
Duck is packed with beneficial nutrients for dogs. Additionally, duck serves as an excellent alternative protein source for dogs with food allergies1. Common food allergies in dogs often involve protein sources like beef and chicken, making it challenging to find suitable food for dogs with allergies. Duck is less likely to trigger allergies in dogs, making it a safer choice.
What nutritional value does duck provide for your pet?2 Duck is a lean protein source that is low in saturated fat and easier to digest. This translates to fewer calories, lower fat content, and a reduced risk of digestive issues while ensuring your dog receives essential protein.
Duck is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals. It is high in iron and calcium, while also containing selenium (beneficial for the thyroid) and phosphorus (important for healthy teeth and bones). Additionally, duck offers a good amount of B vitamins which aid in energy production, red blood cell function, and overall well-being.
Furthermore, duck contains amino acids and antioxidants that are advantageous for your pet. Amino acids support muscle strength, omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat, and antioxidants like zinc boost your dog’s immune system, leading to a healthier pup.
Therefore, duck provides a multitude of benefits for your canine friend! Feeding duck to your dog is relatively low-risk as long as it is prepared properly.
How to Safely Feed Duck to Your Dog
To ensure your dog’s well-being when feeding them duck, it is essential to prepare the duck safely. Firstly, you must cook the duck before offering it to your pet! While your dog may enjoy raw duck, it can contain bacteria such as salmonella or E. coli, which can cause severe illness. Moreover, raw meat is harder to digest than cooked meat, potentially leading to gastrointestinal problems. Therefore, ensure thorough cooking and avoid seasoning the duck as it could also be harmful to your pet.
Another critical aspect to consider is duck bones. While your dog may be fond of bones, they are not suitable for your pet. Duck bones can splinter, snap, or fragment while being chewed, posing risks of blockages or injuries to your dog’s mouth, throat, and intestines. It is safest to avoid bones altogether.
Lastly, it is important not to overfeed duck to your dog. While duck offers valuable nutrients, it should be considered a treat. Adhere to the 10% rule, where treats should constitute only 10% of your dog’s diet when feeding them duck.
If you believe that your dog would benefit from duck as their primary protein source instead of chicken or beef, there are commercial dog foods available that contain duck and provide all the necessary nutrition for your pet3.
Conclusion
Occasionally feeding duck to your dog is safe and offers your pet a delicious and nutritious treat. Duck provides various dietary benefits, including essential minerals, vitamins, and amino acids. Additionally, it serves as an excellent alternative protein source for dogs with food allergies!
When feeding your pet duck, ensure that it is cooked without seasoning and refrain from giving them duck bones. Raw duck can contain harmful bacteria that can make your pet sick, while duck bones may pose choking hazards and cause injuries. By serving cooked duck in moderation, your dog can enjoy a tasty treat without issues.
See also:
- Can Dogs Eat Deer Meat? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ
Sources
- VCA
- Can Dogs Eat It
- Chewy
Featured Image Credit: Kit Leong, Shutterstock
