Overview
Yes. Chicken fat is safe for canine consumption. As an additive to commercial or homemade dog food, chicken fat enhances the flavor and aroma of food, making it more palatable to dogs, while delivering omega-6 fatty acids to the body.
Can dogs have Chicken Fat?
Benefits
- Animal-based fats, such as chicken fat, are an important part of a dog’s diet as they support cell structure, vitamin absorption, and hormone production.
- Chicken fat is easily absorbed by dogs, making it a good source of quick energy, which is beneficial for working or active dogs.
- Chicken fat enhances the aroma and taste of food, making it more palatable to dogs, especially those with poor appetite.
- Chicken fat contains omega-6 fatty acid which promotes healthy skin and shiny coat.
Risks
- Excessive chicken fat consumption can increase the risk of pancreatitis.
- Because of the high caloric content of chicken fat, overfeeding can lead to obesity in dogs.
- Chicken fat is more prone to rancidity than beef fat. Once chicken fat becomes rancid, it loses its nutritional value and may even release harmful substances that may damage cells.
Servings
- If the commercial dog food contains chicken fat, the amount of fat has already been safely calculated based on the dog’s nutritional requirements.
- Chicken fat can be used as a meal topper. The recommended amount is 1 teaspoon to 2 tablespoons per day, depending on the weight of your dog.
