Chicken vs. Turkey for Dogs: Which Protein Should You Choose?
Chicken and turkey are two of the most popular proteins in dog food. Whether you're feeding raw or looking for a new protein to rotate into your dog's meals, both options offer nutritional value. But they’re not exactly the same. If you're wondering whether chicken or turkey is better for your dog, the answer depends on your dog’s health, dietary needs, and tolerance.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between chicken and turkey for dogs and explain when one might be a better fit than the other.
Chicken: A Familiar and Trusted Protein
Chicken is one of the most widely used proteins in commercial and raw dog food. It’s affordable, easy to find, and most dogs love the taste. From a nutritional standpoint, chicken is a strong source of lean protein and contains important vitamins and minerals like:
- Vitamin B6, which supports metabolism and immune function
- Niacin, which helps maintain skin and digestive health
- Iron, which plays a role in oxygen transport and energy levels
Chicken is a great choice for dogs who have no history of food sensitivities or digestive issues. It’s a go-to option for active, healthy dogs and works well in both raw and cooked diets.
However, because chicken is so commonly used in pet food, some dogs may develop sensitivities over time. This doesn't mean chicken is unhealthy. It just means that rotating proteins or trying a different option may help if your dog starts showing signs of food-related issues.
Turkey: A Lean and Gentle Option
Turkey is becoming more popular in raw and natural diets, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs or potential allergies. While not as widely used as chicken, turkey offers a slightly different nutritional profile.
Turkey is:
- Lower in fat and calories compared to chicken (especially skinless cuts)
- Rich in nutrients like riboflavin, phosphorus, vitamin B12, and tryptophan
- Easy to digest for dogs with gastrointestinal sensitivities
Because turkey is less commonly used in commercial dog foods, it’s often referred to as a "novel protein." This means dogs are less likely to have developed sensitivities to it. Turkey can be especially helpful during elimination diets, which are used to identify potential food allergens.
Nutritional Comparison: Chicken vs. Turkey for Dogs
Both chicken and turkey offer high-quality animal protein, but they differ slightly in their nutritional content.
| Nutrient | Chicken (100g) | Turkey (100g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~165 | ~135 |
| Fat | Higher | Lower |
| Protein | High | High |
| Vitamin B6 | High | Moderate |
| Vitamin B12 | Moderate | High |
| Tryptophan | Present | Higher |
Turkey's lower fat content makes it a good choice for dogs that need to manage their weight or are prone to pancreatitis. Chicken, on the other hand, provides slightly more vitamin B6 and iron, which support metabolism and blood health.
When to Consider Switching to Turkey
While many dogs do well on chicken, there are certain situations where turkey might be more suitable. For example:
- If your dog is experiencing unexplained itching, chronic ear infections, or digestive issues, a temporary switch to turkey can help determine if chicken is contributing to the problem.
- If your dog is on a low-fat or weight-loss diet, turkey’s leaner profile can help reduce calorie intake without sacrificing nutrients.
- If you’re practicing rotational feeding, adding turkey to the mix can provide variety and help reduce the chance of developing a food sensitivity.
An elimination diet using turkey usually lasts around 8 to 12 weeks and should be done with input from your vet or canine nutritionist.
Can You Feed Both Chicken and Turkey?
Yes. If your dog tolerates both proteins, alternating between them is a great way to add variety and provide a wider range of nutrients. Many pet parents choose to rotate proteins every few months to avoid overexposure to any one ingredient.
Both chicken and turkey can be served raw or cooked, depending on your dog’s needs and your feeding preferences. Just make sure the meat is high quality, properly stored, and handled safely if feeding raw.
Digestibility and Stool Quality
Dogs with sensitive stomachs sometimes do better on turkey, especially if they have loose stools, frequent gas, or bloating. Turkey is slightly easier to digest due to its lower fat content, and many owners report improvements in stool quality and energy levels after switching.
Chicken is still a highly digestible protein for most dogs and works well for those with normal digestion. The key is to observe how your dog responds and make changes based on their individual needs.
Cost and Availability
Chicken is often more budget-friendly and widely available. Turkey can cost more per ounce due to sourcing and lower production volume. However, for dogs with sensitivities, the benefits of turkey may offset the higher price by helping reduce vet visits and improving overall well-being.
Final Thoughts: Chicken or Turkey?
Both chicken and turkey are excellent protein sources for dogs. One is not better than the other across the board. The right choice depends on your dog’s health, tolerance, and specific dietary goals.
Choose chicken if your dog has no known allergies, enjoys the taste, and maintains good health on it.
Choose turkey if your dog needs a lower-fat option, has shown signs of food sensitivity, or you’re looking to rotate proteins.
Whether you feed chicken, turkey, or both, always aim for high-quality, minimally processed meat, and consult your veterinarian when making changes to your dog’s diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs with chicken allergies eat turkey?
Yes. Turkey is less likely to trigger allergic reactions and is often used in elimination diets.
Can dogs eat raw turkey?
Yes. If it’s properly sourced and handled, raw turkey can be a safe and nutritious option.
Does turkey make dogs sleepy?
Turkey contains tryptophan, which supports relaxation, but it won't make your dog drowsy unless consumed in very large amounts.
Is it okay to mix chicken and turkey in a dog’s diet?
Yes. If your dog tolerates both, mixing or rotating proteins can support a balanced and varied diet.
What are signs of a chicken allergy in dogs?
Common symptoms include itching, paw licking, ear infections, skin irritation, and digestive discomfort.