Any responsible pet owner should check the ingredients in their pet's food at least once, though it might only be earlier if you find a bag of kibble that will make your dog happy repeatedly. There is a higher-than-average chance that if you have observed what your dog is eating, you have seen the word "chicken" somewhere on the bag. If not, start early in the ingredients list or look for a bag not specifically marked as not containing chicken.
A pet owner with a competitive nature may have indulged in buying their animal more than one type of food. When competing, many show dogs receive a special treat called a bowl topper or show bite in addition to their regular kibble diet. The majority of the time, these specialized kibbles also contain chicken. Some producers even take great care to note on the bag that their bowl toppers only contain the best chicken breast meat, which is so expertly prepared that you could eat it yourself rather than feeding it to the dog.
Even if you do not check what is in your dog's kibble as carefully as you should, there is a good chance you have seen them go after chicken or any other meat with such vigor that the dog probably needs to be warned not to eat both his and your dinner. Even from a logical standpoint, it does not seem particularly unusual that dogs would attack chickens because they are natural predators, and chickens are among the easiest prey animals to catch due to their lack of flight and deliciousness.
Given all this, one might be perplexed why anyone would ask, “Can dogs eat fried chicken?” After all, dogs enjoy all other types of chicken; fried chicken is even hotter and more flavorful. Although that line of thinking is undoubtedly valid for humans, many are surprised to learn that heat and flavoring can be problematic. Both humans and dogs enjoy chicken in almost any form. Can dogs eat fried chicken?
What Happens If Your Dog Eats Fried Chicken
Is fried chicken bad for dogs? As we have already mentioned, dogs can eat chicken and prefer it. They also naturally tend to devour anything that tastes or smells like chicken. You will discover that while your dog can consume fried chicken, that does not mean it necessarily should.
Commercial fried chicken deserves special attention in this case because, with very few exceptions, it is breaded rather than simply skinned and fried without any additional ingredients. Plain fried chicken would be easy for a dog to consume quickly and without much harm, but commercial chicken breading is frequently spiced before it is used.
Most pet owners are surprised to hear that some of the most popular human spices, such as onion, garlic, salt, and pepper, can seriously harm a dog's digestive tract. Can dogs eat fried food? Dogs naturally like to eat raw food, and just as our digestive systems cannot safely consume raw meat, neither are their digestive systems accustomed to spices. Dogs need more taste receptors to process that food is spicy since they are so poorly designed to handle spices.
If dogs eat moderate amounts of seasoning, they may become dangerously ill because they lack the internal biology to break down spices. Garlic and onion, in particular, are toxic to dogs, causing internal chemical reactions that effectively short-circuit the chemistry of their stomachs. Although less harmful, salt and pepper can still cause the dog to retain water abnormally high or low, which can result in compulsive drinking and wildly irregular urination.
Can dogs eat breaded chicken? Based on the frying process, a secondary effect develops even in home-cooked or unbreaded fried chicken. Since chicken is not an aquatic animal, it lacks the substantial layer of subcutaneous fat that many other birds do. Unlike duck, goose, or swan, which can realistically be cooked in their fat, frying chicken necessitates the addition of oil of some kind, particularly if deep-frying is being attempted.
Even though the resulting chicken is delicious, it has so many extra calories that it is not a good idea for people to consume too much. The excess fat in dogs can cause pancreatitis, a painful and potentially fatal condition more serious than just caloric intake.
When the pancreas, an organ in humans and dogs that breaks down more difficult sugar and fat molecules, is overworked and no longer functions, pancreatitis develops. Most dogs are smaller than their owners, so an amount of chicken that might only provide the owner with a full meal could result in the dog needing medical attention, especially if the dog is older or does not lead an active lifestyle.
Precautions
Keep a close eye on your dog for indications of intestinal distress or odd elimination patterns if you throw him a piece of fried chicken because you cannot stand the sight of him staring at your meal order any longer. Consult a veterinarian if symptoms like these last longer than a day or two; even if your dog is healthy, you should at least confirm that they are not chicken-sick.
Can dogs eat breaded chicken? Try being more proactive about the issue by teaching your dog that eating any of your food is not permitted as an extra precaution. To reinforce the dog's understanding that it should be focusing on its food and not yours, use a strict daily feeding schedule and a set bowl in a single location throughout the house. The association with food usually helps the dog adapt to this kind of training fairly quickly, and once you are done, your dog will be both healthier and more well-behaved.
Health Risks of Feeding Dogs Fried Chicken
Is fried chicken bad for dogs? There are two risks associated with feeding fried chicken to your dog. Below are some of the most typical risks.
Increased cholesterol
Although canine high cholesterol is not nearly as serious as human high cholesterol, it can be a sign of other problems. Dogs with high cholesterol frequently also have high triglycerides. This can lead to illness and be a warning sign for other disorders.
Gaining weight
Numerous health issues can result from being overweight. Your dog's bones, joints, and breathing will all suffer due to the extra weight, which also puts extra strain on their organs.
Inflammation
Vegetable oil and high-fat diets are known to inflame the body after consumption. This may worsen preexisting conditions and cause other problems in the canine body.
Pancreatitis
The pancreas produces enzymes that aid in food digestion and hormones like insulin. A high-fat diet can lead to pancreatic inflammation, progressing to pancreatitis. A bleeding pancreas or a mild swelling of the pancreas may accompany acute pancreatitis. The digestive enzymes secreted by more severe pancreatitis may enter the dog's abdominal cavity, causing abdominal pain and harm to the surrounding organs.
Toxic substances
Both onion powder and garlic powder, frequently used to season fried chicken skin, are poisonous to dogs. Even small amounts of fried chicken seasoning can upset a dog's stomach, though it is unlikely that it would be fatal.
Choking
Cooked chicken bones are brittle and can easily splinter. Additionally, because the bones are so small, any dog that gets its paws on them runs the risk of choking.
What are the Better Ways to Feed Chicken to Dogs?
Can dogs eat fried chicken? Do not let this question deter you from occasionally giving your dog chicken. Given its high nutritional value, chicken should be included in your dog's diet. Among the most popular and wholesome ways to feed chicken to your dog are:
Raw chicken:
If properly prepared, feeding your dog raw chicken can be healthy. Can dogs eat fried food? Many dog food companies offer raw chicken dog food delivery plans that are completely healthy. However, you must exercise caution because, if prepared improperly, uncooked chicken can harbor harmful bacteria.
Boiled chicken:
Dogs adore boiled chicken, although it could sound more appetizing.
Baked chicken:
One of the best and healthiest foods available is baked chicken, which has just come out of the oven. Just remember to use boneless chicken!
Commercial dog food:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a small piece of plain fried chicken harm my dog?
In comparison to fried chicken, which contains immoderate fat and oils that can be dangerous, a normally cooked chicken is a steady source of protein that puppies enjoy. Fried chicken is regularly prepared with seasonings that are toxic to dogs, like garlic and onion. Not only is the fried coating fatty, but the chicken pores and the skin contain a lot of fat, making it risky for your dog to consume.
What should I do if my dog ate fried chicken accidentally?
The first step is to test for bones in the chicken. If so, does your canine breathe normally? Is he choking or gagging? Call the vet right away if your canine is having respiratory problems. After that, look over the fried chicken coating's elements. This can entail calling the restaurant or double-checking the components within the recipe. However, the best action is to keep your dog away from fried chicken. It is acceptable to give him a tiny piece of fried chicken occasionally. But prevention is always the best medicine!
Are there healthier alternatives to fried chicken for dogs?
Turkey is a good choice if you want something to feed your dog, like chicken. Turkey is an excellent alternative because there is a high likelihood that a dog allergic to poultry will not also be allergic to turkey. Turkey is a nutritious meat packed with nutrients like protein and other things your dog needs to stay fit.
What safe human foods can I share with my dog?
- Vegetables: For a healthy snack, try cooked (canned) pumpkin, carrots, celery, broccoli, green beans, or cauliflower. Vegetables make a healthy snack for your pet because they are low in fat and calories. To reduce the risk of choking, cutting vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces is best. Other than pumpkin, they can be served either raw or cooked; if served cooked, omit seasonings.
- Fruit: You can give your pet apples, bananas, cucumbers, pineapple, cantaloupe, blueberries, strawberries, and kiwis. Similar to vegetables, it is best to remove any seeds, cores, stems, or peels from harder fruits before cutting them into bite-sized pieces. A refreshing summer treat is to add cucumbers to your pet's water or to make a fruit smoothie for dogs.
- Popcorn: Many pets enjoy eating popcorn and for good reason too! Popcorn that has been air-popped is a nutritious treat for you and your pet because it does not contain a lot of fat or salt.
- Peanut butter: Many pets adore peanut butter. It can be administered in various ways, including as an ingredient in a pet-friendly recipe or as a cover for medication. Check the ingredient labels before you give it to your pet because many peanut butter products contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that can be fatal to dogs. It is best to give our pets small amounts of peanut butter because it also has a high-fat content.
- Meat: Thinly cooked chicken, turkey, beef, or pork, boneless, with a sweet or moderately acceptable sauce. It’s best to avoid processed meats like bacon and lunch as they contain a lot of salt.
How can I satisfy my dog's craving for chicken without fried chicken?
Some dogs' most common protein allergies are beef, chicken, and other meats. According to many pet food experts, dogs allergic to sheep are scarce. This is the best option if your dog is sensitive to different foods. Lamb, like beef, is rich in vitamin B12 and protein. It also has a ton of amino acids, which are essential for a dog’s muscles, heart, and bones. Many dog producers use lamb as a staple in their dishes. By doing this, you can avoid buying raw lamb for your dog and still ensure he gets the proper nutrition. While sheep may be expensive in some areas, this is a wise investment in your dog’s long-term health.
What other precautions should I take with my dog’s food?
Keep your hands clean from start to finish. Wash your hands with warm soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling pet food and treats.
Wash pet food bowls and rollers with warm soapy water after each use. Do not use pet food bowls as scooping vessels. Use a scoop, spoon, or other bowl instead. Simply scoop out food for your pet with a scoop utensil. Old or contaminated pet food should be disposed of safely, such as in tightly sealed bags and trash cans.
Conclusion
Even though fried chicken isn’t particularly healthy for humans, people order it in droves because it’s pleasantly crispy and hot, so can dogs eat fried chicken? No matter how nicely you ask, you should never give the information to your pet because they pose more immediate danger than you. If you want to see them jumping for joy, try offering them organic boiled chicken or hamburger meat to take their minds off your plate.
