Turkey is such a huge tradition for many families during Christmas and Thanksgiving. You might be wondering “can Pugs eat turkey,” especially if you want to share your Thanksgiving feast with your pup. Turkey is safe for humans, but is it safe for dogs?
As a pet parent, it’s important to know what foods Pugs like to eat and how to keep them safe.
Can Pugs Eat Turkey?
The short answer is yes and no, Turkey itself is not toxic to dogs, in fact, it is an ingredient in many commercial dog foods. However, there are several precautions that you have to take to keep your canine safe. Dogs should only be fed white turkey meat, with no bones.
*This page contains affiliate links to products I recommend. If you purchase something from this page, I may receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.
As always consult with your veterinarian before feeding your dog any type of human foods, including turkey.
Now let’s take a closer look at feeding Pugs turkey and keeping them safe. Just because you can eat dressing, dark meat, pumpkin pie and etc, doesn’t mean that your Thanksgiving dinner is safe for your pooch!
Are There Any Benefits To Feeding Turkey To Pugs?
Turkey is lean meat and is a great source of high-quality protein, which is essential for maintaining good lean muscle mass and a strong immune system. It is also a good source of phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, potassium, and selenium.
That being said, you won’t be able to feed your dog huge amounts of it for them to see the benefits of the nutrients.
Nutritional Facts
Two ounces of boneless, skinless turkey breast:
- Protein: 16 grams
- Calories: 70
- Sugars: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Fat: 5 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sodium: 30.2 mg
Like chicken, turkey breasts are a low-carb high protein food.
Is Turkey Safe For Pugs?
Yes, in fact, many people use turkey when preparing home-cooked meals for their dogs. As long as you keep it simple and avoid adding any seasoning, your dog will love it.
The Dangers of Feeding Turkey To Your Dog
There are always dangers that you face when feeding your pup human foods, and turkey is no exception.
Here are some issues you as a pet parent should know about when it comes to feeding your Pug turkey.
- Pancreatitis: This can result from your dog eating the high-fatty turkey skin. Pancreatitis symptoms can consist of diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain.
- Choking: All bones are dangerous for dogs, but cooked bones are dry and brittle, meaning they can break easily and the shards can damage your dog’s esophagus when swallowed.
- Gastrointestinal (GI) Upset: Feeding your dog too much of anything can lead to explosive diarrhea, vomiting, and an upset tummy.
- Obesity: Pugs are prone to obesity, which can lead to joint problems and other health conditions.
Can Pugs Eat Turkey Bones?
All dogs love to chew and et bones, but it’s important to know that they can be harmful to your four-legged friend.
According to AKC, small poultry bones, including chicken and turkey bones can be especially dangerous to canines.
Never give your dog any turkey bones, not even the big ones like the carcass!
Why Pugs Can’t Eat Turkey Skin?
The skin contains high-fat content that can cause pancreatitis, a condition that causes the pancreas to become inflamed and swollen.
Not only is it painful for your pooch, but it can also cause other health complications.
So whatever you do, make sure you keep your dog away from the skin!
Can Pugs Eat Dark Meat?
According to Michelson Found Animals, the dark turkey meat, liver, legs, and liver contain higher levels of taurine.
Can Pugs Eat Turkey For Thanksgiving?
Many pet parents want to share their Thanksgiving meal with their pooch, after all, your whole family will be eating and you don’t want your dog to feel left out.
Yes, it’s totally okay to give your dog their specially prepared Thanksgiving meal, as long as you prepare it carefully and don’t overfeed them.
Even if you go back for the second round of helpings, your dog should only have one plate.
How Can I Feed My Pug Turkey?
The safest way to feed your pooch turkey is ti create a pet-friendly turkey dinner for your dog. This means that you’ll want to prepare your dog’s turkey dinner separately from yours.
Avoid using any type of seasonings, salt, pepper, onions, garlic and etc. (onions and garlic are toxic to dogs)
If your Pug is healthy and doesn’t have any allergies, there’s no harm in giving them some Turkey on Thanksgiving, after all, it only comes once a year.
Just remember that your dog should only get 10% of their calories from snacks and treats. So it’s important to monitor the number of calories in your “canine’s buffet.”
Give these yummy foods a try:
- Cooked, skinless, white turkey meat breast without fat or bones.
- Fresh cooked, unseasoned dog-safe vegetables such as broccoli, celery, green beans or carrots.
- Small piece of cooked sweet potato, just leave off the butter, bacon bits, and everything else.
- A small piece of baked bread, without butter. Never give your dog uncooked bread dough as it can cause stomach problems.
Your dog will love their small feast and it’s a great way to share in the Thanksgiving holiday tradition with your four-legged friend.
How Much Turkey Should You Feed A Pug?
Every dog is different and the amount you feed your pooch will vary. If you’re planning on preparing a canine Thanksgiving feast for your pooch, I highly recommend consulting with your vet.
They will be able to guide you on the proper serving size for your pooch.
Alternatives To Turkey For Pugs
If you’re looking for some safe turkey treats for your dog for Christmas or Thanksgiving, we highly recommend Pet Plate. Your dog will gobble it up, and will beg you for more.
The best part is that you won’t have to worry about the safety of your pooch. Plus, it’s delivered right to your door, find out more about our this fresh food for Pugs.
Final Word On Feeding Pugs Turkey
Dogs love the taste of turkey and it’s okay to feed them small amounts during the holidays. Always monitor your dog whenever you feed them any type of human food.
If you notice any unusual changes in their behavior or appetite or an upset stomach, stop feeding them turkey immediately.
References And Further Reading
Pet Health Network – Dr. Justine A. Lee, DVM, DACVECC – 6 Thanksgiving Treats You Can Share With Your Pets