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As owners, it can be difficult to add variety to our dog’s diets. But there is a lot of confusion about what dog’s can and can’t eat. After all, the way dogs metabolise is not the same as us. So, unfortunately, your pooch can’t dine out on whatever you’ve rustled up for dinner. One thing we often get asked about is Chicken Liver for Dogs.
Chicken Liver for Dogs – Is it OK?
Chicken is an excellent source of nutrition for us but is it ok with dogs. Well, we’ve already explored regular chicken meat, so check out our handy guide. But can you give your dog chicken liver? And if so, how should you do it?
Can Dogs Eat Chicken Liver?
While to most people chicken liver isn’t particularly appealing, to dogs, it’s delicious. Rich in nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin B, as well as trace minerals such as iron, zinc, copper etc. As such, chicken liver is a fantastic way to keep your dog healthy and happy. It’s also a fantastic source of omega-3 and has been shown to improve vision and help with canine blood deficiencies.
As with everything, there are a few downsides. Chicken liver is high in fat and can lead to weight gain. So, avoid if your dog is a little on the larger side. The fatty content can also lead to stomach issues if given too much; otherwise, you might be reaching for the mop. Also, while it’s essential to get your vitamins, you can have too much of a good thing. Vitamin A hypervitaminosis is a life-threatening condition which is caused by overconsuming vitamin A-rich foods, such as liver.
Don’t be put off; just add the chicken liver to your dog’s diet in moderation.
Sounds good. But do you need to cook chicken liver for Dogs?
While in the distant past dogs and wolves chowed down on raw meat, not everyone recommends a raw diet these days. As we mentioned in our guide about chicken, dogs have strong stomachs. However, they are still at risk of bacterial infections – cooking liver eliminates that risk.
Ok, how do you cook liver?
Liver is easy to find in most supermarkets or butchers. Take the liver, around 28g for medium – large dogs, and about 14g for small dogs, and give it a quick wash under cool water. Place the liver in a medium-sized pan and cover with about an inch of water. Bring to the boil, and simmer on low for around 15 minutes (or until tender). Drain the liver and allow to cool.
If your dog’s food contains liver, give once or twice a week. Otherwise, chicken liver can make up to 5% of your dog’s daily diet.
Here are some fantastic liver treats to try out!
Thrive Kind and Gentle 100% Chicken Liver Tubes
These hypoallergenic freeze-dried treats are the perfect way to reward your pooch. With no added preservatives, artificial flavours, sugar or colours, as well as low in fat, they’re ideal for training or just to spoil your good boy (or girl).
- natural treats
- no artificial colours or preservatives
Forthglade Natural Complete Wet Dog Food Chicken with Liver and Brown Rice
Forthglade has produced the dog’s dinner of dog’s dinners. Forthglade wet dog food offers complete meal rich in nutrients, there’s no healthier way for your dog to dine. Plus, all the meat is sourced from Devon, UK.
- Pack of 18 Natural wet dog food in 395g trays
- High meat content of 75% which provides a great source of Protein with added rice and Vegetables for your dogs aged 1 year and above
- Contains brown rice which is a low gluten carbohydrate and is rich in fibre, antioxidants, manganese, magnesium and selenium.
If you really want to treat your pooch then why not cook him up some fantastic Liver Cake for Dogs. It’s a quick and easy recipe that you can do at home. Looking for a good canine beverage? Read this article about Woof and Brew – they do beer and prosecco for dogs so you can raise a glass with your four legged friend!
You might also like to read Can dogs eat Chicken and Raw Bones for Dogs.
