Can Dogs Eat Chicken?

The short answer: Yes.

The long answer: One of the most common ingredients of dog food, chicken contains many nutritional benefits for your dog. When prepared correctly, the cooked meat can provide energy, help build lean muscle mass, and promote bone health. However, it is not recommended for dogs to eat raw chicken (especially puppies with weak immune systems) due to the possibility of contracting salmonella. Similarly, feeding your pooch raw or cooked chicken bones is not recommended as it may create potential hazards. Chewing on chicken bones may break his teeth, block his airway or intestines, and cause oral or digestive injuries.

How to feed chicken to your dog: Choose white meat over dark meat since the dark meat may lead to pancreatitis. Roast, grill, poach, bake, or boil the chicken without adding unnecessary seasonings such as salt, garlic, and onion. Before feeding cooked chicken to your pooch, remove the skin and bones, then chop into bite-sized pieces. 

Refrain from feeding your dog processed chicken with breading as these may contain harmful ingredients such as sugar, spices, and other artificial flavourings.

Here are three ideas for chicken treats your dog will love:

1. Pooches with upset stomachs may gain energy by eating boiled chicken and plain rice.
2. Combine minced chicken, veggies, rice, and water to create a power-packed meal.  
3. Train your pup with some homemade chewy jerky made from chicken breasts!

In summary: Chicken is a great source of protein, omega-6 fatty acids, glucosamine, and essential amino acids. As long as your pooch is not allergic to chicken, he can enjoy the cooked variant on its own or combined with other dog-friendly ingredients. Before including chicken in his diet, try feeding him a small piece and observing him for the next 24 hours.  

References: 

Food dogs should not eat and some they should 

Ultimate Guide to What Dogs Can Eat

Can My Dog Eat This? A List of Human Foods Dogs Can and Can’t Eat

Can Dogs Eat Chicken?