Chicken feet
might not be the prettiest dog treat, but they are worth a second look, as they offer valuable health benefits for our dogs. Chicken feet are naturally rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, which are both known to support the joint health and mobility of dogs. In addition, they can act as edible and fully digestible toothbrushes, supporting gum and dental health.
Aren’t Chicken Bones Dangerous for Dogs?
Most of us have at least once received the well-intended advice to never give chicken bones to a dog. No matter how often repeated, this advice is only partially correct. It is true that the bones of cooked, boiled or fried chicken should not be given to a dog. The high cooking temperatures turn chicken bones hard, which breaks into sharp and pointy splinters similar to when you try to snap a piece of bamboo, if dogs chew on them. These splinters can cause serious injuries.
Raw or dehydrated (dried) chicken bones, are both considered safe. In contrast to cooked chicken bones, their texture is rather soft and brittle. When chewed, they will crush, but not break into pointy objects. They are fully digestible for dogs.
Besides some tiny bones, chicken feet mostly consist of skin, connective tissue and cartilage. This is what makes them easily digestible. This also includes their nails. If you feel uncomfortable about them, just clip them off.
Benefits of Chicken Feet for Dogs
Chicken feet are naturally rich in protein, glucosamine and chondroitin. While protein is an important source of energy the most interesting nutrients of chicken feet are glucosamine and chondroitin. Both natural compounds that are the building blocks of cartilage and connective tissue.
Arthritis, Joint Health and Mobility of Dogs
Countless studies over the last few decades have shown the powerful positive effects of the oral supplementation of glucosamine and chondroitin on joint health, arthritis and consequently the overall mobility of dogs and cats. In fact, if your dog is suffering from arthritis, there is a high likelihood that your veterinarian will recommend glucosamine and chondroitin to treat your pet.
If you prefer to give your dog natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin rather than a pill, you may want to consider chicken feet. Based on studies, each chicken foot has about 450 mg of glucosamine. This makes them one of the cheapest sources of arthritis treatment for dogs.
