Labrador Food Recipes

Can Labradors Eat Chicken Bones

Jane Davis

Note: If you click a link on this page, then go on to make a purchase, we may receive a commission but at no extra cost to you

Can labradors eat chicken bones? This is a question that many pet owners have. The answer, however, is not as straightforward as one might think. Chicken bones can potentially splinter and get stuck in your lab’s throat, so it’s best to avoid giving them to your pet altogether.

So my answer is, No – Do not let your Labrador eat chicken bones! 

But what should you do if your pup did eat chicken bones? Read on to find out the symptoms your Labrador may get from chicken bones.

What can chicken bones do to a dog?

Chicken bones can cause a lot of problems for dogs. If the chicken bone gets stuck in the intestine, surgery will remove it. This won’t come cheap, and it’s not a pleasant experience for you or your pup!

Steps To Take Immediately

How does your lab behave? Does he look like he’s in pain? Check his gums and see if they look pale. If so, this indicates anemia (a low red blood cell count).

Any unusual behavior is a warning sign, not to mention that chicken bones can block digestive organs and splinter on their way down.

If your pup is excessively drooling, has diarrhea, vomits repeatedly, or looks like he’s in pain, it’s time to call your vet for help.

read.. can labradors eat eggs

Sometimes vets will recommend feeding your dog something like bread. This will create bulk in your pup’s stomach, pushing chicken bones into their intestines, where they can hopefully be safely passed.

Don’t force your dog to vomit.

Dogs that eat chicken bones should not be made to vomit. But why? The idea is not to have your dog throw up the bone once it has safely passed through the esophagus and into the stomach, as you don’t want to risk a sharp piece of bone pieces cutting the esophagus on the way up and out.

read.. Can dogs eat Mango?

Should you take your dog to the vet?

Monitor your dog. Is your pooch behaving normally? If so, there’s no need for your dog to see the vet. If, however, they are acting strangely or vomiting, then call your vet right away.

Things you should look out for: 

  • Vomiting or retching
  • Constant drooling and panting
  • Does your dog look just uncomfortable? 
  • Your puppy doesn’t want to move, looks tired
  • Denying food 
  • Moving oddly, lots of stretching 
  • Very sensitive abdomen
  • Diarrhea, bloody stool

Knowing your dog’s behavior best, you can discern whether he usually behaves. Do not delay taking your dog to the vet if he displays any of these symptoms.

Can chicken bones kill a dog?

chicken bones on a plate

Yes, chicken bones can kill your dog. It has been shown that chicken bones can puncture intestines and cause severe internal bleeding, leading to death if not treated on time.

Do not give chicken bones to your Labrador under any circumstances! It is best to be safe than sorry.

Prevention is better than cure

The best way to avoid any problems is to prevent exposure. Ensure the lids of your trash bins are secured and that you don’t feed your dog table scraps. Watch your dog whenever you are outdoors for foreign objects in your yard.

Always keep an eye on your dog while they are eating bones. Obtain additional information about raw food diets, as well as consult your veterinarian.

Chances are chicken bones won’t cause any problems, but it’s best to be safe than sorry!

Can My Dog Eat Chicken Bones?

No. Dogs should not eat chicken bones. Why? Because chicken bones can splinter. And if they splinter, the splinters may get stuck in their throats and cause choking.

Cooking the bone won’t help cooking makes them harder to digest. Also, cooked bones are even more likely to splinter than uncooked bones.

What about Chicken Wings?

Chicken wings are another matter. They are softer and less likely to cause any problems (provided they are not cooked). The same goes for chicken necks that will not cause any problems for your pup – at worst, your dog might get a tummy ache if he overeats.

read.. can Labs eat Carrots?

Remember that giving bones to your pup always poses a risk of choking, intestinal perforation, or obstruction. Constantly monitor your puppy when he eats bones!

So what about cooked bones?

Bad idea. If you cook bones, they become brittle and hard. This makes them prone to splintering into small hard, and sharp pieces. These could potentially get stuck in your dog’s throat or esophagus.

read.. can my labrador have bread?

Summary 

Dogs should not eat chicken bones as they can splinter and get stuck in the dog’s throat. In the case of chicken bones, prevention is better than cure.

Keep an eye on your pup while they are eating chicken wings or necks so you can take action if need be. Watch out for unusual behavior signs such as choking, vomiting, drooling excessively, etc.    

FAQ

Can dogs digest chicken bones?

Theoretically, dogs can digest chicken bones, but I would advise not to let your dog eat chicken bones. Eating chicken bones can lead to choking or intestinal obstruction, which is dangerous for your dog and could result in surgery.

Is chicken good for labrador dogs?

Chicken meat is a healthy treat. Chicken bones are a different story. They could splinter and get stuck in your dog’s throat or intestine.

What can I give my labrador chicken meat?

Yes, absolutely. Cook some chicken breasts, let them cool down, and give them to your dog. Chicken is a good source of protein and energy.

Can I give chicken bones to my Labrador?

Because chicken bones can splinter and get stuck in your dog’s throat or intestine, chicken bones are not recommended to be given to dogs.

Can chicken bones kill dogs?

Yes. Chicken bones could kill your pooch! They could splinter, and those splinters could get stuck in your dog’s throat or intestines.

About

Jane Davis

Hi, my name is Jane Davis, and I love dogs. I own a labrador retriever named Max. When I was growing up, we always had dogs at our house. They provide us with such unconditional love and companionship, and I can't imagine my life without one by my side.

This website does not provide pet medical advice. For professional advice regarding your pet's health, please consult a licensed veterinarian in your local area.