Meat · updated 2026-09-12
Can dogs eat turkey?
Yes — plain cooked turkey meat, no skin or bones.
Why
Turkey is lean and digestible and appears in many dog foods. The holiday version is the problem: skin, stuffing (onion, garlic), gravy, salt and bones. A small plain slice from the breast is fine.
How to serve it
Plain cooked breast meat, skin and bones removed, unseasoned.
If they eat too much
Pancreatitis from fatty skin and gravy; bone injuries; onion/garlic poisoning from stuffing.
How much turkey for my dog?
A daily maximum for a healthy adult dog, kept inside the 10% treat rule. Enter body weight.
Up to 60 g a day — about half a cup · plain breast meat.
Treats of all kinds should stay under about 10% of daily calories. Puppies, kittens, seniors and pets with a medical condition: ask your vet first.
And for cats?
Safe. Yes, plain cooked turkey. Can cats eat turkey? →
Related foods for dogs
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This guide is general information for healthy adult dogs, based on published veterinary guidance (ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, AKC, VCA). It is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your dog's weight, age and medical history. If you are unsure, ask them before sharing any human food.