Are Chicken Wings Bad for Dogs? The Truth You Need to Know

If you’re a dog owner who enjoys chicken wings, you’ve probably noticed those pleading puppy eyes watching your every bite Maybe you’ve even been tempted to share But before you toss your furry friend a wing, it’s important to understand whether chicken wings are actually safe for dogs.

I’ve researched this topic extensively, and the answer isn’t as simple as a yes or no. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about dogs and chicken wings.

The Quick Answer: Are Chicken Wings Bad for Dogs?

Raw chicken wings are generally okay for most dogs in moderation, but cooked chicken wings can be dangerous. The cooking process makes bones brittle and prone to splintering, which can cause serious internal injuries.

Raw vs. Cooked: A Critical Difference

The safety of chicken wings for dogs largely depends on whether they’re raw or cooked:

Raw Chicken Wings

• Generally safer for dogs
• Bones remain soft and pliable
• Less likely to splinter
• Can provide nutritional benefits
• Pose a lower choking risk

Cooked Chicken Wings

• DANGEROUS for dogs
• Bones become brittle and can splinter
• Can cause serious internal injuries
• May lead to choking or intestinal blockage
• Should NEVER be given to dogs

Potential Risks of Feeding Chicken Wings to Dogs

Even raw chicken wings aren’t risk-free Here are the main concerns

1. Choking Hazard

Dogs who gulp their food without proper chewing (especially larger breeds) might try to swallow chicken pieces whole. This can lead to choking, which is a life-threatening emergency.

2. Intestinal Damage

Bone fragments, particularly from cooked wings, can:

• Get stuck in your dog’s throat
• Puncture the digestive tract
• Cause internal bleeding
• Create blockages requiring emergency surgery

3. Bacterial Contamination

Raw chicken may contain bacteria like Salmonella, which could cause:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Food poisoning symptoms

4. Pancreatitis

The high fat content in chicken wings (especially the skin) can trigger pancreatitis in some dogs, which causes:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy

Signs Your Dog May Be Having Problems After Eating Chicken Wings

If your dog has eaten chicken wings and shows any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately:

• Gagging or retching
• Difficulty breathing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea (especially with blood)
• Abdominal pain or swollen abdomen
• Lethargy or weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Pale gums
• Discolored stools

What To Do If Your Dog Ate Chicken Wings

Accidents happen. If your dog managed to snatch some chicken wings, here’s what to do:

1. Don’t Panic, But Act Quickly

Assess the situation calmly. Was it a raw or cooked wing? How much did they eat?

2. Check for Choking

If your dog is choking (struggling to breathe, pawing at their mouth), this is an emergency. Look inside their mouth to see if you can remove the obstruction. If not and they can’t breathe, perform the Heimlich maneuver and get to an emergency vet immediately.

3. Call Your Vet

Even if your dog seems fine, it’s best to call your vet for advice. They may want to see your dog or might give you guidance for monitoring at home.

4. Monitor Your Dog

Keep a close eye on your dog for the next 72 hours. Most dogs will pass bone fragments within 24-48 hours, but it can take up to 3 days.

5. Consider Giving Bread

Some vets recommend feeding a slice of bread to help “cushion” any bone fragments as they pass through the digestive system.

Can Dogs Get Any Benefits from Chicken Wings?

Despite the risks, properly served raw chicken wings do offer some benefits:

Nutritional Value

• Protein: Supports muscle maintenance and growth
• Calcium: Promotes bone health
• B Vitamins: Supports energy production
• Amino Acids: Helps maintain healthy skin and coat

Dental Health

Chewing on raw bones can help:

• Clean teeth
• Remove plaque and tartar
• Freshen breath
• Exercise jaw muscles

Safer Alternatives to Chicken Wings

If you want to give your dog the benefits of chicken without the risks of wings, consider these safer options:

• Boneless chicken meat: Remove all bones and cook the meat thoroughly
• Commercial dental chews: Designed specifically for dogs’ dental health
• Raw meaty bones: Larger, non-weight-bearing bones under supervision
• Chicken-flavored dog treats: Specially formulated for canine consumption

Best Practices If You Do Feed Raw Chicken Wings

If you decide to feed your dog raw chicken wings after consulting with your vet, follow these safety guidelines:

1. Supervise always: Never leave your dog alone with chicken wings
2. Size matters: Make sure the wing is appropriate for your dog’s size
3. Remove wing tips: These small pieces pose a higher choking risk
4. Wash thoroughly: Rinse raw chicken to reduce bacteria
5. Serve fresh: Never give spoiled meat to your dog
6. Proper storage: Keep raw chicken refrigerated and use within 2 days
7. Clean up: Wash surfaces, utensils, and your hands after handling raw chicken
8. Moderation: Treat chicken wings as an occasional treat, not a regular meal

Which Dogs Should Never Have Chicken Wings?

Some dogs should avoid chicken wings entirely:

• Dogs prone to pancreatitis
• Dogs with compromised immune systems
• Puppies with undeveloped teeth
• Dogs with dental issues
• Breeds that tend to gulp food without chewing
• Dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies
• Small dog breeds (higher risk of choking)

What Vets Say About Chicken Wings for Dogs

Most veterinarians recommend against feeding dogs chicken wings, especially cooked ones. The risks generally outweigh the benefits, particularly when there are safer alternatives available.

I spoke with my own vet about this, and she emphasized that while some dogs can handle raw chicken wings just fine, the potential for serious complications makes them a risky choice when safer options exist.

My Personal Experience

I’ve got two dogs – a Labrador who chews everything thoroughly and a small terrier mix who gulps his food. I’ve tried giving my Lab raw chicken wings occasionally (always supervised), and he’s handled them well. But I’d never risk it with my terrier due to his eating style.

One time, my Lab got hold of a cooked wing bone that fell on the floor during a party. I immediately called the vet, who advised monitoring him closely. Thankfully, he passed the bone fragments without issue, but the anxiety I felt during those 48 hours of watching his every move and checking his stool wasn’t worth it!

The Bottom Line on Chicken Wings for Dogs

Here’s what it comes down to:

• Never feed cooked chicken wings to dogs
• Raw chicken wings may be okay for some dogs, but still carry risks
• Always consult with your vet before introducing any new food
• Safer alternatives exist that provide similar benefits
• If your dog accidentally eats chicken wings, monitor them closely and contact your vet

When it comes to our furry friends, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. While those puppy dog eyes might be hard to resist, remembering the potential dangers of chicken wings might make it easier to say no.

FAQ About Dogs and Chicken Wings

Can puppies eat chicken wings?

While raw chicken wings technically can be given to puppies as a “starter” bone, it’s generally safer to wait until they’re older and have more developed teeth and eating habits.

How many chicken wings can a dog safely eat?

If your vet approves raw chicken wings, small dogs might have one wing occasionally, while larger dogs might handle 2-3 wings, depending on their size and dietary needs.

What happens if my dog swallows a chicken wing whole?

If your dog swallows a wing whole, monitor them closely for signs of choking or distress. Contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance, as there’s risk of obstruction.

Can dogs digest chicken bones?

Dogs can digest some bone material, but often pass bone fragments in their stool. The digestive process typically takes 24-72 hours.

Are chicken wing bones more dangerous than other chicken bones?

Wing bones are smaller and potentially more hazardous than larger bones because they’re more likely to be swallowed whole or cause choking.

Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one might not work for another. When in doubt, always consult with your veterinarian about the best diet choices for your specific furry friend!