Are turkey tendons good for dogs? Let’s find out!

Yes, turkey tendons are good for most dogs as an occasional chew. They’re a high-protein, low-fat, single-ingredient treat that’s generally easier to digest than rawhide and gentler on teeth than bones. As with any chew, pick a size that suits your dog, supervise chewing, and keep them to a small part of the daily diet.

Turkey tendon treats are all over the internet and come in various shapes and sizes. Below we look at their benefits, how safe they are, and what to watch out for.

What makes turkey tendons good for your dog?

In fact, turkey tendons are more than just good – they have numerous benefits! Here is a list of our favorite benefits:

• Tendons are rich in collagen and naturally contain some glucosamine and chondroitin, nutrients often linked to joint health – although the amounts vary, and a treat isn’t a replacement for a joint supplement your vet recommends.
• The natural collagen in turkey tendons is a source of protein for your dog’s skin, coat and connective tissues.
• Tendons are generally easier to digest than rawhide, which makes them a popular alternative to rawhide chews.
• High in protein and low in fat, it’s the perfect snack for pups who need to watch their weight.
• Turkey Tendons offer a softer, more flexible chewing experience than bones, ensuring that your pup’s teeth stay safe while they munch. In addition, these treats can even help clean the teeth and prevent plaque from building up!
• Lastly, chewing on tendons can help decrease anxiety, stress, and boredom

As you can tell, turkey tendons have a lot of great benefits for your furry friend. However, are the treats also as safe?

Are turkey tendons safe for dogs?

For the people who are concerned that turkey tendons may be a choking hazard: they don’t splinter like cooked bones, so they’re generally considered a safer option, but any chew can be a choking risk for a dog that gulps. (For more on bones, see whether raw chicken bones are good for dogs.)

Most commercial turkey tendons are thin and crunchy, and most dogs chew them up without problems. However, you should always observe your pup while it enjoys its snack, choose a size large enough that your dog can’t swallow it whole, and take away the last small end piece before it gets gulped down. Large swallowed pieces can cause choking or, rarely, a blockage in the stomach or intestines.

Another concern people have with turkey tendons is bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella. While this is a potential risk, it is also true with other dried and raw animal-based treats. The best way to minimize the chance of contamination is to get your turkey tendons from a reputable source that specializes in pet food and treats, store them dry, and wash your hands after handling them.

Compared to other treats, it’s fair to say that these pose minimal health risks. If you are weighing up other chews, our comparison of beefhide vs rawhide for dogs covers the pros and cons.

How are turkey tendon dog snacks made?

It obviously depends on the manufacturer, but in general, turkey tendons are sourced from reputable vendors who share the same goals of creating healthy, natural products.

The process of making these treats starts with the tendons being cut into small pieces and then roasted to perfection. Once roasted, the tendons are dehydrated for maximum preservation and safety.

The final product is a crunchy treat that is sure to delight your pup! It is a similar idea to the dried meat snacks in our guide to the best jerky treats for dogs.

What brands do we recommend for turkey tendon dog snacks?

After reading all the benefits of turkey tendons, you may be wondering which brands are the best. 

We recommend Afreschi, who is known for their delicious turkey tendon treats that are sure to make any dog happy.