There you are in the kitchen, marinating the chicken you'd intended for dinner. You turn your back to reach for the fridge and next thing you know, the tray of chicken is on the floor and your dog is eating it.
You're now probably concerned about your dog after they ate raw chicken.
If you ever see this happen, restrain your dog by holding them from the collar or harness and then carefully remove any chicken from their mouth. If you find that your dog ate raw chicken, read on to learn why raw chicken isn't safe for dogs.
The Infectious Dangers of Eating Raw Chicken
Eating raw chicken can lead to infectious issues for humans, more so than other meats. And it's no different for dogs. Eating raw chicken falls squarely in the "not good for dogs" category as a result of these dangerous bacteria.
Raw chicken meat can be a source of certain kinds of bacteria that can lead to gastrointestinal salmonella infections in both humans and dogs. In fact, up to 20% of chicks may test positive for salmonella, according to researchers at the University of Georgia as noted by News21.
While dogs are more carnivorous than humans and are therefore theoretically better at battling these bacteria, the risk still exists. Moreover, a dog who has never consumed raw meat and perhaps is not even accustomed to eating chicken is much less likely to tolerate a sizable meal of the stuff.
Finally, it's important to note that dogs who consume raw meat are more likely to shed dangerous bacteria in their stool. Even the most minute amounts may end up on bedding and other areas humans come into contact. These bacteria have been shown to be a risk for human household members, especially for the very young, elderly and immunosuppressed.
Other Dangers of Eating Raw Chicken
If you find yourself on the phone with your veterinarian explaining how your dog got into some raw chicken, you'll need to be aware of other potential dangers. Salmonella aside, how bad is eating raw chicken overall?
That answer probably depends on how much your dog ate relative to their size. A few licks of raw juice, for example, is enough to pass along any unwanted bacteria, but ingesting a whole carcass is much worse for a variety of reasons, particularly because of the bones and fat.
While raw bones tend to be easier to digest than cooked bones, a small dog may nonetheless suffer mechanical trauma to their digestive tract from eating all that tough stuff, even potentially experiencing a complete bowel obstruction. Meanwhile, large amounts of fat may lead to the same issues that happen when dogs eat gobs of fatty turkey during Thanksgiving — namely, the possibility of pancreatitis.
Tasty Tips
If My Dog Ate Raw Chicken, Are There Side Effects?
A few side effects associated with a dog eating raw chicken include:
- Vomiting or regurgitation: The dog's body may attempt to expel the material shortly after ingestion, especially if a large quantity was consumed. While unlikely to lead to gastrointestinal perforation, bones can traumatize the delicate lining of the stomach and esophagus.
- Diarrhea: Fluid and electrolyte loss from diarrhea is a major concern as it's the most common sign after raw chicken consumption. Soft stools are to be expected but unrelenting watery stools are a serious cause for concern.
- Dehydration: Electrolyte loss and dehydration may prove to be an issue if the vomiting is extensive or persists for a prolonged period of time, particularly for smaller dogs.
- Fever, loss of appetite and lethargy: These signs become more of an issue if salmonella or campylobacter is involved.
Most dogs who eat raw chicken recover without complications. While the rare dog may require long-term hospitalization for bacterial infections, most can avoid a hospital stay and will recover relatively quickly at home once medications and fluids are administered.
Should My Dog See a Vet?
In most small-volume ingestion situations, most vets are likely to recommend that you watch your dog carefully over the week following the ingestion for signs of vomiting or diarrhea. If these arise, or if large quantities were consumed, a vet visit is definitely in order.
If your dog is food motivated and can easily access food on a table or kitchen counter, it is a good idea to never turn your back on raw chicken ingredients when they're in the room. If you're cooking something especially yummy, like meats, consider keeping your dogs contained elsewhere. Better yet, find a no-reach spot in the kitchen for especially tantalizing ingredients so incidents like this never happen again.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables
Chicken & Vegetables recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Can Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Entrée Dog Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pollock Meal & Insect Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Turkey & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious large bite size for large breed dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Small & Mini Chicken, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a large bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small Bites Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition. Delicious food in a small bite size.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Entrée Variety Pack Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Hearty Vegetable & Chicken Stew dog food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Related articles
Running with Your Dog: 12 Tips For a Successful Race
If you're a runner and a dog parent, consider running a race with your dog! Learn how to get started, from training tips to finding dog-friendly races.
Learn About the Best Dog Breeds for Children
Learn tips for choosing the best dog breed for your children and family, considering things like breed size, energy level, temperament and age.
Heterochromia in Dogs: Why Your Dog Has Two Different-Colored Eyes
If you've wondered why your dog has two different colored eyes, learn about this condition called heterochromia and if it's tied to any health issues.
Dogs and Fireworks: How to Help Your Frightened Pooch
Does your dog struggle with the loud noises from fireworks? Read information about canine noise anxiety, and get tips on how to help them cope.
Can Your Dog Smile At You?
It may look like your dog is grinning, but can dogs smile for real? Learn about their facial expressions & whether their face can actually show happiness.
Holiday Foods to Avoid Giving Your Dog
Discover what holiday foods to avoid feeding your dog, such as chocolate and nuts, and copy down these homemade holiday dog treat recipes to share with him
Dog Carrier Bags: What You Need to Know
Discover helpful tips for choosing the right dog carrier bag or purse for your tiny pup, including safety features to look for & when a dog purse is ideal.
Can Dogs Be Ticklish? (& Where Are Their Spots?)
Learn whether your dog is ticklish, how to recognize if they are & which spots are most sensitive, as well as how to tell if they don't like being tickled.
Why Is My Dog Shaking? 6 Common Causes for the Shivers
If you're noticed your dog shaking and shivering, you're probably wondering if there is something wrong. Learn common reasons why and what you can do.
Things to Keep in Mind When Feeding Your Puppy
Learn how much to feed your new puppy, how to handle a pup that's a picky eater, and whether wet or dry dog food is best for his needs.
Can Dogs Lie to Their Owners?
Can dogs lie to their owners? Learn what science says about these furry friends' ability to deceive their humans (and why they might actually do it).
Can Dogs Get Braces? (& Are They Safe?)
Learn when braces can be an option for dogs, like when a dog has severe bite or teeth alignment issues, and how they can help dogs chew & eat normally.
5 Popular Small & Toy Dog Breeds in America
U.S. Dog Breed Spotlight: 5 Popular Small & Toy Dogs
Caring For a Dog with Sensitive Skin
Learn how dogs with sensitive skin can have special dietary needs, how they can develop over time in a healthy dog, and how Hill's dog food can help.
Whipworms in Dogs: Signs, Treatment and Prevention
Whipworms in dogs are a common problem. Learn what they are, the signs and how whipworms in dogs are diagnosed, treated and prevented.
The Challenges of Walking Your Dog in Winter
Wondering whether walking your dog in winter weather is a good idea? Discover some safety tips to keep your pup safe in the colder winter conditions.
Parvovirus: What You Need to Know
Parvovirus in dogs, especially puppies, is a devastating illness that can be fatal. Learn the facts about parvo & what to do if your dog has been exposed.
How to Get Dog Pee Smell Out of Carpet
Discover the best tips & tricks for removing pee stains and odor from carpet, including stains that are recent vs. those that have set in for some time.
Puppy Day Care: Is It a Good Fit?
What should you look for when deciding on a dog day care? Learn tips for what to look for in a day care and how to prepare your pup for his first day.
Why Is My Dog Afraid of the Dark?
Discover common reasons why your dog seems afraid of the dark, including things like separation anxiety & traumas, and how to help reduce their fears.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.