Can Dogs Eat Chicken Hearts?

When it comes to feeding dogs, many owners look for nutritious, natural, and affordable options. While chicken meat is common, what about chicken hearts?

They may not sound appetizing to humans, but they are packed with nutrients and are widely used in raw diets, homemade meals, and dog treats. So, can dogs eat chicken hearts?

The answer is yes—dogs can safely eat chicken hearts, and they can actually be a very healthy addition to your dog’s diet when served properly.

Are Chicken Hearts Safe for Dogs?

Yes, chicken hearts are safe for dogs to eat. They are a type of organ meat, and organ meats are highly nutritious for pets. In fact, they are often included in raw feeding plans like the BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food).

Chicken hearts are:

• High in protein

• Rich in essential vitamins and minerals

• A natural source of taurine, which supports heart health

As long as they are prepared properly and fed in moderation, chicken hearts can be a great supplement to your dog’s meals.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Hearts for Dogs

Chicken hearts are often referred to as a “superfood” for dogs. Here’s why:

• Protein: Helps build and maintain muscles.

• Taurine: An amino acid that supports heart function and eye health.

• B vitamins (B12, riboflavin, niacin): Boost metabolism, energy, and nervous system health.

• Iron and zinc: Essential for healthy blood, immune system, and skin.

• Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Supports heart health and overall vitality.

Compared to muscle meat like chicken breast, hearts contain more concentrated nutrients, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet.

Raw vs. Cooked Chicken Hearts

Both raw and cooked chicken hearts can be safe, depending on your feeding preference.

• Raw chicken hearts: Often used in raw diets. They retain all nutrients but must be sourced from clean, high-quality suppliers to avoid bacterial contamination.

• Cooked chicken hearts: Boiled, baked, or lightly sautéed without seasoning. Cooking reduces the risk of salmonella but may slightly lower nutrient content.

Important: Never feed fried, salted, or seasoned chicken hearts. Garlic, onion, and heavy oils are toxic to dogs.

How Much Chicken Heart Can Dogs Eat?

Moderation is key. Chicken hearts are nutrient-dense, but too much organ meat can cause digestive upset or nutrient imbalance.

A safe guide is:

• Small dogs: 1–2 hearts per day

• Medium dogs: 2–4 hearts per day

• Large dogs: 4–6 hearts per day

Organ meats should make up about 10% of your dog’s overall diet. Balance them with muscle meat, vegetables, and other food sources.

Can Puppies Eat Chicken Hearts?

Yes, puppies can eat chicken hearts, but only in small amounts. They are excellent for growth because they provide protein, iron, and essential vitamins. Start slowly with small, well-cooked pieces to avoid tummy upset. Always consult your vet before adding organ meat to a puppy’s diet.

Health Benefits of Chicken Hearts for Dogs

Adding chicken hearts to your dog’s meals can provide several health advantages:

• Supports strong muscles and joints thanks to protein and amino acids

• Boosts heart health with taurine and CoQ10

• Improves coat condition with zinc and B vitamins

• Strengthens immune system with iron and essential minerals

• Provides natural energy without processed additives

This makes chicken hearts especially valuable for active dogs, working dogs, and senior dogs needing nutrient support.

Risks of Feeding Chicken Hearts

While chicken hearts are healthy, there are a few risks if fed incorrectly:

• Too much organ meat: Can cause diarrhea or vitamin A toxicity (more likely with liver, but still a concern).

• Bacterial contamination: Raw hearts must be handled safely to avoid salmonella.

• Unbalanced diet: Feeding only chicken hearts without other nutrients can lead to deficiencies.

To reduce risks, always practice safe food handling and feed chicken hearts as part of a varied diet.

How to Prepare Chicken Hearts for Dogs

Here are a few safe ways to serve them:

• Boiled: Cook in water until fully done, no salt or spices.

• Baked: Spread on a tray and bake at low heat until cooked through.

• Pan-seared: Lightly sear in a non-stick pan with no oils.

• Freeze-dried or dehydrated: Available in pet stores as convenient treats.

Cooked chicken hearts can also be chopped and mixed into your dog’s regular kibble or homemade meals.

Chicken Hearts vs. Other Organ Meats

If you’re exploring organ meats, here’s how chicken hearts compare:

• Chicken liver: Higher in vitamin A and iron but too much can be toxic.

• Chicken gizzards: Tougher texture, rich in protein and zinc.

• Chicken hearts: Balanced protein, taurine, and B vitamins—great for everyday feeding.

Rotating between different organ meats gives your dog a wider range of nutrients.

Conclusion

So, can dogs eat chicken hearts? Yes—chicken hearts are a safe, healthy, and nutrient-rich food for dogs. They provide protein, taurine, vitamins, and minerals that support muscle, heart, and immune health.

Whether served raw or cooked, they make a great addition to a balanced diet when fed in moderation.

Just remember that chicken hearts should only make up a small part of your dog’s meals. With proper preparation, they can be a tasty and wholesome treat your dog will love.

FAQs

Are chicken hearts good for dogs every day?

Yes, dogs can eat chicken hearts daily as long as they are part of a balanced diet. Organ meat should make up no more than 10% of daily food intake to prevent nutrient imbalance.

Can dogs eat raw chicken hearts?

Yes, dogs can eat raw chicken hearts, especially in raw feeding diets. However, there’s a risk of bacteria like salmonella. Always use fresh, high-quality meat and practice safe handling to protect both you and your dog.

Are chicken hearts better than chicken liver for dogs?

Both are healthy, but chicken hearts are lower in vitamin A, making them safer for regular feeding. Liver is nutrient-dense but should be fed in smaller amounts due to vitamin A toxicity risk. A mix of both is ideal.

Can chicken hearts cause diarrhea in dogs?

Yes, if fed in large amounts, chicken hearts can cause diarrhea or stomach upset. Start with small portions and gradually increase. Keeping organ meats under 10% of the diet prevents digestive issues.

Can puppies eat chicken hearts?

Yes, puppies can eat chicken hearts in small, cooked portions. They are rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins that support growth. Always introduce new foods slowly and consult your vet to ensure balanced nutrition.