Yes, dogs can eat chicken liver. When fed correctly, chicken liver can be a highly nutritious addition to a dog’s diet. It must always be cooked, served plain, and given in moderation. Chicken liver should be treated as a supplement, not a daily food.
Is chicken liver safe for dogs?
Chicken liver is safe for dogs when it is fully cooked, served without salt or seasoning, and fed in small amounts. Raw chicken liver is not recommended due to the risk of bacterial contamination.
Nutritional value of chicken liver for dogs
Chicken liver is a nutrient-dense organ meat packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Vitamin A – Supports vision, immune health, and skin
- Iron – Supports healthy red blood cells
- Vitamin B12 – Supports metabolism and nervous system
- Folate (B9) – Supports cell growth
- Copper – Helps with iron absorption
- High-quality protein – Supports muscle maintenance
Benefits of chicken liver for dogs
When fed correctly, chicken liver may offer several health benefits:
- Supports healthy skin and coat
- Helps prevent iron deficiency
- Supports immune function
- Highly palatable and improves appetite
- Provides nutrient-rich protein
Risks of feeding chicken liver to dogs
Chicken liver can be harmful if fed in excess.
- Vitamin A toxicity if overfed
- Digestive upset such as diarrhea or vomiting
- Weight gain if fed too often
- Bacterial risk if fed raw
Can dogs eat raw chicken liver?
No. Raw chicken liver is not recommended for dogs. It may contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter. Always cook chicken liver thoroughly before feeding.
Can puppies eat chicken liver?
Yes, puppies can eat chicken liver in very small amounts. It should be introduced slowly and fed sparingly due to its high vitamin A content.
How to cook chicken liver for dogs
- Rinse chicken liver thoroughly
- Boil, steam, or lightly cook without oil
- Cook until fully done (no pink inside)
- Let it cool completely
- Chop into small, bite-sized pieces
Do not add salt, oil, onion, garlic, or spices.
How much chicken liver can dogs eat?
Chicken liver should make up no more than 5% of your dog’s diet and should be fed only once or twice per week.
- Small dogs: ½–1 teaspoon
- Medium dogs: 1–2 teaspoons
- Large dogs: 1 tablespoon
Signs your dog is getting too much chicken liver
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Stiffness or joint discomfort
- Loss of appetite
When dogs should avoid chicken liver
Chicken liver should be avoided or strictly limited if your dog has liver disease, consumes a vitamin A–rich diet, has sensitive digestion, is overweight, or is on a prescribed therapeutic diet.
Final verdict: Can dogs eat chicken liver?
Yes, dogs can eat chicken liver when it is fully cooked, served plain, and fed in small, controlled amounts. It is highly nutritious but must be given sparingly to avoid vitamin A toxicity.
