homemade dog food with chicken hearts

Chicken Hearts For Dogs

How do you feed organ meat safely to your dog? Follow this simple recipe and learn how to make chicken hearts for dogs.

Does raw food confuse or overwhelm you? If you have ever wanted to give your fur baby chicken gizzards but never knew how to, this recipe is for you! This is a great option for anyone who wants to make homemade dog food or for dog owners who want to supplement their dogs diet with a healthy natural dog treat.

FYI This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Benefits of Chicken Hearts for Dogs

Whole chicken hearts contain so many essential nutrients for dogs. Whether your dog is on a raw diet or you are more interested in cooking chicken hearts, they are good for dogs both ways!

Here are some of the main health benefits of chicken hearts for dogs.

• Amino Acids Taurine supports heart and brain function.
• Fatty Acids Support skin and coat health
• Good Source of Protein Helps build strong muscles
• Iron Prevents anemia
• Niacin Lowers high cholesterol

Chicken Heart Nutrition

In 100 grams of chicken hearts, there are:

• 153 Calories
• 9.33 grams of fat
• 0.71 grams Carbohydrates
• 12 mg Calcium
• 5.96 mg Iron
• 176 mg Potassium, K

Nutrition Source: US Department of Agriculture

Why Youll Love This Chicken Heart Dog Treat Recipe

This isnt just one easy recipe youll find four different methods for making chicken hearts for adult dogs. Pick out your favorite way to prepare them for your pup.

No matter which method you choose, the cooking time is minimal. This is the best way to provide a balanced diet for your dog.

Ingredients

Pet parents, there are just two ingredients in these treats. Heres more information about what I used.

• Raw Chicken Hearts Keep them whole, dont chop them up.
• Water If boiling the hearts, use filtered water.

Where to Buy Chicken Hearts

The best place to buy chicken hearts is from a local farm. If possible, buy organic chicken hearts from Whole Foods or other grocery stores like Kroger. Many grocery stores carry packs of chicken hearts and gizzards that you can use.

How to Cook Chicken Hearts for Dogs

To give you more options, Im sharing four easy ways to prepare chicken hearts for your dog. You can either boil them, air fry them, bake them, or dehydrate them.

For each method, you will want to thoroughly rinse the hearts and trim them if needed.

Boiled Chicken Hearts for Dogs

1. Place the chicken hearts in a pan and cover them with water.
2. Bring it to a boil then reduce the heat to low and simmer the hearts for about 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Drain the hearts (save the broth!).

Air Fried Chicken Hearts for Dogs

1. Coat the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Air fry at 350F for 8 minutes or until done (internal temp is 165F).
3. Halfway through air frying, turn the hearts over in the basket by shaking the basket or using a spatula or spoon.

Baked Chicken Hearts for Dogs

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place chicken hearts in a single layer on the baking sheet.
3. Bake them at 400F for 10 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature is 165F.

Dehydrated Chicken Hearts for Dogs

• Place chicken hearts on a dehydrator tray.
• Dehydrate them at 165F for 12 to 16 hours or until all moisture is removed.

No matter which cooking method you use, always allow the hearts to cool to room temperature before giving them to your dog.

Chicken Heart Broth

Boiling the hearts creates a deep, rich chicken broth. You can use it in many ways. Here are some ideas:

• Pour it over your dry dog food to moisten it.
• As an ingredient in homemade dog treats.
• Make dog gravy with it.

Feeding Chicken Hearts to Dogs

How many chicken hearts you feed your dog depends on what else they ate that day. Chicken hearts should be up to 80% of muscle meat content.

You can also use it as a topper for your dogs meals. Or cut them into small pieces and use them as training treats for your dog.

How Many Chicken Hearts is a Serving

The nutrition in the recipe card below is a serving of 1 heart.

The amount of chicken hearts you give your dog depends on what else they ate and how big they are. Smaller dogs dont need to eat as many calories as larger dogs.

How to Store Cooked Chicken Hearts

Boiled, Baked, and Air-fried: Store the prepared and cooled chicken hearts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to 4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container or plastic freezer bag for up to 4 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight.

Dehydrated: Store the cooled dehydrated hearts in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place. They can last up to 6 months if completely dried. Any moisture in them will shorten the shelf life. Check them occasionally and discard them if there are any signs of mold or spoilage.

Can People Eat These Chicken Hearts?

Yes, absolutely! Chicken hearts have a lot of nutritional value for humans. Read more about chicken heart nutrition for people on Healthline. Just note the hearts will be bland because they are not seasoned.

More Dog Treat Recipes

Do you want to make some other tasty and meaty dog treats for your furry friend? Try these recipes:

Find lots of easy recipes for dog treats right here on Spoiled Hounds!

Chicken Hearts for Dogs

Homemade chicken hearts are a tasty treat for your furry friend.

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes Cook Time 15 minutes minutes Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound Chicken Hearts
• Water

Instructions

• Rinse the chicken hearts well. Trim if needed.

• Boiled: Place the chicken hearts in a pot and cover with water about two inches above the chicken hearts. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until done (internal temp is 165F). Drain the broth into a container and save it to use as a substitute for chicken broth. Cool the hearts to room temperature.

• Air Fried: Coat the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken hearts in the basket. Set the air fryer to 350F and cook for 8 minutes or until done (internal temp is 165F). Halfway through air frying, remove the basket and shake them around or turn them over.

• Baked: Preheat oven to 400F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place chicken hearts on the baking sheet and bake them for 10 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature is 165F.

• Dehydrated: Place chicken hearts on a dehydrator tray. Dehydrate at 165F for 12 to 16 hours until all moisture is removed. Check on them a few times as needed.

• Cool the treats to room temperature before giving them to your dog.

Nutrition

Serving: 1heart | Calories: 9kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.05g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 5mg | Potassium: 11mg | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.4mg

Homemade Dog Food with Chicken Gizzards

Chicken gizzards are those little organs covered in silvery membranes that you usually find wrapped in parchment and stuffed in the cavity of a whole raw chicken. Gizzards are used by chickens in lieu of teeth. The gizzard grinds up the food the chicken eats and becomes a tough and lean muscle from the constant use. Slow-cooking the gizzards will soften them up for a tasty and inexpensive addition to your dogs homemade food.

Benefits

For such a small organ, a chicken gizzard is high in protein and contains iron, minerals, and vitamins C, E and B. They contain glucosamine, which can help with cartilage and arthritis problems. Limit chicken gizzards to no more than 20 percent of your dogs diet, because they are also high in cholesterol.

Slow-Cooked Gizzards Recipe

You can put this recipe in your slow cooker and go about your business for a couple of hours. Place 1 pound chopped raw chicken gizzards, 1 pound chopped raw deboned chicken, 3 large chopped carrots, 4 hard-boiled eggs crushed with their shells on and 1 cup water in your slow cooker. Cook for 2 to 3 hours on low. It is done when the chicken falls apart easily. Stir in 2 cups of cooked white rice and 1 more cup of water and cook on low for 30 more minutes. Allow to cool completely before you feed it to your dog.

Grain-Free Gizzard Stew Recipe

If you are concerned about grain in your dogs diet, here is a grain-free alternative. Youll need a large stockpot for this recipe. Chop up 2 to 3 pounds chicken gizzards and put them in your stockpot along with 2 cups peeled and chopped potatoes, 2 cups chopped carrots, 1 cup organic cold-pressed apple cider vinegar and 8 cups water. Turn the heat on high until the stew is at a rolling boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 1 hour. Cool the stew thoroughly before you feed it to your dog.

Feeding Amounts

Dr. Lew Olsen, a canine nutritionist and American Kennel Club judge, recommends feeding your dog 2 to 3 percent of his body weight daily, divided into two feedings. A 25-pound dog would eat half to three-quarters of a pound each day; a 50-pound dog would eat a pound to a pound and a half a day; and a 100-pound dog would need two to three pounds of food daily. Split the recommended portion in half and feed twice a day.

Cooking Chicken Hearts for Dogs [Nutritious and Yummy Treat]

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Do you ever wonder if your dogs meals could use a little more love and nutrition? And are you tired of scanning endless aisles of commercial dog food, questioning the quality and ingredients?

In this blog post, Im about to unveil a culinary secret that could revolutionize your furry friends diet and well-being: cooking chicken hearts for dogs.

Read on to find out the benefits, how frequently you should feed it to your dog, as well as how you can do it safely.

Medical Questions? Talk to a Veterinarian 24/7.Connect one-on-one with a licensed vet who will answer your questions in minutes.

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*Article may contain affiliate links to retailers like Amazon and Chewy. Learn more on our disclosure page.

How to Cook Chicken Hearts for Dogs?

Chicken hearts are going to become your furry pals next favorite treat. These small protein-packed wonders are loaded with flavor and essential nutrients

And the good thing is that you dont have to serve them just basic boiled or dried meat. There are so many other ways to cook chicken hearts that your pet wont grow tired of them.

Boiling

Boiling chicken hearts is a simple and easy method.

Just toss those chicken hearts into a saucepan with boiling water or chicken broth.

Simmer that for about 10 to 15 minutes until theyre nicely cooked up.

You can also give your pet the liquid that you used to boil the hearts in.

Grilling

Grilling chicken hearts can add a smoky flavor that dogs love.

Fire up your grill to medium-high heat, and then toss those chicken hearts on there.

Just flip em over and let em sizzle for around 5 minutes on each side until theyre all cooked up and sizzling.

Baking

If you want to achieve that crispy goodness with chicken hearts, just bake them.

Heat your oven to 375F, and then lay those chicken hearts out on a baking sheet.

Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until they are fully cooked and crispy.

Sauteing

Sauteing chicken hearts in a bit of dog-friendly oil can unlock a world of flavors.

Warm up that pan with some oil over medium heat.

Toss in those chicken hearts and let em sizzle for roughly 5 minutes until theyre fully cooked and sporting that lovely golden brown hue.

You can blot the excess oil if you want.

Steaming

Steaming chicken hearts can keep them moist and juicy.

Add the chicken hearts to a steamer basket and steam for about 15 minutes until they are fully cooked.

Air-fry

One of the easiest methods for me is air-frying. Just preheat the air fryer to to 375F. Pop the chicken hearts in the basket and cook them for about 12 minutes.

You dont have to add any oil. Just serve the tasty nuggets once theyre fully cooked and crispy.

When cooking chicken hearts for your dog, make sure theyre fully cooked. Size-wise, consider cutting them into bite-sized bits for easier munching.

Skip the seasoning! Dont add salt, garlic, or onion powder to the hearts. Your pup will love the natural taste anyway.

Doggy says, you might be keen to read this too: Will a small amount of onion hurt my dog?

Chicken Hearts For Dogs Recipe

Feeding your dog chicken hearts as an occasional treat or as part of a balanced homemade dog food diet can be a good source of protein and essential nutrients.

Heres an easy-to-make recipe that my family and my dogs love:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of fresh chicken hearts (you can find these at most butcher shops or in the meat section of your grocery store)
• 1 cup of cooked brown rice or quinoa (optional, for added fiber and carbohydrates)
• 1/2 cup of fresh vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, green beans, or sweet potatoes), finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil (for added healthy fats)
• 1/2 teaspoon of calcium supplement (if feeding this as a regular meal, as chicken hearts are high in phosphorus, which can throw off the calcium-phosphorus balance)
• Water for boiling

Instructions:

1. Boil the chicken hearts: Place the chicken hearts in a pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the hearts simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through. You can check if theyre done by cutting one in half; there should be no pinkness or visible blood.
2. Prepare the rice or quinoa (optional): While the chicken hearts are cooking, prepare the brown rice or quinoa according to the package instructions. This step is optional but adds some carbohydrates and fiber to the meal.
3. Chop the vegetables: While the hearts and grains are cooking, finely chop the fresh vegetables. You can use a food processor to make the chopping process easier.
4. Drain and cool the hearts: Once the chicken hearts are cooked, drain them and let them cool to room temperature. Be sure theyre cool before feeding them to your dog.
5. Mix everything together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken hearts, cooked brown rice or quinoa (if using), chopped vegetables, and a tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
6. Add calcium supplement (if necessary): If you plan to feed this as a regular meal, consider adding a calcium supplement to balance the phosphorus in the chicken hearts. Consult your veterinarian for the appropriate dosage.
7. Serve to your dog: Depending on your dogs size and dietary needs, you can portion out the chicken heart mixture accordingly. Remember that this is a treat or supplemental meal, so it should not replace their regular dog food.

Doggy says, you might be keen to read this too: How much boiled chicken for dogs?

Benefits of Chicken Hearts for Dogs

Chicken hearts are more than simply a tasty snack. Use this ingredient to upgrade your pets diet.

• Theyre packed with lean protein. Were talking muscle-building, tissue-repairing awesomeness.
• Plus, theyre so rich in vitamins and minerals. Your pet can enjoy a boatload of immunity-boosting vitamin B12, iron, and zinc from each serving.
• Chicken hearts are also a good source of taurine. Your pets eyes and heart will thank you for this.

Negative Health Effects of Chicken Hearts for Dogs

While chicken hearts can be a wholesome addition to your dogs menu, its good to be aware of a few potential drawbacks.

• First on the list is the potential extra pounds that your pet can put on if they eat too much of this delicious treat. Chicken hearts are quite fatty so they can cause weight gain if consumed too often.
• Some dogs can also be allergic to chicken. The meat can cause swelling and itching if you give your pet chicken hearts.
• Finally, there are the potential stomach problems if the chicken heart isnt properly prepared. Those small nuggets can carry bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella.

Are Cooked Chicken Hearts Good for Dogs?

Yes, cooked chicken hearts are great for your canine companion.

They are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and protein.

You wont have any trouble feeding them to your pet because they are tasty as well.

They would be adored even by finicky eaters.

However, chicken hearts should only be eaten occasionally as part of a healthy diet.

Is Raw Chicken Heart Good for Dogs?

Yes! Raw chicken hearts can be good for your pet. Feeding them this uncooked treat ensures that your furry pal gets the maximum amount of nutrients from it.

However, there are some drawbacks like potential food poisoning. Thats why handling and preparing raw chicken should be done meticulously to avoid any risk of bacterial contamination.

Plus, you have to find a reliable source for the meat.

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Are Dried Chicken Hearts Good for Dogs?

Yes, just like its raw and cooked counterparts, dried chicken hearts are a good choice for a doggy treat.

Not only is it nutrition-packed, but its also convenient to serve and has a longer shelf life compared to fresh or raw chicken hearts.

Very convenient for us fur parents looking to give our pets a healthy snack on the go.

Bonus! Chewing on these can do some good for their teeth by keeping plaque and tartar in check.

Dogs usually enjoy the taste of dried chicken hearts, so theyre surely going to be a hit as training treats.

Are Frozen Chicken Hearts Good for Dogs?

Freezing helps keep the meat fresh longer, so it is also a good option if you want to give your pet more protein.

Just be sure to thaw the chicken hearts before serving them to your dog, as frozen treats might be a bit challenging for their teeth and digestion.

Thawing them in the refrigerator or using a microwave on a low setting can make them more suitable for your furry pal to enjoy.

Are Chicken Hearts Too Rich for Dogs?

If by too rich you mean high in fat, then yes, chicken hearts can be too rich for dogs. They contain around 4.5 grams of fat per ounce, which is quite a bit.

This might be tough on some dogs stomachs and could potentially lead to digestive problems if given in large amounts.

Overconsumption may not just be bad for their digestion but for their weight as well.

They can be added as a supplement to your dogs current diet, but should not be the main component.

How Many Chicken Hearts Can a Dog Eat?

As I mentioned earlier, moderation is important when feeding your pet chicken hearts.

How many hearts can you include per meal? It would depend on the size and weight of your furry pal.

Most experts recommend feeding your dog one chicken heart per day for every 20 pounds of body weight.

Additionally, they recommend feeding dogs chicken hearts no more than 2 to 3 times a week.

Are Chicken Hearts a Good Daily Meal for Dogs?

Although these yummy treats come with protein, amino acids, and a few nutrients, they might not cover all the vital stuff our pets need to stay tip-top.

Plus, they contain quite a large amount of cholesterol and saturated fats.

With that being said, its okay for your pet to chow down on them some days of the week, but not every day.

This way, your dog can enjoy the nutritional perks without going overboard on the not-so-great parts.

How Often Should I Feed My Dog Chicken Hearts and Gizzards?

The size or weight of your pet is one of the variables that will determine how frequently you should and can give them chicken hearts.

Smaller dogs might be able to get by with only a few pieces every week, while larger breeds could be able to tolerate a little more.

You also need to factor in your pets activity level. More active dogs need more protein.

Experts recommend feeding your dog chicken hearts and gizzards no more than three times a week, and they should be mixed with normal meals in moderation.

What Can You Serve Along With Chicken Hearts to Your Dog?

Many different foods go well with chicken hearts.

Cooked carbohydrates like rice, sweet potatoes, or quinoa can provide additional energy and fiber to your dogs meal.

Adding steamed vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or broccoli to the chicken hearts can offer essential vitamins and minerals to your furry friends diet.

Our own pets love mashed pumpkins with their hearts as its very yummy and they get an additional serving of fiber.

You can also consider blending chicken hearts with a balanced commercial dog food that offers a wide range of nutrients.

This way, your pet can enjoy a complete and diverse diet.

Where to Buy Chicken Hearts for Dogs?

Many pet supply stores carry frozen or fresh options.

If youre looking for convenience, online retailers specializing in pet food and treats often offer chicken hearts.

Be sure to buy your ingredients from a reputable source.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can dogs get salmonella from raw chicken hearts?

Dogs can be at risk of salmonella due to bacterial contamination in raw chicken hearts. Its a must to handle and store the meat appropriately to reduce this risk. Opt for chicken hearts from reputable suppliers to ensure the quality of the meat and reduce the chances of contamination.

Can chicken hearts cause diarrhea in dogs?

Yes, excessive consumption of chicken hearts, especially when theyre raw, can lead to diarrhea in dogs. This is because of their high-fat content. To avoid any tummy troubles, its best to feed chicken hearts in moderation.

Can I feed raw chicken to my dog every day?

Feeding your dog raw chicken daily isnt recommended. It increases the chances of your pet catching salmonella and campylobacter. Additionally, it has been proven that there is a connection between eating raw meat and contracting polyradiculoneuritis.

Can I give my dog raw chicken giblets?

Definitely! Raw chicken giblets, including the liver, heart, and gizzard, can be a nutritious addition to your dogs diet. Just make sure to handle and prepare them safely to avoid any potential issues.

Are chicken hearts good for sick dogs?

Whether chicken hearts are suitable for sick dogs depends on their illness and specific health conditions. While chicken hearts can give your pet a nice protein boost and some essential nutrients, it could be tough on the tummy.

Can a dog that is allergic to chicken eat chicken hearts?

It really depends on the severity of the chicken allergy. If your dog has a mild allergy, they might tolerate chicken hearts. But if the allergy is severe, its better to steer clear of all chicken products.

In Conclusion:Cooking Chicken Hearts for Dogs

As you can see now, cooking chicken hearts for dogs is not just about preparing a tasty meal; its a way to show that you can upgrade your canine companions diet plan too.

By opting for this nutritious and flavorful addition to their diet, youre taking a proactive step toward their well-being!

Hey! If you found this post useful, check out these dog care tips too:

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