If you have ever looked into healthy food options for your dog, you have probably come across chicken liver and heart. Many veterinarians and pet nutritionists recommend adding these organ meats to a dog’s diet because they are rich in nutrients that support overall health.
As a dog lover, I know how much we all want our furry friends to live longer, happier, and more energetic lives. That is why it is worth learning why chicken liver and heart are such popular choices for dogs.
What Is the Healthiest Chicken Organ Meat for Dogs to Eat?
Organ meats are some of the most nutritious foods you can give your dog. They include the liver, heart, kidney, and gizzard. These parts may not sound fancy to us, but they are packed with natural nutrients that dogs absolutely thrive on.
Dogs are natural meat eaters, and in the wild, they would eat organs first because that is where the richest nutrients are found.
That is also why veterinarians recommend including organ meats in your dog’s diet. They are full of essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that support strong muscles, a healthy coat, and overall vitality.
Among all chicken organ meats, chicken liver and heart stand out as top choices. Chicken liver is loaded with vitamins A and B12, iron, and protein, while chicken heart is an excellent source of taurine, which is essential for heart health.
These two are often considered the healthiest options because they are gentle on the stomach and packed with the nutrients dogs need most.
Health Benefits of Chicken Liver and Heart for Dogs
Adding chicken liver and heart to your dog’s meals offers a long list of health benefits.
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High in protein and essential vitamins
Protein helps your dog build strong muscles and maintain energy throughout the day. Chicken liver and heart are both rich in vitamin A, vitamin B12, and iron, which boost immunity and help the body produce healthy blood cells. -
Supports heart health
Chicken heart is rich in taurine, an amino acid that is vital for maintaining a strong and healthy heart. It also supports good vision and brain function, making it a well-rounded nutrient source for your dog. -
Promotes shiny coat and healthy skin
Thanks to the vitamins and minerals in chicken liver, your dog’s skin and coat can become softer and shinier. Many pet owners notice visible improvements after regularly adding small portions of organ meats to their pet’s meals. -
A gentle source of nutrition
Compared to red meat organs, like beef liver, chicken liver, and heart are easier to digest. They are perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those that do not tolerate red meat well. -
Boosts overall energy and immunity
The nutrients in chicken organ meats help strengthen your dog’s immune system, keep their metabolism active, and support better digestion.
With all these benefits, it is easy to see why many veterinarians trust chicken liver and heart for dogs as part of a balanced diet.
Recommended Daily Amount of Heart Meat for Dogs
Even though chicken liver and heart are very healthy, moderation is important. Organ meats are highly concentrated in nutrients, so too much of them can upset your dog’s stomach or cause a vitamin imbalance.
A good rule of thumb is that organ meats should make up about 5 to 10 percent of your dog’s total diet.
Here is a simple guide for portion sizes:
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Small dogs (2–10 kg): 5 to 10 grams of cooked chicken liver or heart per meal, one to two times a week.
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Medium dogs (10–25 kg): 15 to 30 grams per meal, one to two times a week.
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Large dogs (25–45 kg): 40 to 60 grams per meal, one to two times a week.
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Extra-large dogs (45+ kg): 70 to 90 grams per meal, one to two times a week.
You can mix these organ meats into your dog’s regular food or give them as a special treat. Always cook the organs well and avoid seasoning with salt, garlic, or spices.
Is Chicken Heart Better Than Beef Liver for Dogs?
This is a common question among pet owners, and the answer depends on your dog’s needs.
Here is a detailed comparison to guide you on which is the best for your pet.
|
Feature |
Chicken Heart |
Beef Liver |
|
Main Nutrients |
High in taurine, lean protein, and healthy fats |
Rich in vitamin A, iron, and protein |
|
Digestibility |
Light and easy to digest |
Heavier and richer |
|
Best For |
Dogs with allergies or sensitive digestion |
Dogs that need an energy boost or have anemia |
|
Health Benefits |
Supports heart function, promotes muscle strength, and aids in metabolism |
Boosts red blood cell production, supports healthy vision and skin |
|
Fat Content |
Lower fat, ideal for weight control |
Slightly higher fat content |
|
Taste and Texture |
Mild flavor and tender texture that most dogs love |
Stronger taste and firmer texture |
|
Affordability and Availability |
Usually more affordable and easier to find |
Slightly more expensive and less common in some areas |
|
Vet Recommendation |
Often preferred for its gentle and balanced nutrients |
Recommended in moderation due to vitamin A concentration |
Best Ways to Include Chicken Liver in Your Dog’s Meals
There are many simple and safe ways to add chicken liver and heart to your dog’s diet.
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Cooked organ meat: Boil or steam the chicken liver and heart until fully cooked. Avoid adding oil or seasoning.
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Baked treats: Slice the organs thinly and bake them until they are dry and chewy. These make great training treats.
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Mix with kibble: Add small cooked pieces of organ meat to your dog’s regular kibble to enhance flavor and nutrition.
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Freeze-dried treats: These are convenient and long-lasting. Freeze-dried chicken liver and heart retain most of their nutrients and are easy to store.
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Homemade dog meals: Combine cooked organ meats with rice, vegetables, and lean meat for a balanced and healthy homemade meal.
When buying organ meats, always choose trusted sources to ensure freshness and safety. In the Philippines, Paleo Pet is one of the most reliable brands that offer high-quality, safe, and nutrient-packed organ treats for dogs.
Why Veterinarians Recommend Chicken Liver and Heart
If your dog is a picky eater, there’s one secret veterinarians often swear by a diet upgrade featuring nutrient-rich organ meats like chicken liver and heart.
These powerhouse ingredients are loaded with essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that support overall health, from strong muscles to shiny coats. Even better, their natural aroma and flavor make meals irresistible to even the fussiest pups.
Veterinarians recommend adding chicken liver and heart to your dog’s diet not just for taste, but for their functional nutrition. They deliver concentrated nutrients that ordinary muscle meat can’t match helping improve energy, digestion, and immune strength.
Final Thoughts
Chicken liver and heart are two of the best organ meats you can include in your dog’s diet. They are nutritious, gentle on the stomach, and full of the vitamins and minerals your pet needs to stay healthy and happy. Just remember to feed them in moderation and cook them properly before serving.
Your dog will not only enjoy the taste but also benefit from stronger muscles, better energy, and a shinier coat.
Looking For Safe And High-Quality Organ Meat For Your Furbabies?
Visit Paleopet.ph and shop for freeze-dried chicken liver and heart for dogs. Give your pet a tasty, healthy treat made with love and care. Because every dog deserves the best nutrition nature has to offer.