Can dogs eat jerky?
No, human-grade jerky (beef jerky, turkey jerky) should not be fed to dogs due to very high sodium, garlic, onion, and spice content. Dog-specific jerky treats are available but have been subject to FDA investigations — choose carefully from reputable, domestically sourced brands.
Meats · 410 kcal per 100 g
Benefits and risks
Benefits
- High in protein (but the excessive salt and spices negate this)
- Dogs find the smell and taste highly appealing
Risks
- Human jerky contains extreme sodium levels — 2,000+ mg per 100 g
- Almost always seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper — toxic
- FDA has investigated illness associated with jerky treats from China since 2007
- Reported symptoms include kidney failure, Fanconi syndrome, and death in some cases
- Teriyaki, peppered, and flavored varieties contain soy sauce, sugar, and spices
Recommended serving size
Adjust portions based on your dog's weight, age, and activity level. Treats and snacks should make up no more than 10% of daily calories.
| Dog size | Weight range | Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Small dog | Under 20 lbs (9 kg) | Not recommended (human jerky) |
| Medium dog | 20–50 lbs (9–23 kg) | Not recommended (human jerky) |
| Large dog | Over 50 lbs (23 kg) | Not recommended (human jerky) |
How to prepare and serve
Preparation
Do not feed human-grade jerky to dogs. If you want to give jerky-style treats, buy reputable dog-specific jerky made in the USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand — check the country of origin on the packaging. Better yet, make homemade jerky: slice lean chicken breast or beef very thin, and dehydrate at 160°F for 6-8 hours with no seasoning, salt, or marinade. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer.
Frequency
Never for human jerky. Dog-specific jerky from trusted brands: per package directions.
Key nutrients
- Protein
- Sodium
- Iron
- Zinc
- Vitamin B12
- Niacin
Frequently Asked Questions
- Starting in 2007, the FDA began receiving reports of dogs becoming seriously ill after eating jerky treats — primarily chicken, duck, and sweet potato jerky imported from China. By 2015, the FDA had received over 6,200 complaints involving more than 1,140 dog deaths. Reported illnesses included kidney failure, Fanconi-like syndrome (a rare kidney condition), gastrointestinal illness, and liver disease. Despite extensive testing, the FDA was unable to definitively identify the specific contaminant responsible. The investigation led many pet owners and veterinarians to recommend avoiding jerky treats from China entirely and choosing only domestically produced alternatives.
- Homemade jerky is one of the safest and most appreciated treats you can make for your dog. Choose lean meat — chicken breast, turkey breast, or beef round — and slice it into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick. Place strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet and dehydrate in your oven at 160°F (71°C) for 6-8 hours, or until fully dried and slightly flexible. Do not add any salt, pepper, garlic, soy sauce, or marinade. The meat's natural flavor is more than enough for your dog. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze for months.
- Dog-specific jerky treats can be safe when sourced carefully. Look for products made in the USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand with clearly listed, single-ingredient formulas (e.g., 'chicken breast' as the only ingredient). Avoid treats that don't clearly state the country of origin or list vague ingredients like 'poultry by-products.' Read recent reviews and check the FDA's pet food recall list before purchasing a new brand. Reputable brands include those recommended by veterinary professionals. If in doubt, homemade jerky is always the safest option — you control every ingredient.
Related meats
Bacon
UnsafeExtremely high in fat, salt, and preservatives — a leading trigger for pancreatitis in dogs.
Beef
SafeNutrient-dense protein rich in iron and B12 — the most common protein in commercial dog food.
Bones
UnsafeCooked bones are extremely dangerous — they splinter and cause choking, broken teeth, and internal injuries. The FDA advises against giving bones to dogs.
Chicken
SafeLean, easily digestible protein source — a staple in many commercial dog foods and bland diets.
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