Can Dogs Eat Chick-Fil-A Nuggets?
When we think of dogs and their diet, we often think of proteins like chicken or beef. After all, dogs are primarily carnivorous! We eat a lot of these same proteins, and can even get them easily from fast-food restaurants.
So, if our dogs eat these same proteins, can we share our fast food burgers or nuggets with them? Can dogs eat Chick-Fil-A Nuggets?
Yes, dogs can eat Chick-Fil-A nuggets, but like all other fast food options, it needs to be in moderation. This is especially true of the more processed parts of the nugget like the coating and the sauce. The chicken meat itself is better than the rest of the nugget.
And while it may seem like a resounding “yes”, Chick-Fil-A nuggets and other fast food menu items are not the best choices when looking to feed our dogs. That being said, allowing your dog one or two nuggets as a treat every once in a while should be okay. Take a look below for more information on this.
What Is Chick-Fil-A?
Chick-Fil-A is an American fast-food chain that has skyrocketed in popularity, with many locations across the country and in the UK and Canada, too. It is headquartered in College Park, Georgia, and its menu focuses on different chicken options. Some of its menu items include grilled chicken wraps, chicken biscuit breakfast sandwiches, chicken nuggets, and waffle fries. Besides its menu, the restaurant chain is also well known for exemplary service, no matter the location. The company was formed in 1946 by S. Truett Cathy.
Also Read – Can Dogs Eat Cheese Rinds?
Can Dogs Eat Chick-Fil-A Items?
Generally, yes, your dog can enjoy Chick-Fil-A items with you in moderation, as with all other “human” food. However, with some dogs, the risks can be too great, depending on factors like age and pre-existing health conditions. It is also important to note that nuggets or any other Chick-Fil-A menu item should never be used as a substitute for a traditional meal for your dog– rather, they should be used as an occasional treat.
Calories for Dogs
Something important to consider is the recommended calorie intake for your pet. When it comes to counting calories, a lot of us do so for our own bodies but do not think to pay attention to the calories our dog is consuming. Obviously, if you often exceed the recommended calorie intake for your pet, you risk causing issues like obesity. Take a look at the daily calorie recommendations below from Pet Obesity Prevention. Most of the menu items at Chick-Fil-A exceed the lower daily calorie numbers.
- A 10 lb dog: 200-275 daily calories
- A 20 lb dog: 325-400 daily calories
- A 50 lb dog: 700 to 900 daily calories
- A 70 lb dog: 900-1050 daily calories
- A 90 lb dog: 1100-1350 daily calories
Risks of Feeding Your Dog Chicken Nuggets
As mentioned above, there are some risks when it comes to feeding your dog chicken nuggets or other Chick-Fil-A items. Pets that suffer from health issues already will be susceptible to these risks and potential issues, so it is important that you evaluate your pet’s existing health before you decide to make a run for Chick-Fil-A together.
Fat
Chicken is a popular protein in your dog’s wet or dry food options, but fast-food chicken nuggets do not necessarily have these same health benefits. They are still a good source of protein, but they can also be dangerous to your dog because they contain lots of other ingredients that can cause issues.
For instance, chicken nuggets contain high levels of fat. High levels of fat in your dog’s diet can cause issues like obesity and acute pancreatitis. It can also cause “cosmetic” issues that are a sign of a poor diet, like a dull coat and dry, itchy skin.
Oils
Have you ever noticed that your chicken nuggets are oily or greasy to the touch? This is because your nuggets are typically cooked in oil, meaning that the finished project is going to be high in oils that could affect your dog’s health. Eating lots of oily foods can cause indigestion and loose stools or diarrhea in your dog. One of the larger issues that this can also cause is obesity, as well as a vitamin E deficiency.
Salt
Fast food items, lik chicken nuggets, are also typically pretty high in salt content. That explains why taking a sip of your soda is extra satisfying, right? Salt is not a healthy addition to your dog;’s diet, so too much fast food, or too many chicken nuggets, are not recommended. Too much salt can lead to many issues, one of the most severe being sodium ion poisoning. Common symptoms of too much salt in your dog’s diet are tremors, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and even, in some cases, seizures. Hypernatremia can occur as well, which refers to a condition when there is too much salt in your dog’s blood.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are chicken nuggets safe for dogs?
Technically, yes, chicken nuggets are safe for dogs. However, they are not a healthy treat for dogs, as they contain lots of fats and oils. Over time, if your dog is eating chicken nuggets consistently, it could end up developing some serious health problems.
Does Chick-Fil-A do anything for dogs?
Chick-Fil-A does offer dog treats at the drive-thru window that you can ask for, which is not common knowledge to all dog owners. Most Chick-Fil-A locations do have a stash of dog treats on hand, so be sure to try and ask for one on your next outing!
Can your dog eat grilled nuggets from Chick-Fil-A?
Grilled nuggets from Chick-Fil-A are certainly something that your dog can eat! Grilled chicken, whether a patty, strips, or nuggets, can be a much healthier option than the breaded options on the menu. When it comes to feeding “human” food to your pets, plainer is better.
Can dogs eat Chick-Fil-A chicken strips?
Generally, your dog can eat Chick-Fil-A chicken strips, so if you are looking to share one or two with your pet, you should be fine! It should be noted, though, that the frying fat that is used could also affect your dog, causing it to have a potentially upset stomach or loose stool, though this is not likely unless your dog has a more sensitive stomach.