Chicken Liver
Last updated: February 10, 2026
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Chicken Liver Chicken liver organ meat. Extremely nutrient-dense, rich in vitamin A, B vitamins, iron, and other minerals.
What It Is
Chicken liver is organ meat from poultry that serves as a nutrient storage organ. Like all liver, it is extraordinarily nutrient-dense, containing high concentrations of iron, vitamin A, B vitamins, and minerals. When used in dog food, chicken liver can be included fresh, freeze-dried, air-dried, or as desiccated liver powder. The processing method affects nutrient retention—freeze-drying and air-drying preserve nutrients better than high-heat rendering. Chicken liver is typically more affordable and readily available than beef liver, making it a practical choice for regular feeding. In premium dog foods, chicken liver is valued both as a flavor enhancer and as a concentrated source of bioavailable nutrients.
Compare to Similar Ingredients
- vs. beef liver: Chicken liver contains significantly more iron (10.12 mg per 100g) compared to beef liver (6.12 mg per 100g), making it particularly beneficial for dogs needing iron support. However, beef liver contains much higher vitamin A (7,683 µg RAE vs 2,808 µg RAE) and B12 (82.47 µg vs 15.07 µg). Chicken liver has dramatically lower copper content (0.57 mg vs 14.472 mg), making it safer for breeds prone to copper storage disease. Both are excellent nutrient sources.
- vs. chicken: Chicken liver contains substantially higher concentrations of iron, vitamin A, B vitamins, and minerals compared to chicken muscle meat. However, muscle meat provides higher total protein content by weight (26-31g vs 20g per 100g).
Why It's Used in Dog Products
Chicken liver is included in dog foods, treats, and supplements primarily for its exceptional nutrient density, particularly its high iron content. As a whole-food ingredient, it provides vitamins and minerals in their natural food matrix. The bioavailability of nutrients from whole food sources like liver is generally high. Iron from liver is heme iron, which typically has higher bioavailability than non-heme iron from plant sources. Vitamin A from liver is present as retinol, which dogs can use directly, whereas plant-based beta-carotene requires conversion. Chicken liver contains exceptionally high folate levels, important for cell division and growth. Beyond nutrition, liver is highly palatable to dogs, making it valuable for encouraging food intake. Chicken liver is typically more affordable than beef liver, making it practical for regular supplementation. In the supplement industry, desiccated chicken liver powder is used as a whole-food nutrient source.
Nutritional Profile
Macronutrients
- Protein: 20.02g per 100g
- Fat: 8.69g per 100g
- Moisture: 62.58g per 100g
Key Micronutrients
- Iron: 10.12 mg per 100g (USDA FDC ID: 2706154) - significantly higher than beef liver
- Vitamin A: 2,808 µg RAE (9,333 IU) per 100g
- Retinol: 2,803 µg per 100g
- Folate: 575 µg per 100g - exceptionally high
- Vitamin B12: 15.07 µg per 100g
- Riboflavin: 1.847 mg per 100g
- Niacin: 9.284 mg per 100g
- Vitamin B6: 0.586 mg per 100g
- Choline: 199.5 mg per 100g
- Vitamin C: 16.3 mg per 100g
- Selenium: 63.2 µg per 100g
- Zinc: 3.09 mg per 100g
- Copper: 0.57 mg per 100g - much lower than beef liver
- Phosphorus: 312 mg per 100g
- Potassium: 232 mg per 100g
Amino Acids
- Complete amino acid profile as an animal protein source
Bioavailability: Animal-source nutrients like those in liver are generally highly bioavailable. Heme iron from animal sources typically has higher absorption rates than non-heme iron from plant sources. Retinol (vitamin A) from animal sources is directly usable by dogs. The high folate content is particularly well-absorbed from animal sources.
Quality Considerations
The quality of chicken liver in dog food varies based on sourcing, processing, and inclusion rate. Higher quality liver comes from organic, free-range, or pasture-raised chickens, which typically have better nutrient profiles than conventional sources. Processing method matters: freeze-dried and air-dried liver retain nutrients well, while high-heat processing can reduce heat-sensitive vitamins. Fresh liver listed in the first 3-5 ingredients typically indicates meaningful inclusion (approximately 5-15% of formula). The term 'chicken liver' is specific and transparent, while vague terms like 'poultry liver' (which could include turkey, duck, etc.) or simply 'liver' without species specification are less clear. For supplements, 'desiccated chicken liver' or 'freeze-dried chicken liver' indicate specific processing methods, whereas 'liver extract' or 'liver powder' may indicate more processing. Veterinary sources recommend thoroughly cooking chicken liver before feeding due to bacterial contamination risks in raw poultry.
Red Flags
- Generic 'poultry liver' or 'liver' without species specified
- Liver listed far down ingredient list after multiple fillers
- No sourcing information provided
- Raw chicken liver in supplements (bacterial contamination risk)
- Heavily processed forms without clear methods specified
Green Flags
- 'Chicken liver' specifically named in first 5 ingredients
- Freeze-dried or air-dried processing specified
- Specific sourcing mentioned (organic, free-range, pasture-raised)
- Transparency about cooking/processing method
- Third-party tested for bacterial contamination
One of the most nutrient-dense ingredients available. Provides bioavailable vitamins and minerals.
Potential Concerns
The primary concern with chicken liver is vitamin A over-supplementation, though chicken liver contains less vitamin A than beef liver. According to USDA data, chicken liver contains 2,808 µg RAE (approximately 9,333 IU) of vitamin A per 100g. According to veterinary sources, liver should constitute no more than 5-10% of a dog's diet to avoid excessive vitamin A intake. A peer-reviewed study in the British Journal of Nutrition (2012) found that up to 100,000 IU vitamin A per 1,000 kcal was safe for growing puppies. Chronic over-supplementation over weeks to months can cause symptoms including poor coat quality, skin issues, weakness, weight loss, and bone problems. Unlike beef liver, chicken liver is relatively low in copper (0.57 mg per 100g), making it a safer choice for breeds predisposed to copper storage disease (Bedlington Terriers, Doberman Pinschers, some Labrador Retrievers). Raw chicken liver poses bacterial contamination risks; veterinary sources recommend cooking thoroughly. The high iron content (10.12 mg per 100g) is generally beneficial but could theoretically contribute to iron overload with extreme overconsumption. When introducing liver, start with small amounts and gradually increase to prevent digestive upset.
Contraindications
- Dogs with diagnosed iron overload disorders (rare)
- Raw chicken liver should be avoided due to bacterial contamination risk
Life Stage Considerations: Puppies benefit from chicken liver's high iron and folate content for growth and development. The lower copper content compared to beef liver makes it particularly safe for growing puppies of breeds prone to copper storage disease. Adult active dogs benefit from the high iron content. Senior dogs benefit from bioavailable nutrients, and the lower copper content may be preferable for older dogs with declining liver function.
Scientific Evidence
According to USDA FoodData Central (FDC ID: 2706154), chicken liver is exceptionally nutrient-dense, containing high levels of iron (10.12 mg per 100g), vitamin A (2,808 µg RAE per 100g), folate (575 µg per 100g), vitamin B12 (15.07 µg per 100g), and selenium (63.2 µg per 100g). A 2012 study published in the British Journal of Nutrition evaluated vitamin A safety in puppies and found no adverse effects at levels up to 100,000 IU per 1,000 kcal of diet. VCA Animal Hospitals notes that vitamin A toxicity typically requires chronic over-supplementation over weeks to months, and recommends limiting liver to no more than 5% of diet. Multiple veterinary sources recommend chicken liver be cooked thoroughly before feeding to eliminate bacterial contamination risks associated with raw poultry. Chicken liver provides significantly more iron than beef liver, making it particularly beneficial for dogs with anemia or high iron requirements. Animal-source nutrients in liver are generally more bioavailable than synthetic or plant-based alternatives.
Key Research Findings
- No adverse effects in puppies fed up to 100,000 IU vitamin A per 1,000 kcal (British Journal of Nutrition, 2012) [Source]
- Chicken liver contains 10.12 mg iron, 2,808 µg RAE vitamin A, 575 µg folate per 100g (USDA FoodData Central (FDC ID: 2706154))
- Liver should comprise no more than 5% of diet to avoid vitamin A excess (VCA Animal Hospitals)
Evidence Level: Strong
How to Spot on Labels
Reading ingredient labels can be confusing. Here's how to identify and evaluate this ingredient:
What to Look For
- Look for 'chicken liver' specifically named in ingredient list
- Position in first 5 ingredients suggests meaningful inclusion
- Check for processing method: 'freeze-dried' or 'air-dried' indicates quality preservation
- Species specification is important: 'chicken liver' is clear, 'poultry liver' is vague
- Sourcing claims like 'organic chicken liver' or 'free-range chicken liver' indicate quality
- For raw or lightly processed products, look for 'cooked' or 'pasteurized' to ensure bacterial safety
Alternative Names
This ingredient may also appear as:
- Poultry liver (may include turkey or duck)
- Freeze-dried chicken liver
- Air-dried chicken liver
- Desiccated chicken liver
- Chicken liver powder
Typical Position: In premium foods: typically appears as one of the first 5-7 ingredients. In supplements and treats: often the primary ingredient at high percentages.
Excellent whole-food nutrient source. We use liver as nutrition, not just flavoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much chicken liver should I feed my dog?
According to veterinary sources, liver should make up no more than 5-10% of your dog's total diet to avoid excessive vitamin A intake. According to USDA data (FDC ID: 2706154), chicken liver contains 2,808 µg RAE (approximately 9,333 IU) of vitamin A per 100g—significantly less than beef liver, making it somewhat safer for regular feeding. For a 50-pound dog eating approximately 1,000 kcal per day, limiting liver to 5-10% of diet translates to about 1-2 ounces of fresh liver per day, or larger portions (4-8 ounces) once or twice weekly. Some veterinary sources suggest one ounce per 10-20 pounds of body weight, once or twice per week. Start with smaller amounts when first introducing liver to prevent digestive upset, and gradually increase over several days. Chicken liver should be cooked thoroughly before feeding to eliminate bacterial contamination risks. If feeding a commercial food that already contains liver, check that it meets AAFCO standards for balanced nutrition.
Is chicken liver better than beef liver for dogs?
Both chicken and beef liver are excellent, nutrient-dense organ meats, but they have different nutritional profiles that may benefit different dogs. According to USDA data, chicken liver contains significantly more iron (10.12 mg per 100g) compared to beef liver (6.12 mg per 100g), making chicken liver particularly beneficial for dogs with anemia or high iron needs. Chicken liver also contains much higher folate levels (575 µg vs 258 µg per 100g), important for cell division and growth. However, beef liver contains substantially more vitamin A (7,683 µg RAE vs 2,808 µg RAE) and vitamin B12 (82.47 µg vs 15.07 µg). Critically, chicken liver contains dramatically lower copper (0.57 mg vs 14.472 mg per 100g), making it a significantly safer choice for breeds predisposed to copper storage disease (Bedlington Terriers, Dobermans, Labs). The lower vitamin A content in chicken liver also reduces toxicity risk with regular feeding. Chicken liver is typically more affordable and readily available. The best approach is variety—rotating between chicken and beef liver provides a broader nutrient spectrum.
Can chicken liver cause vitamin A toxicity in dogs?
Yes, chicken liver can contribute to vitamin A toxicity if fed in excessive amounts over time, but it contains significantly less vitamin A than beef liver, reducing the risk. According to USDA data, chicken liver contains 2,808 µg RAE (approximately 9,333 IU) of vitamin A per 100g, compared to beef liver's 7,683 µg RAE (approximately 25,531 IU). According to VCA Animal Hospitals, toxicity occurs when pets are fed raw liver or vitamin A supplements over several weeks to months at levels 10-1,000 times the dietary requirement. A 2012 study in the British Journal of Nutrition found no adverse effects in puppies fed up to 100,000 IU vitamin A per 1,000 kcal of diet. This is why the 5-10% of diet guideline exists—following this keeps intake in safe ranges. Symptoms of chronic toxicity include poor coat quality, skin problems, weakness, weight loss, and bone abnormalities. Vitamin A is fat-soluble and accumulates over time, so toxicity develops gradually from chronic overconsumption, not from occasional servings. Chicken liver's lower vitamin A content makes it somewhat safer than beef liver for regular feeding.
Should chicken liver be cooked before feeding to dogs?
Yes, veterinary sources strongly recommend cooking chicken liver thoroughly before feeding it to dogs. Raw chicken and poultry products pose bacterial contamination risks, including Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can cause serious illness in dogs and pose zoonotic risks to humans handling the meat. Cooking chicken liver to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) kills harmful bacteria while preserving most nutrients. Boiling, baking, or pan-frying without added oils or seasonings are safe cooking methods. While some raw feeding advocates feed raw chicken liver, the bacterial contamination risk is significant, and most veterinarians recommend against it. Freeze-dried or air-dried chicken liver products from reputable manufacturers typically use processing methods that eliminate bacteria. If feeding raw chicken liver, source from high-quality, human-grade suppliers and handle with strict food safety protocols. For most pet owners, thoroughly cooked chicken liver provides excellent nutrition with minimal risk.
Is chicken liver safe for dogs with copper storage disease?
Yes, chicken liver is significantly safer than beef liver for dogs with copper storage disease or breeds predisposed to it (Bedlington Terriers, Doberman Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, West Highland White Terriers). According to USDA data, chicken liver contains only 0.57 mg of copper per 100g, compared to beef liver's exceptionally high 14.472 mg per 100g—a 25-fold difference. This makes chicken liver a much better choice for copper-sensitive dogs. However, dogs with diagnosed copper storage disease should still have any liver intake monitored by a veterinarian, as even small amounts of dietary copper must be controlled in advanced cases. For dogs at genetic risk but not yet diagnosed, chicken liver can safely provide nutrient-dense nutrition without the copper burden of beef liver. The trade-off is that chicken liver contains less vitamin B12 than beef liver, but it provides significantly more iron and folate, making it nutritionally valuable. Always consult your veterinarian about appropriate liver intake for dogs with confirmed or suspected copper storage issues.
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