Are Antlers Dangerous for Dogs?

Are antlers safe for dogs?

It's a question that many pet owners are asking these days, as antlers are becoming increasingly popular as a chew toy and treat for our four-legged friends.

The short answer is yes.

Antler chews are safe for dogs if they are the right size and your dog chews on them correctly.

As an all-natural chew treat, antlers offer a wide range of health benefits for dogs. Most importantly, it curbs the destructive behavior that pet parents often feel hopeless against.   

This means no more gnawing on your furniture and chewing on your shoes.

But before you introduce these chews to your furry friend, you should understand the intent behind their chewing behavior and how antlers can help. Only after you know the basics can you ensure your dog chews on antlers safely.    

Why Do Dogs Love to Chew?

Whether it's your new shoes, a couch cushion, or the occasional stick, it's clear that dogs love to chew!

But why is that?

As it turns out, chewing is a very important part of a dog's life. It's how they explore the world around them. When they chew on something, they are essentially "tasting" it and learning about it. Whether it's a shoe, a toy, a stick, or a couch cushion, they're getting to know the object better and learning what it's made of.

Chewing is also a great way for dogs to clean their teeth and remove built-up plaque and tartar. It can also help massage their gums, improving overall dental health.

Finally, chewing can be a great way for dogs to release energy. Especially for puppies and young dogs, chewing on something is a great way to let off steam and keep them from being destructive. It's also a great way to relieve stress and boredom, particularly for dogs that spend a lot of time alone.

Why Are Antlers a Great Chew for Dogs?

Antlers are a great choice if you're looking for a safe, natural chew for your dog!

Not only are they long-lasting, but they're healthy and nutritious, too. With antlers, your furry friend can satisfy their natural urge to chew and get some essential nutrients in the process.

Let's look at some of the benefits of antlers as a dog chew toy.

1.  Antlers Are Tough and Durable

Antlers are a great choice for dogs that are especially hard on their chew toys. They have a hard exterior, so they can stand up to even the most aggressive chewers, giving them a chewing challenge and keeping them entertained for hours while keeping their teeth clean and gums healthy.

And since they're not made of rubber or plastic, there's no risk of pieces breaking off and your dog swallowing them.

    2.  Antlers Are Natural and Non-Toxic

Antlers are a natural and non-toxic chew for dogs. Antlers don't contain chemicals or additives like many traditional chew toys. This makes them a much safer option for your four-legged pal, even if they have a sensitive stomach or an allergy

   3.  Antlers Are Nutritious

Antlers are also a great source of essential nutrients. They're rich in calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and other minerals important for your dog's health. Plus, their high protein content helps make the bones and muscles healthier and stronger.

   4.  Antlers Are Delicious

Most dogs love the taste of the bone marrow that reveals as they chew through the hard outer surface of the antlers. This delicious flavor keeps them coming back for more. Rest assured that there won't be any added flavorings or preservatives that could harm your dog's health.

   5. Antlers Last Longer Than Other Natural Chews

Finally, antlers are long-lasting chews. Depending on the size, they can last for several weeks or months. This means you won't have to buy a new chew toy every few days!

Overall, antlers are an excellent chew for dogs. They are also very affordable, making them a great option for budget-minded pet parents.

Like other responsible paw-rents, you can trust Pet Expertise to provide your furry baby with the highest quality antler chews. Our Natural Whole Antler Chews come in various shapes and sizes to cater to the needs of dogs of all sizes. They are 100% safe, healthy, and nutritious treats that will keep your dog engaged and happy for as long as you want.   

How Can You Safely Give Antlers to Your Dog?

Safety should be the number one priority when giving your dog antler chews.

Antlers are usually made from deer, elk, or moose. They are naturally shed and processed, so there is no health risk to your dog. But of course, they can be dangerous if you choose the wrong size and let your dog chew unsupervised.

So, first and foremost, you must choose the right antler size and shape for your dog. If the antler is too big, it could cause damage to the teeth or gums or be a choking hazard. If it's too small, your pup could swallow it and cause an intestinal blockage.

Additionally, it's important to inspect the antler before giving it to your dog. Check for sharp edges or splinters that could hurt their mouth or throat. If you find any, discard the antler immediately.

You must also supervise your dog when they are chewing on the antler. They shouldn't gnaw on it too aggressively to break it into pieces. This will help ensure they don't break their teeth or swallow large pieces.

With extra care and supervision, your dog can enjoy their antler treat for several weeks or months without any risk to their health.

When Should You Remove the Antler?

Pet parents admit that dogs love nothing more than getting their teeth into a good antler chew. But, like with all things, there comes a time when it's time to say goodbye.

Knowing when to remove the antler is key to ensuring a pleasant and safe chewing experience.

Ideally, you should replace the antler chew when it starts to show signs of wear and tear, such as chipping, cracking, or splintering. These pieces can be a choking hazard, so it's best to be safe and discard the antler.

Also, if you notice your dog trying to eat away the hard exterior, stop them immediately and take away the antler.

You must always keep an eye on how long your dog is chewing on the antler. Chewing is a great way for your pooch to release stress, but if they spend too much time on it, they could risk hurting their teeth and gums. To avoid this, limit their chewing to a few minutes at a time.

Finally, don't forget about the antler's size. Regularly inspect the antler and throw it away once it has become small enough for your dog to swallow it.

Treat Your Dog to the Best Antler Chews from Pet Expertise!

We handpick all antlers and provide them in different shapes, sizes, and thicknesses to ensure your dog gets the best-quality antler chews in the perfect form.  

Visit our shop today to purchase some chewy treats for your beloved pet. Rest assured that our antler chews are naturally sourced and are 100% safe for dogs of all breeds.