When Should I Change My Dog's Antler Chews?

You may think selecting the best antler chews for your dog is a task, but that's just half the battle.

No doubt, antler chews are safe for your furry friend to munch on, but as a responsible pet parent, you need to be on your toes every day after that to know when it's time to throw it away.

Like any other toy, antler chews will require you to eventually replace them. The question is, when should you change them?  

Before making any decisions, it's important to understand what exactly antler chew toys are, how they're made, and what benefits they offer. We will also discuss what signs to look out for to replace them timely.

What Are Antler Chews?

Antler chews are a healthy and natural alternative to traditional dog treats. They come from the hard, branched horns of deer, elk, or moose.

These animals shed these bony structures (antlers) every year. We collect and harvest these antlers and then clean them in a sterilizer to ensure they are free from bacteria and other contaminants.

Afterward, we cut them into sections and shape them differently to ensure they are suitable for dogs of various sizes. The final step involves sanding and polishing the pieces to ensure they are smooth and safe for your pet to chew on.

At Pet Expertise, we have all-natural whole antler chews in several shapes and sizes for dogs of all ages.

Why Dogs Love to Chew on Antlers

Antlers are a great source of entertainment and nutrition for dogs. Packed with calcium, phosphorus, zinc and other minerals, these chews have a distinct taste and texture that dogs can't resist.

Chewing on an antler also helps satisfy a dog's natural urge to chew and reduce anxiety and boredom, keeping them from causing destruction in your house. It also releases endorphins, which make your pup happy while keeping their brains engaged.

Moreover, antler chews can help relieve the pain and discomfort of puppies going through a teething stage. And if you have an older dog that loves to gnaw on hard surfaces, the hard outer layer of antler chews may serve as a challenge—the bone marrow content inside being the reward!  

All in all, antler chews are incredibly fun. Thanks to their unique texture and size, they can provide hours of entertainment for dogs because, unlike other chew toys, they aren't easily broken.

What Are the Benefits of Antler Chews?

Antler chews are an excellent source of essential minerals, protein, calcium, and phosphorus, which help keep your furry friend's bones and muscles healthy and strong.  

They also ensure optimal dental hygiene and tooth strength in dogs by scraping away existing tartar and plaque buildup from the teeth as they chew on the hard exterior.

Antler chews also last longer than other types of chew toys and treats. Unlike traditional rawhide chews, they don't splinter, eliminating the risk of choking for your pet.

Furthermore, antler chews are odorless, which is a huge benefit for pet owners who may be sensitive to the smell of rawhide. They also don't cause staining, so you don't have to lose your mind the next time you see your dog devouring his treat on your couch.

Overall, when used safely and responsibly, antler chews can be a great way to give your pet a healthy treat that will keep them occupied for hours. The key is to select the correct size for your pet.

If the antler chew is too large, it can pose a choking hazard and cause tooth fractures if your pet tries to bite off pieces aggressively. You must also look out for large splinters breaking off, as they can become lodged in your pup's throat or stomach.

When Should I Change My Dog's Antler Chews?

Depending on how often (and how aggressively) your dog chews them, you'll likely need to replace the antlers every few months.

Signs that it's time for a new chew include:

•         Pieces of the antler coming off
•         A dull color or feel
•         Any visible signs of wear and tear
•         Size small enough for your dog to swallow

It's also important to check for any saliva buildup or dirt that may have accumulated on the antler.

While the average lifespan of an antler chew can be as long as six months to a year, you must always inspect it carefully before giving it to your dog. This way, you can check for any signs of wear and tear that may warrant a replacement.

The antler's lifespan can reduce significantly depending on its size, cut, hardness, and overall quality, as well as how aggressive of a chewer your pup is. 

Even if it's just been a few days of getting a new antler chew, you must supervise your dog when they are chewing it. This ensures that they are using their chew safely and that no pieces of the antler are accidentally swallowed.

That said, it is critical to purchase the right size antler chew in the first place. Specific sizes, shapes, and weights are available depending on your dog's size.  

Make Chewing Time Safe, Healthy, and Fun for Your Dog With Pet Expertise!

Antler chews are an excellent alternative to traditional treats and rawhide chews. They are a natural product, providing a range of essential vitamins and minerals, as well as mental stimulation for your dog.

While they don't appear to splinter as easily as bones or other toys, you must inspect each piece regularly and replace them when necessary, so your pup can enjoy their antler chew safely.

But it all starts with purchasing the best-quality antler chews that are hypoallergenic and free of harmful chemicals and bacteria.

At Pet Expertise, we care about your dog as much as you do! That's why we have curated a selection of hand-picked Natural Whole Antlers for Dogs that are naturally sourced and long-lasting.    

Visit our shop today to purchase an appropriately sized chew for your furry friend. Rest assured that our antler chews are natural, safe, and healthy for dogs of all sizes.