Are you looking for a natural chew treat that won’t damage your dog’s teeth? Antlers are a great choice! Antlers are less likely to splinter than bones or hooves. They’re also rich in minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Be sure to take antlers away from dogs when they get worn down to a size that could be swallowed, and never leave an antler out where kids or other pets can reach it.
Larger Breeds
Generally speaking, deer antlers are safe for dogs. Antlers are bone and are often gnawed by wild animals, which makes them quite durable and not likely to break teeth when chewed properly. However, aggressive chewers could fracture an antler or other excessively hard chew bones if they chew too fast and/or too hard.
Regardless, a good antler chew is a healthier alternative to rawhide and other chews that are high in fat and can lead to gastrointestinal problems. Deer antlers are low in calories, and gnawing on an antler helps to promote healthy teeth by exercising the muscles of the jaw.
We sand our antler chews to remove sharp points but sometimes these can develop again with use. Be sure to monitor your dog while chewing antlers and take it away from them if they are using the sharp edge to try to break them in half. Split antlers are easier for some dogs to chew than whole antlers, but they don’t last as long for heavy chewers. For more information about ace antlers on Aceantlers.com.
Smaller Breeds
Small dogs may chew antlers so quickly that they gulp them whole, increasing the potential for choking. These dogs benefit most from antler chews that are sanded to eliminate sharp points. Unlike cow horns, antlers are real bone and naturally shed annually to make room for a new set. Unlike other non weight bearing chews, antlers contain a large amount of natural nutrients that can help to strengthen your dog's teeth and bones.
The most important thing when selecting a deer antler for your dog is to choose a brand that has an excellent reputation in the chew space. KONG is one such brand with a widely respected name and an extensive line of whole antler products that are both durable and affordable. The Top Dog Chews variety pack is another option, with an assortment of elk, deer and moose antlers in one package for a varied selection. This product also contains no fillers or preservatives, and is sourced locally to ensure the antlers are as fresh as possible.
Puppies
Chewing is a natural and healthy behavior for dogs, keeping their teeth strong and removing plaque. It also helps them relieve boredom and anxiety. However, chewing on inappropriate objects like shoes and furniture can be destructive. Deer antlers offer a natural, long-lasting chew with added health benefits. They are naturally hard and don't contain the fat and calories of other chews, so they will not contribute to weight gain. They are a great source of calcium and other minerals.
Antlers are a chewable alternative to traditional dog bones, chew toys and animal rawhides. They are also safe for puppies, as they do not splinter like bones can and do not have sharp edges that could injure the gums. As with all chewing treats, it is important to monitor your dog while they are gnawing antlers, ensuring that they do not ingest or swallow chunks of the treat, which can cause life-threatening blockages. When antlers are worn down to the point where they can be easily inserted into your pup's mouth, it is time to throw them away.
Seniors
For some dogs, antler chews can be too hard and have negative dental consequences like fractured teeth. They can also break apart or splinter and create choking hazards. If this happens, a chunk could get stuck in the dog's esophagus and prevent food from reaching the stomach or cause other digestive issues. For these reasons, it is important for pet parents to choose the right antler size for their dog's breed, weight and chewing habits.
A chew made from moose antlers is soft and contains more marrow, making it ideal for smaller dogs or chewers with sensitive teeth. Alternatively, we sell ground antler products that can be mixed with dog food and offer the same nutritional benefits without the need to chew. This is an excellent option for senior dogs, puppies or chewers who have sensitive teeth. It is still important to supervise your dog during chew time and remove any small pieces that may be swallowed.