No, antlers are not bad for dogs teeth. Because they dont spliters easily.
They are all-natural, and are a long-lasting treat.
However, antlers are not at all safe for your puppy if they are going through their teething process. [1]
You can get whole or split antlers.
Split antlers are sliced in half its length, showing the marrow, while whole antlers are complete pieces of antlers.
We suggest beginning with split antlers to give dogs better access to the delicate marrow core and afterward moving to whole antlers for rough chewers, depending on their chewing level.
It is best to keep an eye on your pet as they bite on this treat, just like you would for any other treat, to make sure they are chewing safely.
Note: Split antlers are tender on the dog’s teeth.
Types of Antler Chews
Natural antler chews can be found from various sources.
Each kind has a unique texture.
Deer antler dog chews may have a rough surface than antlers from other animals.
They come in a variety of sizes, allowing you to find the perfect match for your pet’s size and chewing habits. [2]
Elk antlers dog chews are generally wide and often come in split style.
Elk antlers can also give your dog diarrhea on a rare occasion, which we wrote more about here.
The density of elk antlers varies based on which section of the antler is chosen.
Moose antlers dog chews are tender than most antlers, and they are often available in a variety of slices and sizes so you can find the right fit for your pet.
Other varieties of antler chews produced from water buffalo horns are also available.
Note: Elk and deer antlers are cruelty-free as they shed naturally.
What Are The Possible Risks Associated With Antlers?
Internal Damage
Antlers are normally very sturdy, but they can gradually break down.
Those sharp bits can stick in your pet’s mouth or throat and enter into the stomach and create a blockage, possibly requiring immediate surgery.
Always keep a close eye on your pet as he chews and takes away the antler if it seems to be falling off. [3]
Broken Teeth
If you have had a damaged tooth, you are well aware of the pain that it causes.
Your pet feels the same pain as antlers, or other hard chews are often used to break teeth, resulting in infection or abscesses. [4]
What Are The Benefits Of Antlers?
Long-Lasting
An antler can be considered a household staple, depending on your dog’s chewing habits.
It means they will have nearly countless hours of physical and mental stimulation, keeping their brains and teeth too busy to eat the drywall.
Note: Antlers can last from several months to even a year.
Dental Hygiene
Plaque can be reduced by 70% by chewing on an antler for only thirty minutes per day.
You would be able to substitute just one long-lasting antler for the cost of an expensive dental cleaning. [5]
Hypoallergenic
Antlers are very low-allergenic for those with allergies since they are a unique protein not typically available in conventional pet treats and food.
Venison meat is a popular protein option for dogs on an extreme diet because it causes less irritation and is less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
Odor-Free
Antlers are among the few naturally obtained treats that are completely odorless, does not stain or leave residue on your furniture.
They are all-natural and do not contain any harmful chemicals or synthetic ingredients.
Are Antlers Digestible?
Your dog will be provided pieces and bits of the nutrients present inside as they break off their antler.
These small fragments are totally healthy and digestible for dogs to consume.
They are also rich in minerals. [6]
Antlers are a safe and relaxing treat for your pet to chew on.
But, as with any treat, knowing when to let it go is crucial.
It is time to get a new antler if it is broken down to the point that your dog might try to swallow it.
It can vary depending on the pet’s size and how old is an antler.
Note: Antlers are rich in nutrients that your pet needs, such as calcium, iron, potassium, and zinc.
Is Antler Safe For Puppies?
An antler might be too tough during your puppy’s teething stage.
When your dog is about the age of six months, you must consider introducing him to antlers.
Antlers’ sturdy shape and texture will help to slowly encourage puppy teeth to grow, making way for adult pearly whites to develop.
When dealing with antlers, supervision is important, just as it is with adult dogs.
Conclusion
In the end, whether or not to offer your pet antler chews is entirely up to you.
If you choose to feed these treats, make sure the antler is wide enough to prevent choking and watch out for broken pieces or rough edges.
References
