Can dogs chew on bones?
Bones can be a great source of minerals and nutrients for your dog. Also, the act of chewing can stimulate the saliva enzymes, which help protect against plaque buildup and gum disease, helping to keep your pup's mouth healthy. Allowing your dog to chew on a bone may also deter them from undesirable behaviors such as excessive scratching or licking.
Nevertheless, many veterinarians warn that allowing your dog to chew on bones can pose a risk to their health. That being said, can you give a dog a bone? Are bones good for dogs? What bones can dogs eat safely? Are cooked bones bad for dogs? Let's dive into the pros and cons of giving bones to dogs to answer these questions and more.
The Pros of Giving Bones to Dogs
Chewing bones is a natural pleasure that our canine companions have enjoyed for centuries, and there are certainly some benefits to this, including:
Dental Health - One of the main reasons people give bones to their dogs is to promote dental health. Gnawing on bones can help remove plaque and tartar buildup, preventing gum disease and promoting healthier teeth. The abrasive action of chewing on bones can act as a natural toothbrush for your dog.
Mental Stimulation - Chewing on bones can provide mental stimulation and relieve boredom for dogs. It can be a natural and instinctive activity that keeps them occupied and entertained. Bones can be a great way to alleviate anxiety or redirect destructive chewing behaviors.
Nutritional Value - Bones can be a source of essential nutrients. This is especially true if they are raw bones that contain marrow, which is rich in fat and can provide dogs with additional calories. Bones also contain calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals that contribute to overall nutrition.
The Cons of Giving Bones to Dogs
If you plan on giving your dog natural bones, you should be aware of the very real health risks that can be associated. Before giving your dog a bone of any sort, consider the following:
Dental Injuries - While bones can provide benefits when it comes to cleaning your dog's teeth, they can also lead to dental injuries. Your dog's teeth can become cracked or fractured from chewing a hard object such as a bone, causing pain, infection, and the need for veterinary intervention. Hard bones (like weight-bearing bones from large animals) are particularly risky due to their durability.
Choking & Obstruction - Bones (especially cooked ones) can splinter and break into sharp fragments, posing a choking hazard. These shards can also cause intestinal obstructions if swallowed, leading to a life-threatening veterinary emergency. Small dogs, aggressive chewers, or dogs prone to gulping are at higher risk.
Digestive Issues - Bones can cause digestive problems such as constipation, diarrhea, or pancreatitis in some dogs. Fatty bones (like marrow bones) can cause gastrointestinal upset, and sharp bone fragments can splinter off and damage the digestive tract. Dogs with sensitive stomachs or a history of digestive issues should be monitored closely or avoid bones altogether.
What are safe options for my dog to chew on?
If you're looking for something safe for your dog to chew on, you may be wondering what options you should consider. Here are a few options that help to reduce the risk to your dog's health while allowing them to chew:
Raw Bones - If you choose to give bones to your dog, consider raw bones instead of cooked options. Raw bones are less likely to splinter and cause injuries. However, be sure to supervise your dog while they chew on any type of bone.
Synthetic Chews - There are plenty of safe synthetic chew toys available in the market. These products are designed to be durable, non-toxic, and less likely to cause dental or digestive issues. Look for options like rubber chew toys, nylon bones, or specially designed dental chews.
Vet-Approved Treats - Talk to your veterinarian to find appropriate treats and chews that promote dental health and are safe for your dog's specific needs. These are specially formulated to support oral hygiene and can be a safer alternative to bones.
Choosing the Right Chew Toy for Your Dog
If you are considering giving your dog bones, safety needs to be the number one priority. Bones can provide several benefits from dental health to mental stimulation, but there are also risks. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of giving your dog a bone, and confirm that the type of bone you give them is a safe choice for their size and breed.
Ultimately, contact your veterinarian to determine whether giving bones to your dog is safe and appropriate for their circumstances.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.