Can My Dog Break His Teeth on an Antler?

You've probably heard about antler chews for dogs, which have become increasingly popular lately and may have wondered whether they are safe for your pup.

Antlers are usually made from sheds or donations from deer (elk and moose variants are also available). They're generally considered safe and healthy chew toys for dogs. After all, they are natural and can even help keep dental hygiene in check.

And luckily, most, if not all, dogs love the taste of antler chews and are more than happy to chomp them whenever they get a chance.   

But there's one big question that dog parents ask: can my dog break his teeth on an antler?

Antlers are hard and may seem like they can splinter anytime, so worrying about their impact on your dog's teeth makes total sense.  

It's important to know the facts when it comes to antlers and chewing. To help you make an informed decision on whether or not antler chews are right for your pup, let's explore this question in more detail.

Is It OK for Dogs to Chew on Deer Antlers?

Yes. There is no harm in giving deer antlers to your dog if you know what you're doing. 

Whole antler chews made from 100% natural ingredients by Pet Expertise are safe for dogs when not chewed too aggressively. 

As such, a dog can break his teeth on an antler, just like with any hard chew. The risk factor will depend on your canine companion's age, size, and chewing style.  

This is why Pet Expertise offers antlers in different sizes and shapes to suit your dog's specific needs. 

For the record, deer antlers are essentially bones with a hard exterior. So, if a dog bites on it with too much pressure, their teeth can break or chip, leading to pain and potential long-term dental health issues. Additionally, antlers can harbor bacteria, which may cause adverse reactions or infections if ingested.

The teeth that usually break on an antler are the carnassials. Dogs have four of these large and powerful teeth beside their molars on each side of their upper and lower mouth. Each carnassial has multiple deep roots. So, when a tooth fracture exposes the pulp, your dog may undergo extraction or root canal therapy. 

That said, this risk is small if you take the proper precautions.

Can Dogs Chew on Antlers All Day?

No. Dogs should not chew on antlers all day. 

While antlers can be a great source of entertainment for furry babies, they are not intended for long-term chewing. 

The antlers' hard exterior can be a hazard, and the dense material can easily wear down your dog's teeth if he chews on it for too long. 

Some antlers can also splinter or break into sharp pieces when the dog keeps biting them aggressively for hours. These pieces can cause a choking hazard or damage your pup's digestive tract.

How Long Can a Dog Chew on an Antler?

Experts recommend allowing your dog to chew on an antler for no more than thirty minutes per day. You can even break this time into shorter intervals to prevent teeth damage, especially for younger pups.  

By following this rule of thumb, you can ensure that the antler chew reduces plaque on your furry baby's teeth by 70%. 

Precautions to Take When Giving Antler Chews to Your Dog

When it comes to antler chews, always opt for a product that is the right size for your dog. If the antler is too big for him to chew on comfortably, it is not suitable. It shouldn't also be too small for him to choke on it. With perfectly sized antlers, your dog will be able to gnaw (not bite) comfortably to bring down the outer layer.

You'd also want to make sure the antler has been properly cut and sanded. An unprocessed antler may contain sharp edges that could be dangerous for your pup. Rest assured that Pet Expertise's Natural, Whole Antlers do not easily get splintered. 

Another important tip is to monitor your dog's chewing behavior. If you notice the pup is having difficulty getting a grip on the antler or is attempting to bite it off, it may be time to take the chew away. Similarly, if you notice him slowing down or wincing in pain, remove the antler and replace it with a softer object.

In this case, it's best to opt for a softer chew or a plush toy to give your furry baby a safer outlet for their chewing needs.

Finally, it's important to keep in mind that all dogs are different, and a chew that is suitable for one may not be ideal for another. If you're ever in doubt, talk to your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist who can provide more tailored advice.

Make Chewing Time Safe and Fun for Your Dog with Our Natural Whole Deer Antlers!

While it is possible for a dog to break his teeth on an antler chew, the risk is small if you choose a product that is the right size and type for him. 

Pet Expertise takes pride in offering Natural, Whole Antlers in the following sizes and types: 

• Small – for dogs up to 20 lbs., 4 to 7" – not branched
• Medium – for dogs between 15 and 45 lbs., 5 to 8" – not branched
• Medium – for dogs between 15 and 45 lbs., 5 to 8" –branched
• Large – for dogs between 30 and 80 lbs., 7 to 10" – not branched 
• Large – for dogs between 30 and 80 lbs., 7 to 10" –branched 
• Extra-large – for dogs 45 lbs. or more, 8 to 12" – not branched
• Extra-large – for dogs 45 lbs. or more, 8 to 12" –branched
• XXL – for dogs 60 lbs. or more, 9 to 13" – not branched
• XXL – for dogs 60 lbs. or more, 9 to 13" –branched
• Gigantic – for dogs 80 lbs. or more, 10 to 16"

We only sell whole antlers because they don't split or break apart and are more likely to last longer. Each antler can last six months to a year if your dog doesn't chew on it aggressively.

We hope you can now feel more confident about introducing the super nutritious and tasty antler chews to your canine companion. With the right precautions, you can ensure your pup never gets the chance to break his teeth on an antler.