Dogs love chewing on bones! We often give dogs the best raw bones for puppies that make them happy – but this may not be the safest way to treat your dog. You might be looking for the best bones for dogs teeth or best dog bones for chewers – but some bones can actually cause certain health problems!
The dangers of bones
It all depends on what type of bones you are feeding to your pet. Cooked bones are one of the riskiest. Raw bones are debatable because they are softer and could be more digestible – but are not completely safe too. The size, shape, and type of bones, and also your dog’s chewing style, will play a part in determining whether your dog may face an issue. Much depends on luck.
What are some of the complications that may occur after eating bones?
- Fractured teeth: Bones can be hard enough to cause your dog’s teeth to crack, resulting in root canals or tooth extractions being required
- Oral injuries: The sharp edges of bones may cut your dog’s tongue and gums. This is painful and messy! Bones may also get stuck in the mouth, especially between the molars of the lower jaw.
- Airway obstruction: A part of the bone might slide down the throat and get stuck, causing your dog to choke as the airway is blocked.
- Gastrointestinal complications: A piece of bone might get lodged in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. This might result in emergency surgery. There might also be vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.
Are there any types of bones that are safe for dogs?
Bones from all kinds of animals, whether they are raw or cooked, will pose a certain risk. The risk is highest with cooked bones, especially those from poultry as they tend to splinter. If you’re keen to feed your dog raw meaty bones, check with your vet about raw turkey necks. They are comprised mainly of cartilage and soft bones, and hence may be considered digestible when raw. However, raw food also comes with risk such as salmonella. Humans may also contract salmonella due to cleaning up the remains of the turkey neck or picking up pet waste.
Although any type of dog can be affected, small dogs eating large bones are surely at a greater risk. Even if you fed bones to your furball in the past with no complications, it doesn’t mean everything will turn out fine the next time you feed another bone. Be sure to understand all the risks before giving your dog any type of bone. Also, make sure you supervise your dog’s chewing in case anything goes wrong.
Bone alternatives for dogs
Chewing is a necessity for dogs. However, to satisfy your dog’s need to chew without giving bones, look for safer alternatives. Also, no matter what you give your dog to chew on, always supervise your dog. Especially made dog toys, dental chews, and premium dog treat varieties can be excellent ways to satisfy your dog’s need to chew. Do have a chat with your veterinarian to find out what would be the best options for your dog’s requirements.
Keep bones away from your dog
When you are discarding bones leftover from food, do take them directly to the outside trash and keep them out of your puppy’s reach. If you suspect your dog has experienced a bone-related complication, call a vet immediately.
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