Should You Give Antlers to Your Dog?
There is some debate about whether or not we should give antlers to dogs.
Some veterinarians say it's perfectly safe and good for their teeth, while others warn that giving your dog antlers can break their teeth and cause serious dental problems. So, what are you to believe?
The truth is that no comprehensive studies have been conducted to determine whether antlers are safe for dogs. Vets' opinions are based on anecdotal evidence from personal experiences.
So, what does this imply? It implies that, while many dogs have no problem with antlers, some dogs' teeth have been damaged by these incredibly hard chews.
So whether antlers are safe for your dog depends on the breed. Puppies should not be given antlers until their adult teeth have fully developed. They should also be avoided by older dogs because their teeth weaken with age.
You can then assess the strength of your dog's teeth based on their breed and chewing behavior. If they can chew on other things like bones, they probably have teeth for antlers.
If they need a long time to finish other chews, there's no point in taking the risk.
Labradors generally have strong teeth and are one of the breeds for which antlers may be appropriate; however, consult your veterinarian to better understand your dog's overall dental health.
If you do decide to give your dog antlers, make sure to check their teeth after each chew to ensure there is no damage.
Examine their teeth for cracks and cavities, as well as redness in their gums; the rubbing of hard antler against the gums can also cause problems.
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