Can Dogs Eat Bones? What Every Owner Needs to Know

For years bones have often been considered a natural treat for dogs. Countless owners have shared their table scraps with their pooch and given them a bone to chew on, play with, or even eat. 

But many dog owners also wonder, “Can dogs eat bones?” and “Are bones good for dogs?” While dogs might enjoy chewing on bones, there are several risks associated with this activity that pet parents should be aware of.

Are Bones Good for Dogs?

You may have heard the common expression “give a dog a bone” but according to Dr. Jan Bellows, a board-certified veterinary dentist says, “It should be give a dog a bone if you want to break their teeth”. 

You see, dogs chew differently from humans, primarily due to their jaw structure and the purpose of their chewing. Unlike humans, who chew in a grinding motion using a combination of vertical and side-to-side movements, dogs typically chew with an up-and-down motion, designed more for tearing and crushing food rather than grinding it. 

This difference in chewing mechanics and jaw structure reflects their evolutionary background as carnivores, adapted for consuming meat and other tissue. Their powerful and hinged jaw allows them to open their mouths wide and exert strong, crushing force, however, this does mean that bones can damage their teeth or splinter, causing potential life-threatening issues.

Let’s look deeper into what types of bones dogs can eat and the potential dangers they can bring.

Can Dogs Have Rib Bones?

Rib bones, whether from pork, beef, or other meats, can be particularly dangerous. These long, thin bones are prone to splintering, which can cause serious injuries to a dog’s mouth, throat, and digestive tract. Our advice is that it’s best to avoid giving your dog rib bones altogether.

Can Dogs Have Steak Bones?

Steak bones are another popular choice among dog owners. These large and hard bones pose similar risks as rib bones. Steak bones can splinter, potentially causing blockages or perforations in your dog’s digestive system. Additionally, steak bones can be quite large and hard, increasing the risk of dental fractures when your dog bites down.

Can Dogs Have Pork Bones?

Bones from pork products such as ham are tempting to share with your dog after a holiday meal. Unfortunately, they can also result in serious problems that might end up with your family spending the holiday at the vet with your pup. 

Pork bones, in particular, can not only break teeth and shatter into pieces that can cause internal injury, like other types of bone, but they come with an added risk. 
According to Dr. Jamie Clanin, DVM and PetLab Co. veterinary consultant, “Bones from pork products, once they make their way into the large intestine, can form a kind of cement that makes it impossible for your pup to poop. Fixing this can require several days of hospitalization and even surgery, so it’s better to just avoid the problem in the first place.”

Can Dogs Eat Chicken Bones?

Chicken bones are a big no-no for dogs. These bones are very likely to splinter and cause serious internal injuries. They can puncture the digestive tract, leading to life-threatening situations. Cooked chicken bones are especially hazardous and should never be given to dogs.

Are Antlers Safe for Dogs?

When it comes to natural chews, antlers are a popular choice among dog owners, but are they truly safe for your furry friend? While antlers might seem like a durable and long-lasting option, they can actually pose significant risks – even worse than bones. 

Due to their extreme hardness, antlers can lead to dental fractures, particularly in aggressive chewers. And, just like rib, steak, and chicken bones, as your dog gnaws on antlers, small pieces can splinter off, creating potential choking hazards or causing internal injuries. It’s important to weigh these risks carefully before offering antlers to your dog and consider safer alternatives that provide similar chewing satisfaction without the dangers.

Can Puppies Have Bones?

Puppies have delicate digestive systems and developing teeth, making bones an even bigger hazard for them. Chewing on bones can cause dental fractures, gastrointestinal blockages, and other serious health issues. It’s safest to keep bones away from puppies entirely.

Raw Bones Vs. Cooked Bones for Dogs

When it comes to feeding bones to dogs, understanding the difference between raw and cooked bones is crucial. Can dogs eat cooked bones? The answer is a resounding no, and here’s why.

Cooking bones changes their structure in ways that can be dangerous for dogs. When bones are exposed to high heat, such as during cooking, they become brittle and more likely to splinter. These splinters can be incredibly sharp, turning what was once a strong, durable bone into a potential hazard.

If your dog chews on a cooked bone, these sharp splinters can break off and cause serious injuries. They might puncture the mouth, throat, or digestive tract, leading to painful, and sometimes life-threatening, conditions that require immediate veterinary care.

In contrast, raw bones are less likely to splinter because they maintain their natural flexibility and toughness. However, raw bones are not entirely risk-free. They can still cause dental fractures, especially in aggressive chewers, and they carry a risk of bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella or E. coli, which can make your dog severely ill. This bacterial risk extends beyond your dog, potentially posing a health hazard to the humans in your household as well.

Given these dangers, both raw and cooked bones come with significant risks. While raw bones might be marginally safer in terms of splintering, they still present enough potential issues that many veterinarians advise against offering them altogether. 

Risks of Bones for Dogs

Bones can pose numerous health risks for dogs, including:

• Dental Fractures: Chewing on hard bones can cause teeth to break, leading to pain and expensive veterinary treatments.
• GI Obstruction: Bones can get lodged in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines, causing blockages that may require surgical intervention.
• Splintering: Bones can splinter and cause punctures in the digestive tract, leading to severe internal injuries and infections.
• Pathogens: Raw bones can harbor harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause serious illness in both dogs and humans.

Are There Safe Bones for Dogs?

Now, while some veterinarians may recommend specific types of raw bones for dental health, these recommendations come with caveats and should be followed carefully. In general, commercial chew toys and dental products that are specifically designed for dogs are a much safer alternative.

Are Bones Good for a Dog’s Teeth?

Chewing is beneficial for a dog’s dental health, but real animal bones are not the ideal choice. Bones can cause more harm than good, leading to broken teeth and other oral injuries. Instead, opt for dog-specific chew toys and Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) approved dental products to help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.

Bone Safety Tips for Dogs

If you still choose to give your dog bones, follow these safety tips to minimize risks:

• Size Appropriateness: Ensure the bone is appropriately sized for your dog to prevent choking.
• Supervision: Always supervise your dog while they are chewing on a bone.
• Proper Storage: Store raw bones in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
• Disposal: Dispose of bones properly once they become small enough to be a choking hazard or if they start to splinter.

Final Thoughts on Bones for Dogs

While the idea of giving your dog a bone might seem appealing, the risks often outweigh the benefits. Bones can cause a variety of health issues, from dental fractures to life-threatening internal injuries. Instead, consider safer alternatives like dog-specific chew toys and VOHC-approved dental products to keep your dog happy and healthy.

In conclusion, always prioritize your dog’s safety and well-being by consulting your veterinarian before introducing any new treats or toys into their routine.

Sources

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dental-pain-in-dogs