Do Elk Antlers Make A Good Organic Dog Chew?

Elk antlers are natural, organic, cruelty-free, sustainable, and comprised primarily of protein and minerals. Sounds like an excellent combination for a pup’s chewing pleasure! But should dogs chew on elk antlers? Are antlers safe as dog chews? And what’s the best way to introduce antlers as a chew for your dog?

Just like antlers, not all dogs are the same, so it’s best to take a look at both the dog chew and the dog in question before you decide what you “chews” to let your puppo gnaw on. So while the short answer is “yes” – elk antlers like ours from Farm To Pet make great organic dog chews – let’s look into why, for which pups, and how.

Dogs are natural-born chewers. They chew to relieve stress, to help clean and strengthen teeth and jaws, and even just for recreation. And while a prolific chewer might chew anything from shoes and baseboards to chicken bones – all of which are destructive, dangerous, and big chewing NO NOs! – channeling his chewing urge to something healthy is all a good pet parent can do.

Elk antlers make an excellent option for a dog chew for many reasons. First of all, they are a source of nutrients. Not only do they provide animal-based protein from the marrow encased in the outer layer, but the outer layer is comprised of essential minerals like calcium, phosphorous, and other minerals and trace elements that support strong teeth and bones. Antlers also contain glucosamine and collagen, which help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin and coat, respectively. And to top it off, they are even low- if not non-allergenic, so they shouldn’t cause reactions in even the most sensitive of pups.

While bones have many of these same nutritional attributes, elk antlers are actually much harder yet less dense than bones. This means that elk antlers can withstand much more pressure and force than bones with much lower chance of breaking or splintering, both of which could harm a dog’s teeth or gums or cause internal damage if ingested.

Elk antlers also make a long-lasting organic dog chew. Because they are so hard and durable, they can last for weeks and even months depending on their size and how often and long they are chewed. This is in contrast to ingestible dog chews like rawhide, which a power chewer could chomp down and swallow before you even notice it is about to happen. And because they are not bones or other internal animal parts like tendons, antlers do not smell like some dog chews can. This also makes elk antlers great options for dogs that like to bury and return to their dog chews.

Elk antler dog chews can be a good choice for dogs with most chewing styles, depending on the size and cut of the antler. However, they are an ideal choice for the strong and tireless chewer we like to call a Champion Chomper! Any dog that can make quick work of a rawhide or bully stick, “destuff” a plush toy in minutes, or that you have to force to stop chewing for fear he’ll wear himself out as well as whatever he’s chewing is the perfect target for an elk antler chew. Usually this type of chewer would relish a whole elk antler for its longevity as well as the challenge involved in getting to the marrow. This also makes it a good option for any above-average chewer. But take extra caution if your dog is too aggressive in chewing – although rare, he could actually risk splintering or shearing the antler, so be sure to watch this type of chewer carefully during chew time.

A split antler, which is cut in half lengthwise to expose the marrow, is a good choice in dog chew for the easygoing chewer – the dog who likes to chew but prefers some flavor, and can take it or leave it if there is something else more entertaining or less tiring that catches her attention. The exposed marrow looks, smells and tastes more appealing to the less than avid chewer and can still be interesting enough for her to get the nutritional and dental benefits of the chew.

An average chewer can make his own choice – present both options and see what he prefers. And for the chewers looking for flavor if the marrow is gone or remains hidden, you can even smear a little peanut butter or sprinkle some Treat Topper on it to make it more appetizing again.

There is one thing that best defines how a dog should chew on elk antlers or any chew for that matter: supervised. Dogs don’t always know – or care – what is best for them. If something is fun or tastes good, why would they stop? Some dogs will keep on chomping even if they have cut a gum or even cracked a tooth on too hard or jagged a chew toy. Always check antler dog chews for sharp edges, filing off any cutting hazards or replacing them with a new chew. Additionally, a dog can gnaw up to an inch of antler a day – easily for a chomping champ – so it’s time for a new antler dog chew once it gets to a size small enough to be swallowed.

All the things that make an antler an antler – texture, flavor, composition, durability – are just what make it a great choice for an organic dog chew. Elk antlers for dogs are very strong and resistant to breaking and splintering, as well as rich in nutrients and tasty marrow dogs love. They also promote good oral health by helping to remove plaque and tartar and strengthen a dog’s choppers. And they are long-lasting and virtually scent-free – which makes them appealing to our pet parents’ wallets and noses! 

So give elk antler dog chews a try and let us know what you and your pup think – and if you would “chews” them again for your little chomper!