How to Use Dog Bones Safely
August 11, 2022
Bones are famously associated with dogs, but they can present serious health and safety issues when used incorrectly. Before you throw your dog a bone, here are a few tips on how to use dog bones safely.
Bones are famously associated with dogs, but they can present serious health and safety issues when used incorrectly. Before you throw your dog a bone, here are a few tips on how to use dog bones safely.
Bones are famously associated with dogs, but they can present serious health and safety issues when used incorrectly. Before you throw your dog a bone, here are a few tips on how to use dog bones safely.
Although chewing bones has potential risks, it offers many physical, mental, and nutritional benefits.
Giving your dog the wrong kind of bone can be extremely hazardous. If you’re considering giving your dog a bone, stay away from these options:
With the right information and some simple rules, chewing a bone can be safe and healthy for dogs. Before you decide to give your pup a bone, here's what you should know so you can give your dog the best option and make the experience as safe as possible.
Raw bones from locally raised cows and bison are the safest options when used responsibly. Clean the bones well and store them in the freezer after purchase so you can thaw them out for later use.
Any bone can be a choking hazard. Supervise your pup closely after giving them a bone, and take it away as soon as your dog has chewed it down to a size small enough to swallow.
The bigger and stronger the bone, the less likely your dog will be able to swallow it. Choose a smooth, thick bone that does not easily bend or break and ensure that it is large enough that it cannot fit wholly inside your dog’s mouth. Aim for a bone roughly the size of your dog’s head.
Hungry dogs are more likely to swallow chunks of bone. Wait until after dinner to give your dog their bone so they are full and do not have the urge to eat it.
If you have more than one dog, separate them before giving them bones. Dogs can get territorial over their bone. To stop a fight from breaking out, separate your dogs as best you can until chew time is over. Try giving a bone to one dog at a time so you can still monitor their chewing.
Though bones can be beneficial for dental hygiene, chewing bones may cause tooth breakage for dogs with restorative dental work.
Bone marrow is high in fat and can trigger an upset stomach or diarrhea in dogs prone to stomach problems. To avoid this issue, try scooping out the marrow of a raw bone to reduce the fat content.
Bone alternatives lack the nutritional benefits of real bones. Still, edible synthetic bones or hard chew dog treats can satisfy your pup's need to chew without many of the risks that come with real bones. Look for an alternative that is safe to chew and labeled as easily digestible, and continue to supervise your dog while they chew to avoid choking risks.
At Dog Training Elite in Cincinnati, we understand the need to keep your pup as safe as possible. If your dog continues to chew household items even after introducing them to bone chewing, you may benefit from a professional obedience training program. Dog Training Elite's highly successful training program uses praise and the classical conditioning theory to encourage good behavior, ensuring fast and lasting results in your pup's behavior. If you are searching for a dog obedience program in Cincinnati, contact us to find a trainer near you today!
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