Best Bones For Dogs – What's Safe and What’s Not
Do you want to learn about the best kind of bones for dogs?
We've got you! Let's dive in and read more about what kinds of bones are safe and aren't as great for your furry friend to have in their elevated dog bowl.
Bones, Bones, Bones!
Bones have been an excellent dog treat for centuries, offering pets something to play with while supplementing nutrition.
However, while there are plenty of delightful options for your pet, there are also a few kinds of bones that you'll want to avoid.
We encourage you to reach for large, thick bones no matter what type of bone you choose. These are better because dogs are less likely to chew them into shards and break them into pieces they could choke on or swallow.
Beef Bones
Beef bones are one of the best options for your dog. They tend to be large and thick, making them a safe option for your pet.
Raw beef bones are the best choice for your pet since cooked ones can break down and cause a choking hazard.
Beef bones are naturally more complex than other bones and will be more difficult for your pet to break into pieces.
Lamb Bones
This is another option that is safe and wholesome.
Lamb bones are very similar to beef bones. Because of their strength, they're also more challenging to shred apart. Raw is best, but lamb bones can be okay if the bone is large and thick.
Your dog will love a good lamb bone!
Pork Bones
Pork bones, whether cooked or raw, including pork chop bones, pork ribs, and ham bones, are typically deemed unsafe.
These bones are more brittle and can break down quickly, causing a choking hazard.
Even if your pet doesn't choke on them, pieces of bone can cause issues in their digestion track. So, do your pet a favor and stay away from pork bones.
Turkey Bones
Turkey is such a great source of protein for your dog and an excellent meat option.
The bones, however, are not safe for your dog. Feeding your dog turkey bones of any kind is not a wise idea.
Turkey bones can splinter easily and cause issues for your beloved pet.
Chicken Bones
Chicken bones are similar to turkey bones – something you'll want to avoid.
They also crack and splinter easily and can cause extreme pain and infection in your dog's digestive tract if swallowed. Dogs should never be offered chicken bones.
Fish Bones
These are incredibly unsafe for dogs. Fish bones are small, brittle, and sharp, making them a bad combination for your pet.
They can lodge in your pet's throat or cause infection in the digestive system. It's best to stay away from all forms of fish bones.
What If My Dog Swallowed A Bone?
It's hard to monitor your pet constantly, and accidents can happen. If your dog swallows a bone that isn't good for them, watch your dog closely.
Their body may digest it normally, even if it isn't a good choice. Keep an eye on them for a few days until you're sure they're clear.
If your dog has symptoms of lethargy, constipation, bloody stools, vomiting, abnormal breathing, or not eating, immediately take them to your local vet.
Watch your dog's stools to see if the fragments passed through.
We hope you enjoyed this article on bones for dogs. Check out our blog for other posts addressing dog health and wellness!