Can Dogs Have Elk or Deer Antlers

In the wild, our dogs’ canine ancestors enjoy every part of their prey, even the antlers.

While our dogs no longer need to hunt for their food, they can still love to gnaw on antlers as a source of mental enrichment, dental health support, and nutrition.

Thinking about trying deer antlers from your favorite pet supply store - or even those you may find in the wilderness? Learn about the benefits of giving your dog deer antlers and what you should know for safe feeding.
 

What Are Antlers Made Of?

Antler chews for dogs are sustainably sourced from shed antlers that are harvested in fields and forests. They may be made with deer or elk antlers. Elk antlers are slightly softer than deer antlers.

An antler has a hard outer surface made of a material similar to bone. On the inside, it’s filled with a soft, spongy tissue called marrow. Antler marrow is nutrient-dense and delicious to dogs, and it’s less fatty than bone marrow.

The outer bone layer and inner marrow layer are rich in nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium and potassium. The marrow is also a good source of healthy fats. Since your dog will only consume small amounts of the antler at a time, though, it will not make up a significant part of their diet. Make sure to offer antler chews alongside a complete and balanced dog food.
 

Do Dogs Eat Antlers?

The entire antler, from its hard outer bone layer to its soft, tasty inner marrow, is completely edible.

Dogs can enjoy chewing on an antler for hours. Their saliva will slightly soften the outer bone layer, and they will gradually scrape off small fragments that are safe to swallow. It can take days, even weeks for your dog to gnaw on an antler until they reach the delicious marrow.

How To Choose An Antler Chew For Your Dog

Choose an appropriate size and cut for the safest, most tempting chew experience for your dog.

The chew should be large enough that your dog cannot attempt to swallow it whole. Keep in mind that you’ll need to dispose of the chew once it’s been gnawed down to a size that may pose a choking risk.

Whole antlers are suitable for heavy chewers, as they’re long-lasting. Your dog will need to work for a long time to reach the tasty marrow inside.

Split antlers are cut lengthwise so the delicious marrow is exposed. This is a good choice for dogs that are new to antler chews, as well as puppies and light to moderate chewers.
 

Are Elk and Deer Antlers Good For My Dog’s Teeth?

Antlers can benefit your dog’s dental health in several ways. First, the chewing action promotes saliva production, helping to wash away bacteria that causes bad breath and dental disease. Also, gnawing on the rough surfaces can help wear away plaque deposits before tartar can form.

Chews like antlers are not a substitute for daily brushing and regular dental visits with your veterinarian. However, they can be a great supplement to your dog’s dental routine.

Are Antlers Safe For Dogs?

Antlers are entirely edible and generally safe for your dog to chew. However, you should only give your dog antler chews under close supervision.

As with any hard chew, antlers pose a risk of causing a tooth fracture. Your dog should gnaw at the antler, scraping off tiny fragments that are safe to swallow. Dogs that chomp, rather than gnaw, may crack a molar on an antler. To reduce the risk of tooth fracture, watch your dog closely while they enjoy an antler chew. If you’re unsure if your dog will chew an antler appropriately, consider starting with a split antler.

Antlers can also lead to choking or gastric obstruction if your dog attempts to swallow a large piece. This risk can be mitigated by choosing an appropriately sized chew and disposing of the antler if your dog breaks off a large chunk, or when it’s been whittled down to a small piece.
 

Can I Give My Dog Found Antlers?

One of the reasons antlers are so popular is because they’re sustainably and humanely sourced. Deer and elk shed their antlers every year, usually in late winter or early spring. Those used to make dog chews are found in fields and forests, and you might find them if you ever go hunting or hiking.

While antlers you may find are the same as the ones used to make chews, they’re not ready for your dog to enjoy as soon as you bring them home. They must be cut to a manageable size and all sharp edges must be sanded, normally with power tools. Then, the antler needs to be sanitized to remove dirt, bacteria, and odors.

Antlers for dogs are usually blanched, submerged in boiling water for just a few minutes. Boiling an antler for too long can change its structure, making it prone to breaking and cracking into dangerously sharp, splintery pieces.

So, while it’s possible to process found antlers to make dog chews at home, it’s likely easier and safer to give your dog antler chews that have already been cut, sanded, and sterilized.
 

How To Give Your Dog An Antler Chew in 5 Easy Steps

Antler chews for dogs are ready to enjoy. Follow these steps to get the chewing party started.

1. Choose an antler in an appropriate size and cut. Large, whole antlers are long-lasting, suitable for heavy chewers, while small antlers and split antlers are well-suited for those new to antlers and light-to-moderate chewers.
2. Supervise your dog while they chew. Look for safe chewing habits and take away if your dog chomps or attempts to swallow their chew whole.
3. Store your dog’s chew out of reach. Only let your dog enjoy their antler chew while supervised. Otherwise, keep clean and dry and out of your dog’s reach.
4. Soak your dog’s chew. If desired, soak for up to 24 hours in water or broth to slightly soften and/or flavor the outer chewing surface. Do not boil or simmer.
5. Dispose when thoroughly chewed. Replace your dog’s antler chew when it wears down small enough to become a choking hazard.