Antlers and Other Hard Chews Break Dogs’ Teeth

If your fingernail cannot make an indent on it, the item is probably too hard for your dog to chew.
Antlers and Other Hard Chews Break Dogs’ Teeth
Chewing on something too hard can give your dog a tooth fracture. New Africa/Shutterstock
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Q: Ava, my 2-year-old dog, was chewing an elk antler when she started licking her lips and grinding her teeth. Later, she rejected a small, soft treat, which she’s never done before. Is it possible she broke a tooth on the antler? Are antlers OK for dogs?

A: Dogs should never chew hard objects such as elk or deer antlers, dried cows’ hooves, dried pigs’ ears, natural bones, hard plastic or nylon chew toys, ice cubes, or rocks. These objects are harder than dogs’ teeth and commonly fracture them.

Lee Pickett
Lee Pickett
Author
Lee Pickett, VMD, practices companion animal medicine in North Carolina. Contact her at AskTheVet.pet. Copyright 2024 Lee Pickett, VMD. Distributed by Creators.com