THE DANGERS OF GIVING BONES TO DOGS

Dogs absolutely love bones because they’re not only delicious but also comforting. Indeed, dogs have a natural instinct to chew. For puppies, chewing on things can be a way to relieve pain from teething but could also be part of how they explore and learn about their environment. On the other hand, chewing helps older dogs keep their teeth clean and their jaws strong. Additionally, it’s good for mental stimulation and could be a way for them to cope with anxiety, boredom, and frustration.
As dog owners, it’s tempting to give bones to our pets because we can see just how happy it makes them. Plus, they’re fairly inexpensive. It also keeps them busy and away from destructive behaviors. The problem is that giving a dog a bone to chew on could have severe consequences. As the FDA has warned time and again, there are several health problems associated with giving dog bones.
WHY BONES ARE DANGEROUS

BONES CAN CAUSE ORAL INJURIES
BONES CAN BLOCK YOUR DOG’S AIRWAY.
BONES CAN CAUSE DIGESTIVE DISTRESS.
BONES CAN DAMAGE YOUR DOG’S GI TRACT.
BONES CAN CONTAIN HARMFUL BACTERIA.
HOW TO GIVE YOUR DOG A BONE SAFELY

STICK TO RAW BONES.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT TYPE OF BONE.
CHOOSE THE CORRECT BONE SIZE.
ALWAYS SUPERVISE.
INSPECT BONES FREQUENTLY.
STORE BONES PROPERLY.
SAFER ALTERNATIVES TO FEEDING BONES TO DOGS

Some argue that bones can be good for canine health. However, many veterinary experts believe that the nutrition dogs can get from bones isn’t worth the risk. But even if dogs don’t have much to gain nutritionally, the benefits to their physical and mental health are tremendous. Nevertheless, there are safer ways to gain the same benefits:
CHEW TOYS
DENTAL CHEWS
DIGESTIBLE BONE TREATS
Some dog treats mimic animal bones and essentially offer the same benefits without the health risks. These bone treats won’t splinter and are highly digestible. Among the best ones are made of potato starch, which is easier on the stomach than rawhide and hooves.
Part of being a responsible dog parent is recognizing dangers and keeping them safe, even if it’s from something they absolutely love. That includes toys and food with serious health risks. Because of the concerns surrounding animal bones, it’s better to opt for safer alternatives. Even then, you should inspect chew toys regularly and replace them when they’re showing signs of wear. Lastly, always keep an eye on your dog so you can react quickly to any signs of danger.