Myth or Fact: Can Dogs Eat Bones?
October 21, 2022There's a common belief that dogs enjoy the gnawing sensation of a bone. You have likely also heard that bones could be harmful to pets.
The truth about dogs and bone consumption is you should never give your dog any kind of bone that has already been cooked. Bones that have been cooked are more likely to break and form into shards, increasing the risk that your pet's internal organs will be punctured.
Should You Let Your Dog Eat Bones?
Your dog may still benefit from being allowed to eat some bones. If you give them a bone, you must be careful to give them the correct kind of bone. Soft bones that can be easily chewed are the only kind your dog should gnaw on. Your pet runs the risk of internal damage from chewing on fragile, cooked bones. While bones aren't the healthiest option, they do provide your pet with calcium and a few other minerals.
As an additional note, canine chewing is an essential and common behavior. It helps ease any discomfort produced by new teeth for puppies. It is a natural process that helps senior dogs maintain healthy jaws and clean teeth. As an added bonus, chewing can help calm your pet's nerves and ease their stress.
What to Know When You Are Giving Bones To Your Dog
Bones can be safe for canine diets, but only if you take certain precautions. Before giving your dog any bones, please consider the following advice:
It is possible to eat and digest raw chicken, turkey, lamb, or cattle bones since they are so soft. If you're observing your dog while he eats a bone, pick out any broken parts that could hurt his mouth. Remember that keeping an eye on your dog while they consume bones can decrease the likelihood of them ingesting the bone whole or mistakenly eating the wrong kind of bone.
What Risks Can Your Dog Face When You Give Them The Wrong Kind Of Bone?
Take care when feeding your dog bones, as internal disorders, specifically if your dog's internal organs are punctured, can be difficult to treat. It can also cause internal bleeding, necessitating medical intervention.
If your dog seems unwell after eating bones, you should take them to the clinic right away to see if they have ingested something harmful. If you want to make a significant change in your dog's food or eating routine, it is imperative that you check with your veterinarian beforehand.
If you want to prevent your dog from constantly begging for bones, you can satisfy his or her natural instinct to chew by purchasing chewable toys.