Leena Watts
Dogs have a biological requirement for the nutrients found in bone marrow and bones. Bones can be a good source of minerals and other nutrients and can help satisfy a dog's appetite. They also provide oral stimulation and serve as a dog toothbrush. However, there are risks associated with feeding bones to dogs, including choking hazards, intestinal damage, dental trauma, and foodborne illnesses. Some veterinarians suggest raw meat bones for dogs, while others recommend commercially available chew toys and simulated dog bones. It is important to consult with a veterinarian before introducing bones into a dog's diet to ensure the dog's safety and well-being.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Bones can provide dogs with nutrients, minerals, and mental stimulation. They can also remove tartar from the surface of their teeth and help with dental health. Raw bones can promote natural behaviours and bolster emotional well-being. |
| Risks | Bones can break teeth, cause internal blockages, and carry bacteria that can make both animals and humans ill. Bones often have a lot of fat which can cause inflammation of the pancreas, diarrhoea, and weight gain. Bones can also cause constipation and damage to the throat or oesophagus. |
| Recommendations | It is recommended to consult a veterinarian before giving your dog a raw meat bone. Commercially available chew toys and simulated dog bones are also available. |
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What You'll Learn
The nutritional benefits of bones for dogs
While there are nutritional benefits to feeding bones to dogs, there are also some serious health risks to consider. It is important to be aware of these risks and to consult your vet before making any changes to your dog's diet.
Bones can provide dogs with nutrients and mental stimulation, as well as satisfying their natural desire to chew. Chewing on bones can help to remove tartar from the surface of their teeth and prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to improved oral hygiene and reduced risk of dental disease. Bones are a source of dietary nutrients such as protein, calcium, and phosphorus.
Raw bones, in particular, are a source of essential nutrients and promote natural behaviours, which can bolster emotional well-being. They can also aid in maintaining clean and healthy teeth, negating the need for manual teeth brushing. The Raw Food Dog Co. recommends that raw bones comprise approximately 10% of a dog's raw diet. They suggest including bone broth in every raw meal to enhance digestion and support joint health.
However, it is important to note that bones can also pose health risks to dogs. Bones that are too hard can damage or break a dog's teeth, and sharp bone fragments can cause wounds to the mouth, tongue, throat, and intestines. Bone fragments can also get lodged in the descending colon, causing constipation and pain. Obstructions in the gastrointestinal tract can be very serious and potentially lead to severe illness or death.
Another concern with feeding raw bones to dogs is the risk of bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause illness in both animals and humans. Freezing meat may reduce the number of bacteria present but will not kill all of them. Old, sick, pregnant, or medicated dogs may be more susceptible to illness from bacteria in raw meat.
Overall, while bones can provide some nutritional benefits to dogs, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and consult a veterinarian before including them in your dog's diet.
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The risks of dogs consuming bones
While bones can provide dogs with nutrients and mental stimulation, there are several risks associated with their consumption. Firstly, bones are very hard and can lead to broken teeth. The sharp edges of broken bones can cut and pierce the dog's mouth, tongue, cheeks, and soft palate. Bone fragments can also get lodged in the dog's throat, causing choking and potentially blocking the airways, which is an emergency situation. These sharp fragments can also damage the stomach and intestinal lining, leading to a serious condition called peritonitis, which can be fatal.
Additionally, bones can cause internal blockages and constipation. Rib bones, in particular, can get stuck in the descending colon near the rectum, causing pain and constipation-like symptoms. Bone fragments can also obstruct the flow of digested food through the gastrointestinal tract, leading to serious illness and potentially death. Furthermore, bones often contain a high amount of fat, which can result in inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis. This condition can range from mild to severe and may include symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, pancreatitis can be deadly, requiring immediate veterinary attention.
Bones can also carry bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause illness in both animals and humans. While the likelihood of illness from these bacteria is small, the risk is greater for young, old, pregnant, or immunocompromised individuals living with the dog. Cross-contamination during meat processing further increases the risk of bacterial contamination. Freezing meat may reduce bacteria but does not eliminate it entirely.
It is important to note that some dogs may display resource guarding behaviour when given bones, becoming aggressive towards anyone approaching them while they possess the bone. This behaviour can indicate higher levels of fearfulness in the dog's daily life. Old, sick, pregnant, lactating, or medicated dogs may have difficulty digesting bones, and those with dental issues may need to avoid them altogether. When feeding bones, supervision is crucial, and it is recommended to separate dogs when giving them bones to prevent aggression.
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Types of bones that are safe for dogs
While some veterinarians suggest raw meat bones for dogs, others advise against it due to the risk of gastrointestinal disorders, vomiting, diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, choking, and even death. Raw bones may also carry bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, which can cause illness in both dogs and humans. Bones that are too hard, even raw bones, could also damage your dog's teeth.
If you do choose to give your dog raw bones, it is recommended to freeze them for a few days to inhibit bacterial growth. You should also give them raw, fresh bones that are covered with flesh, as cooked bones are brittle and could shatter during eating.
Some safer alternatives to raw bones include commercially available chew toys and simulated dog bones that are made for dogs of all sizes. Bully sticks, dental dog chews, and rawhide dog chews are also popular choices that can be found at your local pet store. When choosing rawhide dog chews, opt for those made with 100% beef or horse hide to avoid artificial flavours and chemicals that can upset your dog's stomach.
When selecting a bone for your dog, it is important to choose one that is larger than the length of their muzzle so they cannot be swallowed whole. For small dogs and puppies, chicken necks, duck feet, and chicken wings are good options. As puppies develop teeth, they can be given soft, chewable bones, and once they reach about six months and start developing adult teeth, they can be given more rigid bones. Large breeds, such as German Shepherds, Bloodhounds, and Mastiffs, can be given large bones like beef shank bones.
It is important to supervise your dog while they are eating bones and to remove the bone if it is breaking apart or getting too small to prevent choking hazards. Bones should also be disposed of after three or four days.
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How to feed bones to dogs safely
While some people believe that dogs should eat bones as part of a raw food diet, others argue that the risks outweigh the benefits. Bones can provide dogs with nutrients and mental stimulation, as well as remove tartar from the surface of their teeth. However, they can also break teeth, cause internal blockages, and carry bacteria that can make both animals and humans ill.
If you choose to feed your dog bones, there are several precautions you should take to do so safely. Firstly, always supervise your dog when they are chewing on a bone. Do not leave bones lying around unattended, especially in households with multiple dogs, as this can lead to resource guarding and aggression. Before giving your dog a bone, inspect it thoroughly. Avoid bones that are small, round, or have a rough, jagged surface, as these can be choking hazards. Look for bones that are thick and have a smooth surface, as they are less likely to break or cut your dog's mouth.
It is also important to feed bones in the correct quantities. Too much bone can lead to constipation, while too little may not provide the intended dental and nutritional benefits. Bones should make up approximately 10% of your dog's diet. If your dog has difficulty digesting bones, you can dust them with ground oats or finely shredded coconut before feeding. Always introduce bones gradually, especially if your dog has never had them before or has a history of gastrointestinal issues. Start by feeding bones a few times a week and monitor your dog's reaction.
Finally, choose the right type of bone. Raw meaty bones are generally considered safer than cooked bones as they don't splinter as easily. Chicken, turkey, lamb, beef, and oxtail bones can be good options, but avoid giving your dog chicken necks, pork rib bones, or any bones that are hollow, as these are more likely to splinter and cause choking. Remember to feed your dog a variety of raw meaty bones, organs, and tripe to ensure a balanced diet.
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Alternatives to feeding dogs bones
While some people believe that feeding bones to dogs can provide behavioural stimulation, dental benefits, and appropriate nutrition, others argue that it can cause more harm than good. Bones can break teeth, cause internal blockages, and carry bacteria that can make both animals and humans ill. They can also be high in fat, which can cause inflammation of the pancreas and contribute to weight gain.
If you are considering a raw food diet for your dog, it is important to approach this decision cautiously. Raw dog food is available commercially, usually as frozen logs that can be thawed before feeding. However, the risk with both homemade and commercial raw dog food is that they are not well-balanced for a dog's nutritional requirements, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies and diseases.
If you want to feed your dog bones as part of their raw diet, it is recommended to avoid cooked bones as they can splinter, posing a choking hazard or even piercing your dog's throat. Bones should also be sourced from a reputable local butcher and stored in the freezer to be thawed before feeding. It is also important to supervise your dog when they are given a bone and to separate them from other dogs to avoid resource guarding, which can lead to aggression.
If you are looking for alternatives to feeding your dog bones, there are a few options to consider:
- Bone broth: You can make bone broth from bones that you no longer want to give to your dog directly. Bone broth is a tasty addition to your dog's regular raw food and provides additional vitamins and minerals.
- Raw meaty bones: Raw meaty bones can provide dental benefits similar to those of bones, as they help to remove tartar and provide a natural jaw workout. However, it is important to note that raw meat and meat products may be contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause illness.
- Tripe: Adding green tripe to your dog's raw diet can aid in the digestion of bones and provide probiotic and prebiotic benefits. Tripe should generally contribute a quarter to a third of meals.
- Other raw food options: If you are considering a raw food diet for your dog, there are other raw food options besides bones that can provide a nutritionally complete meal. For example, a wolf would eat a whole animal carcass, including muscle meat, bone, tendons, organs, skin, and fur.
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Frequently asked questions
Dogs do not need bones in their diet, but bones can be a good source of minerals and other nutrients. Bones can also help satisfy your dog's appetite and provide oral stimulation.
Chewing on bones can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup on your dog's teeth and reduce the risk of gum disease. Bones also provide mental stimulation and are a good source of exercise for your dog's jaw, neck, and shoulder muscles. Additionally, bones can help support a healthy digestive tract and improve overall wellbeing.
There are several risks associated with giving your dog bones, including choking, mouth injuries, intestinal damage, and foodborne illness. Bones can also be high in fat, which can cause pancreatitis in dogs.
It is recommended to give your dog edible bones that are raw, uncooked, and easily crushable. Poultry bones, such as chicken or turkey necks, are a good option as they are a source of calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals. Recreational bones, such as beef or bison femur bones, are meant for chewing but not consuming and should always be given with caution and under supervision.
Bones should make up about 10% of your dog's overall diet. If you are giving your dog a whole bone with meat, this can make up to 30% of their diet. However, it is important to monitor your dog's calcium intake and not give them too much bone, as it may cause constipation or other digestive issues. Always supervise your dog when they are chewing on bones and seek veterinary advice if you are unsure.
