Sunday, February 13, 2011

Thanks, Deer

I have heard that deer antlers can be a good chew for dogs. It kind of sounds strange, but what do I know? After all, we do give him bull pizzles, and dogs chew on all sorts of other weird things, like pig's ears and hooves and things. I don't buy pig's ears because they are high in fat, and I don't buy hooves because the idea of having hooves lying around my house weirds me out a little. He doesn't get rawhides anymore, pressed or otherwise, because of the choking risk and because rawhides aren't easily digestible.

When we were in Pet Valu the other day, we saw some naturally-shed deer antlers that were cut into smaller pieces and thought we'd give them a try. The texture of the antlers is more like bone. He tends to chew on the inside of the antler, which is a bit softer. I figure if dogs can chew bones, then antlers should be all right too. I've done some reading and people seem to like them. We were told that the feedback on them at the store has been very good, as they are very long lasting. It doesn't smell at all, and apparently does not splinter or stain. Maybe I'll stick with them since he seems to like them, but my biggest worry is how hard they are, since I wouldn't want him damaging his teeth on them. Has anyone tried these and have any advice about them?

I know I've been doing quite a few toy and product-related posts lately. For the record, none of the products I discuss are sponsored or anything. I don't run a fancy enough shop for that! I just like sharing what works for us and and what doesn't, and like to hear back about your experiences as well. Since I've got a puppy with a short attention span, knowing what he likes and what keeps him busy is helpful! If I can give others recommendations or feedback, then all the better!




The antler, after a little chewing.

5 comments:

Golden Woofs! SUGAR said...

Woof! Woof! YES it's the best. I had it the first time last Dec during my winter sue camp. My was huge. I was given to take some home too. Enjoy! Lots of Golden Woofs, Sugar

Golden Woofs! SUGAR said...

Woof! Woof! Me Again ... not sure what's going on with blogger google follower widget. I've been having problems. FYI: I do follow your blog (I see it on my google reader) but It seems that my profile photo does not show on your follower widget. Not sure if you see it ... let us know. Lots of Golden Woofs, Sugar

Kiyi Kiyi said...

Tibby likes her antler. She LOVES to drop it off the side of the bed at night or throw it on the tile floors. It is loud!
Other than that....I like it and Tibby likes it. I think it will last FOREVER.
I can't buy her hooves either - REALLY can't buy the pig or cow NOSES. Yuck!!

Kirby the Dorkie said...

Me again! I finally figured out the html was wrong so I copied the Saturday Pet Blog Hop and changed the numbers to get it to work!

Kirby needs to try an antler! He can eat an everlasting treat in 30 minutes so we got some bully sticks which last a whole lot longer but really stink!

www.kirbythedorkie.com

Oskar said...

I've had very good luck with antlers. I've had the same one for a year or so & pick it back up every once in a while.

Nubbin wiggles,
Oskar

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