Can Dogs Have Raw Deer Bones? The Surprising Truth & Safety Guide

Hey there, fellow dog parents! As a long-time dog owner who’s always looking for natural treats for my furry friends, I’ve spent countless hours researching whether deer bones are safe for our canine companions. If you’ve ever wondered “can dogs have raw deer bones?” – you’re in the right place. I’m gonna break down everything you need to know about feeding these natural chews to your pup.

The Quick Answer: Yes, But With Important Caveats

YES – dogs can eat raw deer bones safely when given properly. But there’s more to the story than a simple yes or no!

Raw deer bones can be an excellent addition to your dog’s diet when introduced correctly. They provide numerous health benefits from improved dental health to essential nutrients. However not all bones are created equal, and not every dog should have them.

Why Raw Bones Are Different From Cooked Bones

One of the biggest misconceptions about feeding bones to dogs comes from not understanding the difference between raw and cooked bones.

Raw bones are

• Naturally softer and more flexible
• Less likely to splinter or break into sharp pieces
• Easier for dogs to digest
• Still contain beneficial nutrients and marrow

Cooked bones (which should NEVER be given to dogs):

• Become brittle from heat exposure
• Splinter easily into sharp fragments
• Can cause serious injuries to mouth, throat, and intestines
• Have lost most of their nutritional value

The cooking process breaks down the collagen in bones, leaving behind a hardened calcium matrix that’s both denser and more brittle. This is why you’ll often hear vets warn against giving dogs “bones” – they’re typically referring to cooked bones!

The Amazing Benefits of Raw Deer Bones for Dogs

Let’s talk about why you might want to consider adding raw deer bones to your dog’s routine:

1. Dental Health Superchargers

Ever noticed how wild canines have amazingly clean teeth? That’s partly because they’re chewing on bones! Raw deer bones act like natural toothbrushes, helping to:

• Scrape away plaque buildup
• Clean teeth through mechanical action
• Stimulate healthy blood flow to the gums
• Increase saliva production (which contains natural antibacterial properties)

My own dog’s teeth have stayed remarkably clean since I started giving him raw bones occasionally – no expensive dental cleanings required!

2. Nutritional Powerhouses

Raw deer bones are packed with essential nutrients:

• Calcium and phosphate – crucial for strong bones and proper nerve function
• Collagen – supports joint health and mobility (especially important for older dogs)
• Marrow – contains blood-forming factors like iron and copper
• Glucosamine and chondroitin – help prevent arthritis and improve joint health
• Vitamin B12 and D – support immune function

The nutritional breakdown of deer bone marrow is impressive:

• 110 calories
• 12g total fat
• 1g protein
• 7% of Reference Daily Intake (RDI) of Vitamin B12
• 6% RDI of Riboflavin
• 4% RDI of Iron
• Small amounts of Vitamin E, Phosphorus, Thiamine, and Vitamin A

3. Digestive Health Support

Unlike us humans, dogs are designed to process raw bones! Proper introduction of raw bones can:

• Create a healthier gut microbiome
• Lower stomach pH (which helps kill pathogens)
• Improve stool quality and consistency
• Help with both diarrhea and constipation issues

4. Mental Stimulation and Natural Chewing Outlet

Dogs LOVE to chew – it’s in their DNA! Raw deer bones provide:

• A safe, natural outlet for chewing energy
• Mental stimulation through engaging multiple senses
• Stress and anxiety relief (chewing releases endorphins!)
• Hours of entertainment (which means peace and quiet for you!)

Choosing the Right Deer Bones for Your Dog

Not all deer bones are created equal when it comes to safety for your dog. Here’s my guide to picking the right ones:

Best Types of Deer Bones

These deer bones are generally considered safe for most dogs:

• Deer legs/feet – Excellent for medium to large dogs
• Deer knuckle bones (epiphysis) – Perfect for powerful chewers
• Deer kneecaps (patella) – Good for all sizes, rich in glucosamine
• Long bones (femur, tibia) – Best for larger dogs as recreational chews

Deer Bones to Avoid

Some deer bones present more risks than benefits:

• Cooked deer bones – NEVER give these to your dog
• Split deer bones – The cut sides can break more easily
• Very small deer bones – Could be swallowed whole by larger dogs

How to Safely Introduce Raw Deer Bones to Your Dog

Safety is key when introducing any new treat. Here’s my step-by-step guide:

1. Start Slow and Small

Begin with short, supervised chewing sessions:

• 15-minute sessions initially
• Gradually increase to no more than 30-minute sessions
• Always supervise your dog with any bone

2. Choose Size-Appropriate Bones

This is super important to prevent choking hazards:

• Small dogs – Smaller deer bones that can’t be swallowed whole
• Medium dogs – Deer leg bones, knuckles that are too big to swallow
• Large dogs – Large deer bones approximately the size of their head

A good rule of thumb: The bone should be larger than your dog’s head to prevent them from swallowing it whole.

3. Proper Storage Is Essential

Keep those bones safe for chewing:

• Store raw bones in the freezer until ready to use
• Let your dog chew for only an hour or so at a time
• Store in the refrigerator between chew sessions
• Discard after 3-4 days and replace with a fresh bone

4. Watch for Individual Needs

Every dog is different:

• Some dogs are aggressive chewers and need tougher bones
• Older dogs or those with dental issues may need softer options
• Dogs with digestive issues might need more gradual introduction

Who Should NOT Have Raw Deer Bones?

While many dogs benefit from raw deer bones, they’re not for every pup:

• Puppies – Their teeth and digestive systems aren’t fully developed
• Dogs who gulp their food – May try to swallow bones whole
• Very small dogs – May struggle with even the smallest deer bones
• Dogs with pancreatitis – High fat content in marrow can be problematic
• Dogs with certain dental issues – Could damage already compromised teeth

Common Myths About Raw Deer Bones Debunked

Let’s clear up some misunderstandings:

Myth #1: “All bones break dogs’ teeth”

Truth: Raw bones are naturally softer than cooked bones. Most healthy dogs can safely chew raw deer bones without dental damage.

Myth #2: “Bones always cause digestive blockages”

Truth: Raw bones are more digestible than cooked bones. A dog’s highly acidic stomach (pH between 1.08-2.05) can break down raw bone pieces.

Myth #3: “The bacteria on raw bones is dangerous”

Truth: Healthy dogs have digestive systems designed to handle the bacteria on raw meat and bones. Freezing bones before feeding reduces bacteria levels even further.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are deer legs safe for dogs?

Yes! Deer legs are actually one of the safest options because they go through a gentle air-drying process that prevents them from becoming hard like glass while retaining nutrients. The tendons and marrow are safe for consumption, though dogs shouldn’t eat the whole bone itself.

How long should I let my dog chew on a deer bone?

Limit chewing sessions to about 30 minutes at a time. This helps prevent over-consumption and reduces the risk of the bone becoming a choking hazard as it gets smaller.

Can all dogs have deer bones?

No. Deer bones aren’t recommended for puppies, very small dogs, or dogs who tend to gulp their food without properly chewing. These dogs may be at higher risk for choking.

What if my dog swallows a piece of deer bone?

Small, rounded pieces of raw bone can typically pass through a dog’s digestive system without issue. However, if you notice any signs of distress, such as vomiting, difficulty defecating, lethargy, or pain, contact your veterinarian immediately.

My Personal Experience with Deer Bones

I’ve been giving my two Labs raw deer bones for about three years now, and I’ve noticed significant improvements in their dental health. Before introducing bones, my older dog had some tartar buildup that was concerning me. After a few months of regular deer bone chewing sessions (about twice a week), his teeth looked noticeably cleaner!

One thing I’ve learned is that my dogs have different chewing styles. My younger Lab is more aggressive and needs larger, tougher bones, while my older guy does better with slightly softer options. It’s all about knowing your individual dog’s needs.

Conclusion: A Natural Option Worth Considering

So, can dogs have raw deer bones? The answer is generally yes – they can be a safe, nutritious, and enjoyable treat for many dogs when given properly. Raw deer bones offer impressive benefits for dental health, nutrition, digestion, and mental stimulation.

However, safety must always come first. Choose the right size and type of bone for your dog, introduce them gradually, and always supervise chewing sessions.

Have you tried giving your dog raw deer bones? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!

Until next time,
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Disclaimer: While this article is based on research and experience, every dog is different. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods or treats, especially if your dog has existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.