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Is it safe for my puppy to chew and ingest elk antlers for teething?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Is it okay for my puppy (6 months) to actually ingest parts of an elk antler? It seems to be helping with her teething as she loves it but I am worried as it keeps whittling away.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 27th, 2017

I personally do not recommend allowing dogs to eat bones or antlers. It can cause perforation of the GI tract and/or obstruction, both of which will require surgery to fix. There are teething toys you can get from a pet store that helps with a puppy's teething, and I would recommend using ones that you can freeze in the freezer before giving it to her. The cold will help with her teething and make her gums feel better, and there's not risk of GI perforation and obstruction. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Anytime antler or bone is ingested, there is a risk for a foreign body obstruction/blockage, or for a stomach or intestinal perforation. I know that these antlers are tempting and that dogs love them, but in addition to the GI risks, they can cause tooth fractures. As the antler gets smaller, it can also become a choking hazard. Instead, I typically recommend using the Nylabones for teething puppies or Kong chew toys. Once her permanent teeth come in, switch from the puppy teething toys to the adult versions because the puppy toys are slightly more likely to break apart with the stronger adult teeth.

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