Is it safe for my dog to chew on bones? What are the dangers?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Is it safe to give my dog bones to chew on?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 5th, 2018
No! Dogs should NEVER be given raw or cooked animal bones for several reasons. Raw bones run the risk of transmitting harmful bacteria, including Salmonella or Campylobacter, both to your dog and any exposed people. These bacteria can be transmitted through a dog’s stool and saliva. Bones can also pose hazards for foreign body obstruction in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. Poultry bones are inherently filled with air and cooked bones become more brittle, both of which can splinter leading to perforation of the stomach or intestines. Bones and antlers are also quite hard and can lead to tooth fractures. Instead of offering bones, alternative products such as Nylabones, Kongs, or the dental treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (www.vohc.org) are safer and more effective alternatives for dogs that like to chew.
1012Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on October 18th, 2017
My personal preference is compressed rawhide (not regular rawhide). Pig ears and Nylabones are OK too. Any of these types of treats you give them should only be given supervised. Antlers are not recommended - they are too hard and often break their teeth. Same with cow hooves. https://www.petsupplies.com/dog-supplies/rawhide-bones/pressed-rawhide/9398/
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on March 7th, 2018
I do not recommend giving bones to pets as there can be a variety of problems that can arise from this, including broken teeth, choking, or intestinal obstruction. You can read more about these risks at: https://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm208365.htm A safer option would be a kong toy https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/kong-classic-dog-toy stuffed with canned dog food and popped into the freezer or filled with peanut butter or another treat if you want something as a treat for prolonged chewing for your pup.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on August 7th, 2017
I would not recommend bones of any kind for your dog. There is danger of breaking teeth, as well as ingesting pieces of the bone which could cause a gastroinestinal foreign body or perforation. With any raw meat product we also run the risk of bacterial infection such as e.coli or salmonella (this is a risk not only to the pet but also to people living in the house). For strong chewers I recommend the heavier duty nylabones and kongs (they come in a few different "chewing strengths" so look for ones made for the heaviest chewers.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
My black lab mix is an aggressive powerful chewer. We have tried multiple bones. We were told to try raw bones? Is this good for our dog? What type of raw bone should we try? We don't want to deal with the splinters either. Rawhides he gets sick from
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