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My dog swallowed a deer antler. Is it dangerous? What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 11 months old | 80 lbs

My dog swallowed a small piece of a deer antler. He is American Staffordshire Terrier Mix and is 85lbs. He is acting fine, but just is sad his antler is gone.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on February 6th, 2020

Depending on the size of the piece ingested, it may cause problems for Wrigley. A small piece may pass on it's own. A larger piece may cause a gastric or intestinal obstruction. If there are sharp edges, it is possible it could cause a perforation. To be safe, Wrigley should be physically examined by your veterinarian. Abdominal x-rays should be done to locate the position of the antler. If it is still in the stomach, consider endoscopy to remove it safely. If you choose to monitor him at home, a bulky diet can be fed to both cushion and push the piece through the GI tract. Monitor for lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain or straining to defecate. These are symptoms that should be addressed by your veterinarian.

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    Poor Wrigley! Depending on the size of the piece I would be worried about either potential obstruction/choking, or tears/cuts to the GI tract as it passes through if there was a sharp edge. I'd keep out for signs of choking (coughing, gagging, vomiting), or obstruction/tears (vomiting, diarrhea, attempting to do either without success, blood in either, loss of appetite, etc). If he does show signs of illness, or you think the piece is too large for him to pass, seeking vet care right away is best.

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