Dogs can safely eat certain types of raw bones, but cooked bones are generally unsafe because they splinter easily and can cause serious injuries. Here is a summary of which bones are safe and which are not:
Safe Bones for Dogs
- Small dogs and puppies: Chicken necks, duck feet, chicken wings.
- Medium dogs: Duck necks, chicken thighs, turkey wings, chicken carcass.
- Large dogs: Lamb ribs, lamb neck pieces, venison ribs.
- Extra large dogs: Venison neck, turkey neck, chicken/duck carcass, lamb ribs.
These are typically raw bones that are large enough for the dog to chew without swallowing whole and have some lumps or bulges on the ends to prevent choking.
Raw meaty bones like chicken, turkey, lamb, beef, or oxtail are considered safer options because they do not splinter as easily as cooked bones and provide essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus
Bones to Avoid
- Cooked bones: Especially chicken and turkey bones, as they splinter easily and can cause choking, punctures, or blockages.
- Small bones: More likely to be swallowed whole or get stuck in the throat.
- Round bones: Can get lodged in the windpipe or jaw, causing choking or injury.
- T-bones: Their shape can cause them to get stuck in the throat, blocking the airway
Safety Tips
- Always give raw bones from a reputable source and supervise your dog while chewing.
- Remove the bone after 10-15 minutes and refrigerate it if you want to reuse it; discard after a few days.
- Avoid giving bones to dogs with stomach problems or when other dogs are around to prevent fights or choking risks.
- Consult your veterinarian before introducing bones to your dog's diet
In summary, raw bones appropriate to your dog's size and type can be safe and beneficial, but cooked bones and small or round bones should be avoided due to high risk of injury
