Antler chews are great treats for dogs, offering long-lasting fun and helping keep their teeth clean. But it's important to know when it's time to get a new one to keep your dog safe. Here are ten tips to help you figure out when to replace your dog's antler chew.
Key Points About Antler Dog Chews
- Replace when the antler fits entirely in dog's mouth
- Check regularly for splintering or sharp edges
- Consider your dog's chewing habits when choosing antlers
- Inspect antlers often for your dog's safety
- Ask your vet if unsure about when to replace
1. Size Matters
The most important thing to think about when deciding to replace your dog's antler chew is how big it is. If the antler becomes small enough to fit completely in your dog's mouth, it's time for a new one. This helps prevent choking and keeps your dog safe. A good rule is to replace the antler when it's about as big as your dog's nose or smaller. This is especially important for big dogs who might try to swallow smaller pieces whole.
At Heartland Antlers, we have different sizes of antler chews for all kinds of dogs. Remember to pick the right size for your dog to keep them safe and make the antler last longer. For little dogs, try our small deer antler chews, and for bigger dogs, our medium or large elk antler options might be better.
2. Watch for Signs of Wear
Check your dog's antler chew often for signs that it's wearing out. Look for parts that are splitting, cracking, or getting sharp edges. These can hurt your dog's mouth or stomach. If you see any of these signs, it's time for a new chew. Pay extra attention to the ends of the antler, as these parts usually wear down faster and can get sharp or jagged.
Our split elk antler chews are less likely to splinter, but it's still important to check them regularly. The split design shows the softer inside part, which can wear down quicker than the outside, so watch how your dog chews different parts of the antler.
3. Consider Your Dog's Chewing Habits
How often you need to replace the antler depends on how your dog chews. Dogs that chew hard might need new antlers more often, while dogs that chew gently can keep their antlers longer. Watch how your dog chews to figure out when to replace their antler. Some dogs might chew softly, while others might chew really hard, which affects how quickly the antler wears down.
Learn more about choosing the right antler chew based on your dog's chewing habits in our blog. We help you match antler types and sizes to different chewing styles, so your dog gets the most fun and benefit from their chew.
4. Type of Antler Matters
Different types of antlers last for different amounts of time. Elk antlers are usually bigger and not too hard, while deer antlers are harder and good for dogs that chew a lot. Moose antlers are softer and might need to be replaced more often. Choose the right type for how your dog likes to chew. How old the antler is and whether it fell off naturally or was cut off can also affect how long it lasts.
Check out our elk antler chews, which are known for being tough and safe. Elk antlers are a good mix of hard but chewable, making them popular with many dog owners.
5. Regular Dental Check-ups
When your dog goes to the vet for regular check-ups, ask them to look at your dog's teeth and gums. They can tell you if the antler chew is causing any problems and if it's time for a new one. Your vet can also tell you how the antler is affecting your dog's overall dental health and suggest any changes to your dog's chewing routine.
Learn about how antler chews can help your dog's dental health in our blog post. We talk about how the natural roughness of antlers can help reduce tartar buildup and keep gums healthy.
6. Seasonal Considerations
Your dog's chewing habits might change with the seasons. In summer, dogs might chew less because it's hot, while in winter they might chew more because they're inside more. Change how often you replace the antler based on these habits. Some dogs might also chew more during stressful times, like during thunderstorms or fireworks.
Check out our guide on different types of antlers to find the best option for your dog all year round. We have different sizes and types to fit changing needs throughout the seasons.
7. Multi-Dog Households
If you have more than one dog, think about giving them separate places to chew to prevent fights over the antlers. Keep an eye on each dog's antler chew, as they might need replacing at different times. Some dogs might be more protective of their chews, so it's important to watch them during chew time and make sure each dog has their own antler to avoid arguments.
Read our blog for tips on keeping antler chews safe in homes with multiple dogs. We give ideas for managing chew time when you have more than one pet to make sure everyone stays safe and happy.
8. Implement a Rotation System
To make antler chews last longer, try using different ones at different times. Switch between different types of antlers and give each chew some "rest time". This can help prevent overuse and keep the chew in good shape for longer. Rotating chews also keeps your dog interested and gives them variety in what they chew on.
Find out why dogs love antlers and how to make the most of this natural chew option. Our blog explains why dogs like antlers so much and gives tips on how to get the most benefits from antler chews by switching them out and taking good care of them.
9. Trust Your Instincts
As a dog owner, you know your pet best. If you notice any changes in how your dog chews or if the antler chew looks unsafe, trust your gut and replace it. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your dog's safety. Pay attention to how your dog acts with the antler and look for signs that they're uncomfortable or not interested, which could mean it's time for a new one.
10. When in Doubt, Replace
If you're ever not sure about whether your dog's antler chew is still good, it's better to replace it. A new antler chew is a small price to pay for your dog's safety and happiness. Keep an extra antler around so you can quickly replace a worn-out chew without interrupting your dog's chewing routine.
If you have any questions about when to replace your dog's antler chew, feel free to contact us. At Heartland Antlers, we want to provide safe, high-quality antler chews for your pets. Our customer service team is always ready to help you with any worries or questions about antler chew safety and replacement.
By following these tips, you can make sure your dog enjoys their antler chew safely and for as long as possible. Remember to check the antler often and replace it when needed to keep your dog healthy and happy. With proper care, antler chews can give your furry friend hours of safe, fun chewing time while helping keep their teeth clean.