Bucks drop their antlers each winter in a process called shedding. Horns, however, begin growing at birth and never get shed. Bucks start shedding their antlers as daylight decreases and testosterone levels decline, which causes antlers to drop from late December through March in most areas.

Use body weight as the starting point: Small for 5-25 lb, Medium for 25-45 lb, Large for 45-65 lb, Extra Large for 65-85 lb, and Giant for 85+ lb. Chewing style also matters; size up for forceful chewers and choose a piece too large to swallow.

Antlers are very hard and can fracture teeth. Swallowed pieces can also cause choking or gastrointestinal obstruction. Heartland does not recommend antlers for puppies with developing teeth, senior dogs with worn teeth, dogs with existing dental damage or a prior tooth fracture, or dogs that bite down forcefully with their back teeth.

There is no guaranteed lifespan. Wear varies with the antler, its size, and your dog's chewing style. Retire it when it becomes small enough to fit fully in the mouth, develops a crack or sharp edge, becomes loose, or sheds pieces your dog is swallowing.

Breed alone does not determine whether an antler is suitable. Heartland does not recommend antlers for puppies with developing teeth, senior dogs with worn teeth, dogs with existing dental damage or a prior tooth fracture, or dogs that bite down forcefully with their back teeth. Ask your veterinarian if you are unsure.

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