The Top 5 Antlers For Dogs
There are plenty of reasons to give your dog a steady supply of chew toys. Not only do they reduce stress and anxiety and keep them preoccupied while they're alone, but they also help promote healthier teeth, gums, and even breath. But for large dogs or breeds with an especially aggressive bite, traditional rubber and plastic toys just won't cut it. Instead, try the all-natural alternative: deer and elk antlers. Tougher and more nutritious than regular bones, they're the perfect treat for dogs with strong jaws, or really any pup with an impulse to gnaw. And because they're cut from real animals, they're guaranteed free from the potentially harmful chemicals and additive found in artificial toys. Our list includes the highest-quality options on the market.
1. Pet Parents Gnawtlers
Pet Parents Gnawtlers
One of the biggest problems we run into when buying antlers for our dogs is inconsistency. It’s not uncommon to open up a box and find their size, shape, or quality to be disappointing. That’s why these Pet Parents Gnawtlers are so great. Carefully selected from Grade A premium raw elk antler and vetted based on their weight, density, color, and, shape, they’re a cut above other options on the market, so you can expect the same quality from them time and time again. They also come in a range of sizes, making them a suitable choice for dogs of all breeds.
Pros:
- Vacuum-sealed for safety
- Cruelty-free harvesting
- Packed with nutrients
Cons:
- A little pricey
- No bulk option
2. Heartland Premium Deer Antlers
Heartland Premium Deer Antlers
Antlers from deer tend to be slightly denser than those from elk, making them a better option for dogs with a strong bite. These Heartland Premium Antlers are a good example of that — they’re cut from wild deer right here in the US, and make for a much more durable chew toy than rubber or plastic ones. From a value standpoint, they’re also a bit more affordable than comparable antlers, and are even backed by a satisfaction guarantee.
Pros:
- No additives or preservatives
- Come in four sizes
- No odor or mess
Cons:
- Size is a little on the thin side
- Require owner supervision
3. The Antler Box Premium Elk Antler Dog Chews
The Antler Box Premium Elk Antler Dog Chews
For teething dogs or those with a gentler bite, split antlers are a better choice than whole ones, since they’re softer and easier to gnaw on. And among the split antler options on the market, few are as high quality as The Antler Box, which includes four pieces that are chock full of vitamins and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, manganese and zinc. Uniquely, they also come presented in a stylish package that should satisfy you as much as the antlers themselves will satisfy your pooch.
Pros:
- Packaging is biodegradable
- High in protein
- Also available in whole antlers
Cons:
- More expensive than other options
- Not as dense as deer antlers
4. WhiteTail Naturals Extra Large Premium Deer Antler
WhiteTail Naturals Extra Large Premium Deer Antler
Deer antlers are among the densest kinds available, which make them perfect for dog breeds who tend to be aggressive chewers. So if you’re looking for the biggest and hardest chew toys around, try the WhiteTail Naturals Premium Deer Antlers. Each one is between seven and eight inches in length and cut from organic, grade A antler, giving your husky or pit plenty of room to chew and ensuring they’ll stand up to plenty of abuse.
Pros:
- Last a long time
- Supports good dental health
- Sourced in the USA
Cons:
- Not ideal for small dogs
- Only one per package
5. Big Dog Antler Chews Deer Pieces
Big Dog Antler Chews Deer Pieces
One of the great things about antlers is how long they last compared to regular chew toys. But eventually they do wear down, so it’s a smart idea to have a few more lying around as replacements. That’s no problem with these Big Dog Antler Chews, which ship by the pound — or between four and six pieces — so you never have to worry about running out. Each piece is unique in size and shape, too, offering enough of variety to keep your dog interested again and again.
Pros:
- Each piece is over six inches in length
- Custom cut, trimmed, and sanded
- Satisfaction guarantee
Cons:
- Pieces are on the small side
- Pricey but good value
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are antlers better than regular chew toys for my dog?
Whether from deer, elk, or moose, animal antlers are a great alternative to plastic or rubber chew toys for several reasons. For one thing, they’re harder and denser than most conventional toys, which makes them a great choice for large dogs or those with especially aggressive bites. For another, they’re healthier than regular toys, since they’re packed with vitamins and minerals that occur naturally in animal bone, and also aren’t made with any of the chemical additives found in some rubber or plastic chews (yes, they’re organic!).
Are antlers safe for my dog?
As previously mentioned, antlers are plenty safe for your dog — perhaps even more so than synthetic toys. Still, it’s important to make sure your dog is supervised when gnawing on a deer or elk antler, since, being essentially animal bones, they can split and splinter under very aggressive chewing. You should also make sure they have plenty of water nearby to wash down any small bits they might ingest in the process.
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