Chewing is natural dog behavior, which is why bones seem like a natural pairing for your four-legged friend. But that doesn’t mean you should give your dogs the leftover bones from the ribs you just devoured, no matter how much they try to convince you with your puppy eyes.
One of your safest options is raw beef or chicken bones that are regularly offered to canines and come from a reputable brand. Raw bones have been a significant element of a dog’s diet for a long time, as they would have eaten in the wild, making the bone-chewing eating behavior in dogs a great satisfaction for them.
Many pet owners continue to offer their dogs bones after domestication due to their nutritional value and the mental stimulation it offers. Consider the following factors when offering bones to your furry companion.
Are Bones Safe for Your Dog?
Raw chicken and beef bones are safe options for your dog, but it’s essential to keep an eye on them when they enjoy their bone. Dogs get excited when they receive a bone and may quickly chew it up or tear it apart. Supervising them when they are devouring their bone can help you prevent physical hazards, such as choking.
Cooked bones, on the other hand, are not as safe for dogs, as cooked chicken or beef bones may become brittle. If your dog ingests these small pieces, it may face internal damage to the stomach, trachea, or esophagus. So, feeding your raw dog bones is best to avoid problems.
Benefits of Raw Bones for Dogs
When choosing a treat for your chewer, consider the benefits of raw bones.
Improves Oral Hygiene
Many dogs are not receptive to teeth cleaning methods, such as toothpaste, water, or food additives. Luckily, most dogs love chewing on raw bones, which keeps their teeth strong and healthy, prevents plaque build-up, and keeps gums clean.
Strengthens Bone & Structure
Just like humans, dogs also need calcium to strengthen their bones and structures. Bones offer calcium, which offers a range of benefits for dogs, such as maintaining healthy bones and teeth, proper muscle building and function, heart health, and more.
Better Skin & Coat
Raw bones contain various minerals that can improve your dog’s skin and coat. The marrow and cartilage in bones are also excellent sources of collagen, improving your dog’s skin elasticity and joint health.
Offers Mental Stimulation
If you find your dog chewing on your shoes, furniture, or other items in your home, this behavior may result from boredom. Offering your dog, a raw bone can keep them busy, stimulate their mind, and prevent them from using their energy towards destroying things in your home.
How to Feed Raw Bones to Your Dog
The first step to feeding raw bones to your dog is finding the right kind of bones. Look for a reputable brand like Bold By Nature that allows you to order raw pet food online and customize your plan. When feeding your dog raw bones as a treat, choose an appropriate-sized bone and keep an eye on them until they are done chewing it. If your dog is gnawing on a raw beef bone, don’t allow them to consume the entire thing. After the bone has released all of its flavor, take the bone away and throw it out. It’s best to offer your dog raw bones once or twice a week, allowing them to get a mouthful of vitamins and minerals without over consuming bones.
You can choose a raw bone for your dog even if you feed them kibble. However, if you also want to opt for raw food, Bold By Nature recommends having your pet fast for 24 hours and then switching right to raw. It’s also a good option to start with turkey, as it’s a lean protein.
