Are Bones Safe for Dogs?

As a veterinarian, one of the most common questions I get from dog owners is: “Can I give my dog bones?” The short answer? It depends—but in most cases, the risks outweigh the benefits. We have blogs related to nutrition in VetNourish.

Dogs have a natural instinct to chew, and as responsible pet parents, we should provide them with safe and beneficial options that support their health without causing harm. That’s where bully sticks come in. Let’s break down the science behind why dogs chew, the dangers of bones, and why bully sticks might be a better choice.

Why Do Dogs Chew Bones?

Chewing isn’t just a random habit—it serves several key functions for a dog’s health and well-being:

✔️ Dental Health – Chewing naturally helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup. However, not all chews are effective at keeping teeth clean.

✔️ Mental Stimulation – A good chew keeps dogs occupied, preventing boredom-related behaviors like destructive chewing (on your shoes, for example!).

✔️ Stress Relief – Chewing releases endorphins, helping anxious dogs stay calm.

✔️ Jaw Strength & Digestion – In the wild, chewing on raw bones helped dogs extract marrow and strengthen jaw muscles. But in domestic dogs, feeding bones comes with serious risks.

Should Dogs eat bone?

Why Some Owners Think Bones Are Good

Some argue that raw bones provide natural nutrients like calcium and phosphorus (learn more here: Dog Feeding Mistakes) and they can help scrape plaque off teeth. But as a veterinarian, I’ve seen more problems than benefits when it comes to bones.

Are Bones Healthy for Dogs

The Veterinary Reality: Bones Can Be Dangerous

❌ Dental Fractures – I’ve treated many dogs with broken teeth from chewing on hard bones, especially beef femurs and marrow bones. These injuries are painful and often require expensive dental extractions.

❌ Gastrointestinal Obstruction – If a dog swallows a large chunk of bone, it can get stuck in the intestines, requiring emergency surgery.

❌ Internal Injuries – Cooked bones, especially poultry bones, can splinter and puncture the stomach or intestines, leading to life-threatening infections like peritonitis.

❌ Bacterial Contamination – Raw bones may carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, which can affect both pets and humans.

Veterinary Conclusion: As Vets we should provide stress-free pet care and while bones seem “natural,” they pose too many risks. Fortunately, there are safer alternatives that provide the same benefits—without the dangers.

Can Dogs eat cooked beef bones?

Bully Sticks: A Safer, Healthier Alternative

Bully sticks (dried bull pizzle) are one of my top recommendations for pet owners looking for a safe, digestible chew that supports their dog’s health.

Benefits of Bully Sticks

✔️ Easier to Digest – Unlike bones, bully sticks don’t splinter and break down easily in the stomach, reducing the risk of blockages.

✔️ Great for Dental Health – Chewing a bully stick helps scrape plaque off teeth without the risk of breaking them like bones can.

✔️ High-Quality Protein – Bully sticks are rich in amino acids that support muscle growth, skin, and coat health.

✔️ Mental & Behavioral Benefits – They provide the same stress relief and stimulation as bones, but without the dangers.

Things to Keep in Mind with Bully Sticks

⚠️ Caloric Content – Bully sticks are high in calories, so moderation is key (especially for overweight dogs). A 6-inch bully stick contains about 88 calories, which can add up if given too frequently.

⚠️ Choking Hazards – Like any chew, small pieces can be a choking risk. I always recommend using a bully stick holder to prevent dogs from swallowing the last chunk.

⚠️ Bacterial Risks – Some bully sticks can carry bacteria. Choose reputable brands that test for contamination.

Veterinarian Recommendations: What Should You Give Your Dog?

🔹 Avoid weight-bearing bones (beef femurs, marrow bones) and cooked bones.

🔹 For dental health, try VOHC-approved dental chews like Greenies or OraVet instead of bones.

🔹 For a safe, satisfying chew, bully sticks are an excellent option—just make sure to choose high-quality ones and supervise your dog.

Final Thoughts

While chewing is an essential part of a dog’s life, not all chews are safe. As a veterinarian, I don’t recommend bones due to the risks of fractures, blockages, and bacterial contamination. Instead, bully sticks offer a safer, healthier alternative that supports your dog’s natural chewing instincts without the dangers.

If you’re looking for a safe chew for your pup, opt for high-quality bully sticks, supervise their use, and enjoy the peace of mind that you’re making the best choice for your dog’s health!

Further Reading & Sources

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): www.avma.org

• Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC): www.vohc.org

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): www.fda.gov

• Weese JS, Armstrong J. "Bacterial contamination of dog treats." Vet Microbiol, 2005.