Whether you're an experienced raw feeder or simply looking to add raw bones to your dog’s diet for dental care, understanding the right way to do so can be overwhelming. This article aims to simplify the process and provide insights into feeding bones safely and effectively.
How to Feed Bones Safely
When feeding bones, it’s important to follow these safety guidelines:
Avoid cooked bones, as they can splinter and pose a choking hazard.
Choose the right size of bone based on your dog’s breed and size.
Avoid weight-bearing bones, which are too hard and can break teeth.
Feed bones in separate areas if you have multiple dogs to prevent resource guarding.
How Much Bone is Enough?
If you're incorporating bones into a raw diet, they should make up around 10% of your dog’s overall diet. However, your dog's poop is the best indicator of whether you're feeding the right amount. Hard, chalky poop suggests too much bone, while soft poop could suggest you may want to increase their bone intake.
For dogs who eat bones for dental health alongside a non-raw diet, one or two raw meaty bones per week is generally sufficient.
Managing Choking Risks
Whilst dogs are naturally equipped to swallow large pieces of food, modern feeding practices may have altered their instincts. Some dogs may gulp their food, increasing the risk of choking. To mitigate this, you can crush the bones with a mallet or hold the bone to encourage slow, deliberate chewing.
It's also helpful to have a plan in place in case of choking emergencies. Knowing what to do in advance can reduce panic and make bone feeding a less stressful experience for both you and your dog.
Feeding Recommendations for Different Dog Sizes and Breeds
Puppies and Small Dogs
For puppies and smaller breeds, it's best to start with softer, smaller bones to ensure safety and ease of chewing. Ideal options include:
Chicken necks, wings, and feet
Duck feet and necks
Rabbit bones
Quail bones
It’s recommended to introduce bones gradually to puppies, starting with softer bones to help them develop their chewing skills.
Medium Dogs
For medium-sized breeds like Border Collies, Bulldogs, or Beagles, in addition to those you would feed a puppy or small dog, you can introduce slightly larger and more durable bones:
Duck necks
Turkey wings
Chicken carcasses
Lamb ribs and neck pieces
Large Dogs
For larger dogs like German Shepherds, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers, the following bones may be suitable:
Lamb or venison ribs
Turkey necks and carcasses
Extra Large or Giant Breeds
For giant breeds such as Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Saint Bernards, you can offer larger bones again.
Venison neck
Large lamb ribs
Whole duck
Turkey carcasses
Feeding bones to your dog can support dental health, provide essential nutrients and offer mental stimulation. However, it’s crucial to choose the right type of bones based on your dog’s size and breed. Always opt for raw, appropriately sized bones and avoid cooked or weight-bearing bones that could splinter or damage your dog’s teeth. Remember to monitor your dog’s poop; it will tell you if you’re feeding too much, too little or just enough!