Bones for Dogs — Safe or Not?

The Truth About Letting Your Dog Chew Bones

We’ve all seen the classic image: a happy dog gnawing away at a giant bone, tail wagging, eyes full of joy. It seems so natural, even instinctive. But did you know that not all bones are safe for your dog?

When it comes to bones, one size definitely does not fit all — and some choices can be dangerous, even life-threatening. So let’s break it down.

Which Bones Are Safe (and When)?

Some bones can be beneficial — helping clean your dog’s teeth, relieve boredom, and satisfy their urge to chew. But only under certain conditions.

1. Raw Meaty Bones (RMBs) - Best for experienced dog owners

• These include raw beef ribs, turkey necks, or lamb shanks

• Chewed under strict supervision, they can help clean teeth and provide jaw exercise

• Always ensure the bone is appropriately sized for your dog — never too small

Important: Raw bones should be fresh, never frozen, and not too hard (e.g., avoid weight-bearing bones from large animals like cows)

2. Veterinary - Approved Dental Chews

• Many are made to be digestible and safe

• Look for VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) approval or ask your vet for recommendations

• Some brands offer long-lasting dental bones with ingredients that help reduce plaque

Bones That Are Dangerous

1. Cooked Bones

This is the #1 mistake pet parents make. Cooked bones — especially from chicken, duck, pork, or lamb — become dry and brittle, which means they can:

• Splinter easily

• Cause choking

• Lead to blockages or tears in the stomach or intestines

• Result in painful constipation or rectal bleeding

Examples include:

• Leftover chicken wings

• Pork chop bones

• BBQ rib bones

2. Small or Thin Bones

Even if raw, small bones can be swallowed whole or lodged in the throat, especially in small breeds.
Tip: If your dog can fit the whole bone in its mouth, it’s probably too small.

3. Hard, Weight-Bearing Bones

Large marrow bones (like cow femurs) may seem safe, but they’re extremely hard and can cause:

• Tooth fractures

• Gum injury

• Long-term dental problems
  
  

Vet’s Advice: What You Should Do

Supervise at all times. Dogs can break off sharp pieces, try to swallow large chunks, or chew too aggressively when unsupervised.
If your dog becomes possessive over bones, it can also lead to resource guarding behaviors or aggression.

A Simple Safety Checklist:

• Never give cooked bones

• Choose raw, soft, meaty bones — and only under supervision

• Use dental chews that are vet-approved

• Match the chew to your dog’s age, size, breed, and chewing strength

• If in doubt, ask your vet before introducing new chew items

When to See a Vet Immediately

If your dog has recently chewed a bone and shows any of the following signs:

• Gagging or choking

• Vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Constipation or bloody stool

• Pawing at their mouth

• Swollen or hard abdomen

Bring them in immediately. It could be a bone fragment obstruction or internal injury.

At Mayo Vet Care...

We know your dog’s health and happiness means everything to you. Chewing is important for mental and dental health — but it needs to be safe. If you’re unsure what bones or chews are best for your pup, we're here to help.