10 Best Natural Bones for Dogs in 2022 (Raw Paws Pet Food, K9 Connoisseur, and More)
We did the research and put together a list of the top 10 best natural bones for your canine companion. Chicken feet might seem strange at first, but they're full of important nutrients that help promote joint health. And their small size makes them the perfect snack! Keep reading to see the rest of our picks. If you have questions about buying natural bones for your dog, our buying guide should have the answers you seek.
Quick List - Top Natural Bones for Dogs
Raw Paws Pet Food
Great for Strengthening Your Dog’s Immune System
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Are Natural Bones Safe for Dogs?
Raw bones are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals and can help keep your dog's teeth clean and healthy. They also provide your pup with mental stimulation. However, before giving your dog a natural bone, it's important to know that they do come with risks.
Bones that are too hard can crack teeth, while bones that are fragile can splinter and cause gastrointestinal issues. Bones that are too small can potentially get lodged in your dog's throat. And bones aren't always smooth - rough edges can cause painful oral injuries. In addition, raw bones can harbor harmful bacteria.
At the end of this article, we'll outline some tips on how to feed natural bones to your dog safely. But when in doubt, always check with your vet.
How to Choose a Natural Dog Bone - Buying Guide
Choose Edible Bones to Maximize Nutrition
Edible bones can come from a large variety of animals, such as chicken, turkey, or goat, and should only be fed to your dog one to two times per week. Keep in mind that the makeup and type of bone affect what nutrients will be going into your dog’s body.
Meaty Bones for Growth and Development
Natural dog bones are high in calcium and meat is high in phosphorus, two essential minerals that help support rapid growth and development. They aid in bone and teeth formation, digestion, proper nerve function, maintenance and repair of cells and tissues, and production of ATP.
Growing puppies tend to need more of these minerals than adult dogs, so look for meaty bones like turkey necks and chicken wings. On the other hand, something slightly lower in calcium and phosphorus – like chicken backs – is a great option for adult dogs.
Large breed puppies are susceptible to developing orthopedic diseases, like hip dysplasia. In order to help reduce that risk, these dogs should be fed just slightly lower levels of calcium and phosphorus. In this case, feed less poultry, which has more calcium, and more red meat, which has less calcium.
Chicken and Pork Bones for More Fat
Chicken and pork bones contain a high percentage of fat, essential fatty acids, as well as fat-soluble vitamins. These bones are low in saturated fat and high in polyunsaturated fats, so they’re a great source of energy. A diet rich in fats can add a shine to your dog’s coat and moisture to their skin.
Chicken wings and necks are especially popular. They're hollow, soft, and very light in weight. These bones don’t contain marrow but do contain calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and other minerals that prove essential in maintaining your dog’s balanced diet.
Note that one study has linked the consumption of raw chicken necks by dogs to an inflammatory condition called acute polyradiculoneuritis, which can lead to paralysis. As with all raw pet food, be aware of the risks and make sure to get your bones from a reputable source.
Look for Recreational Bones for Dental Health and Mental Stimulation
Recreational bones are typically big chunks of pig or cow femur or hip bones filled with marrow. Compared to edible bones, they are not meant for chewing up and swallowing.
Meaty Bones for a Clean Set of Pearly Whites
The ideal bone is hard enough to allow the dog to gnaw on it and clean its teeth, but not so hard as to break or crack the teeth. Avoid dense weight-bearing bones, like the legs of large animals, which have a harder surface and are more likely to damage your dog's teeth.
Keep Your Dog Busy With a Marrow Bone
The marrow inside of raw bones is very rich, which can create loose stools in dogs with sensitive stomachs. Introduce it slowly; we recommended thawing the bone, scooping some of the marrow out with a spoon, and refilling the bone with the remaining marrow the next time.
The bones can last a long time, but make sure to refreeze them and not let them stay out and get brittle. If your dog has pancreatitis, it’s best if they don’t eat bone marrow. The rich bone marrow can cause diarrhea and a flare-up of pancreatitis, due to lipemia (high levels of fat in the blood).
If you choose to give your dog recreational bones anyway, use the same method above - thaw the bone and scoop the marrow out with a spoon. They’ll still get the satisfaction of chewing on the bone, but will be less likely to experience a pancreatitis flare-up.
Help Avoid Gastrointestinal Blockage With Flat Bones
Long bones like legs and wings have soft ends that contain a lot of cartilage. If you have an aggressive chewer, they’ll likely tear off that cartilage and consume it.
If too much cartilage accumulates in your dog’s bowels, you might end up at the vet for an enema, or even worse, surgery to remove any blockage. Stick to flat bones, like ribs or the pelvis.
Match the Size of the Bone to the Size of Your Dog
Essentially, the size of the bone and dog will determine how edible the bone is. If it looks like a choking hazard, don’t give it to your dog. Generally, it should be at least larger than the lower jaw of the dog, approximately the size of their own head.
For small dogs, look for edible bones like chicken wings, necks, and feet. Medium-sized dogs can eat edible bones like chicken quarters, pork tails, and duck necks. For both small and medium dogs, you can find recreational bones, like marrow bones and antlers, that are cut in smaller sizes.
For large breed dogs, look for recreational bones from large animals like cows or lambs, and make sure the bone is strong enough to withstand the force of their bite. Edible bones for large dogs can include whole chickens, turkey necks, and even lamb heads.
Avoid Cooked Bones
Fully cooking bones (boiling, steaming, or baking) changes their molecular structure, making them more likely to splinter. The dangers of feeding your dog cooked bones include, but are not limited to, constipation, peritonitis, severe rectal bleeding, bones (or splinters) getting stuck somewhere, and broken teeth.
For enhanced flavor, many companies slightly smoke their bones. If not cooked fully, this process doesn’t compromise the structure, quality, or composition of the bone. However, you may find it challenging to find “slightly” smoked bones to purchase online.
10 Best Natural Bones for Dogs
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Raw Paws Pet Food Chicken Feet for Dogs and Cats | | Chicken Feet to Help Prevent Arthritis | |
2 | Raw Paws Pet Food Beef Marrow Bones for Dogs｜4 pack | | Great for Strengthening Your Dog’s Immune System | |
3 | Pet Parents Gnawtlers | | An Antler for Dogs who Love to Chew | |
4 | Raw Paws Pet Food Chicken Wings for Dogs and Cats | | Small and Soft for Beginners | |
5 | Raw Paws Pet Food Turkey Necks for Dogs | | A Meaty Bone for Treats or Mealtime | |
6 | Pet Craft Supply Water Buffalo Horn | | A Non-Meaty Horn for Long-Lasting Chewing | |
7 | Raw Paws Pet Food Meaty Lamb Bones for Dogs | | Crank Up the Protein and Calcium | |
8 | Raw Paws Pet Food Split Beef Marrow Bones for Dogs | | Easy Access to Marrow | |
9 | Raw Paws Pet Food Duck Necks for Dogs | | A Good Source of Omega-3 | |
10 | K9 Connoisseur All Natural Meaty Rib Marrow Filled Bone | | Ribs Filled With Delicious Marrow |
Raw Paws Pet FoodChicken Feet for Dogs and Cats
Chicken Feet to Help Prevent Arthritis
This two-pound bag comes with approximately 15 skin-on chicken feet with the lower leg portion attached. Reviewers said they made a great treat or snack for their pups, who loved chewing on them.
Raw Paws Pet FoodBeef Marrow Bones for Dogs ｜ 4 pack
Great for Strengthening Your Dog’s Immune System
This bundle comes with four packages, each containing four two-inch marrow bones. Reviewers said these bones were great for dogs who love to chew and kept them occupied for a while.
An Antler for Dogs who Love to Chew
Gnawtlers are a different kind of bone - elk antlers to be exact. They're sourced from the heartland regions from naturally shed antlers, then sanded, inspected, and vacuum-sealed for safety. They're a good source of calcium, phosphorous, manganese, and zinc, and won't stink up your house as meaty bones can.
The Gnawtlers come in four sizes from small to extra large. The large measures six to seven inches. Some reviewers said the antler was smaller than they expected. Others found that they splintered.
However, most reviewers said these antlers kept their dogs busy and lasted for weeks. They found that they held up well to aggressive chewers and said their pups loved chewing and playing with them.
Raw Paws Pet FoodChicken Wings for Dogs and Cats
Small and Soft for Beginners
No need to worry about dull or dry fur either; these bones are full of fatty acid, which will contribute to a shiny coat and healthy skin. These crunchy bones are sure to be a hit with your best friend!
A Meaty Bone for Treats or Mealtime
Along with being a good source of phosphorus, protein, and calcium, chewing on the meat will act as a toothbrush and clean the surface of your pup’s teeth. And turkey is a lean protein, which can help your pup maintain a healthy weight.
A Non-Meaty Horn for Long-Lasting Chewing
These water buffalo horns are durable and long-lasting, with a high amount of protein and a low amount of fat. Their unique curved shape makes them fun and interesting for dogs and helps clean their teeth to promote good dental health. They come in three sizes so you can pick one that will work for your dog.
Some reviewers complained that these horns were quite smelly. Others found that they splintered into shards that they had to throw away. However, most reviewers said these horns lasted a good while and were solid and durable. They especially recommended them for teething puppies.
Crank Up the Protein and Calcium
They come in a resealable two-pound bag, so you can give them to our dog one at a time and freeze the rest for later. Reviewers said their dogs had a great time chewing the meat off of these bones and then chewing and licking the bones afterward.
Raw Paws Pet FoodSplit Beef Marrow Bones for Dogs
Easy Access to Marrow
If your dog loves marrow but has a hard time getting it out of the bone, these split marrow bones are a helpful alternative. Sourced from pasture-raised cows, they contain nutrients like protein, collagen, gelatin, and calcium. These split bones are four inches long and are ideal for medium to large dogs.
Not only are these bones tasty, but the fatty tissue in the marrow can help build up your pup's immunity and decrease their risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. They're also a great workout for their jaw and shoulder muscles.
A Good Source of Omega-3
These duck necks are easy to chew and digest for all dog breeds and sizes. They have a 50 percent meat to bone ratio, making them a great snack that also helps clean teeth. They're also a good source of glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids, key nutrients that can help your dog's joints, skin, and cellular functions.
If you just want to try them out, you can purchase a package of five necks. If you know your dogs love these, they also come in a five-pound bag. Reviewers said their dogs finished these bones in no time and that they were easy for their pups to eat.
K9 ConnoisseurAll Natural Meaty Rib Marrow Filled Bone
Ribs Filled With Delicious Marrow
These dense marrow bones are ideal for medium breed dogs up to 50 pounds. They're humanely sourced from grass-fed free-range cattle raised in the United States and contain no preservatives or artificial flavoring. The package comes with eight bones between eight and 10 inches long, each individually wrapped.
Some reviewers said these bones didn't last very long and their dog was finished with them in a matter of minutes. Others warned that they may splinter. On the other hand, many reviewers said their dogs loved these bones and chewed them until they were nearly gone.
How to Give Your Dog a Bone Safely
The best time to give your dog a bone is after a meal when they're less likely to devour it out of hunger. Make sure to supervise them. If the bone splinters, take it away, and avoid feeding them pork bones, rib bones, or bones cut lengthwise, as these bones are too fragile.
Give your dog bones that are longer than their muzzle to ensure that they won't be able to swallow them whole. Let them chew for 10 to 15 minutes, then put the bone back in the fridge to reduce the growth of bacteria until next time.
If your pup has had restorative dental work, digestive issues, or other health issues, it may be best to avoid natural bones altogether - be sure to check with your vet first!
More Products to Pamper Your Pup
It's true that dogs are man's best friend and in turn, we should be their best pet parent. Keep your furry friend happy and healthy with more of our favorite products.
Top 5 Natural Bones for Dogs
No. 1: Raw Paws Pet Food｜Chicken Feet for Dogs and Cats
No. 2: Raw Paws Pet Food｜Beef Marrow Bones for Dogs｜4 pack
No. 3: Pet Parents｜Gnawtlers
No. 4: Raw Paws Pet Food｜Chicken Wings for Dogs and Cats
No. 5: Raw Paws Pet Food｜Turkey Necks for Dogs
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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