Dog Bones: Are They Really Good?

It is common within the popular imagination to associate dogs with the consumption of bones, and it is that they actually seem to enjoy them a lot.

However, there are conflicting positions on this, where they are opposed not only by veterinarians, but also by specialists in dog food. So we will delve a bit into the subject of dog bones and how good or bad they are for them.

One of the most frequent questions to the vet is whether it is advisable to give bones to dogs, as many owners think that this is good for them, especially based on the amount of cartoons and preconceptions that exist in this regard.

However many veterinarians are against this practice.

While those who are radically against providing bones to dogs acknowledge that dogs love them, it is viewed as an act of utter irresponsibility.

This posture is not oriented on the fact that eating a bone will harm them, but takes into account the possible complications that arise from the continuous consumption of bones.

For example, one of the most frequent reasons for visits to the veterinarian is related to peritonitis caused by the perforation of a piece of bone in the intestines of the animal, asphyxia due to the binding of bones in the throat, not counting the multiple surgeries that must be done daily to remove bones stuck in the digestive tract.

Many specialists believe that it is an unnecessary way to expose the life of the dog, due to the delicate consequences that must be faced in case something goes wrong with the consumption of bones.

However, another group of specialists defends the consumption of bones, since they are an important source of protein.

Likewise, if the dog were in a wild environment it would hunt animals for food and devour them, including the bones, so it is okay for them to consume them.

Of course, something in which both groups agree is that you must be very careful with the kind of bones that are given.

In general, try to avoid small and sharp bones, such as chicken bones or fish bones, as these can more easily produce some of the unfortunate situations that we discussed earlier.

Meat bones

One of the healthy alternatives to the consumption of normal bones is that of meat bones, which is a hardened and slightly fatty cowhide. This is a good option that also helps the dog’s teeth care.

However,  some veterinarians maintain that these types of bones are not good for dogs either, especially for small ones, because having a short intestine, the meat usually remains stuck to the walls and produces painful obstructions.

It is recommended not to exceed the consumption of meat, being better that it is used as a reward only once a week. Remember that  for training purposes or to keep your dog entertained it is better that you consider other types of strategies.

Whole grain cookies and snacks

In the market you can find a wide variety of products specialized in the care of your dog’s teeth, gums and digestive tract.

Among these are delicious whole grain cookies that are high in fiber and can provide your puppy, in addition to good times of fun, good nutritional content.

Likewise, having a high fiber content also helps the digestive tract to function properly.

The advantage of these types of snacks, especially when they are low in fat, is that you can give them to your dog several times a day, which is especially important at the crucial moments of training.

The idea is that you find a balance between what your dog likes and what is healthy for him. In this way you can pamper your beloved pet in a responsible way.

Featured image courtesy of Analiz Villegas.