Bones for dogs: cooked versus raw, and safe chewing
Chewing is natural and satisfying for dogs, and helps keep them occupied. But the type of bone, its size and how you supervise make a big difference to safety.
Never feed cooked bones
Cooking makes bones hard and brittle, so they splinter into sharp pieces. These can break teeth, cut the mouth and throat, get stuck in the gullet, and cause blockages or tears in the stomach and intestines. This applies to every cooked bone, including chicken, turkey, lamb, pork and beef, and to smoked bones too.
Raw bones
Raw bones are softer and more flexible than cooked ones, which is why raw feeders use them. They are not risk-free, though, so follow some simple rules:
- Choose a bone that suits your dog’s size and chewing style. It should be too big to swallow whole.
- Avoid very hard weight-bearing bones from large animals for strong chewers, as they can crack teeth.
- Always supervise, and take the bone away once it is small enough to swallow.
- Feed bones on an easy-to-clean surface and wash hands and surfaces afterwards.
- Introduce bones gradually. Too much bone can cause constipation.
- Puppies, dogs that gulp food and dogs with dental problems may need softer options. Ask us or your vet if you are unsure.
Handling raw food hygienically
Defrost raw food in a covered container in the fridge, keep it away from food for people, wash bowls and surfaces after meals, and wash your hands after handling. Throw away anything that has been left out too long.
When to contact your vet
- Your dog has eaten cooked bones and shows gagging, drooling, vomiting, a painful or bloated belly, constipation or blood in their poo.
- A bone is stuck in the mouth, around the lower jaw or in the throat.
- A tooth looks broken or your dog is reluctant to chew.
Not registered with a vet, or need one out of hours? See our local vets near Horley.
This guide is general information for UK dog owners and is not a substitute for advice from your vet. If you are worried about your dog, contact your vet straight away, or your nearest out-of-hours emergency vet.
