Elk antler chews are a natural, long-lasting treat that many dog owners swear by. However, when purchasing them for the first time, you may have encountered two varieties and gotten confused. Which one, between the whole and split antlers, is better for your dog?
The answer is based on the size of your dog, age, and how it chews. Let us simplify it, and you can make an informed decision.
First, know the difference.
- Split elk antlers: These are cut into pieces lengthwise, so that the soft, wholesome marrow is exposed. They give the dogs easier access and enjoyment.
- Whole elk antlers: These remain intact, and the marrow remains preserved inside the hard outer shell. They are more difficult to chew, and they last longer.
Elk antler dog chews are all produced using naturally shed antlers of the elk and have all the beneficial minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus. The distinction is how your dog can or wants to bite them.
Split antlers: Good for average, gentle chewers
Split elk antlers are perfect, in case your dog is:
- A puppy who is practicing to chew
- An old dog that has soft teeth
- A soft-chewer that enjoys gnawing but is not too intense.
These antlers are more rewarding instantly to chew on as the inner marrow is exposed. The delicious center is easily accessible to dogs. This means that split antlers are more appetizing to picky or low-drive chewers.
Advantages of split antlers
- Delicate and soft to bite into
- More taste immediately
- Less harmful to dogs who have weaker jaws or dental issues.
Split antlers will not last as long as whole ones since they are softer. And they are still tough, except that they are not as chew-proof as others are, at least not with the dogs that tear through their chews in a matter of minutes.
Whole antlers: Ideal in case of a strong chewer
Whole elk antlers are the preferred choice of:
- Labourous, hard chewers
- Medium and large-sized dogs whose jaws are strong
- Dogs that love a challenge and can spend hours chewing.
The marrow is inside, and therefore your dog will be required to struggle through its hard outer side to reach the marrow. This means whole antlers are more durable and best suited to meet strong chewing desires.
Benefits of whole antlers
- Very sturdy and tough
- Very favorable to the teeth because of the hard surface
- Helps in keeping the high-energy dogs busy.
Since whole elk antlers can be so hard, they might not suit small-breed dogs or ones with dental problems. Never leave your dog unattended with the chew, and discard it once it gets sharp or too small.
Which one is the right one?
Well, the right decision is simply to know your dog. Consider its age and size, and the way they are likely to chew. A split elk antler is a more rewarding experience and a gentler approach in case it is more relaxed or has dental sensitivities. A good, hard-core chewing dog will want a whole antler to satisfy its chewing habits.
Either way, both are natural, nourishing, and excellent tooth-cleaning treats, just as long as you find the kind that suits your dog's chewing style.
