Short answer: Choose deer antler for a long-lasting chew and horn for a slightly softer chewing experience. Always pick a size your dog can't fit entirely in its mouth. Don't give it to puppies who are teething or to intense chewers with fragile teeth, and stay with your dog for as long as it's chewing.
What is the difference between antler and horn?
Deer antler is a bone-like material that a deer usually sheds and regrows every year. It is very hard and wears down slowly. Your dog mainly gnaws off small pieces and eats very little of it.
Horn is made of keratin, just like nails. Your dog can work through horn more easily, so it eats more of it. Buffalo horn is large and sturdy. Ram's horn is smaller and softer. Horn can develop sharp edges as it is chewed, so check it regularly.
Which antler or horn is right for my dog?
Look at two things: your dog's size and the way it chews. A gentle gnawer will enjoy antler for a long time. A dog that bites down hard and tries to crack things is often better off with horn or a softer chew from our range of chews for dogs. If you're torn between two sizes, go for the larger one.
| Product | Size | Hardness | Chewing time | Suitable for |
|---|
| Canis Hertengewei S (50-75 grams ) | small | very hard | long | small, gentle chewers |
| Canis Hertengewei M ( 76-150 grams ) | medium | very hard | long | small to medium-sized dogs |
| Canis Hertengewei L ( 151-225 grams ) | large | very hard | very long | medium-sized dogs |
| Canis Hertengewei XL ( 226-275 grams ) and XXL (276-350 grams ) | extra large | very hard | very long | large dogs |
| Canis Buffelhoorn (S, M, L) | small to large | hard | long | dogs that love a long gnaw |
| Canis Ramshoorns | smaller pieces | slightly softer | medium | variety, less intense chewers |
Is antler safe for dogs?
Antler doesn't splinter easily, but its hardness does carry a risk of broken teeth. This applies especially to dogs that bite down hard. A well-known rule of thumb: if you can't make a dent in the chew with your thumbnail, it's hard. That is always true of antler. So keep the following in mind:
- Only let your dog chew under supervision.
- Take the antler or horn away as soon as it is small enough for your dog to swallow.
- Do you notice a broken tooth or blood, or is your dog suddenly chewing on one side only? Stop and see your vet.
- Always make sure fresh water is available.
Puppies change their teeth roughly between 3-4 and 6-7 months of age. During that period, softer chews are a better choice. Read more in when can a puppy have chews. Looking for a hard alternative with a bit more give? Take a look at chew wood for dogs.
How much can your dog chew on antler or horn?
Your dog eats very little of an antler, so it's mainly about chewing time. Limited sessions are better for its teeth than hours of constant gnawing. Your dog does eat more of horn, so count it as a treat: all treats combined should make up no more than about 10 per cent of its daily energy intake. You can read how to work that out in how many treats can a dog have per day. Does your dog have a sensitive stomach? Introduce horn gradually and don't give other new treats at the same time.
How do you store antler and horn?
Store antler and horn in a dry, sealed container, out of the sun. Put a half-chewed piece back in a clean place after use. Wash your hands after giving it, especially if children come into contact with it.
Ingrid's tip: The first few times, give a new antler for just a few minutes and watch how your dog chews. If it gnaws calmly with its front teeth, you're on the right track. If it clamps down with its back teeth to crack it, you're better off choosing horn or a softer chew.
Frequently asked questions
Does antler or horn smell?
Antler has hardly any smell. Horn can have a slight natural odour, especially once it has become wet from chewing. Let it dry thoroughly after use.
When should I throw antler away?
Throw it away as soon as it is small enough for your dog to swallow. Do the same if it has sharp edges or loose splinters. Always take away that last little piece.
Is horn suitable for dogs with an allergy?
Buffalo horn and ram's horn each come from a single animal species. That makes it easier to keep track of what you're giving. Introduce it gradually and see your vet if any problems arise. You'll find more from the same species under buffalo.
Does antler replace brushing your dog's teeth?
No. Chewing can be a useful addition, but brushing and check-ups at the vet are still needed. Because of its hardness, antler isn't suitable for every set of teeth either.
Sources
About the author
Ingrid Kooijman is the founder of Canis Snacks. She selects natural single-protein dog treats, sells them online and at markets in Brabant, and answers dog owners' questions about food and chews every day. Questions about these treats? Email info@canissnacks.com.
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