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12 Best Dog Bones

A pet lover passionate about educating readers about animal health and care. Love reading studies and recent research.
Published on
Friday 22 July 2022
Last updated on
Tuesday 9 May 2023
12 Best Dog Bones - Natural, Synthetic, ...
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If you have a dog, you know how important it is to keep them entertained and occupied. A great way to do this is by giving them bones to chew. But since not all bones will do, you want to ensure that you give your dog the best possible option. 

In this article, we will discuss the 12 best bones for dogs – both natural and synthetic. We’ll also go over bones that are safe for dogs to chew, their benefits, and factors to consider while choosing a dog bone.

12 Best Chew Bones for Dog

There are a lot of different dog bones on the market, so it can be hard to decide which one is right for your pup. Here is a list of the best dog bones and healthiest dog chews, based on customer reviews:

Product NameDescriptionRating
Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew Toy for Aggressive Chewers100% real bacon made in the USA. Designed for more aggressive chewing dogs. Recommended for small dog breeds. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Benebone Puppy Maplestick Dog Chew ToyReal maple wood flavor made in the USA. Recommended for small dog breeds. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tough Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers Made with Hard NylonApplicable for all breed types and sizes. Designed for aggressive chewers. Available in different flavors. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pet Parents Gnawlers Premium Split Elk Antlers for DogsAll-natural products. Applicable for all dog sizes. Only premium and grade A raw antlers were used. This is also cruelty-free. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
KONG Durable Rubber Dog Bone for Power ChewersVery durable dog bone for power chewers. Applicable for medium-sized dogs. Great for stuffing and mental stimulation. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Devil Dog PetCo Premium Elk Antlers for DogsMade for aggressive chewers.  Non-stinky and long-lasting chewing. Applicable for all breed sizes. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
K9 Connoisseur Natural Marrow Filled Dynamo Bone Chew TreatsMade in the USA Natural Marrow-Filled Dynamo. Applicable for small up to medium-sized dogs.  It only has one ingredient and is purely natural. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Purina Busy Small Breed Dog Bones100% rawhide free. Made for a long-lasting chewing experience. Recommended for small-size dogs. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pet’n Shape Beef Bone Dog TreatsOnly one ingredient. All-natural and no artificial flavors or ingredients added. 100% made in the USA and is recommended for all breed sizes. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nylabone All-Natural Long-Lasting Bacon Flavor Chew TreatsAll ingredients are natural and easily digestible. Recommended for smaller dogs. Available in different flavors.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Fido Belly Bones for Dogs Yogurt Flavor Dental Chews Each pack contains 100 mini bones. All ingredients are natural and packed with nutrients and vitamins. Applicable for small to medium dog sizes. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Blue Buffalo Large Natural Dental Chew Dog TreatsFree from any preservatives or artificial additives. Recommended for large dog breeds. Proven to help in maintaining good dog oral health. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

1. Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew Toy for Aggressive Chewers 

The Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew Toy is full of flavor and paw-friendly. In addition, your dog will probably have zero frustrations with trying to pick the bone up. And as the name states, it is made for aggressive chewers because this product can last longer compared to other dog bones. But, the manufacturer still advises pet owners to replace the bone once over-chewed. Moreover, this dog bone is available in bacon, chicken, and peanut flavors. 

However, since this product is processed to be tougher, dogs might be more prone to teeth injuries or damage. With that, ensure to supervise your dogs to prevent any accident from happening. 

Pros

  • Suitable for aggressive chewing dogs.
  • Have a wide variety of flavors to choose from. 
  • Long-lasting 

Cons

  • Might not be applicable for large dog breeds.
  • Dogs might be more prone to teeth injuries 

2. Benebone Puppy Maplestick Dog Chew Toy

The Benebone Puppy Maplestick Dog Chew Toy is known for its real wood flavor. Moreover, because of its shape, dogs can easily pick it up and start chewing. This feature is very helpful, especially for puppies.  Lastly, chewing on this product can help your dog relax and stay entertained. 

The only downside of this product is that it can have some sharp edges after continuous chewing. 

Pros

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Have multiple flavors you can choose from 
  • High-quality ingredients 

Cons

  • Not recommended for all dog sizes 
  • There might be sharp edges after chewing

3. Tough Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers Made with Hard Nylon

The Tough Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers withstand all forms of chewing and playing. In addition,  this dog bone is also applicable to all breed sizes and comes in many flavors. 

But, pet owners should be wary of its sturdiness. Even though this is designed for aggressive chewers, teeth damage may still occur. Therefore, you should only let your pet chew on it for around five minutes. 

Pros

  • Extremely durable 
  • Helps in maintaining healthy oral hygiene 
  • Applicable for all breed sizes

Cons

  • Dogs might be more prone to teeth injuries 
  • Can be too hard to chew for some dogs

4. Pet Parents Gnawtlers Premium Split Elk Antlers for Dogs

The Pet Parents Gnawtlers Premium Split Elk Antlers for Dogs help maintain good oral health by removing plaque buildup. Before being picked, the antler dog chews go through a very thorough selection procedure to ensure that their weight and density are appropriate. As a result, you may purchase them with the knowledge that they are high-quality and secure. 

Despite the product description, this dog bone might not be very suitable for aggressive chewers. There are multiple concerns from pet owners saying that this product easily breaks and splinters. 

Pros

  • All ingredients are natural
  • Available in many sizes
  • Good for teething puppies 

Cons

  • Not that long-lasting 
  • Might not be suitable for aggressive chewers 

5. KONG Durable Rubber Dog Bone for Power Chewers

The KONG Durable Rubber Dog Bone for Power Chewers is designed to be sturdy and durable for powerful chewing canines and is made from a natural black rubber compound. This KONG bone can be ideal for your dog if they like to gnaw on everything they see because it provides them something challenging to do so. This also promotes cerebral stimulation and cooperative play.

However, even though this is made for power chewing, there are reports of this product easily breaking while being chewed. 

Pros

  • Good for mental stimulation
  • Sturdy and durable 

Cons

  • Might not be as durable as other Kong toys 

6. Devil Dog Pet Co Premium Elk Antlers for Dogs

As opposed to rawhide bones and other natural dog bones, this  Devil Dog Pet Co Premium Elk Antlers for Dogs are organic, non-synthetic, all-natural, clean, and odorless. With their durability and excellent quality, these elk antlers are ideal for chewers that are particularly aggressive. They don’t splinter, ensuring that your dog won’t suffer any injury. As your dog chews on them, they also aid in tartar removal from the teeth.

On the downside, since this is made for aggressive chewers, its hard material might cause teeth injuries or damage. With that, full supervision is needed. 

Pros

  • All ingredients are natural 
  • Healthy ingredients 
  • Non-stinky and long-lasting 

Cons

  • Might be too hard to chew 
  • Beware of teeth injuries or damages 

7. K9 Connoisseur Natural Marrow Filled Dynamo Bone Chew Treats

The only ingredient of the K9 Connoisseur Natural Marrow Filled Dynamo Bone Chew Treats is American free-range, grass-fed beef. These bones are prepared under human-grade food standards to guarantee your dog only receives the best. These bones are loaded with nutrients, including marrow, and have been hickory smoked to preserve the flavor of the meat pieces that dangle off the bone. 

However, some pet owners reviewed that their dogs easily lose interest in this product after a couple of minutes. Nevertheless, several also stated how their dogs enjoyed the product very much. 

Pros

  • Only one ingredient 
  • No artificial flavorings 
  • Low-calorie 

Cons

  • Dogs might easily lose interest 

8. Purina Busy Small Breed Dog Bones

Small dogs will enjoy chewing on this Purina Busy Bone dog bone, which is made specifically for them. These chews include a pork-filled middle and are entirely free of rawhide. They also help in maintaining your dog’s clean teeth. Moreover, all ingredients used in this product are natural – no artificials and additives. 

On the other hand, there are multiple buyer reviews that say this product doesn’t last long. Thus, they might not be recommended for aggressive chewers. 

Pros

  • Rawhide-free
  • Made from real pork
  • Helps keep your dog’s teeth clean 
  • All ingredients are natural 

Cons

  • Not recommended for aggressive chewers

9. Pet ‘n Shape Beef Bone Dog Treats

Pet ‘n Shape Bones and Chewz are proudly made in the USA with optimal quality and flavor. This product has no artificial additives, colors, or preservatives. In addition, this dog treat is designed for large dog breeds. 

However, eating these dog treats can be messy because of the meat and grease present in the bone. With that, ensure that your dog will not consume it in places where it is hard to clean. Lastly, there are also reports stating that this product sometimes arrived broken; thus, it might also splinter easily while your dog is chewing it. 

Pros

  • Low-calorie 
  • All ingredients are natural 
  • Have meats on the bones 

Cons

  • Some bone parts can be easily splintered 
  • Can be messy 

10. Nylabone All-Natural Long-Lasting Bacon Flavor Chew Treats

This Nylabone product  is available in many flavors. They are also highly digestible.  Moreover, this dog treat does not have any preservatives or additives added to its ingredients. This means all ingredients used were natural. 

Meanwhile, some pet owners reported that this chew treat might be difficult to chew for dogs with weak teeth. In addition, this product also dissolves fast – so, it is not recommended for dogs who chew more aggressively. 

Pros

  • Highly digestible 
  • Comes in many sizes 
  • Have a wide variety of flavors
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Not long-lasting
  • Can be hard to chew

11. Fido Belly Bones for Dogs Yogurt Flavor Dental Chews 

For dogs weighing 4 to 18 lbs, Fido Belly dog bones are little dog treats for dental cleaning. Each package of 100 treats has a special v-groove shape that rubs your dog’s gums and cleans his teeth as he eats them. They are produced in the USA using purely natural ingredients. 

This product might be too soft or too hard for your dog – depending on your dog’s chewing behavior. Aside from that, this product, with a near five-star rating on Amazon is 100% recommended to be your dog’s next treat. 

Pros

  • Healthy ingredients 
  • Helps in a healthier digestive system 
  • Appealing flavors 

Cons

  • Can be either too soft or hard to chew 

12. Blue Buffalo Large Natural Dental Chew Dog Treats

The Blue Buffalo Large Natural Dental Chew Dog Treats are dental chews that keep teeth and gums healthy while also helping to clean teeth and refresh breath. This big pack has 24 bones and is designed for large dogs over 50 pounds. Giving your dog one bone every day is suggested to help maintain oral health. Additionally, they don’t include synthetic preservatives or colors like red dye 40.

On the other hand, even though this is proven to be good for your dogs, check with your veterinarian first to guarantee that your dog is not allergic to any of the ingredients listed in the product – more importantly, if your dog has a history of digestive problems. 

Pros

  • Good for your dog’s oral health
  • All-natural (no preservatives and additives) 
  • Have a high ingredient quality 
  • Applicable for all dog sizes 

Cons

  • Your dog might not like the new formula compared to the older one 

Types of Chew Bones for Dogs     

When it comes to giving your dog bones, it is vital to choose the right type of bone for your dog. Many different types of bones are available, but not all are safe for dogs to eat. Here are five different types of bones that you can give to your dog:

Chew Toys

Chew toys are a great way to keep your dog entertained and occupied. They help relieve boredom and can even help redirect destructive chewing behavior. Chew toys also encourage positive chewing habits and can help keep your pet’s teeth clean and healthy. 

However, ensure to supervise them when they are chewing to prevent any choking or swallowing hazards.

Dental Dog Bones

Dental dog bones are chew toys that can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy. They are made from durable materials that can withstand even the most enthusiastic chewers, and they come in different sizes and shapes to suit all types of dogs. 

These bones typically have nubs or ridges that help to massage the gums and remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth. Many owners find that their dogs enjoy chewing on these bones. They can also be a great way to keep them entertained and occupied.

Healthy Chews

If your dog is not eating their usual food adequately and you are concerned that they are not receiving a suitable diet, you should think about giving them a healthy chew. 

Healthy chews are a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals. It also serves as a delicious and nutritious snack. There are many different types of healthy chews available on the market, so be sure to choose one that best suits your needs.

Some of the benefits of healthy chews include:

  • Improved oral health
  • Increased intake of vitamins and minerals
  • Stimulated saliva production
  • Delicious and nutritious snack option

Natural Bones

Natural dog bones are for those who want to give their dogs a healthy treat that will not add any calories or fat to their diet. These bones are safe for dogs to chew on and can help keep their teeth clean and healthy. 

Marrow bones, for example, are packed with nutrients that can help keep your dog’s coat healthy and shiny. Knuckle bones are great for dogs who like to chew, and femur bones can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.

However, it is vital to remember that all bones, including natural dog bones, can splinter and cause choking or other serious injuries, so supervise your dog while chewing on any bone.

Raw Bones

Raw bones are an excellent choice for dogs for several reasons. They have nutrients essential for your pet’s health, including calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind when feeding your dog raw bones. With that, always keep an eye on them while chewing on a bone. 

You should also choose bones that are the right size for your dog – not too big or too small. And finally, make sure to dispose of bones properly when your dog is done with them.

Rawhide Dog Bones

Rawhide dog bones are given to dogs to keep them occupied and help clean their teeth. While there are some benefits to giving your dog rawhide, there are also some potential risks. It’s necessary to be aware of both before giving your dog rawhide bones.

The major risk associated with rawhide bones is choking. If your dog bites off large chunks of rawhide, it could choke on it. Always supervise your dog while chewing on rawhide, and ensure they are not swallowing large pieces.

Synthetic Dog Bones 

There are both benefits and risks associated with synthetic bones for dogs. One of the main benefits is that they can provide a more comfortable and durable option for dogs who suffer from joint problems or other bone issues. Additionally, synthetic bones can be easier to clean than natural bones and may also be less likely to splinter. 

However, there are also some risks associated with synthetic bones, including the potential for choking or gastrointestinal blockages. Speak with your veterinarian before giving your dog any bone to ensure the right option for your pet.

Benefits of Dog Bones

There are many benefits that come along with giving your dog bones. Now, to have a deeper understanding of the benefits of dog bones, here are their advantages when it comes to your pet’s chewing, dental health, nutrients, jaw strength, and stimulation: 

Chewing

Chewing can help your dog keep their teeth healthy and strong. Additionally, chewing on bones can also help to relieve stress and boredom in dogs. Moreover, chewing can also serve as an exercise for dogs who lack physical activity. 

Moreover, giving your dogs chew bones will prevent them from chewing other things such as furniture, clothes, and more. This aspect is important since, based on this study about chewing behavior among dogs, young dogs or puppies tend to chew on household materials and soft objects. 

Dental Health

According to this article about dog bones, the pet’s teeth are naturally “brushed” and “flossed” as a result of the chewing, crunching, and tearing motions, which also massage the gums. Additionally, according to Ruparell et al. (2020), giving your dogs an oral care chew can reduce bacterial species that can cause periodontal disease in dogs.

Nutrients

The best dog bones are also a good source of nutrition for your dog. The most abundant nutrients found in dog bone are calcium and phosphorus. In addition, it also contains protein, fatty acids like Omega 6, vitamins A, D, and E, and iron from the marrow. The latter is important when it comes to producing blood. 

Jaw Strength

There are a few key benefits that dog bones can have on your dog’s jaw strength. By regularly chewing on bones, dogs can strengthen the muscles in their jaw. This is important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, as well as preventing problems such as TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder). 

Stimulation

Giving your dog a bone is a wonderful method to keep them entertained. Bones for dogs can be a great way to keep them stimulated. Stimulation is important for dogs because it helps to keep them from becoming bored and destructive. In addition, this improves their mental health by providing them with an outlet for their energy and by stimulating their minds.

Natural vs. Synthetic Dog Bones: Which Is Better?

There are two main types of dog bones: natural and synthetic. Natural dog bones are typically either raw or smoked, while synthetic dog bones are usually made from rubber or plastic. So, which type of bone is better for your dog?

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each type of dog bone to help you decide which is better: 

Natural Dog Bones

There are a few different types of natural dog bones that you can purchase for your pup. marrow bones, knuckle bones, and femur bones are all popular choices. Each type of bone offers your pet a unique set of benefits. 

Pros: 

  • Natural dog bones are packed with essential nutrients for your dog’s health. 
  • Chewing on natural bones can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.
  • Natural bones can provide your dog with mental stimulation and can help relieve boredom.

Cons: 

  • Natural bones can splinter and break, which can be dangerous for your dog. 
  • Raw bones can be contaminated with bacteria that can make your dog sick. 
  • Natural bones can be expensive.

Synthetic Dog Bones

Synthetic dog bones do not have actual meat and are usually made of nylon or rubber. This type of bone is most suitable for heavy chewing dogs. Here are its pros and cons: 

Pros: 

  • Synthetic bones are safe for dogs to chew on and are not as likely to break or splinter as natural bones. 
  • Synthetic bones are usually less expensive than natural bones. 
  • Synthetic bones can be flavored, making them more appealing to some dogs.

Cons: 

  • Some dogs may not be interested in chewing on synthetic bones. 
  • Synthetic bones can be made from materials that are not safe for dogs to ingest
  • Synthetic bones can be a choking hazard for dogs if they are small enough to swallow whole.

Both natural and synthetic dog bones have their pros and cons. You must decide what type of bone is best for your dog based on your circumstances. 

If you give your dog a bone, supervise them and make sure they don’t swallow any large pieces. And, as always, if you have any concerns about your dog’s health, be sure to consult with your veterinarian.

Buying Guide for The Best Dog Bones in The Market

There are a lot of factors that you need to consider when buying the best dog bones for your pet. These factors are essential to ensure your dog’s safety and to maximize the benefits of chewing dog bones. With that, here are the things you need to take in mind: 

Dog Size

Dog size is one important factor to consider when purchasing bones. Small dogs will not be able to handle large bones and vice versa. If the bone is too big, it might pose a choking hazard. It is best to purchase bones appropriate for your pet’s size

Durability

The durability of the bone is another factor to consider. You do not want to purchase a bone that will splinter and break easily. This can pose a serious health hazard for your dog. Look for bones made from durable materials such as nylon or rubber. Additionally, avoid cooked bones since they easily break compared to other bones. 

Flavor 

Many dogs are picky eaters and only chew on bones with a certain flavor. Beef-flavored bones are typically the most popular, but other flavors are also available. Choose a flavor that you know your dog will enjoy. Moreover, artificial flavors might not be safe for your dog; thus, it is best to stick with natural flavors. 

Ingredients

When purchasing bones, you should pay attention to the ingredients. You want to guarantee that the bones do not contain harmful chemicals or preservatives. Only purchase bones made from clinically approved ingredients.

Furthermore, if you are buying a dog bone or treat for your pet’s oral health, you can also look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal. The seal means that the product is proven to be beneficial for your dog’s oral health. 

Nutrition

Bones are a great source of nutrients for dogs. They contain calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals essential for your dog’s health. Make sure to choose bones that are rich in these nutrients.

Chewing Bones for Dogs: FAQ

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the best chew bones for dogs: 

Are dog bones safe?

Dog bones are safe, but you should always depend on the dog bone on your pet’s specific demands and needs. As mentioned previously, consider the factors such as your dog’s size and weight. Also, take note of the bone’s ingredients, durability, and flavor. 

Are milk bones good for dogs?

Minerals, animal products, and milk are used to make the bone-shaped dog biscuits known as Milk-Bones. Even though these bones are good because of their taste, health benefits, and ease of digestion for dogs, it is not a well-rounded diet for your pet. And an unbalanced diet might lead to obesity. 

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (2018), 56% of dogs in the United States are overweight. 

In addition, some of its ingredients may pose a threat to your dog. For example, one of the first ingredients in Milk-Bones is milk. Dogs are not able to fully digest lactose, which is a natural sugar found in milk. Another ingredient, salt, is also harmful to dogs if consumed in large quantities. Too much salt can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and vomiting. 

With this, try to give them Milk-Bones in moderation as part of a healthy diet, including fresh food and other snacks.

How often should I give my dog a bone?

The frequency of giving your dog a bone depends on the bone type and your dog’s chewing habits. For example, you can give raw bones more often than cooked bones. Ultimately, it is up to you to determine how often to give your dog a bone, but once or twice per week is a good starting point – this is according to the article by Dog Parenting 101. 

Can my dog eat bones?

In general, dogs can eat bones. However, as mentioned, you need to give them the appropriate one. – depending on their size, preference, and other health factors like allergies. 

In addition, certain dogs are not advisable to have bones. These dogs are the following: 
Puppies: According to Safe Bones Co, puppies’ teeth and gums are still developing; thus, they are more susceptible to injury from chewing hard bones. With that, you should wait until their 12th to 16th week before introducing them to dog bones. 
Dogs with dental problems: If your dog has dental concerns, they may be more likely to experience discomfort from chewing bones.
Dogs with gastrointestinal problems: If your dog has any gastrointestinal problem, such as inflammatory bowel disease, he may be more likely to experience issues from bone chewing. 
If you’re unsure whether or not your dog should have bones, it’s best to consult your veterinarian.

How to clean a dog bone?

Once your dog is done chewing on the bone, it’s necessary to clean it properly. This practice will help to prevent the spread of bacteria and keep your dog’s environment clean.

Here are some tips for cleaning a dog bone:
Soak the bone in warm water for a few minutes to loosen any debris.
Use a brush to scrub the bone clean. Be sure to get rid of any food particles or residue.
Rinse the bone thoroughly with clean water.
Let the bone air dry before giving it back to your dog.

Are synthetic bones good for dogs?

Synthetic bones are a great option for dogs who cannot have real bones. These bones are typically made from rubber or plastic and can be just as durable as real bones. Synthetic bones are also advisable for dogs who chew through real bones quickly.

When choosing a synthetic bone for your dog, select one that is the appropriate size and made from a durable material. You should also avoid bones that have small parts that could come off and become a choking hazard.

What is the safest chew bone for dogs?

The safest chew bones for dogs are made from a single piece of material. This could be a synthetic or a natural bone that has been carefully selected. Avoid bones that have small parts that could come off and become a choking hazard. 

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