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When it comes to satisfying your dog’s innate need to chew, finding a safe and effective solution can be challenging. Among the plethora of options available, natural horns for dogs have gained significant popularity in recent years. Whether sourced from buffalo, elk, or another animal, these durable, long-lasting chews are appealing for various reasons. They are not only excellent for promoting dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup but are also typically free of chemicals and preservatives. This article aims to shed light on the best horns for dogs, detailing their benefits, potential risks, and tips for selecting the perfect horn for your furry companion.
#2 – Icelandic+ Plus Small Lamb Horn with Marrow Dog Chew
The Icelandic+ Plus Small Lamb Horn with Marrow Dog Chew is a 100% edible dog chew made of keratin, offering a long-lasting chewing experience for dogs. The small fibers in the horn help to brush the dog’s teeth, reducing tarter and plaque build-up. These large Lamb Horns are air-dried as the Vikings did in 900 A.D., and come in a variety of natural colors suitable for small dogs weighing 1-29 lbs.
#3 – Water Buffalo Horn Dog Chew 4 Pack – Large 8″ – All Natural Free Range Grass Fed Single Source Protein – No Chemicals, Additives, Hormones – Long Lasting, Good for Aggressive Chewers – by Fang & Claw
The Water Buffalo Horn Dog Chew 4 Pack by Fang & Claw is a grain-free dog chew treat made from premium organic water buffalo horns. These horns are sourced from free-range, grass-fed water buffalos, ensuring a natural and healthy environment. The chews promote oral and dental health by scraping away plaque and tartar, and they are long-lasting, making them suitable for aggressive chewers. With no chemicals, additives, or hormones, Fang & Claw prioritizes the health and happiness of pets.
#4 – Whitetail Naturals – Lamb Horns for Dogs (2 Pack) Long Lasting Dog Chews – Grain Free Chew Bone – Natural Sheep Horn Treat – Tough Chew Toy for Medium Breeds and Teething Puppies.
Whitetail Naturals offers a 2-pack of lamb horns for dogs, providing a long-lasting chew bone that satisfies a dog’s chewing instincts and can help with behaviors like boredom and anxiety. These all-natural chews promote dental hygiene by strengthening teeth, gums, and jaw muscles while reducing tartar, plaque, and bad breath. They are a good source of minerals and are organic, grain-free, and free from additives, preservatives, chemicals, and gluten, making them a healthy option for dogs of all ages and breeds. Monitoring is recommended for pet safety.
#5 – Whitetail Naturals – Water Buffalo Horns for Dogs (3 Pack Medium) All-Natural Buffalo Horn Dog Chew – Long Lasting Chew Toy for Aggressive Chewers and Teething Puppies
WhiteTail Naturals offers a 3 pack of medium-sized water buffalo horns for dogs. These all-natural chews are sourced from free-range water buffalo and provide a tough chew bone that can help with behaviors like boredom and anxiety. They also promote good dental health by keeping teeth, gums, and jaw muscles strong and healthy. With no additives or preservatives, these chews are suitable for all breeds of dogs.
#6 – Wild Eats Water Buffalo Horn No Hide Dog Bones & Dog Chews (All Natural Single Source Protein, Grain Free Dog Treat, Long Lasting Dog Chews & Dog Bones for Aggressive Chewers (2 Pack, Medium-Horn)
The Wild Eats Water Buffalo Horn No Hide Dog Bones & Dog Chews are a healthy, grain-free option for dog treats. They are made from rawhide-free water buffalo horns, which are more digestible than rawhide and other dog bones. These all-natural treats promote positive chewing and can help improve dental health in dogs.
#7 – Icelandic+ Plus Large Lamb Horn Dog Chew
The Icelandic+ Plus Large Lamb Horn Dog Chew is a 100% edible dog chew made from keratin, not bone. It is long-lasting and provides hours of chewing enjoyment for dogs. The small fibers in the horn also help to brush the dog’s teeth, reducing tartar and plaque build-up. This product is specifically designed for large dogs weighing between 30-99 lbs and is air-dried in the same way the Vikings did in 900 A.D.
#8 – WhiteTail Naturals – Water Buffalo Horns for Dogs (2 Pack Large) All-Natural Buffalo Horn Dog Bone – Long Lasting Chew Toy for Aggressive Chewers and Teething Puppies
WhiteTail Naturals offers water buffalo horns for dogs, a natural and long-lasting chew toy. These horns are sourced from free-range water buffalo and provide a tough bone for dogs to chew on, satisfying their chewing instincts and helping with behaviors like boredom and anxiety. Additionally, the buffalo horns promote good dental health by strengthening teeth, gums, and jaw muscles, while minimizing tartar, plaque, and bad breath. They are also a good source of minerals and protein, making them a healthier option for larger dogs.
#9 – WhiteTail Naturals – Giant Water Buffalo Horn for Dogs (XXL Extra Large) Long Lasting Dog Horn Chew Toy for Aggressive Chewers
WhiteTail Naturals offers a Giant Water Buffalo Horn Chew Toy for dogs, specifically designed for aggressive chewers. Made from 100% free-ranging water buffalo, this chew toy provides a tough bone-like texture to satisfy your pet’s chewing instincts and can help with boredom and anxiety. The buffalo horn promotes good dental health by strengthening teeth, gums, and jaw muscles while reducing tartar, plaque, and bad breath. It is a natural, grain-free option that is high in protein and minerals, making it a healthy choice for your extra-large dog.
#10 – 4 Pack of Gobi Goat Horns Small Long Lasting 100% Natural Gobi Desert Goat Horn Dog Chews with Marrow
This product is a pack of four small, long-lasting goat horns that are made from 100% natural Gobi Desert goat horns with marrow. These chews are suitable for even heavy chewers and are free from additives, chemicals, and preservatives. They are sourced from free-range, grass-fed goats and do not cause any mess or staining, making them a natural and safe option for dog owners.
#11 – Lamb Horn (5 Count – Full Size) Lamb Horn Antler Dog Chews – Horn Bones for Dogs – Long Lasting Horn Dog Chews
The Lamb Horn Antler Dog Chews are a long-lasting and smoked-to-perfection chew option for medium to large-breed dogs. Made in Turkey, these chews are responsibly sourced from USDA Inspected and FDA-registered suppliers, ensuring high quality. They are free from artificial ingredients, preservatives, chemicals, rawhide, grain, soy, and corn, making them a healthy and natural option for dogs. Additionally, these chews promote dental health by stimulating the gums and teeth, helping to remove plaque and tartar. However, it is important to note that these chews should be larger than a dog’s mouth and should not be used on carpets to avoid stains. Overall, these Lamb Horn Dog Chews provide a satisfying and safe chewing experience for dogs.
What Are The Benefits of Horns for Dogs?
Horns offer several benefits for dogs, making them a popular choice among pet owners for a natural and durable chew option. Here are some of the notable benefits of horns for dogs:
- Dental Health: Chewing on horns helps to naturally clean a dog’s teeth. It can help reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar, promoting overall oral health. This may, in turn, help to freshen a dog’s breath.
- Long-lasting: Horns are incredibly durable. They last much longer than many other types of chews, providing dogs with hours of chewing entertainment. This is especially beneficial for aggressive chewers who quickly destroy other types of toys or chews.
- Mental Stimulation: Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs and providing them with something to chew on, like a horn, can help keep their mind stimulated. This is particularly useful for dogs that are prone to boredom or anxiety.
- Low in Fat: Unlike some other chew options, horns are very low in fat. This makes them an excellent option for dogs that are overweight or have specific dietary needs.
- High in Nutrients: Horns, especially those that retain some marrow or keratin, can be a source of beneficial nutrients for dogs, including protein and minerals.
- Hypoallergenic: For dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, finding a suitable chew can be challenging. Horns are often well-tolerated by dogs with sensitivities to more common protein sources.
- No Unpleasant Odor: Unlike some natural chew options, horns don’t tend to have a strong or unpleasant odor, which makes them more appealing to some pet owners.
- Eco-friendly: Horns are a by-product of other industries, so using them as dog chews can be seen as a form of recycling, which is more sustainable and environmentally friendly compared to synthetic options.
It is important, however, to introduce any new chew, including horns, gradually and under supervision, as they can pose choking risks or lead to digestive obstruction if large pieces are swallowed. Additionally, very hard chews, like horns, can potentially fracture a dog’s teeth, so it is essential to know your dog’s chewing habits and consult with your veterinarian before introducing a new type of chew.
Frequently Asked Questions About Horns for Dogs
- Are horns safe for dogs to chew on?
- Horns are generally considered safe for dogs to chew on, but like any chew toy, they come with risks. They are hard and durable, which makes them a long-lasting chew option, but they can also pose a risk of choking if a small piece breaks off and is swallowed. Additionally, the hard nature of horns can potentially fracture a dog’s teeth. It’s important to supervise your dog while they are chewing on a horn and consult with your vet if you have concerns.
- Can horns help improve my dog’s dental health?
- Yes, horns can help to naturally clean a dog’s teeth by scraping away plaque and tartar as the dog chews. This action can promote healthier gums and fresher breath. However, they are not a substitute for regular dental care, including toothbrushing and professional cleanings.
- Do horns have a strong odor?
- Unlike some natural chew options, horns usually have little to no odor. This makes them more appealing to some pet owners who are sensitive to the smells associated with other types of dog chews, such as bully sticks or rawhide.
- Are horns a good option for dogs with food allergies?
- Horns are typically well-tolerated by dogs with food sensitivities or allergies since they are a novel protein source and are not made from common allergens like beef, chicken, or grains. It’s always best to consult with your vet before introducing a new type of chew, especially for dogs with known allergies or sensitivities.
- How long do horns typically last as a chew for dogs?
- Horns are one of the most durable chew options available for dogs. They tend to last significantly longer than other chews, often for weeks or even months, making them a cost-effective option for pet owners and great for aggressive chewers.
- Can horns splinter and harm my dog?
- Unlike cooked bones, horns are less likely to splinter. However, they can break into sharp pieces if your dog is an aggressive chewer. Always supervise your dog when they are chewing on a horn and remove it if you notice it breaking into sharp or small pieces.
- What nutrients can horns provide for my dog?
- Horns that retain some marrow or keratin can be a source of beneficial nutrients, including protein and minerals. However, the nutrient content can vary between products, and horns should not be relied upon as a significant nutritional source for your dog.
- Are horns eco-friendly?
- Horns are often considered a more eco-friendly chew option because they are a by-product of other industries and can be seen as a form of recycling, which is more sustainable than synthetic options.
- How do I choose the right size horn for my dog?
- Choose a horn that is appropriately sized for your dog. It should be large enough that your dog cannot fit the entire chew in their mouth, which reduces the risk of choking. Consult the product’s packaging or your veterinarian for guidance on choosing the right size.
- Can horns cause digestive issues for dogs?
- While horns are generally safe and digestible for dogs, there is always a risk of gastrointestinal obstruction if a large piece is swallowed. It is essential to monitor your dog while they are chewing on a horn and consult your veterinarian if you notice any signs of digestive distress, such as vomiting or constipation.
Conclusion: Best Horns for Dogs
As we have explored, horns can be an excellent chewing option for your canine friend. They are natural, long-lasting, and offer dental health benefits that synthetic chews might not provide. However, it is crucial to choose horns that are appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing style to ensure safety. Always supervise your dog while they are enjoying a horn chew, and replace it when it becomes small enough to pose a choking risk. As with any new addition to your dog’s diet or lifestyle, it is best to consult your veterinarian before introducing a horn chew. Their expertise can guide you to make an informed decision that keeps your dog’s health and happiness at the forefront.
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