Antler Guide - Chewy Pawz
How to Choose the Right Antler Chew for Your Dog
Natural antler chews are long-lasting, single-ingredient enrichment—but not all antlers are the same. Use this guide to match species, cut, and size to your dog’s weight and chew style for maximum safety and satisfaction.
Jump to: Moose vs Elk vs Deer • Split vs Whole • Sizing Guide • How to Pick • Safety • Shop by Type • FAQs
🫎 Moose vs 🦌 Elk vs 🦌 Deer — What’s the Difference?
| Type | Density | Marrow | Best For | Chew Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moose | Medium → Very Hard | Very desirable marrow | Light → Power Chewers | Moderate → Very Long | Paddle = softer on entry; Tines/Base = extra tough for power chewers. |
| Elk | Medium | Balanced | Light → Moderate | Long | Great “starter” antler—accessible marrow, good all-around choice. |
| Deer | Hard | Minimal marrow | Strong/Power Chewers | Very Long | Toughest exterior; ideal for experienced heavy chewers. |
🪓 Split vs Whole Antlers
| Cut | Description | Best For | Why Choose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Split | Cut lengthwise to expose marrow | Puppies, seniors, light chewers, picky dogs | Easier access; more immediate engagement |
| Whole | Intact antler | Moderate to heavy chewers | Longest lasting; greater challenge |
| Base / Tine | Dense sections of the antler | Power chewers | Maximum durability for strong jaws |
📏 Sizing Guide — Match the Chew to the Dog
| Dog Weight | Recommended Size | Ideal Cuts | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 25 lb | Small | Split Paddle / Split Elk | Puppies, small breeds |
| 25–45 lb | Medium | Whole Paddle / Elk Split | Most mid-size breeds |
| 45–75 lb | Large | Tine / Base / Whole Elk | Working/active chewers |
| 75+ lb | XL / XXL | Moose Base / Whole Deer | Power chewers & giant breeds |
Rule of thumb: The chew should be large enough that your dog cannot fit the entire piece in their mouth.
🐾 How to Pick the Right Antler
- New to antlers? Start with Elk Split or Moose Paddle.
- Gentle chewer? Choose Split over Whole.
- Power chewer? Pick Moose Tine/Base or Whole Deer, and size up.
- Picky eater? Try Moose first—many dogs love its aroma.
- Heavy jaw? When in doubt, go bigger.
🧼 Safety & Replacement Tips
- Always supervise and choose an appropriate size.
- Replace when the antler becomes small enough to pose a choking risk or develops sharp edges.
- Antlers can last weeks to months depending on chew style.
- Do not boil or bake antlers (can make them brittle).
🛍️ Shop by Chew Type
🪙 Why Chewy Pawz Antlers
- Found, not farmed — ethically sourced shed antlers from the American West.
- Single-ingredient, no additives; packed and shipped in the USA.
- Trusted by power chewers; weekly restocks keep sizes fresh.
❓ FAQs
Are antlers safe for my dog?
Yes—when chosen and sized correctly. Always supervise and replace when the piece becomes small or sharp.
Are split or whole antlers better?
Split antlers are great for puppies, seniors, or picky dogs; whole antlers last longer and suit stronger chewers.
Which antler lasts the longest?
Deer and Moose Tine/Base are the toughest, longest-lasting options for experienced chewers.
How do I know what size to buy?
Use the weight chart above and size up if your dog has a heavy jaw. The chew should not fit fully in your dog’s mouth.
How often should I replace an antler?
Replace when it’s too small to hold safely or shows sharp edges. Duration varies by chew style—weeks to months.
