Veterinarians Warn: Hard Bones and Chews Pose Serious Fracture Risk to Dogs

The Hidden Danger in Your Dog's Favorite Chew: How Hard Bones Can Fracture Teeth

For years, I regularly gave bones to my Australian cattle dog mix, Ollie, who is eight years old. From bully sticks and elk antlers to marrowbones, if it was available at the local pet shop, I likely purchased it. This routine changed dramatically in 2021 when I selected a rodent-shaped dental chew, marketed as a toothbrush alternative for pets. Ollie enthusiastically crunched, gnawed, and chomped on the treat for several days, seemingly enjoying it. However, shortly after finishing it, he refused his kibble, ignored treats, and transformed from an energetic herding dog into a lethargic, melancholy companion.

I attempted various solutions, including pricier, more aromatic treats and kibble enhancers, but nothing revived his appetite. Initially, I attributed his behavior to normal aging. Eventually, a veterinary visit revealed the true cause: Ollie had severely fractured a molar on that chew, with the injury likely causing such discomfort that it hindered his eating.

A Common Yet Painful Canine Injury

My veterinarian informed me that my experience was not unusual. Dental fractures in dogs are among the more frequent reasons for veterinary visits and can be intensely painful, depending on severity. Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, a veterinary medical adviser for Rover and chief veterinarian at Kleinburg Veterinary Hospital, explained, "Think of a toothache in a person and you’ll start to relate to the discomfort pets can experience." Her straightforward advice: "Skip the bones!"

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Dr. Maria Soltero-Rivera, an assistant professor of dentistry and oral surgery at the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, noted that studies show dogs' jaws possess remarkable chewing force. If a bone or chew toy does not yield under that pressure, teeth can snap. Greenstein described it as simple physics: "When a bone is harder than a tooth is strong, a tooth is bound to break or get damaged in the process of gnawing and chewing."

The Prevalence and Impact of Dental Fractures

Soltero-Rivera estimates that tooth fractures affect approximately one-quarter of the dogs in her practice, often impacting the most functionally important teeth, such as back molars or fangs. Greenstein highlighted that oral injuries frequently go unnoticed by owners until discovered during routine checkups. "We will often find them incidentally, but they can cause pets a lot of grief, depending on the severity of the fracture and whether there’s pulp exposure or nerve irritation," she said.

Fractures can expose blood vessels or nerves, leading to discomfort or severe pain. Even smaller bones may splinter, with shards potentially lacerating the mouth or digestive tract. Symptoms include pawing at the face, rubbing against furniture, decreased appetite, reduced interest in play, and a preference for softer foods and toys. Dogs might also chew only on the unaffected side of their mouth. If infection develops, it can cause foul breath, oral swelling, or general illness signs, necessitating X-rays, tooth extraction, or even lifesaving surgery in serious cases.

Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies

Larger dogs, often "power chewers," are more susceptible to fractures, compounded by owners giving them tough bones for entertainment. Dogs with existing dental disease are also at higher risk due to weakened teeth. To prevent fractures, avoid giving pets extremely hard bones. While tooth-brushing or dental chews cannot prevent fractures, regular brushing may help detect oral changes early, ideally before they cause discomfort, according to Soltero-Rivera.

How to Identify Safe Dog Bones and Chews

There are no official guidelines or regulations for bones and chews, which Soltero-Rivera called "unfortunate because owners can be deceived into thinking a product may be good for dental health when in reality it can easily fracture a tooth." Finding a product that is easily digestible and not too harsh on the jaw is challenging, with Greenstein noting that no perfect bone likely exists. She recommends monitoring your dog's chewing habits; if your pet has a strong jaw and chews through everything, almost no chew is safe.

When uncertain, look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal on packaging, indicating the chew has been proven to remove plaque or tartar without relying on unfounded marketing claims. Veterinarians offer two practical tips to quickly eliminate overly hard bones:

1. Nail Indent Test: Press your nail into the bone; if it leaves an indent, it is soft enough for your dog. If not, skip it. Soltero-Rivera notes that rawhides are an exception as they soften with saliva, but they also pose risks and should be removed once small enough to cause choking.
2. Knee Test: If you would not hit your knee with it, do not give it to your dog.

Always seek veterinary advice, as many vets recommend specific brands. "They will be able to help you," Soltero-Rivera emphasized. If you suspect any oral issues, schedule an appointment promptly. While tooth fractures are not always obvious, early diagnosis and treatment can quickly restore your dog to its playful, kibble-loving self.