Are Pork Bones Safe For Dogs

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A nice cut of pork makes for a delicious meal. Whether you’re chowing down on pork chops or smoked ribs on the barbeque, you may find yourself with leftover pork bones at the end of your feast. As per usual when you’re nearing the end of a meal, your dog arrives on the scene. But does this mean your dog can eat them?

Before you know it, he gives you the most soulful puppy eyes while eyeing your leftovers and licking his lips. You don’t want all those bones to go to waste. Why not give them to the dog? They seem like a tasty treat for Fido, so why not go for it?

Actually, there are actually several reasons this isn’t a good idea! Similar to chicken bones and steak bones, pork bones are not recommended for dogs, especially if cooked. Keep reading to learn more about why you shouldn’t share these table scraps with your pup.

Why Aren’t Pork Bones Safe for Dogs? Pork bones, whether raw or cooked, are likely to splinter and crack when your dog chews on them. Your dog might attempt to swallow small pieces of the pork bone, which could lead to choking, intestinal blockages, or damage to the esophagus or intestines.

How To Choose Pork Bones For Dogs

Pork is safe for dogs, but here are a few things you need to know before you shop for pork bones for your dog. These are some reasons to feed your dog pork in moderation.

What Kinds of Bones Can Dogs Eat?

Pork bones, whether raw or cooked, are likely to splinter and crack when your dog chews on them. If your dog swallows bone pieces, it could choke or damage certain organs.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Fish Bones?

Fish bones are small, brittle, and dangerous. They can lodge themselves in your dog’s mouth, throat, stomach, and intestines. Do not feed them to your dog.

Do not let your dog eat poultry bones which can splinter. Bird bones are hollow and will shatter into sharp pieces that could easily pierce your pet’s throat.

We’ve seen from some discussions online that dogs can eat raw duck bones if you are careful about bones that could potentially splinter and cause harm.

FAQ

What kind of bones are safe for dogs?

Raw bones are considered safer than home-cooked because they don’t splinter as easily. Raw bones like chicken, turkey, lamb, beef, or even oxtail can be safer bone options for your pet. Unlike home-cooked bones which are drained of their nutrients, raw bones can be a natural source of calcium and phosphorus.

Why do they sell pork bones for dogs?

Cooked Bones

Always feed raw pork bones and never give your dog cooked pork bones. This includes smoked bones that are often sold in pet stores. Cooking causes bones to dry out, so they’re more likely to splinter and create sharp edges or dangerous bone fragments.

What if my dog ate a pork bone?

There is evidence that raw bones improve oral health, according to veterinarian Tom Lonsdale in his book “Work Wonders: Feed Your Dog Raw Meaty Bones.” Dogs that eat raw bones also tend to have chalkier, less smelly feces because the body uses more of the nutrients in bones than in packaged foods.