Can Puppies and Senior Dogs Chew Antlers? Here's What to Know

Can Puppies and Senior Dogs Chew Antlers? Here's What to Know


The short answer is, yes! Any dog can enjoy chewing, as it’s a natural and beneficial activity for dogs of all ages. For puppies, it helps ease teething discomfort and redirect chewing instincts away from shoes and furniture. For senior dogs, chewing helps support jaw strength, relieve boredom, and promote dental hygiene. But not all chews are created equal, and choosing the right one makes all the difference.


At Mountain Valley Antlers, we offer antlers for every stage of your dog’s life—including options perfect for gentle chewers. Here's how to choose the best chew and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience from day one.

 

Why Dogs Need to Chew

In the wild, chewing bones isn’t just about play—it’s a survival tool. From wolves to wild dogs, birds of prey to forest rodents, animals chew bones and antlers to access essential minerals and maintain strong jaws and teeth. Domestic dogs inherit these same instincts.

 

Chewing helps:

  • Relieve teething pressure in puppies
  • Keep older dogs mentally stimulated
  • Strengthen jaw muscles
  • Reduce anxiety and boredom
  • Promote healthier teeth and gums
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Why Antlers Are a Natural Fit

Antlers are technically bone, making them a direct match for a dog’s natural chewing needs. As antlers grow, they become rich in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, glucosamine, and protein—the same nutrients wild animals seek out.

 

Our antlers are:

  • 100% naturally shed from deer, elk, and moose
  • Grade A only, meaning fresher, denser, and more nutrient-rich
  • Never coated, boiled, or flavored
  • Hand-gathered from the wild in the Rocky Mountains

Just like with any chew, toy, or treat we give our dogs, supervision is always recommended. Antlers are harder than plush toys, so it’s important to ensure your dog’s dental health is up to the task.
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Best Antlers for Puppies & Seniors: Choose Split Moose or Split Elk

Split antlers are ideal for gentle chewers because they offer exposed marrow, which is easier to access and less dense than whole antlers.


Split Moose Antlers are the softest in texture, making them the top choice for:

  • Puppies just starting to chew
  • Seniors with sensitive gums or worn teeth
  • Dogs who prefer an easier chew experience

Split Elk Antlers are slightly denser than moose but still easier than whole antlers. They’re great for:

  • Young adult dogs easing into antlers
  • Moderate chewers
  • Any dog who enjoys gnawing on nutrient-rich marrow

Explore our Split Antlers Collection to find the best option for your dog.


Need help deciding? Check out our How to Choose the Right Antler guide and our Size Guide for tailored recommendations. 
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Tips for a Great First Experience
  • Start small: Limit chewing to 10–20 minutes at first to let your dog adjust.
  • Supervise: Keep an eye on your dog during chew time, especially in the beginning.
  • Choose the right size: The antler should be large enough that your dog can’t fit the entire chew in their mouth.
  • Inspect regularly: When the antler wears down too small or has sharp edges, it’s time to replace it.

Just like any chew, introducing antlers the right way sets your dog up for a lifetime of safe, enriching chewing.
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Why Mountain Valley Antlers?
  • Only Grade A antlers, naturally shed and hand-gathered from the wild
  • Split options specifically suited for young and aging dogs
  • Zero additives, coatings, or artificial treatments
  • Ethically sourced and environmentally conscious
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Start Your Dog Off Right

Whether your dog is learning the ropes or taking it easy in their golden years, chewing doesn’t have to stop. With Mountain Valley Antlers, you can feel confident giving your pup a chew that’s natural, nutrient-rich, and thoughtfully selected for their stage of life.