Have you ever wondered why dogs like bones? When you’re thinking of a tasty treat and enrichment activity for your dog, one of the first things you might think of is a bone to chew on. It’s a dog behavior that seems strange to humans but is completely natural for dogs. When considering why dogs like to chew on bones, it's a behavior that is rooted in instinct, nutrition, and mental stimulation.
In this article, we take a look at why dogs are so drawn to bones and what you should know as a pet owner.
Dogs are natural chewers. It’s a basic behavioral instinct that is actually based on accessing healthy nutrients for dogs. In the wild, wolves gnaw on bones to access the nutritious marrow inside. When dogs chew, their brains release endorphins, which are “feel-good” hormones. So, chewing on bones for canines is not just healthy; it also helps them to feel happy and content. This explains why your dog may spend long periods gnawing on a favorite bone without any apparent reason!
Chewing is also a form of stress relief. Just like humans might fidget with a stress toy, dogs find comfort in chewing. If a dog is anxious or bored, a bone offers both physical activity and mental stimulation, helping them release pent-up energy and focus their minds. So bones for dogs offer a great enrichment activity.
When considering why dogs like bones, beyond instinct, bones also offer real benefits for dogs. Chewing bones provides a mental workout. Dogs need activities that challenge their minds, and gnawing on a bone satisfies this need. It keeps them occupied, prevents destructive behaviors caused by boredom, and even helps with problem-solving skills in some cases.
Bones aren’t just fun, they're also nutritious. Raw bones often have bits of meat and marrow, which are excellent sources of protein, fat, and other essential nutrients. This nutritional boost is another reason why dogs are naturally drawn to bones.
Physically, chewing strengthens a dog’s jaw muscles and keeps their teeth and gums healthier. The mechanical action of gnawing can help scrape away plaque buildup, and the gum massage feels good to the dog. In this sense, chewing a bone is like a natural dental routine without the fuss of trying to brush your dog’s teeth!
Chewing provides stress relief and mental stimulation, which can make a dog feel more relaxed and content. If you see your dog gnawing eagerly on a bone, it’s a good sign that they’re engaged and enjoying themselves.
Feeding bones to dogs can be safe, but only under the right conditions. You should avoid giving cooked bones, including those from the kitchen or store-bought, that can splinter easily. Sharp fragments may cause serious injuries to the mouth, throat, or digestive tract.
Choose raw, sturdy bones that are large enough to chew without breaking into small pieces. These are much safer for your dog, and meaty bones like beef or lamb knuckles are popular choices. Don’t offer frozen bones as they can be too hard, risking broken teeth or gum injuries.
Always supervise your dog with a bone, as even safe bones can become a choking hazard if broken into small pieces. By following these precautions, bones can be a healthy, enriching part of your dog’s routine.
If you decide to offer your dog a bone, then choose large raw bones as they are safest. Avoid small, cooked, or brittle bones. Monitor chewing sessions and don't leave your dog unsupervised. Remove the bone if it splinters or when it becomes small enough to swallow whole. To keep your dog interested, rotate different types of raw bones, but always stick to safe approved options.
Also, keep the bone clean. If your dog chews outside, make sure bones are fresh and free from harmful bacteria or chemicals. When used properly, bones are not just a treat, they’re a form of enrichment, exercise, and a natural snack all in one.
Dogs sometimes growl or act possessively over their bones. This behavior is usually linked to instinct as they’re guarding a valuable resource. Some dogs learn that food and bones are precious, and if they have experienced scarcity or stress may be more possessive, for example a rescue dog. So it’s important that you see the bone as part of your obedience training. Train your dog not to guard the bone and teach them to share or release the bone on command, as this will ensure you can remove the bone if it becomes too small or unsafe.
Find a suitable place for your dog to chew their bones. Sometimes, dogs bury bones in the backyard. You might have wondered why they do it. In the wild, wolves hide extra food to protect it from other animals and ensure they have a reserve for later. Interestingly, dogs often prefer the taste of a bone that’s been buried. Soil can slightly ferment or add minerals to the bone, enhancing its flavor. While this is perfectly natural, veterinarians generally advise against letting your dog eat bones that have been buried outdoors due to the risk of bacteria or parasites.
So, why do dogs like bones? It’s a combination of instinct, mental stimulation, nutrition, teeth care, physical activity, and pure enjoyment. Chewing satisfies natural urges, strengthens the jaw, cleans teeth, and even provides stress relief! While it’s important to be cautious about the type of bones you offer, incorporating raw bones into your dog’s routine can enrich their life and support their health.
Understanding your dog’s love for bones can help you provide safe, enjoyable options that meet both their instinctual needs and their modern lifestyle. The next time you offer your beloved pooch a bone, remember it’s not just play, it’s instinct, exercise, and nutrition all rolled into one to provide an enriching experience!
30 December, 2022