antlers v. bully sticks

CULauren

My dog's are both big chewers. They can devour a bully stick pretty quickly and make me wonder why I buy them for them? They don't show very much interest in antlers, which I feel like are the perfect chewing treat for them. Does anyone have any advice on either a) how to slow them down with the bully sticks or b) how to make the antlers more appealing? Thanks!

LinZem

My experience has been that antlers come in different densities and may be more appealing if you find one that is a lower density and easier for them to chew.   My dogs can go through a really low density antler in a day,  but completely ignore harder ones. There is a perfect middle ground where they love them and they last. I have also found I suck at picking out antlers and the dogs usually have a favorite that everyone in the house wants. I bring the pups to the store to have them pick out their own favorite.

Mryan209

My dog prefers antlers that are sliced lengthwise so that the center is exposed.  They seem to be a little harder to find, but if you can keep an eye out, those might be worth a shot.

CULauren

good idea on the ones that are already cut open! i will try those, thank you!

 

KatelynS07

I would also recommend you try a Goughnut. They're a little spendy, but have a lifetime warranty. We have both the tougher (black) chew toys and the softer (green) toys from them, and the green are definitely preferred by our crew.

sandollar1010

My pup is the same way and eats a 12" bully stick in about 30 minutes.  She likes the split antlers for a while, but they don't hold her interest too long.  We just bought a "himalayan yak chew" for her last weekend and she chewed it all week - we just took it away from her today because it got too small.  I will definitely by buying more of them.  They are on the pricey side, but not as much as an antler or multiple bully sticks.

jeepsareforgirls

We get our antlers from my father, who hunts, so I don't really know much about the density theory, but when introducing them to B, I put a little bit of peanut butter on one. That seemed to get him interested. He has a few, including a couple small sections that I had purchased from our local pet store, and he certainly has his favorites, but thanks to the peanut butter, he chews on them all. 

 Also, in the summer, I put them in the fridge for a while, and he likes to chew them when they are cold.  

CULauren

thanks so much! i've ordered everything that you guys recommended (both edible and inedible)! we'll see which one lasts the longest! my sweet pups thank you too!