Can Dogs Have Benebones? An In-Depth Review

Benebones have become a popular dog chew toy, but are they safe for dogs to use – and what are the potential risks and benefits that pet parents should be aware of? Although Benebones are made of nylon, which is a more durable material that is less likely to splinter than rawhide and other chew toys, they can still be a choking hazard if pieces are bitten off and swallowed. It is important to supervise your dog to make sure they don't chew off too much of the bone and swallow pieces that could lead to an intestinal blockage.

To help you better understand the safety concerns associated with Benebones, we will take an in-depth look at the latest research provided by veterinary professionals and animal welfare organizations. This review will go over the standards for safe dog chews, the qualities of nylon Benebones, and how pet parents can make sure they are introduced in a way that is safe and part of a well-rounded chewing routine. By the end of this article, you will have the information you need to decide if Benebones are right for your dog and your personal pet care standards.

What Are Benebones Made Of?

Benebones are made of 100% nylon from the USA, a material known for being strong and durable for heavy chewers. According to Benebone's safety guide, the nylon is non-toxic, but the bones can contain allergens like peanuts, chicken, or pork, which are used to flavor the bones. Some bones, like the Maplestick, are even flavored with real maple wood.

The nylon is FDA-approved for food contact, and the flavoring ingredients, like the real bacon in the Wishbone, are non-toxic and safe for dogs. That said, it's important to remember that Benebones are chew toys, not treats, and should not be ingested in large amounts to avoid potential gastrointestinal issues from consuming non-food items.

While the composition of Benebones is meant to make them appealing to dogs, it's also designed to ensure that they are safe for dogs to chew on. The bones are made from materials that are non-toxic and safe for pets, and as long as they are used in moderation and with supervision, they can provide a safe and healthy outlet for dogs' natural chewing instincts.

Potential Dangers and Safety Issues of Benebones

There are a number of potential dangers associated with Benebones that pet parents should be aware of. According to the Safety Guide on the Benebone website, the biggest danger is the risk of choking if a dog breaks off and swallows small pieces of the toy. In addition, the bones can become sharp with aggressive chewing, which can cut a dog's gums or body.

Meanwhile, the JustAnswer forum points out that there is a risk of an intestinal blockage if a dog swallows a larger piece of the toy, which is especially likely if a larger dog is given a smaller Benebone. According to Dr. Bruce from JustAnswer, it's important to keep an eye on the bones for signs of wear and tear to prevent these issues.

Pet parents should always supervise their dogs when they're chewing on Benebones and check the bones regularly for signs of wear and tear or broken pieces that could pose a choking or ingestion risk. However, as long as pet parents are responsible and keep a close eye on their dogs, the potential dangers of Benebones can be minimized.

Durability and Longevity: How Long Will a Benebone Last?

While Benebones are made to be durable and long-lasting, the length of time that they will last depends on your dog and their chewing style. The Benebone Reviewed by Dog Trainers article says that Benebones are a "durable chew toy that can last a long time, even for power chewers like pit bulls, rottweilers, and german shepherds."

That said, for dogs that are especially aggressive chewers, the article recommends the Goughnut toy as an "even stronger alternative that is almost impossible to destroy." The manufacturer recommends replacing their chew toys every month or when they become worn, as specified in their When to Replace Guide. It's important to check for signs of wear and tear so that you can replace the toy in a timely manner and avoid any potential hazards from broken pieces being ingested.

Benebones for Puppies: Age and Size Recommendations

According to the Benebone product page, Benebones are appropriate for puppies starting at around 12 weeks of age. Puppies younger than 12 weeks are still in the process of developing their teeth and jaws, so they should not use Benebones.

For puppies, Benebone makes Puppy Benebones in two sizes, small and medium, which are determined by the puppy's weight. The small size is for puppies that are under 20 lbs, and the medium size is for puppies that are between 20 and 50 lbs. As with any chew toy, it's important to make sure that puppies are supervised and that the product is checked for wear regularly when they're first introduced to Benebones.

By introducing puppies to Benebones at the right age and size and making sure that they're supervised and checked for wear, you can help ensure that they have a positive and safe experience with the product. This will help set the stage for responsible use of Benebones as the puppy grows into an adult dog.

Benebones and Dental Health: Can Dogs With Dental Problems Use Benebones?

When choosing chew toys for dogs, it's important to think about dental health. According to the Animal Dental Specialist, nylon is a softer material than bones or antlers and is less likely to break teeth. That said, some veterinarians recommend softer rubber or VOHC-approved toys for dogs with dental problems, as overly hard chew toys can lead to tooth fractures, wear, or other dental issues.

As the Cherry Hill Animal Hospital explains, "Many nylon bones are made of hard materials that can damage your pet's teeth." Meanwhile, the Preventive Vet warns that if a chew toy "doesn't 'give' a little bit when you press it with your thumbnail, then it's likely too hard for your dog and could break their teeth."

Regardless of whether Benebones are being used, it's important to make sure that dogs are using the right toys and that they're being watched closely to ensure they don't hurt themselves. Pet owners should talk to their vets to make sure they're choosing the right chew toys for their dog's specific needs, especially if their dog has dental problems.

Conclusion: How to Make Sure Benebones Are Used Safely and Responsibly

While Benebones are designed to be long-lasting and durable, how long they last depends on the individual dog and their chewing habits. As the Benebone Reviewed by Dog Trainers article explains, Benebones are a "durable chew toy that can last a long time, even for power chewers like pit bulls, rottweilers, and german shepherds."

That said, the article suggests the Goughnut toy for the most aggressive chewers, as it's an "even stronger alternative that is almost impossible to destroy." Meanwhile, the manufacturer Benebone recommends replacing their chew toys after a month or so or when they start to look worn, as indicated in their When to Replace Guide. Checking for signs of wear and tear is important to make sure you replace the toys in a timely manner and avoid potential hazards from broken pieces.

Finally, make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for use and replace the toys as needed to make sure your dog's chewing experience is safe. As with any chew toy, it's important to use Benebones in moderation and with care to protect your dog's health.