Deer Antlers make wonderful long lasting Dog Treats.  

Being an all natural product, Deer Antlers can be great boredom busting dog treats which are healthy, free of nasty odours and last for months.

Of course, they are not always available plus, as you will find out, they are very different to Horns.  Deer Antlers are a whole different thing when compared to horns.

The reason for this seasonality is that they are typically shed by the deer at certain times of the year, and therefore, are not available to be collected all year round.

Of course, there are other methods of harvesting, however, it is definitely a seasonal product which can be hard to find all year round.

What Are Deer Antlers?

Deer antlers are remarkable biological structures that serve various purposes in the life cycle of deer.

Importantly, they are bony protrusions that grow from the frontal area of a deer's skull. They are unique to the Cervidae family, primarily found on male deer, though some female deer, such as reindeer, can also grow them.

Antlers are composed of several tissues, including skin, nerves, blood vessels, fibrous tissue, cartilage, and bone, which distinguishes them from horns.

Horns are made of keratin and grow continuously throughout an animal's life.  Antlers ARE NOT like horns.

The growth of antlers begins when deer reach puberty. 

Initially, they emerge as small buttons from permanent bumps on the skull called pedicles. The antlers undergo a rapid growth phase, during which they are covered in a soft, vascular tissue known as velvet, which supplies nutrients and oxygen. 

As the breeding season approaches, testosterone levels rise, leading to the calcification of the antlers and the shedding of the velvet, resulting in hardened antler.

Once the mating season is over, and their testosterone levels drop, thus initiating a layer called the abscission layer, which weakens the connection between the Antler and the skull and thus allowing the antler to drop off and letting the growth of new antlers begin.

Deer antlers are not only fascinating anatomical features but also play a crucial role in the reproductive strategies and social dynamics of deer populations.

What Are Deer Antlers Made Of?

Deer antlers are unique biological structures that are naturally shed by male deer each year. They are composed of:

Bone-like tissue: 

Antlers start as cartilage and gradually mineralize into a bone-like substance.

Calcium: 

This mineral makes up the majority of the antler's composition.

Phosphorus:

Another essential mineral found in deer antlers.

Other minerals: 

Including potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and sulphur.

These naturally shed antlers are collected, cleaned, and processed minimally before being sold as dog treats.

Why Deer Antlers Make Great Dog Treat Products

Deer antlers offer numerous benefits as dog treats.  Here are 10 reasons why they make great Dog Chews:

1.  Dental hygiene: 

The hard texture helps scrape away plaque and tartar, potentially reducing build-up as well as giving the teeth and gums much needed massaging which is great for maintaining good gum and teeth health.  

At the same time, Deer Antlers help encourage your puppies jaw bone and muscles to become well developed and strong.

Having a healthy gum, teeth and jaws in a pet dog will save you thousands at the vet later  in life.  Hence, the investment in a Deer Antler is worth it just for this reason!

Remember, if your dog is old and/or has existing teeth or gum problem, be sure to check with your local professional if a Deer Antler is suitable.

2.  Long-lasting: 

Antlers can take months for a dog to fully consume, providing extended entertainment and value for money.

Apart from being great at helping with boredom because of the long-term nature of the product, it will also keep in your cupboard for a long time, hence giving you options on when to give it to your pooch on your terms.....not because it is going out of date... Within reason of course. 

3.  Nutrient-rich: 

They contain essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus, supporting bone and muscle health.

4.  Low-calorie: 

Antlers are a healthier alternative to many commercial treats.  They are low in calories so are great for any dog and even better if you have a dog with a bit of a weight problem!

5.  Odour-free: 

Unlike some other natural chews, antlers don't produce unpleasant smells.

This means it doesn't break down, or decompose, to create nasty smells.  This is great if you live in areas with small back yards.

It also applies if your pets are "inside" dogs, and happen to leave it, without your knowledge, hidden somewhere within the house!!!

6.  Non-messy: 

They don't leave residue or stains on floors or furniture.

This is a really awesome advantage of these types of dog Treats.  If they bring this dog chew inside, you don't have to worry about unsightly, and ugly, stains which you then need to clean the carpet of replace an expensive rug.

Understanding how expensive our furniture and rugs are, having a pet treat which does not damage them can be considered as a good investment in it's own right!!!

7.  Hypoallergenic:

They're suitable for dogs with sensitivities to other treat ingredients.

8.  Stress relief:

Chewing on antlers can help reduce anxiety and boredom in dogs.

Being a Boredom busting dog treat, deer antlers can help solve those associated problems like chewing on furniture and unnecessary barking.

They last for ages, and as such, keeps them occupied when they would otherwise be looking for ways to create mischief.

Of course, if you use Deer Antlers in conjunction with other dog treats and hide them around the yard during the day, what you will find is that your dog will find the easier to eat Pet Treats when they want, and then go back to the Deer Antlers when they feel like gnawing on down for a while.

9.  Safe alternative to bones: 

Antlers are less likely to splinter or crack compared to traditional bones.

Because Antlers ARE NOT bones, you can leave them in the yard for the day and not have to worry yourself that you might find an unwell puppy when you get home.

This is a wonderful advantage to these dog chews because it addresses your stress as an owner and gives you the confidence that you are looking after the health of your dog as best you can!

10.  All Natural:  

Antlers grow naturally and have nothing extra added to them so they make an all natural dog chew.

By offering deer antlers as treats, you're providing your dog with a natural, nutritious, and engaging chew that supports their overall health and well-being.

Of course, Deer Antlers may not be perfect for every dog.  

Older dogs with sensitive, or weaker teeth, might not find these the perfect dog treat and may be better suited to something softer.  

Be sure to check with your local animal professional if you are wondering about the suitability of Deer Antlers for your pooch.

Understanding that they are not available all year round, which can affect the price, one should consider them as a wonderful dog treat option when they are available.  Then stock up in case they become hard to find.

If one considerers the long lasting nature of the products, you may find that they are quite a cost effective alternative for that part of the year when you do find them on offer. 

They will last longer than most dog treats on the market.  This is where their value is!

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Huds and Toke team.  We are here to help, and happy to discuss the Deer Antlers which we have available.

As always, thank-you for your support.  We truly appreciate it.

Take care and please tag us in on our socials with the adventures you are having with your pets.  We love seeing those moments when things are As Good As It Gets with you and your pets.

All the best for the team at Huds and Toke.