Buffalo horn chews are becoming increasingly popular as a natural and long-lasting chew for dogs. Made from the horn of the water buffalo, these chews are a great alternative to rawhide or other synthetic chews. In this definitive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about buffalo horn chews for dogs. Let’s start!
What are buffalo horn dog chews?
Buffalo horn dog chews are natural dog chews made from the horn of the water buffalo. The horn is cleaned, shaped, and then sterilized to make it safe for dogs to chew on.
Buffalo horn chews are a long-lasting chew option for dogs that can help to promote healthy chewing behavior, improve dental health, and provide a nutritious snack. Unlike some synthetic chews, buffalo horn chews are not processed with chemicals or additives, and they are free from common allergens such as wheat, corn, and soy.
They are also a renewable resource, making them an environmentally friendly option. When choosing buffalo horn chews for your dog, it is important to choose a high-quality product from a reputable supplier and to supervise your dog while they are chewing to ensure their safety.
Horns are sometimes confused with antlers, but they are actually completely different. A horn has a bone core, which is covered in keratin (the same substance that our fingernails are made of). They last the lifetime of the animal. Antlers however, start as cartilage, and gradually mineralise over the course of a few months. After the breeding season, the antlers shed, and new ones grow the following year.
Don’t worry, despite horns not being shed, buffalo are not slaughtered for their horns alone. The horns are a by-product, and are harvested to ensure that no part of the animal goes to waste. After they are harvested, they are cleaned, soaked in hot water to release/remove the inner core, then sanded to remove any sharp edges, covered in natural sunflower oil and then sun/air dried.
What are the benefits of buffalo horn chews for dogs?
There are several benefits of buffalo horn chews for dogs, including:
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Natural and long-lasting: Buffalo horn chews are made from a natural and renewable resource, and they are not processed with chemicals or additives. They are also long-lasting, which means they can keep your dog occupied for a longer period of time and reduce the likelihood of destructive chewing behavior.
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Dental health: Chewing on buffalo horn chews can help to scrape away tartar and plaque build-up, promoting healthy teeth and gums. This can reduce the risk of dental disease and improve overall oral health.
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Nutritious: Buffalo horn chews are high in protein and low in fat, making them a healthy and satisfying snack for your dog. They also contain essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, which can help to support bone and muscle health.
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Safe for dogs with food allergies: Buffalo horn chews are a great option for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities, as they are free from common allergens such as wheat, corn, and soy.
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Environmentally friendly: Buffalo horn chews are a renewable resource and are biodegradable, making them an environmentally friendly chew option for dogs.
Overall, buffalo horn dog chews are a natural and nutritious chew option for dogs that can provide a variety of benefits. By choosing a high-quality chew and supervising your dog while they chew, you can ensure their safety and enjoyment of this natural and long-lasting treat.
How to choose the right buffalo horn chews for your dog or puppy?
Choosing the right buffalo horn chew for your dog is important to ensure their safety and enjoyment of this natural chew. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a buffalo horn chew for your dog:
Size: Choose a buffalo horn chew that is appropriate for your dog's size and chewing habits. A smaller dog may need a smaller chew, while a larger dog may require a larger one. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, it may be necessary to choose a tougher chew or to limit their chewing time.
Quality: Choose a high-quality buffalo horn chew from a reputable supplier. Cheaper, low-quality chews may be more likely to break or splinter, which can pose a hazard to your dog. Look for chews that are free from chemicals and additives, and that have been properly cleaned and sterilized.
Texture: Consider your dog's preferences when it comes to texture. Some dogs may prefer a smoother surface, while others may enjoy a more textured surface to chew on.
Supervision: Always supervise your dog while they are chewing on a buffalo horn chew to ensure their safety. If the chew becomes too small or broken, it should be taken away from your dog immediately.
Allergies: If your dog has food allergies or sensitivities, choose a buffalo horn chew that is free from common allergens such as wheat, corn, and soy.
Overall, choosing the right buffalo horn chew for your dog is about finding the right size, quality, texture, and safety features to ensure their enjoyment and safety while chewing. By taking these factors into consideration, you can find a high-quality chew that will provide your dog with a natural and nutritious snack while promoting healthy chewing behavior and dental health.
Are buffalo horn chews safe for dogs?
Buffalo horn chews are generally safe for dogs to chew on when used appropriately. However, as with any chew or toy, there is always a risk of injury or choking if the chew is not used correctly or if it becomes too small or broken.
Additionally, it's important to choose a high-quality buffalo horn chew from a reputable supplier, as lower quality chews may be more likely to break or splinter, which can pose a hazard to your dog. Some dogs may also have sensitivities or allergies to certain types of chews, so it's important to monitor your dog's behavior and health when introducing a new chew.
All in all Buffalo horns are generally considered a safe treat but there are risks which include broken teeth or cuts if the horn splinters. Maybe one to avoid for heavy chewers. Also try to buy thick horns and supervise your dog during chewing sessions.
Hence!
At peaksnpaws, we take great pride in producing high-quality buffalo horn chews that are safe and enjoyable for your furry friend. Our chews are made from natural and renewable resources and are free from harmful chemicals and additives, making them a safe and healthy chew option for dogs of all sizes and ages.
We understand that safety is a top priority for pet parents, which is why we take extra care in ensuring that our chews are properly cleaned and sterilized before being packaged and shipped to you.
When choosing a buffalo horn dog chew , it's important to consider the quality of the product. Cheaper, low-quality chews may pose a hazard to your dog's health and safety, which is why we only use the highest quality materials in our products.
Our chews are designed to be long-lasting and durable, making them a great option for aggressive chewers and dogs who love to chew.
We also understand that every dog is unique, which is why we offer a range of sizes and textures to suit different breeds and chewing habits. Our chews are also free from common allergens such as wheat, corn, and soy, making them a great option for dogs with food sensitivities.
From what age can puppies start having buffalo horn chews?
Puppies can start having water buffalo horn dog chew when they are around 3-4 months old and have developed their adult teeth. Before this age, puppies have fragile baby teeth that are not strong enough to handle the hard texture of buffalo horn chews, which may lead to tooth damage or breakage.
It's important to supervise your puppy while they are chewing on a buffalo horn chew and to choose a chew that is appropriate for their size and chewing habits. Smaller puppies may need smaller chews or softer alternatives, such as bully sticks or softer rubber toys, to start with.
It's also important to remember that puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs and should have a balanced diet that supports their growth and development. While buffalo horn chews can provide a nutritious and satisfying chew option for puppies, they should not be used as a replacement for a balanced diet and regular meals.
Overall, when introducing buffalo horn chews to puppies, it's important to take a gradual and cautious approach to ensure their safety and enjoyment. By choosing the right size, texture, and quality of chew and supervising your puppy during chewing sessions, you can help promote healthy chewing behavior and dental health from a young age.
