Elk antlers have more bone marrow than deer antlers making them a softer chew for your pooch.

This is my comparison of Elk Vs Deer Antlers for dogs.

I’ve had the pleasure of having a dog in my life for pretty much all of it. My dog Ollie loves to chew, so I have experimented a ton with different types of bones and antlers.

Ollie loves to chew anywhere near us when we are outside. It gives him something to do while still being close by.

In my experience, I have not found much of a difference between elk and deer antlers. They are both long-lasting, and Ollie loves both of them.

But, I of course did a bunch of research for this article and found there are some differences to be aware of when choosing the right antler for your pooch.

Let’s get started with an in-depth look at what sets these antlers apart.

Elk Antlers

Elk antlers are usually large in size and available in their split form (explained below). Elk antlers vary in density depending on which part of the antler is used.

They contain more bone marrow content than deer antlers, making them slightly softer.

Elk antlers are a good option as a split treat.

Split antlers are cut so that your dog can easily access the marrow contents of the antler. The marrow is the most nutritious part of the bone.

Keep in mind that split treats don’t last as long, so you may need to replace them more frequently.

Deer Antlers

Deer antlers generally come from a whitetail deer.

They are the hardest and densest of all antlers, which makes them a long-lasting chew.

Deer antlers lack marrow content compared to other antlers for dogs.

They are available in many different sizes so it’s easy to pick the appropriate size for your pooch.

Criteria For Choosing The Right Antler For Your Dog

Here are a few features to keep in mind when choosing an antler for your pooch.

Hardness

Choosing the proper density of antlers for your dog is important. An avid chewer may prefer a hard antler while a relaxed chewer might like something softer.

Elk is softer than deer because it has more bone marrow. The exterior is not as thick as deer. This makes it easier to chew for your pooch.

Deer is the hardest antler of all the antlers. This makes them long-lasting but could cause damage to your pooch’s teeth. 

Winner: Elk Antler

Nutritional Value

There are really no significant differences in nutrition between elk and deer antlers.

Both are rich in protein and the marrow has lots of minerals including, magnesium, iron, zinc, calcium, phosphorous, and potassium.

Since elk antlers have more marrow than deer antlers, I’d have to give this category to elk.

Winner: Elk Antler

Appearance

While elk and deer belong to the same family, their antlers differ in appearance.

Elk antlers are large and can weigh up to 10 lbs each.

Their antlers are elongated with thinner points stretching out of the primary beam. Pictured above.

Elk antlers are typically brown and red, with lighter tips.

Deer antlers are smaller and thinner and the same colour as elk antlers.

Deer antlers do not weigh as much as elk antlers.

Winner: Your Choice!

Safety

Always check with your vet before giving your pooch an antler to gnaw on!

Elk antlers are softer, so they are a better option for senior dogs. Less risk of cracking teeth.

Puppies may also enjoy a softer antler like elk since their teeth are growing and may be sensitive.

As previously mentioned, deer antlers are harder than elk and may be more likely to break teeth.

Size-wise, bigger antlers are safer as there is less chance of a pup swallowing a large-sized antler.

Fortunately, both elk and deer antlers can be purchased in both large and small sizes. 

*Always supervise your pup when chewing a bone or antler*

Winner: Elk antler

Durability

How long will your pooch be able to chew on these antlers?

Both elk and deer antlers are long-lasting. This category is a tie. My dog has been chewing the same antlers for many, many, years.

Winners: Deer and Elk Antlers

Dental Benefits

Antlers are awesome for helping to promote better dental health for your pooch.

Chewing antlers helps remove tartar and plaque, improving both gums and teeth in dogs.

For puppies, chewing can help ease pain from growing teeth.

For seniors, chewing can help them maintain jaw strength.

Winner: Elk and Deer Antlers

Verdict

The winner is the Elk Antler.

Elk antlers are softer, so they are less likely to cause costly dental fractures to your pooch.

If you have a pup or senior dog, the softer elk antler would be a good choice. 

Deer antlers may be the right choice for your pooch if they’re enthusiastic chewers and require a harder antler.

Honestly though, if you have a healthy dog without dental issues, you could go for either elk or deer antler and your dog will love it! 

You know your dog the best, and using the information provided, I’m sure you will choose the right antler for your pooch.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS