Whole vs. Split Elk Antler Chews: Which One is Right for Your Dog?

fluffy black and white dogs lays behind a large pile of antler chews

Since we started RidgeRunner Antlers in 2014, Elk antlers have become our most popular dog chew. The reason why? They have so much versatility. We are able to cut a lot of different sizes and styles from the same Elk antler.

Let's talk a bit about the anatomy of an antler to help better understand how we are able to achieve this.

 

entire antler is shown with arrows explaining different parts. upper tines have a moderate chew level, the thick main beam has a light chew levels, and the lower tines and antler base have a heavy chew level


    • The thick main beam is less dense, providing a "softer" and more marrow-rich option that is great for our Split Elk antler chews.


    • The lower tines and the base portion of the antler (where the burr attaches to the skull) provide a tougher chew that is great for our Whole Elk antler chews.



 

CHEW ON THIS!

Elk typically have 4-7 tines per antler depending on the age they are when they shed their rack.



Whole Elk Antler Chews

fluffy black and white dog holding a whole elk antlerOur Whole Elk antler chews are sections of a naturally shed antler with the outer layer intact. This means that dogs will have to work harder to reach the delicious marrow inside. Most dogs will start at the wider end, where the marrow is exposed, and gnaw their way down from there.


Whole Elk antlers are ideal for aggressive or power chewers who need a challenge while still having some marrow exposed on the ends, to keep their attention. The outer layer provides durability, making these chews last weeks or even months, depending on your dog's chewing habits. These are also less likely to splinter since the natural structure remains unchanged.



Split Elk Antler Chews

a puppy with long red fur is laying down and chewing a split elk antler chew

Split Elk antler chews are essentially Whole Elk antlers that have been cut in half lengthwise, exposing the soft, nutrient-rich marrow core. This exposed marrow is what most dogs find irresistible because of its distinct scent and taste. 

Split antlers are best for light-to-moderate chewers and dogs new to antler chews. The accessible marrow provides instant gratification and helps build positive associations with the chew. 



Quarter Split Elk Antler Chews

fluffy black and white dog lays next to two quarter split elk antlers

Quarter Split Elk antler chews are cut from the thickest part of the antler and have marrow exposed on multiple sides. Dogs can also immediately taste and smell the marrow, making this type of split antler extra enticing for picky chewers.

The marrow is even easier to access than a regular split antler, making these a terrific option for the lightest chewers, puppies, and senior dogs, as well as dogs new to chewing antlers. 



A Final Note for Whole and Split Antlers

Customers may request an extra-dense antler to keep the toughest chewers occupied, or a less dense and marrow-rich option that is great for pups who like to get to the good stuff (without too much work). Simply leave us a note at checkout. 

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