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So, here’s the scoop: goat horns for dogs are kind of like the coriander of the dog treat world. Some people swear by them, others wouldn’t touch them with a 10-foot leash.
In this article, we’ll chew over both the pros and cons of goat horns, answer some FAQs, and help you decide if this natural treat is right for your furry mate 🐶.
🐐 What are goat horns for dogs, anyway?
As the name suggests, they’re… well, goat horns. These tough chews are made from the actual horns of goats — which consist of a bony core covered in keratin (yep, the same stuff our nails are made of).
Unlike antlers that shed seasonally, goat horns are permanent fixtures. They grow throughout the goat’s life and never fall off naturally.
Most goat horns for dogs are by-products from farm goats raised for human consumption, so they’re often considered a more sustainable chew option.
Australian Made Goat Horns from WAG
✅ 100% Natural.
✅ Long-lasting and rich with Keratin.
✅ They are often given as a dental treat as they are said to scrape away up to 70% of tartar build-up.
✅ All WAG Goat Horns are humanely and sustainably sourced from Australian farmers.
✅ Why some dog owners love goat horns
Fans of goat horns say they’re:
- 100% natural
- Long-lasting (a win for strong chewers!)
- Low to zero fat
- Packed with natural minerals
- Great for dental health
- Fun to stuff with meat or pâté for an extra challenge
Sounds pretty good, right?
⚠️ But are goat horns safe?
Here’s where things get a bit ruff…
The “Yes” camp 🐾
Supporters argue that goat horns are a safe, natural chew that keeps dogs occupied and helps clean their teeth by scraping away plaque. Because they’re low in calories, they’re often seen as a better alternative to fattier options like pig ears.
The “Not-so-sure” camp 😬
Others warn that goat horns can be too hard. The concern? If a chew is harder than your fingernail can dent, it might be hard enough to break your dog’s teeth.
Fractured molars, exposed pulp, and painful inflammation are just some of the potential risks. Ouch.
🦷 Can goat horns actually hurt dogs?
Unfortunately, yes — in some cases.
Vets have seen tooth fractures caused by hard chews like antlers, bones, and goat horns. And because dogs don’t always show pain the way humans do, these injuries can go unnoticed until they get worse.
That’s why supervision is key when offering a tough chew like this. If you’re seeing overly aggressive gnawing or hear any scary cracking sounds — it’s time to take it away and reassess.
On the flip side, some argue that dogs’ jaws are built for this kind of gnawing. Their ancestors crunched bones, after all! But even then, every dog is different.
🛒 What are the best goat horns for dogs?
If you’re keen to give goat horns a go, stick with reputable brands that care about quality and transparency.
WAG (Melbourne, VIC) is one of our faves. They’re known for ethically sourced treats and clear info on where their products come from. Bonus: their goat horns are Aussie-made and dog-approved.
🪥 Why do dogs need chew treats in the first place?
Great question! Chewing isn’t just a fun pastime — it’s essential for canine health.
Over 80% of dogs over age 3 have some level of dental disease. Chew treats help reduce plaque and tartar through mechanical abrasion (aka, the gnawing action), which can play a big role in keeping those pearly whites clean.
Other options to consider:
- Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly with pet-safe toothpaste
- Softer dental chews like Greenies or OraVet
- Dental diets or vet-approved water additives
Best bet? Chat with your vet to figure out what’ll work best for your doggo’s individual needs.
🐾 The final bark
Goat horns can be a great natural chew — if they’re used responsibly and suit your dog’s chewing style. Some pups love them, while others might be better off with a softer option.
Whatever you decide, remember: supervised chew time is always a good idea, especially with tough treats like these.
Because at the end of the day, we all just want happy tails, wagging tongues, and healthy chompers ❤️
