Choose a bone that's big enough for your dog. If the bone can fit fully inside their mouth, it's too small. Bones should be larger than the dog's lower jaw. When the bone has been gnawed down to a considerably smaller size that will fit in the dog's mouth, it should be taken away.

Different proteins have different natural densities. Pork bones are softer and best for light chewers, while beef bones are suitable for most dogs. Shank bones and kneecaps are the hardest options for power chewers. Choose a density that matches your dog’s chewing strength and preference.

Bones are meant to be slowly gnawed, not eaten in large pieces. Gnawing keeps teeth clean and satisfies natural chewing instincts. If your dog breaks off chunks, slivers, or pieces, remove them immediately and switch to a different bone or chew type. Knuckles contain soft cartilage material that will be completely consumed, and the remaining straight bone piece should be slowly gnawed. Knuckles are available individually and as part of the Jumbo Bone and Dino Bone.

Opinions vary, but pressure testing shows cooked and raw bones perform the same when moisture is properly maintained. Both bones maintain the same strength tests and breaking points. The Country Butcher oven-bakes all bones at controlled temperatures to preserve moisture and prevent brittleness. The Country Butcher is careful to maintain consistent cooking schedules and high enough moisture levels to produce the highest quality product consistent with raw bones.