Nature’s Toothbrush: How Raw Bones Support Your Dog’s Teeth and Gut
When it comes to keeping your dog healthy and happy, one of the most natural options you can offer is raw bones and raw chews.
A recent BMC Veterinary Research paper (early life risk factors of dental plaque found in dogs), published in 2025, discussed how species-appropriate diets that include raw bones, cartilage, connective tissue, and chewing components may help naturally reduce plaque and tartar buildup. The paper describes bones and connective tissue as functioning like “nature’s toothbrushes”.
Many pet owners and holistic veterinarians believe the rise of highly processed kibble diets has coincided with dogs developing dental and chronic health issues at much younger ages than previously seen.
When plaque builds up on a dog’s teeth, it forms a sticky layer of bacteria that can lead to bad breath, gum inflammation, and eventually tartar and periodontal disease if not addressed.
Over time, this can cause pain while eating and may even allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, affecting overall health.
For those new to raw feeding, raw bones can be a safe and natural way to support dental health when fed appropriately for your dog’s size and chewing style. Raw bones are soft enough to be chewed and digested, helping to naturally reduce plaque buildup through the natural scraping action of the raw bone on the teeth and gums.
🚨It’s important to note that cooked bones are not safe for dogs, as cooking makes them brittle and prone to splintering, which can cause serious injury or digestive issues.
A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Microbiology examined dogs that were switched from kibble to a raw meat diet and found their gut microbiota shifted closer to that of wolves. Why is this important? Well, research suggests that when dogs are fed raw, minimally processed, species-appropriate diets, their gut microbiome can shift toward patterns seen in their ancestral carnivores. This pattern supports more efficient digestion, a better balance for their overall immunity, and better absorption of the nutrients. These types of diets also naturally encourage chewing behaviors that help to reduce plaque buildup, strengthen jaw muscles, and promote healthier teeth and gums.
Natural chews such as Raw Sliced Beef Bone Marrow Bones, raw Chicken Feet, and raw Duck Feet, provide additional health benefits by offering collagen, glucosamine, and other nutrients that support joint health and mobility. The act of chewing helps fulfill a dog’s natural instinct to gnaw on something, promoting emotional balance and reducing stress. This mental stimulation helps to keep dogs calm, engaged, and satisfied.
Unlike heavily processed dental treats, raw bones provide a natural way to help maintain oral health while keeping a dog’s digestion and stools in balance.
With warmer weather here, raw bones are the perfect outdoor activity — many dogs will happily relax outside for extended periods while enjoying the activity of gnawing on a raw bone.
BJ’s Raw Pet Food raw Sliced Beef Bone Marrow Bones (4 in a package) are packed with flavor and nutrition. Bone marrow contains healthy fats and nutrients that can support energy levels, skin health, and joint function.
Our irresistible fresh beef marrow bones are sourced from grass-fed cows, ensuring the highest quality and nutritional value for your pet. We include four 1.5-inch beef marrow bones, sliced for medium/small dogs.
At BJ’s Raw Pet Food, we focus on natural, minimally processed products that support your dog’s health the way nature intended. Raw bones and natural chews are not only enjoyable — they help contribute to healthier teeth, healthier joints, mental enrichment, and overall well-being.
Whether your dog loves marrow bones, chicken feet, or duck feet, adding natural chews to their routine is an easy way to support their long-term health while giving them something they truly enjoy.
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🚨Transitioning to raw doesn't have to be stressful. By avoiding these common mistakes and choosing a trusted partner like BJ’s Raw Pet Food, you are giving your pet the gift of a longer, healthier life.
Ready to start? 👉 [Shop our Beginner-Friendly Introductory Packages] 👉 [Talk to our Lancaster Team: (717) 745-8899]
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