Chews That Fade Over Time
After a few weeks of occasional use, these Earthbones start to lose their appeal as they don't soften up much even with exposure to air or slight moisture from your dog's mouth. The durability holds up well initially - lab-tested for full digestibility by the University of Illinois - but over months, if your large dog finally takes to them, pieces can crumble into smaller bits that get ignored rather than fully consumed. Maintenance is simple since they're limited-ingredient and gentle on stomachs, but you might notice subtle degradation in texture if stored in humid spots, turning them less enticing for determined chewers.
Hidden Hard Truths About These Bones
The product page skips how picky eaters among large breeds often walk away after a sniff, expecting more meaty flavors instead of the subtle enzyme-driven freshness focus. They're priced high at around $118 for bulk, yet a single large dog might polish off a pack slower than you'd hope if they're not hooked from day one. Sensitive stomachs fare fine thanks to the gentle recipe, but dogs with existing tooth sensitivity could find the density off-putting, leading to disinterest rather than the promised toothbrush-like action. Watch for occasional staleness in bigger bags if not sealed tight post-opening.
Related: Learn more: Is Earthbones Dental for Large Dogs worth buying in 2026
What It's Really Like Handing One Over
I've tossed these to my buddy's big Lab a few times, and man, it's hit or miss - he'll grab it, give it a couple licks, then drop it like yesterday's news while eyeing the kibble bowl instead. The idea sounds great, this clean-ingredient chew with enzymes fighting breath bacteria at the root, but in practice, it's more like offering a healthy veggie stick to a kid who craves burgers. You hand it over expecting that satisfying crunch session, but often it's just a brief investigation before they lose steam, leaving you with a half-gnawed bone collecting dust. Still, when a dog does commit, it disappears steadily without tummy upset, which beats those gassy alternatives every time. Just don't bank on daily enthusiasm; it's more of a sometimes treat that sneaks in some dental good without the fuss of brushing.
Related: Learn more: What to consider when buying Earthbones Dental for Large ...
If your pup skips them entirely, mix in a dab of peanut butter or test a sample pack first to avoid the full $118 hit. Worth experimenting for the natural angle, but match it to their chew style.
