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antler shedding

Antler shedding: how deer antlers are collected naturally

2 min readBy Administrador

Find out how deer shed their antlers naturally every year and how those antlers are collected sustainably to make natural chew toys for dogs.

What is antler shedding?

Antler shedding is one of nature’s most fascinating events. Every year, between February and April, male red deer (Cervus elaphus) lose their antlers in a completely natural way. This biological process, driven by hormonal changes linked to day length, allows the animals to grow a fresh set of antlers year after year.

In Spain, the shedding season offers a unique opportunity to collect deer antler sustainably — an exceptional-quality raw material used to make natural chew toys for dogs.

The natural antler cycle

Deer antlers are the fastest-growing bone structures in the animal kingdom. The full cycle takes roughly one year:

  • February – April: The antlers are cast (antler shedding). Testosterone levels drop and the pedicle bone is reabsorbed, so the antlers come away.
  • April – August: The new antlers grow, covered in a velvety skin rich in blood vessels known as “velvet”.
  • August – September: The antlers fully harden into bone. The velvet dries out and the deer rubs it off against trees and shrubs.
  • September – February: The rut and courtship season. The antlers serve their purpose in the competition between males.

Sustainable collection

Our antlers are of Spanish origin. During the shedding season, authorised collectors gather them on foot, respecting natural habitats and without disturbing wildlife in any way.

Every antler collected is inspected, cleaned and graded by size, thickness and condition. Only antlers in the best condition move on to production, where they are turned into top-quality natural chew toys.

Why naturally shed antlers?

  • 100% ethical: No animal is killed or disturbed
  • Sustainable: A renewable natural resource is put to good use
  • Superior quality: Naturally shed antlers have an ideal density

From shed antler to chew toy

Once collected, the antlers are cleaned naturally, without chemicals. They are then cut into different sizes and formats (whole or split) to suit dogs of every breed and size.

The result is a 100% natural, long-lasting chew toy that gives dogs hours of entertainment — always under their owner’s supervision — while showing the utmost respect for the environment and wildlife.

Topicsantler sheddingdeer antlersustainabilitynature

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Frequently asked questions

What is antler shedding?

Antler shedding is the natural process by which male deer lose their antlers every year, usually between February and April. It is a completely painless biological process that allows the antlers to be renewed annually.

Does it hurt deer to lose their antlers?

No. Antler shedding is a completely natural and painless process. The antlers come away from the skull once the bone connecting them is reabsorbed, much like a puppy losing a milk tooth.

When do deer shed their antlers?

Deer mainly shed their antlers between February and April, although timing can vary with the species, the age of the animal and the weather.

Do deer antlers grow back?

Yes. Every year deer grow a new set of antlers during spring and summer, covered in a soft, furry skin known as “velvet”. By autumn the antlers have fully hardened into bone.

How are shed antlers collected?

During the shedding season, authorised collectors pick up the antlers by hand, straight from the ground. No animal is hunted or disturbed at any point in the process.

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Antler shedding: how deer antlers are collected | Antlerworld