Greenies Dental Treats for Puppies: Are They Safe? 🐾

Greenies are popular dental treats known for promoting oral health in dogs. These treats help reduce tartar and plaque buildup, freshen breath, and support gum health. But when it comes to puppies, many pet owners wonder if these treats are safe or suitable for young, developing teeth.

Key Takeaways: Quick Answers About Greenies for Puppies

  • Are Greenies safe for puppies? ✅ Yes, but only the “Puppy” version for dogs over 6 months.
  • Can Greenies cause digestive issues? 🍽️ Yes, if not chewed properly.
  • How often can I give Greenies to my puppy? ⏳ Once daily, per packaging instructions.
  • Are there choking risks? ⚠️ Yes, if swallowed whole. Supervision is necessary.
  • Do Greenies replace brushing? 🪥 No, they are a supplement to regular brushing.

✅ Are Greenies Safe for Puppies?

Greenies are generally safe for puppies, but only specific versions are suitable for young dogs:

  • Greenies Puppy Dental Treats: Greenies offers a special Puppy version that is designed for dogs over 6 months old and weighing over 5 lbs. These treats are softer and more easily digestible than the adult versions, making them suitable for growing teeth.
  • Soft Texture: The soft texture of Puppy Greenies is gentle on developing teeth and gums, reducing the risk of breakage or injury.
  • Age Requirement: It’s important to ensure your puppy is at least 6 months old before introducing Greenies, as younger puppies may not have the jaw strength needed to safely chew the treat.
Puppy Greenies FeaturesWhy It’s Safe💡 Safety Tip
Softer textureEasier for young teethOnly give “Puppy” Greenies to puppies. 🦷
Designed for 6+ monthsAppropriate for jaw strengthCheck age before offering treat. 📅
Easily digestibleSafer for puppy stomachsStart with half treat for first time. ⏳

🍽️ Can Greenies Cause Digestive Issues in Puppies?

Greenies can potentially cause digestive upset in puppies, especially when first introduced:

  • Digestive Sensitivity: Some puppies may experience soft stools, gas, or mild stomach upset when first trying Greenies. This is usually temporary and can result from introducing a new treat into their diet.
  • Proper Chewing is Crucial: To avoid digestive issues, puppies should thoroughly chew the treat. Swallowing large pieces can lead to stomach discomfort or even blockages, which can be serious.
  • Introduce Gradually: Start by offering only a small portion of the Greenies treat, monitoring your puppy for any adverse reactions before giving a full treat.
Potential Digestive IssueWhy It Occurs💡 Prevention Tip
Soft stools or gasNew treat introductionStart with half a treat to monitor reaction. 👀
Stomach discomfortSwallowing large piecesEnsure puppy chews treat thoroughly. 🐶
Temporary digestive upsetAdjustment periodProvide water after treat to aid digestion. 💧

⏳ How Often Can I Give Greenies to My Puppy?

The frequency of giving Greenies to puppies should be limited and in line with package guidelines:

  • Once Daily: According to Greenies’ recommendations, the treat can be given once daily. This is sufficient for maintaining dental health while minimizing the risk of overconsumption or digestive upset.
  • Size-Specific Treats: Ensure that you’re providing the correct size of Greenies based on your puppy’s weight. Too large a treat can be challenging to chew, while too small a treat may present a choking hazard.
  • Follow Vet’s Advice: Consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on treat frequency, especially if your puppy has a sensitive stomach or other health conditions.
Treat FrequencyWhy It’s Important💡 Feeding Tip
Once dailyPrevents overconsumptionStick to daily serving for best results. 🗓️
Size-specificEnsures safe chewingUse appropriate treat size for puppy’s weight. ⚖️
Vet consultationTailors to individual needsDiscuss treat routine during vet visits. 🩺

⚠️ Are There Choking Risks with Greenies?

Yes, there is a potential choking risk with Greenies if not chewed properly:

  • Swallowing Whole Pieces: Puppies may try to swallow large chunks of Greenies without fully chewing, which can lead to choking or intestinal blockage. This is more common in enthusiastic chewers or puppies that eat quickly.
  • Supervise Feeding: Always supervise your puppy while they are eating a Greenies treat. If you notice that they are attempting to swallow large pieces, intervene and consider breaking the treat into smaller pieces.
  • Choose the Right Size: Ensure that you select the correct size of Greenies for your puppy’s weight and chewing ability to reduce the risk of choking.
Choking RiskWhy It Occurs💡 Choking Prevention Tip
Swallowing large piecesOvereager chewingBreak treat into smaller pieces initially. 🧩
Improper treat sizeToo large or too smallMatch treat size to puppy’s weight. ⚖️
Lack of supervisionPuppy chews too quicklyWatch closely during treat time. 👀

🪥 Do Greenies Replace Brushing for Puppies?

No, Greenies should not be considered a replacement for brushing:

  • Supplemental Dental Care: Greenies are designed to supplement regular dental care by reducing plaque and tartar buildup, but they do not provide the same comprehensive cleaning as brushing.
  • Brushing Remains Essential: Regular brushing removes plaque along the gumline, an area that dental treats may not effectively reach. Brushing also helps prevent gum disease, which treats alone cannot fully address.
  • Combined Approach: For optimal dental health, combine daily brushing with occasional Greenies treats, ensuring a comprehensive approach to oral hygiene.
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Dental Care AspectWhy It’s Necessary💡 Dental Hygiene Tip
Greenies as supplementReduces plaque buildupUse Greenies to complement brushing. 🦷
Brushing is primary careCleans along gumlineBrush puppy’s teeth 2-3 times a week. 🪥
Combined approachBest for overall oral healthAlternate brushing days with treat days. 🗓️

🗝️ Final Recap: Greenies for Puppies – Safety and Tips

Greenies can be a beneficial addition to your puppy’s dental care routine when introduced correctly. Always ensure that you’re using the Puppy version for dogs over 6 months and supervise chewing to prevent choking. Remember, Greenies should supplement—not replace—regular brushing for comprehensive oral care.

Quick Recap: Greenies for Puppies Insights

  • Safe for puppies? ✅ Yes, 6+ months with Puppy Greenies.
  • Digestive issues? 🍽️ Possible, introduce slowly.
  • Frequency? ⏳ Once daily as directed.
  • Choking risk? ⚠️ Yes, supervise chewing.
  • Replace brushing? 🪥 No, it’s a supplement.

By following these guidelines, you can help your puppy develop healthy dental habits that contribute to their overall well-being. 🐾

Comment 1: “Are Greenies really effective at reducing puppy breath?”

Yes, Greenies can help reduce puppy breath by addressing one of its primary causes—plaque and tartar buildup:

  • Mechanical Cleaning: The texture of Greenies is designed to mechanically scrub teeth, which helps remove plaque that can contribute to bad breath. As plaque is reduced, fewer odor-causing bacteria thrive, leading to fresher breath over time.
  • Natural Ingredients: Greenies contain natural breath-freshening ingredients like chlorophyll, parsley, and spearmint extract. These ingredients provide a mild breath-refreshing effect, helping combat the odor at the source.
  • Daily Use Benefits: Consistent, daily use of Greenies can contribute to progressively fresher breath, but remember that they work best when combined with regular tooth brushing to maintain overall oral health.
Breath Freshening ImpactWhy It Works💡 Breath Improvement Tip
Reduces plaque buildupLowers bacteria causing odorUse daily to maintain results. 🗓️
Natural breath-freshenersAdds mild fresheningCombine with brushing for best effect. 🪥
Consistent useProgressive breath improvementCheck teeth for tartar buildup regularly. 👀

Comment 2: “My puppy swallowed a Greenies treat whole. What should I do?”

If your puppy swallowed a Greenies treat whole, you need to monitor them closely for signs of choking or digestive blockage:

  • Immediate Check for Choking: First, observe your puppy for any signs of choking, such as coughing, gagging, or difficulty breathing. If any of these symptoms occur, seek immediate veterinary attention.
  • Watch for Digestive Symptoms: If your puppy doesn’t show immediate choking signs, watch for potential digestive issues like vomiting, lack of appetite, or unusual lethargy over the next 24-48 hours. Swallowing a whole treat could potentially cause a blockage in the digestive tract.
  • Vet Consultation: Contact your veterinarian to discuss the situation, especially if you notice any symptoms of distress. In some cases, a vet may recommend x-rays to ensure there’s no obstruction.
Whole Treat SwallowingWhy It’s Concerning💡 Safety Action Tip
Choking riskTreat lodged in throatCheck for gagging, seek emergency care if needed. 🚑
Digestive blockageMay obstruct GI tractMonitor for vomiting or lethargy. 🩺
Vet consultationEnsures safetyCall vet for guidance, even if symptoms are mild. 📞

Comment 3: “Can Greenies cause diarrhea in puppies?”

Yes, Greenies can cause diarrhea in puppies, particularly if they are not used to the treat:

  • Dietary Adjustment: Greenies introduce new ingredients and fiber to your puppy’s diet, which can lead to temporary digestive upset, including diarrhea, as their system adjusts.
  • Overconsumption: Diarrhea can also result from giving too many Greenies at once or not matching the treat size to the puppy’s weight. Overconsumption can overwhelm the digestive system, causing soft stools or diarrhea.
  • Gradual Introduction: To minimize the risk, introduce Greenies gradually, starting with half a treat and monitoring your puppy’s stool consistency before increasing to a full treat.
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Diarrhea RiskWhy It Occurs💡 Diarrhea Prevention Tip
New ingredientsPuppy’s digestive adjustmentStart with small portions and increase slowly. ⏳
OverconsumptionToo many treats at onceFollow daily serving size recommendations. 📏
Gradual introductionAllows digestive adaptationOffer water to aid digestion. 💧

Comment 4: “Are there any Greenies alternatives for puppies?”

Yes, there are several alternatives to Greenies for puppies, especially if your puppy has trouble digesting them or prefers other textures:

  • Whimzees Puppy Chews: These are vegetable-based dental chews made from potato starch, making them softer and easier for puppies to digest. They come in various shapes that help clean teeth while being safe for young mouths.
  • N-Bone Puppy Teething Rings: Specifically designed for teething puppies, these rings offer a gentle chewing experience while helping to alleviate gum pain. They are also highly digestible, making them suitable for puppies with sensitive stomachs.
  • Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent Chews: These chews are plant-based, helping reduce plaque and tartar while providing a softer texture for puppies. They come in different sizes and are veterinarian-recommended for oral care.
Alternative TreatsWhy It’s Effective💡 Alternative Tip
Whimzees Puppy ChewsSoft, easy-to-digest textureChoose small sizes for puppies under 6 months. 🥔
N-Bone Teething RingsAlleviates teething painOffer as needed during teething. 🦷
Virbac VeggieDent ChewsPlant-based dental careUse daily for plaque prevention. 🌿

Comment 5: “Can I give my puppy Greenies if they have a sensitive stomach?”

Puppies with sensitive stomachs may have difficulty digesting Greenies, but it is possible to offer them cautiously:

  • Start with a Small Portion: Begin by giving your puppy a small piece of the Greenies treat (about ¼ of the full treat) to see how their digestive system responds. This allows you to gauge tolerance without causing major digestive upset.
  • Monitor Reaction: Watch for any signs of diarrhea, vomiting, or gas after introducing the treat. If your puppy shows any of these symptoms, discontinue use and try a different dental chew designed for sensitive stomachs.
  • Choose the Right Formula: Consider the Greenies Grain-Free version, which might be easier on sensitive stomachs due to the absence of wheat ingredients, which can be harder for some puppies to digest.
Sensitive Stomach CareWhy It’s Necessary💡 Digestive Care Tip
Start with small portionsMinimizes digestive upsetBegin with ¼ treat, monitor reaction. 🧐
Watch for symptomsEnsures treat compatibilityDiscontinue if symptoms persist. 🚫
Try grain-free versionReduces potential allergensConsider if puppy is wheat-sensitive. 🌾❌

Comment 6: “How do I train my puppy to chew Greenies properly?”

Training your puppy to chew Greenies properly can help prevent choking and ensure better dental health:

  • Start with Supervision: Always supervise your puppy when offering a Greenies treat, especially during the first few times. This allows you to observe their chewing behavior and ensure they are not swallowing large pieces.
  • Teach “Chew Slowly” Command: Encourage slower chewing by using a verbal command like “chew slowly” while offering the treat. Reinforce this behavior with gentle praise or rewards when your puppy chews the treat rather than trying to swallow it whole.
  • Break Into Smaller Pieces: If your puppy tends to gulp down treats, break the Greenies into smaller pieces to slow down the chewing process. This can make it easier for your puppy to handle and reduce the risk of choking or blockages.
Chewing TrainingWhy It’s Important💡 Training Tip
Supervised chewingPrevents choking riskAlways watch your puppy during treat time. 👀
Use slow-chewing commandReinforces safe behaviorPraise when puppy chews treat slowly. 🗣️
Smaller treat piecesEasier for puppies to manageBreak treat into smaller chunks initially. 🧩

Comment 7: “Can puppies have Greenies if they are teething?”

Yes, puppies can have Puppy Greenies while teething, but there are some considerations:

  • Gentle on Gums: The Puppy version of Greenies is designed to be softer and easier to chew, making it suitable for teething puppies. It helps alleviate mild discomfort by providing something safe to chew on.
  • Monitor for Gum Sensitivity: Puppies’ gums can be sore during teething, so watch for signs of excessive bleeding or reluctance to chew the treat. If your puppy seems uncomfortable, it may be best to pause Greenies until the teething phase eases.
  • Alternate with Teething Toys: To ensure balanced chewing, offer teething toys along with Puppy Greenies. This combination can help soothe sore gums while still promoting good dental hygiene.
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Teething ConsiderationWhy It’s Suitable💡 Teething Tip
Softer textureEasy on sore gumsUse the “Puppy” version only. 🍼
Monitor for discomfortPrevents gum irritationStop if puppy shows signs of pain. 😬
Combine with toysBalanced gum reliefOffer chew toys along with Greenies. 🦷

Comment 8: “Can Greenies help reduce plaque buildup on puppy teeth?”

Yes, Greenies can help reduce plaque buildup when used regularly as part of a dental care routine:

  • Mechanical Cleaning: The chewy texture of Greenies works to scrub teeth as the puppy chews, helping to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar.
  • Daily Use Effectiveness: Using Greenies daily can significantly reduce tartar formation, keeping teeth cleaner over time. However, for best results, use Greenies in conjunction with tooth brushing.
  • Routine Check-ups: Even with regular Greenies use, it’s important to have your puppy’s teeth checked by a vet periodically to monitor for any underlying dental issues.
Plaque ReductionWhy It Works💡 Plaque Control Tip
Mechanical actionRemoves soft plaqueUse daily to maintain cleaner teeth. 🗓️
Prevents tartar formationSlows down hardeningPair with brushing for thorough care. 🪥
Vet check-upsMonitors overall dental healthSchedule regular dental visits. 🩺

Comment 9: “Are Greenies grain-free versions better for puppies with allergies?”

Yes, Greenies Grain-Free versions can be beneficial for puppies with grain allergies or sensitivities:

  • No Wheat, Corn, or Soy: The grain-free version eliminates common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy, making it a safer choice for puppies prone to food allergies or digestive sensitivities.
  • Easier Digestion: These grain-free treats often contain alternative ingredients like potato starch or chickpea flour, which can be gentler on the digestive system while still offering the same dental benefits.
  • Monitor for Other Allergies: Although the grain-free version reduces the risk of grain-related allergies, puppies could still react to other ingredients like gelatin or flavors. Always monitor your puppy’s response when introducing any new treat.
Grain-Free BenefitsWhy It’s Better💡 Allergy Care Tip
No common allergensReduces allergy riskTry grain-free if puppy shows signs of food allergies. 🌾❌
Alternative ingredientsGentler on the stomachStart with a small portion to test tolerance. 🧐
Monitor reactionEnsures compatibilityWatch for itching or digestive upset. 👀

Comment 10: “Can Greenies help with teething pain in puppies?”

Greenies can help alleviate teething pain by providing a safe outlet for chewing:

  • Soothing Chewing Action: The act of chewing helps to massage sore gums, providing relief for puppies experiencing teething discomfort. The soft texture of Puppy Greenies makes them suitable for young, sensitive teeth.
  • Relief Through Consistency: Chewing on Greenies can reduce teething pain by keeping gums occupied and preventing destructive chewing behaviors caused by discomfort.
  • Rotate with Teething Toys: To maximize relief, alternate Greenies with soft teething toys, giving your puppy a variety of textures to chew on and further alleviate discomfort.
Teething ReliefWhy It Works💡 Teething Relief Tip
Massages sore gumsEases teething discomfortOffer Greenies during active chewing times. 🦷
Soft textureSafe for sensitive teethUse only Puppy Greenies for teething pups. 🍼
Alternating optionsProvides varied reliefInclude teething toys for full gum support. 🧸

Comment 11: “Do Greenies have nutritional benefits besides dental care?”

Yes, Greenies offer additional nutritional benefits beyond dental care:

  • Vitamins and Minerals: Greenies contain added vitamins and minerals like calcium and zinc, which support bone and immune health in puppies. This makes them a beneficial supplement for growing dogs.
  • Low-Calorie Formula: Greenies are formulated to be low in calories, making them a healthier treat option compared to high-fat snacks. This supports weight management while still providing dental benefits.
  • Protein Content: Greenies provide a small amount of protein, which is essential for muscle development and growth in puppies. However, it’s important to remember that they should not replace regular meals and should be considered a supplement.
Nutritional BenefitHow It Helps💡 Feeding Tip
Added vitamins and mineralsSupports bone and immune healthUse as a daily supplement for growth. 🦴
Low-calorie contentAids in weight managementIdeal for training rewards without excess calories. 🏋️
Protein presenceAssists in muscle developmentIncorporate into balanced diet. 🍖

Comment 12: “Can Greenies help prevent gum disease in puppies?”

Yes, regular use of Greenies can help reduce the risk of gum disease in puppies:

  • Removes Plaque Buildup: By mechanically removing plaque, Greenies reduce the risk of gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease that can progress if left untreated.
  • Freshens Breath: As Greenies reduce plaque and tartar, they help prevent the bacterial growth that can lead to bad breath, a common sign of gum disease.
  • Promotes Gum Health: The chewing action also promotes increased blood circulation in the gums, contributing to healthier, stronger gums over time.
Gum Disease PreventionWhy It’s Effective💡 Gum Health Tip
Plaque removalLowers gingivitis riskUse daily to maintain clean gums. 🦷
Freshens breathReduces bacteria build-upCheck puppy’s breath regularly for changes. 👃
Promotes circulationStrengthens gumsCombine with regular tooth brushing. 🪥

Comment 13: “Are Greenies safe for puppies with sensitive teeth?”

Yes, Puppy Greenies are designed to be gentler for puppies with sensitive teeth:

  • Softer Texture: Puppy Greenies are softer than the adult versions, making them easier to chew and less likely to cause discomfort for puppies with sensitive or emerging teeth.
  • Mild Chewing Resistance: The chewability of Puppy Greenies is carefully formulated to provide just enough resistance to clean teeth without causing pain, making them safe for puppies with sensitive gums.
  • Monitor Chewing Behavior: If your puppy shows signs of discomfort while chewing, consider breaking the Greenies into smaller pieces or trying other softer dental treats designed for sensitive mouths.
Sensitive Teeth SafetyWhy It’s Safe💡 Sensitivity Care Tip
Softer textureEasier on emerging teethChoose Puppy Greenies for tender gums. 🍼
Mild resistanceReduces pain during chewingBreak into smaller pieces if needed. 🧩
Watch for discomfortEnsures safe useSwitch to softer treats if pain persists. 🌿

Comment 14: “Can puppies under 6 months have Greenies?”

No, Greenies are not recommended for puppies under 6 months old:

  • Risk of Choking: Younger puppies typically lack the jaw strength and dental development needed to chew Greenies properly, increasing the risk of choking or swallowing large pieces.
  • Digestive Immaturity: Puppies under 6 months may also have less mature digestive systems, making it harder for them to process the ingredients in Greenies safely.
  • Safe Alternatives: For younger puppies, consider using softer dental chews or teething toys that are specifically designed for puppies under 6 months.
Under 6 Months ConcernWhy It’s Not Recommended💡 Alternative Tip
Choking riskImmature chewing capabilityUse teething toys or softer chews. 🧸
Digestive immaturityHarder to process ingredientsWait until 6 months before introducing Greenies. 🗓️
Alternative optionsSafer for young pupsTry puppy teething rings for early dental care. 🦷

Comment 15: “Can I give Greenies to my puppy as a reward during training?”

Yes, Greenies can be used as a reward during training, but there are some guidelines to consider:

  • Break Into Smaller Pieces: Greenies can be quite large for puppies, so it’s best to break them into smaller pieces to make them suitable for training rewards. This allows you to maintain consistency in training without overfeeding.
  • Use Sparingly: Due to their nutritional content, Greenies should be given in moderation during training sessions. Consider them a special reward for longer or more challenging training tasks, rather than for quick commands.
  • Alternative Training Treats: For shorter training sessions, use smaller, low-calorie treats that allow for more frequent rewards without compromising daily calorie intake. Reserve Greenies for end-of-session rewards or as a dental supplement.
Training UseHow It’s Effective💡 Training Tip
Break into piecesMakes it manageableUse smaller pieces to maintain consistency. 🧩
Use sparinglyAvoids overfeedingSave Greenies for complex commands or milestones. 🎯
Combine with other treatsAllows frequent rewardsMix Greenies with low-calorie treats during sessions. 🏋️

Comment 16: “Are there any risks of Greenies causing tooth damage in puppies?”

The risk of Greenies causing tooth damage in puppies is low, especially when the Puppy version is used:

  • Soft Texture for Safety: Puppy Greenies are designed with a softer texture, making them safe for young, sensitive teeth. The softer material minimizes the risk of chipping or breaking delicate puppy teeth.
  • Proper Size Selection: Ensure you’re giving the correct size Greenies based on your puppy’s weight. This helps avoid excessive chewing pressure, which could potentially damage teeth.
  • Monitor for Aggressive Chewing: If your puppy tends to chew aggressively, it’s important to supervise them closely. In such cases, providing softer dental alternatives or chew toys may be safer.
Tooth Damage RiskWhy It’s Low💡 Tooth Safety Tip
Soft textureGentle on developing teethUse Puppy Greenies only. 🍼
Correct sizeReduces chewing pressureChoose size based on weight guidelines. ⚖️
Watch for aggressive chewingPrevents tooth strainSwitch to softer alternatives if needed. 🌿

Comment 17: “Can Greenies cause vomiting in puppies?”

Yes, Greenies can occasionally cause vomiting in puppies, particularly if they are not chewed thoroughly or if given in large amounts:

  • Chewing is Essential: Puppies must chew Greenies thoroughly to ensure proper digestion. If a puppy swallows large pieces, it can lead to vomiting or digestive upset as the body tries to break down the treat.
  • Overconsumption Risks: Giving too many Greenies in a short period can also overwhelm the puppy’s digestive system, leading to vomiting.
  • Start Slowly: To prevent vomiting, start by giving smaller portions of the treat and ensure your puppy chews it adequately before swallowing.
Vomiting RiskWhy It Happens💡 Vomiting Prevention Tip
Inadequate chewingLeads to digestive upsetEnsure puppy chews treat thoroughly. 🦷
OverconsumptionToo much too soonLimit to one Greenies treat per day. 📅
Start with small portionsEases digestionIntroduce gradually to monitor tolerance. ⏳

Comment 18: “Do Greenies help with puppy teething symptoms like drooling?”

Greenies can help manage some teething symptoms like drooling by providing a safe, chewable outlet:

  • Chewing Stimulates Saliva: The act of chewing stimulates saliva production, which can temporarily increase drooling. However, this is generally a positive response as saliva helps maintain oral health.
  • Eases Gum Pain: Chewing on Greenies can help soothe sore gums during teething, reducing overall discomfort and potentially decreasing excessive drooling as the gums become more comfortable.
  • Monitor for Excessive Drooling: If drooling seems excessive or persists beyond normal teething, it’s important to check for other potential issues like oral irritation or foreign objects.
Teething Symptom ReliefWhy It Works💡 Teething Tip
Stimulates salivaPromotes oral healthEncourage chewing during teething phases. 🦷
Soothes gumsReduces discomfortUse alongside teething toys for relief. 🧸
Watch for excess droolingIndicates potential issuesConsult vet if drooling persists. 🩺

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