Dogs have a natural instinct to chew. This innate behavior serves multiple purposes, from relieving teething pain in puppies to maintaining dental hygiene and combating boredom and anxiety in adult dogs. As responsible pet owners, understanding what constitutes safe and beneficial chewing options is crucial. This guide delves into the world of Healthy Things For Dogs To Chew On, helping you navigate the options to find the best choices for your canine companion.
Providing your dog with appropriate chew items is more than just a way to keep them occupied; it’s an integral part of their physical and mental well-being. Chewing can help strengthen jaw muscles, reduce plaque and tartar buildup, and offer a healthy outlet for pent-up energy or stress. However, not all chews are created equal, and some can pose significant health risks if not chosen carefully. Understanding your dog’s individual chewing habits and preferences is the first step in selecting safe and satisfying chewables.
Understanding Your Dog’s Chewing Style and Preferences
Every dog is unique, and their chewing habits reflect their personality, breed, age, and even dental health. For instance, a robust Boxer might be an enthusiastic and aggressive chewer, while a smaller Shih Tzu may have a gentler approach. This variation is a key factor in determining the suitability of different chew types. What works well for one dog could be problematic for another.
Furthermore, a dog’s chewing preferences can evolve over time. The hard chews that a playful adolescent dog enjoys might become too strenuous for a senior dog experiencing dental issues. It’s essential to consider these changes and adapt the chew selection accordingly. Always observe your dog’s interaction with a new chew. If they are breaking off large pieces and attempting to swallow them whole, it could lead to dangerous situations like choking or an intestinal blockage. Consulting with a veterinarian is always a wise step if you have any doubts about a chew’s safety for your specific dog. You can find local veterinary services through pet care center listings.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Edible Dog Chews
When selecting edible chews for your dog, prioritize safety and suitability by looking for the following qualities:
- Hardness: Chews that are excessively hard can cause dental fractures or damage your dog’s gums. The ideal chew should offer resistance but not be so rigid that it risks dental injury.
- Durability: A good chew should be robust enough to withstand your dog’s chewing action for a reasonable amount of time. If a chew is too soft, it can break apart easily, leading to pieces that are swallowed whole, which presents a choking hazard and potential for digestive issues.
- Longevity: Edible chews that last longer provide sustained engagement for your dog, helping to combat boredom more effectively and offering greater value.
- Size: It is crucial to choose chews that are appropriately sized for your dog. A chew that is too small can be a choking hazard, as your dog might be able to swallow it entirely. Opt for chews that are large enough to prevent this risk.
- Ingredients: Opt for limited, natural ingredients whenever possible. Avoid chews with artificial flavorings, dyes, or coatings that could potentially cause stomach upset or allergic reactions. Understanding what goes into your dog’s treats contributes to their overall health.
Remember, if you have any questions or concerns regarding specific edible dog chews, your veterinarian is the best resource for expert advice. They can guide you toward the safest and most beneficial options for your dog. If an emergency arises, knowing where to find a 24 hour emergency vet is crucial.
An Otterhound puppy happily chewing on a treat in the grass.
Exploring Different Types of Edible Dog Chews
The market offers a wide array of edible dog chews, each with its own set of benefits and potential risks. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common options:
Rawhide Chews
Rawhide, derived from the inner layer of cow or horsehide, is a popular choice for many dog owners. However, its safety is highly dependent on the dog’s chewing style. Aggressive chewers can break off large pieces of rawhide, which, if swallowed, can lead to choking or intestinal blockages. Rawhide is also notoriously difficult to digest, meaning that swallowed pieces often pass through the digestive system whole, increasing the risk of obstruction. If you opt for rawhide, it’s imperative to supervise your dog closely and remove any large chunks they break off. Once the rawhide becomes small enough to be swallowed in one piece, it should be taken away.
Bully Sticks
Often referred to as pizzle sticks, bully sticks are made from a single ingredient: beef muscle. They are generally considered easily digestible, which sets them apart from rawhide. Bully sticks come in various thicknesses and lengths, and some are even braided or shaped for extended chewing. Unlike some other chews, they do not splinter. Instead, the end of the stick softens as the dog chews, acting like a natural toothbrush. While most dogs gnaw on the end, powerful chewers might break off larger pieces, posing a choking risk. To mitigate this, bully stick holders can be used to prevent dogs from consuming too much at once. As with other chews, remove the stick when it’s reduced to a size that could be swallowed.
Antlers
Antlers, sourced from animals like deer and elk, are all-natural and incredibly long-lasting due to their extreme hardness. They are available in various sizes and shapes, catering to different preferences. However, their hardness is also their primary drawback. Antlers can easily cause broken teeth or gum injuries, which can be painful and costly to treat. The greatest concern with antlers is the potential for splintering. Chipped pieces can puncture the mouth, throat, or intestines, necessitating emergency veterinary intervention. Many veterinarians advise against antlers, but if you choose to offer them, constant supervision is non-negotiable. If your dog experiences a dental emergency, locating an animal hospital of webster or a similar facility is important.
A Labrador retriever standing indoors with an antler in its mouth.
Yak Cheese Chews
A more recent addition to the market, yak cheese chews are made from hardened yak’s milk (sometimes mixed with cow’s milk), salt, and lime juice. They are low in lactose, making them generally digestible, and their hardness ensures they are long-lasting. Unlike some other animal-based chews, they have a less pungent odor. However, they still carry the risk of chunk breakage and swallowing, leading to potential choking or bowel obstructions. Their hardness also poses a risk of dental fractures. Similar to other chews, ensure the yak chew is too large to be swallowed whole and remove it once it becomes small enough to be a hazard. A clever way to utilize the smaller remaining pieces is to microwave them until they puff up, creating a crunchy treat once cooled.
Tendons and Other Animal Parts
A variety of animal parts, such as beef trachea, pig ears, and tendon chews, are marketed as edible options. The safety and digestibility vary significantly. Pig ears are sometimes coated, which can cause digestive upset. Backstrap and tendon chews are generally a safer bet, being low in fat and high in protein and collagen. Beef trachea is a softer chew that contains beneficial compounds like chondroitin and glucosamine, making it a good choice for dogs with joint issues. Fish skin chews, often shaped like bones or rolls, are a source of omega-3 fatty acids, though they can have a strong fishy smell. For comprehensive care, understanding your options for animal care veterinary hospital services is vital.
Human-Made Edible Bones
These are commercially produced edible bones, often labeled as “dental bones.” Many are designed to aid in dental cleaning. When choosing these, look for highly digestible formulas with natural ingredients. The size and shape should also be appropriate for your dog’s breed and size to ensure safety and prevent choking hazards. These can be a good option when sourced from reputable manufacturers.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety and Enjoyment
Choosing the right healthy things for dogs to chew on is a balance between providing mental stimulation and physical benefits while rigorously prioritizing safety. Always consider your dog’s individual chewing style, age, and any existing health conditions, particularly dental health. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations. By understanding the pros and cons of different chew options and supervising your dog’s chewing habits, you can ensure they enjoy safe, satisfying, and beneficial chewing experiences that contribute to their overall health and happiness.
References
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Why Dogs Chew. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/how-to-stop-chewing/
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Timeline of Puppy Teething. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/timeline-of-puppy-teething/
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). 5 Easy Ways to Keep Dogs’ Teeth Clean. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/5-easy-ways-keep-dogs-teeth-clean/
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Bored Dogs: How to Recognize Doggy Boredom and Help. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/bored-dogs-how-to-recognize-doggy-boredom-and-help/
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Treating Dog Anxiety. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/treating-dog-anxiety/
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Boxer Dog Breed Information. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/boxer/
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Shih Tzu Dog Breed Information. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/shih-tzu/
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Senior Dog Health. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/senior-dog-health/
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Bowel Obstruction in Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/bowel-obstruction-in-dogs/
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Are Rawhide Chews Dangerous for Dogs? Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/are-rawhide-chews-dangerous-for-dog/
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Are Antlers Safe for Dogs? Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/are-antlers-safe-dogs/
