As devoted pet parents, we understand that dogs have an innate need to chew. This natural behavior serves multiple purposes: it alleviates discomfort during puppy teething, exercises their powerful jaw muscles, and contributes to dental hygiene by cleaning your dog’s teeth. Beyond these benefits, chewing is a fantastic way to combat doggy boredom and can be a healthy outlet for relieving anxiety or frustration. Fortunately, the market offers a wide variety of chew toys and edible dog chews to satisfy this essential need. This guide will help you navigate the options and choose the safest and most suitable edible chews for your canine companion.
Understanding Your Dog’s Chewing Style
Every dog possesses a unique chewing style, influenced by breed, age, and individual personality. For instance, a robust breed like a Boxer is more likely to be an aggressive chewer compared to a smaller breed such as a Shih Tzu. Some dogs gravitate towards harder chews, while others prefer softer options. It’s also important to note that chewing preferences can evolve as a dog ages. The durable chews enjoyed during adolescence might become too hard for a senior dog experiencing dental issues.
When selecting edible chews, consider your dog’s specific characteristics. What’s safe for one dog may not be appropriate for another. While a chew might be labeled as edible, it doesn’t automatically guarantee safety. If your dog tends to break off large pieces and swallow them whole, this can lead to serious health complications, including choking or obstructed bowel. It is crucial to supervise your dog closely when introducing any new type of chew to ensure it is a safe choice for them.
Key Features of Safe Edible Dog Chews
To make informed decisions about edible dog chews, consider the following important factors:
- Hardness: Chews that are excessively hard pose a risk of fracturing your dog’s teeth or causing damage to their gums.
- Durability: The chew should be robust enough to withstand persistent chewing. If it’s too soft, your dog may easily break off chunks, creating a choking or ingestion hazard.
- Longevity: Opt for edible dog chews that offer sustained enjoyment. These will keep your dog engaged for longer periods, providing better value.
- Size: Chews that are too small present a significant choking risk. Select edible dog chews that are appropriately sized, preventing your dog from ingesting the entire item at once.
- Ingredients: Prioritize limited, natural ingredients. Steer clear of artificial flavorings or coatings that could potentially cause digestive upset.
Always consult your veterinarian if you have any doubts or concerns regarding the suitability of a particular edible dog chew.
Otterhound puppy chewing on a treat in the grass. ©Christian Müller – stock.adobe.com
Exploring Different Types of Edible Dog Chews
Let’s delve into some of the most common types of edible dog chews available:
Rawhide
Rawhide, derived from the inner layer of cow or horsehide, is a popular chew choice. However, rawhide safety is highly dependent on the individual dog. Aggressive chewers can break off substantial pieces, which, if swallowed, can lead to choking or become lodged in the intestines.
Rawhide is also notoriously difficult to digest. Pieces tend to pass through the digestive system intact, increasing the risk of obstruction. If you opt for rawhide, prevent your dog from consuming large pieces by removing any chunks as soon as they are broken off. Once the rawhide is chewed down to a size that can be swallowed in one piece, it should be taken away from your dog.
Bully Sticks
In contrast to rawhide, bully sticks, also known as pizzle sticks, are readily digestible. These single-ingredient chews, made from beef muscle, come in various thicknesses and lengths. They are also available in braided or shaped forms for extended chewing enjoyment and do not splinter. Instead, the end of the stick softens, acting like a toothbrush as your dog gnaws on it.
While most dogs will simply gnaw the end of the bully stick, power chewers might bite through it, creating large pieces that pose a choking hazard or swallowing the entire stick. To mitigate this risk, consider using a bully stick holder, which helps prevent your dog from breaking off excessive amounts at once. Remove the bully stick once it’s chewed down to a nub, before your dog can swallow the remainder.
Antlers
Antlers are all-natural chews sourced from various animals like deer or elk. Available in diverse sizes and shapes, antlers for dogs are exceptionally long-lasting due to their hardness. However, this very hardness can also present risks. Dogs can fracture their teeth on antlers, leading to pain and costly veterinary treatment. The dense surface can also cause cuts to your dog’s gums.
A significant danger associated with antlers is the potential for shards to splinter off. These sharp fragments can puncture or become lodged in your dog’s mouth, throat, or intestines, necessitating emergency surgery. Many veterinarians advise against using antlers. If you choose to provide them, constant supervision is essential.
Labrador retriever standing indoors with an antler in its mouth. ©Valentin Gensheimer – stock.adobe.com
Yak Cheese Chews
A more recent addition to the chew market is the yak cheese chew. These dense, dried cheese blocks are made with minimal ingredients, typically yak’s milk (sometimes supplemented with cow’s milk), salt, and lime juice. With a low lactose content, they are generally well-digested by dogs and are hard enough for prolonged chewing. An added benefit is their less potent odor compared to some other animal-based chews.
Despite these advantages, yak cheese chews carry similar risks. If your dog breaks off chunks, they can swallow these pieces, leading to choking or bowel obstruction. Furthermore, their hardness, even though they are cheese, can still result in broken teeth. As with all chews, ensure the block is sized appropriately so your dog cannot consume it whole. Discard the yak chew once it becomes small enough to pose a hazard. Small leftover pieces can be microwaved briefly until puffed, then cooled and given as a crunchy treat.
Tendons and Other Animal Parts
A variety of animal parts are marketed as edible dog chews, ranging from beef trachea to pig ears. Some are safer than others. Pig ears, for example, are often coated, which can lead to stomach upset in dogs. Tendon chews, such as backstrap tendons, are generally a safer option due to their low fat content and high levels of protein and collagen.
Trachea offers a softer chew that contains chondroitin and glucosamine, making it potentially beneficial for dogs with joint issues. Fish skin chews, available in bone or roll shapes, are a good source of omega-three fatty acids, despite their distinct aroma.
Human-Made Edible Bones
A wide array of human-made edible bones are available, often referred to as dental bones. These chews are frequently designed to aid in cleaning a dog’s teeth. Look for options that are highly digestible, feature natural ingredients, and are appropriately sized and shaped for your dog’s build.
