Best Long-Lasting Chews for Dogs: Top Picks for Durability and Safety
When choosing the best long-lasting chew for dogs, several factors come into play — including your dog’s size, chewing strength, and dietary needs. Long-lasting chews not only help in keeping your dog busy and mentally stimulated, but they also promote better dental health and reduce destructive behavior stemming from boredom.
Why Dogs Need Long-Lasting Chews
Chewing is a natural canine instinct that relieves stress, fights boredom, and helps clean the teeth. A good chew can also help puppies through teething stages and adult dogs to manage anxiety. However, not all chews are created equal. Choosing the right one depends on safety, longevity, and your dog’s preferences.
Top Long-Lasting Chews for Dogs
- Antlers: Deer or elk antlers are natural, dense, and long-lasting. Great for aggressive chewers, they’re low in odor and mess. However, monitor for splinters and avoid overly hard pieces that could fracture teeth.
- Raw Bones (Frozen or Cooked): Sourced from reputable brands and offered under supervision, raw bones can satisfy a dog’s urge to chew. Avoid cooked bones that splinter easily.
- KONG Extreme Toys: Made from ultra-durable rubber, this refillable toy can be packed with dog-friendly foods. It’s dishwasher-safe and nearly indestructible for strong chewers.
- Nylon Chews: Available in flavored options such as bacon or peanut butter, these synthetic chews last long and satisfy chewing instincts. Choose USDA-approved, vet-endorsed options.
- Yak Cheese Chews: A protein-packed natural snack made from hardened cow milk. These chews soften with licking and are safer and tastier alternatives to rawhide.
- Beef Tendons and Bull Horns: Tough yet digestible, these chews are protein-rich and provide a satisfying chew without posing the choking hazards of some hard bones.
What to Avoid
- Rawhide: Though common, rawhide can splinter, swell in the stomach, or cause allergic reactions.
- Poor quality plastic or rubber toys: Easily breakable and may contain toxic dyes or materials.
- Cooked bones: They become brittle and could puncture your dog’s mouth or digestive tract.
Key Factors to Consider
- Size and Breed: Bigger dogs typically need denser and larger chews while small dogs prefer chewables they can carry and chew safely.
- Chewing Intensity: Power chewers need tougher materials such as antlers or KONGs, while moderate chewers can enjoy softer natural treats.
- Dog's Diet: Consider any allergies or dietary sensitivities. Opt for grain-free or single-protein options if your dog is food-sensitive.
- Supervision: Always supervise initial use to ensure your dog doesn't break off dangerous chunks.
Benefits of Long-Lasting Chews
Good chews offer both mental and physical stimulation. Additional benefits include:
- Better dental hygiene: Scraping action helps clean teeth and control tartar.
- Anxiety relief: Chewing has a calming effect.
- Reduced unwanted behaviors: Less likelihood of chewing furniture or shoes.
- Nutritional benefits: Some chews offer added vitamins, minerals, or protein.
Tips for Introducing Chews
- Start with short sessions and observe your dog.
- Combine chews with mental stimulation like puzzle feeders.
- Rotate different types to maintain interest.
Ultimately, the best long-lasting chew for your dog depends on their individual characteristics and chewing behavior. With the right choice, you’ll keep your pet happy, healthy, and engaged.
