Choosing the Best Chews for Your Dog: A Complete Guide
Chewing is a natural and beneficial behavior for dogs. It helps reduce boredom, manage teething discomfort, and promotes better dental hygiene. However, not all chews are created equal. Some are safer and more suitable for your dog depending on their age, size, and chewing strength. In this article, we'll explore different types of chews and help you choose the best option for your furry friend.
Why Chewing Matters
- Dental Health: Regular chewing helps reduce plaque and tartar, promoting cleaner teeth and fresher breath.
- Mental Stimulation: Chewing keeps bored dogs entertained and mentally engaged.
- Stress Relief: Dogs often chew to relieve anxiety and frustration.
- Teething Relief: Puppies, especially between 3 to 8 months old, chew to soothe sore gums.
Popular Types of Dog Chews
1. Raw Bones
Weight-bearing raw beef bones like knuckle and marrow bones are long-lasting and help clean teeth. Softer bones from lamb, chicken, or pork may splinter and should be avoided. Always supervise and remove once chewed to a small fragment.
2. Antlers
Deer and elk antlers offer a natural and durable chew but can be extremely hard and risk cracking teeth. If used, soak in broth to soften slightly and supervise closely.
3. Bully Sticks
Made from dried bull penis, these high-protein, digestible chews suit most dogs. Available in various sizes, they rarely splinter but can be choking hazards if the dog swallows the nub. Use a bully stick holder for added safety.
4. Collagen and Beef Cheek Chews
Sourced from the lower corium layer of beef skin or beef cheeks, these chews are digestible and packed with amino acids supporting joint, coat, and skin health. Safer than rawhide, but still require supervision.
5. Tendons, Tracheas, and Other Animal Parts
Chews like tendons, beef tracheas, ears, and esophagus provide high protein, low fat, and contain joint-friendly nutrients. Softer than bones, they pose less dental risk but can still be choking hazards if not monitored.
6. Yak Cheese Chews
Hard cheese chews from yak and cow milk are durable and flavorful. They're safe for most dogs but should be taken away when chewed down to a size that could be swallowed.
7. Dental and Edible Treats
Dental chews and edible bones help clean teeth and freshen breath. Choose appropriately sized products with digestible, limited ingredients.
8. Pig and Cow Ears, Jerky, and Strips
These softer chews suit puppies, seniors, and light chewers. Cow ears are preferable over pig ears for fat content and digestibility. Always supervise use.
General Guidelines for Safe Chewing
- Supervision: Always watch your dog when introducing a new chew.
- Right Size: Choose a chew larger than your dog's mouth to prevent swallowing whole.
- Avoid Sharp Fragments: Remove chews that have broken into small or sharp pieces.
- Softer Options for Seniors: Older dogs or those with dental issues should have softer chews.
- Strong Chewers: Offer durable options like dense bones, collagen rolls, or antlers but with caution.
Nutritional Considerations
- Single-Ingredient Chews: Look for products without chemical additives or artificial flavors.
- Joint Support: Collagen, tracheas, and tendons offer cartilage-supporting benefits.
- Watch Calories: Treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Choosing the Right Product
- Assess your dog’s chewing style and strength before selecting a chew.
- Read labels to avoid artificial ingredients and unsafe chemicals.
- Consult with a veterinarian for special dietary or health conditions.
Conclusion
Chewing satisfies your dog’s physical, mental, and emotional needs. The safest options include bully sticks, beef cheeks, yak cheese, and body parts like tendons and tracheas. Choose size and hardness based on your dog’s specific needs, ensure all chews are digestible, and never leave your dog unsupervised. With the right chew, your dog can enjoy both fun and health benefits in every bite.
