The Ultimate Guide to Safe Dog Chews: What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs—it helps keep their teeth clean, provides mental stimulation, and satisfies their instinctual need to gnaw. If you have a dog that is chewing up your furniture or favorite shoes, it might be because they don’t have their chewing needs met. But not all dog chews are created equal, and some can pose serious risks to your pup’s health. As a responsible Bay Area dog owner, it’s important to choose safe and appropriate chews that suit your dog’s size, age, and chewing habits.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the safest dog chews, potential hazards to avoid, and tips for making the best choice for your furry friend.

Why Chews Are Important for Dogs

Chews do more than just keep your dog entertained—they offer several benefits, including:

• Dental Health: Chewing helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup, promoting healthier teeth and gums.

• Stress Relief: Gnawing on a chew can help alleviate boredom, anxiety, and stress.

• Behavioral Redirection: Providing appropriate chews can prevent destructive chewing on furniture, shoes, or other household items.

What to Look for in a Safe Dog Chew

When selecting a dog chew, consider the following factors:

1. Durability: Choose chews that are tough enough to last but not so hard that they can break your dog’s teeth.

2. Size: The chew should be appropriately sized for your dog—too small, and it could be a choking hazard; too large, and it might be difficult to handle.

3. Ingredients: Opt for natural, non-toxic ingredients. Avoid chews with artificial additives, chemicals, or excessive sugar.

4. Digestibility: Ensure the chew is safe to swallow in small pieces and won’t cause blockages in your dog’s digestive system. Also make sure that the pieces are not sharp when they are broken off, as that can damage your dog’s intestines and esophagus.

The Safest Dog Chews

Here are some tried-and-true options that are safe for most dogs:

1. Bully Sticks

• Pros: Made from natural beef muscle, bully sticks are fully digestible and high in protein.

• Cons: They can be expensive, your dog may chew through it quickly, and they may have a strong odor.

Make sure if you are providing your dog with bully sticks, that you do so with a bully stick holder, so your dog doesn’t swallow it!

2. Antlers (Split or Whole)

• Pros: Long-lasting and natural, antlers are a great option for heavy chewers.

• Cons: They can be too hard for some dogs, increasing the risk of tooth fractures. Opt for split antlers for easier chewing.

3. Dental Chews

• Pros: Designed to improve dental health, these chews often have added benefits like freshening breath.

• Cons: Are very quickly eaten by aggressive chewers.

4. Rawhide Alternatives

• Pros: Safer than traditional rawhide, these chews are made from natural ingredients like peanut butter or sweet potato.

• Cons: They may not last as long for an aggressive chewer.

5. Himalayan Yak Chews

• Pros: Made from yak and cow milk, these hard chews are natural, digestible, and long-lasting.

• Cons: They can become hard enough to chip teeth, and when pieces break off they can be sharp—soak in water and microwave for a softer treat as they wear down.

6. Frozen Carrots or Apples

• Pros: A healthy, inexpensive option that’s great for teething puppies or dogs who love a crunchy texture.

• Cons: Not as long-lasting as other chews.

7. Hard Plastic Chews

• Pros: Can be long-lasting for aggressive chewers

• Cons: Some dogs don’t enjoy them because they are so hard to break down; for dogs who can break them down, they can become sharp.

Chews to Avoid

Some chews may seem harmless but can pose significant risks:

• Cooked Bones: These can splinter and cause internal injuries or blockages,

• Rawhide: Traditional rawhide is difficult to digest and can pose a choking hazard.

Tips for Safe Chewing

1. Supervise Your Dog

Always keep an eye on your dog while they’re enjoying a chew to prevent choking or accidental ingestion of large pieces, and so you can get a better understanding of what chews might be safest for them.

2. Replace Worn Chews

Once a chew becomes small enough to be swallowed whole, replace it with a new one.

3. Choose Size and Age-Appropriate Chews

Puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs have different chewing needs. Soft chews are better for puppies and older dogs, while tougher options work well for adults. For aggressive chewers or dogs with a tendency to swallow things, choosing chews that are larger can help them be safer.

4. Consult Your Veterinarian

If you’re unsure about a particular chew, consult your vet for recommendations based on your dog’s breed, size, and dental health.

Final Thoughts

Providing your dog with safe, appropriate chews is a great way to keep them happy, healthy, and mentally stimulated. By understanding your dog’s chewing habits and selecting high-quality chews, you can ensure their safety and well-being.

Need help choosing the right chew or managing destructive chewing behavior? If you’re in the Bay Area, I can help! My personalized dog training services can help manage destructive dog behavior.

Contact me today to schedule a free consultation. Let’s keep your dog happy and your furniture intact!