Best Chew Toys For Dogs

Dogs have a natural instinct to chew, and it serves several important purposes for them. Here are some reasons why chewing is good for dogs

Dental Health: Chewing helps maintain good dental hygiene for dogs. It stimulates saliva production, which can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth. Chewing on appropriate items can also help exercise their jaw muscles and promote healthy gums.

Teething: Puppies, in particular, chew to alleviate the discomfort of teething. Just like human babies, puppies go through a stage where their baby teeth are replaced by adult teeth. Chewing provides relief from the teething pain and helps the new teeth come in properly.

Exploration and Play: Dogs use their mouths to explore the world around them. Chewing allows them to investigate objects, textures, and scents. It's also a form of play for dogs, keeping them mentally stimulated and engaged.

Stress Relief: Chewing can help dogs relieve stress and anxiety. Similar to how humans might chew on a pen or their nails when feeling tense, dogs may turn to chewing as a way to alleviate anxiety or boredom. It can provide them with a sense of comfort and security.

Exercise and Energy Release: Chewing is a natural outlet for a dog's energy. It can serve as a form of physical exercise, especially when it involves interactive toys or games that require them to work their jaws and engage their muscles.

It's important to provide appropriate chew toys and outlets for your dog's chewing instincts. By offering them a variety of safe and durable chew toys, you can help satisfy their need to chew while protecting your belongings from unwanted chewing behavior. If you have concerns about your dog's chewing habits or need recommendations for suitable chew toys, consulting with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer can be helpful.

Chew toy options

Warning: DOGS NEED SUPERVISION WHEN CHEWING FOR SAFETY AND SOME CHEW TOYS ARE SAFER THAN OTHERS. Avoid chews that are too hard (your dog could bread a tooth) or ones that could be accidentally swallowed that the dog is unable to digest (causing a blockage). One example is dogs love to chew plastics that make a sound when crunched (a plastic water bottle or container) however when these things are chewed they can result in your dog chewing on very sharp edges or swallowing that same item and the plastic causing damage to the insides of your dog.

AVOID these:

• Hard bones and especially cooked bones as those can splinter
• Animal antlers
• Nylon chew toys
• Any household plastics

Better chews:

Rubber Chew Toys: These toys are typically made of durable rubber and come in various shapes and sizes. They are designed to withstand chewing and provide a satisfying texture for dogs to gnaw on.

Rope Toys: Rope toys are made of woven strands of rope and can be great for dogs that enjoy chewing and tugging. They often provide a satisfying texture and can help clean your dog's teeth as they chew.

Plush Toys with Chew Guard: Plush toys with reinforced seams or chew guard technology are designed for dogs who enjoy gentle chewing or carrying soft objects. They are typically made with stronger materials to withstand some chewing but may not be suitable for heavy chewers.

Treat Dispensing Toys: These toys are designed to hold treats inside, encouraging dogs to chew and play to access the hidden rewards. They can provide mental stimulation and keep dogs engaged for longer periods.

Natural digestible chews: These are either cooked/dried parts or other animals or there are some made of cheese (Himalayan cheese chew). Some examples are bully sticks which are from beef pizzle (penis), beef gullet which is from beef (esophagus), and beef (trachea), or other. Make sure to review the ingredients list and avoid unnatural colorings, additives or chemicals. Make sure to supervise your dog and take the chew away if the size of the piece becomes a choking hazard.

Remember to choose chew toys that are appropriate for your dog's size, age, and chewing habits. It's also essential to supervise your dog during playtime and regularly inspect the toys for signs of wear or damage. If you have any concerns or specific questions about chew toys for your dog, consulting with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer can provide valuable guidance.