If you’re a dog owner, you are probably aware that your pet loves to chew. Whether it’s the sofa’s legs, your slippers or a stuffed toy, your doggy spends his day gnawing on all kinds of things. Even though this might cause damage to some of your possessions, it simply part of being a dog. And it’s quite an important part too. You see, chewing allows dogs to exercise their jaws and clean their teeth, and also helps lessen feelings of boredom and anxiety.
Since it’s inevitable that your doggy will chew on things, you can at least try to give it something healthy and safe to use. Unless you do so, your dog will always find its own solution which can sometimes end up being an expensive pair of shoes or even worse, an electric cord! With that being said, having a variety of dog chews around can help fulfil your pet’s natural need to gnaw on things. However, with so many types of chews to choose from, it can be hard to decide. In order to pick the right ones for your doggy, here’s what you need to know.
Edible Chews
Edible dog chews are usually considered the safest choice as they can be digested and are not too hard on the teeth. This makes them the best choice for aggressive chewers who like to swallow things. What’s more, many of these chews, like for instance dental stick, can also help minimize and prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Obviously, these chews won’t last very long, so you either need to stock up on them or also get non-edible toys to ensure your dog stays provided. When it comes to edible chews, it’s important to be aware that they can add a significant amount of calories to a dog’s main diet. So, if your dog is overweight, it’s best to stick to non-edible chews. Speaking of which…
Non-Edible Chews
Non-edible chews should be appropriate for your dog’s size and breed. It’s important to pick a big enough chew that your dog won’t be able to swallow or choke on it. With that being said, large dogs shouldn’t be given chews meant for a puppy. Additionally, you also need to be sure that the toy doesn’t have any sharp edges or detachable parts that can break off and present a choking hazard. If you buy wooden chews, make sure that they are properly sealed and won’t splinter. Generally, hard rubber toys are considered safer and more lasting than those made of vinyl or latex since dogs cannot tear them apart that easily.
