Chews not only keep your pup busy and out of your hair, they also promote appropriate behaviors, oral hygiene, and improved mental health. It’s important to provide appropriate chews for your pet, and monitor their sessions to ensure they enjoy the benefits and remain safe. Read on to learn more about some things to consider when choosing the right chew for your dog.
First off, it’s important to evaluate your dog’s chew style, and what type of toys they gravitate towards. Does your pup like to chew sporadically through the day? Do they seem more interested in certain textures or flavors? Are they a slow gnawer or a dog that rips off big chunks. There are so many options to pick from, it’s helpful to know what your dog will be most interested in.
You should also consider your dog’s age, and if they have any health concerns to factor in. If your dog is older or suffers from dental issues, you may want to stick with a softer yet durable chew like a collagen roll which is gentler on the mouth. If your dog is on a diet, and watching what they eat, a non-edible chew such as a benebone might be the way to go. Maybe your dog has a sensitive stomach, in which case an antler or horn might be a good option.
Variety is also very important to keep your dog interested. When used as a form of enrichment, chews can boast wonderful mental health benefits as the act of chewing releases endorphins in your dog’s brain. But dogs can become bored when offered the same item repeatedly. Take advantage of sales on items, look for the same item in different shapes, or rotate through flavors for the optimal chewing experience.
Chew sessions should always be monitored, to ensure safety. This is especially true with regards to edible chews. You may find some chews are great for having around the house all the time, such as benebones, while others are more suitable for shorter, concentrated sessions such as bully sticks. You can also stretch one chew into multiple sessions to maximize its life and prevent gastric upset.
There are so many options, there’s bound to be a chew, or multiple, that work for your dog! If you need help finding something that suits your lifestyle, dog, and wallet please ask our team for help. We all have favorites, and have tried just about every chew with our personal pets!
