Chewing is more than just a favorite pastime for dogs—it’s a fundamental activity for their overall health and well-being. Beyond keeping your pup happily occupied, the right chew can promote oral health, reduce stress, provide mental stimulation and even provide nutritional benefits. But not all chews are created equal.
In this guide, we’ll explore four popular options: bully sticks, collagen sticks, yak cheese chews, and split antlers, and help you make informed choices for your furry friend.
Why Chewing is Essential for Dogs
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, serving several purposes:
- Dental Health: Chewing helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup, which can prevent gum disease and bad breath.
- Mental Stimulation: A good chew session keeps dogs mentally engaged and reduces boredom-related (unwanted) behaviors.
- Stress Relief: Chewing releases endorphins, helping dogs relax and self-soothe.
Incorporating safe, appropriate chews into your dog’s routine can support both physical and mental health.
How to Choose the Right Chew for Your Dog
- Size Matters: Always select chews appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing strength. Larger dogs may need thicker, more durable chews, while smaller dogs benefit from softer or smaller options.
- Supervision is Key: Monitor chew sessions to prevent accidents or choking and utilize a safety device like the Bow Wow Buddy for added security.
- Know Your Dog: Aggressive chewers may require more durable options, while puppies may need softer chews that are gentler on their developing teeth.
Exploring Popular Chew Options
1. Bully Sticks
- What Are They? Made from dried beef pizzle, bully sticks are highly digestible and protein-rich.
- Benefits: Great for dental health, long-lasting, and easy on the stomach. They also help satisfy a dog’s natural instinct to chew.
- Best For: Puppies and adult dogs of all sizes. They come in a variety of thicknesses and lengths to suit different needs.
- Safety Tip: Choose appropriately sized bully sticks to prevent choking, and always supervise chew time. Discard the stick when it becomes small enough to be swallowed whole.
2. Collagen Sticks
- What Are They? Derived from the inner layer of beef skin (not to be confused with rawhide), collagen sticks are nutrient-dense and fully digestible.
- Benefits: Support joint health, improve skin elasticity, and promote strong nails. Collagen also contributes to healthier coats and aids in the repair of connective tissues.
- Best For: Dogs needing extra joint support or those considered moderate chewers. Collagen sticks can be a great addition to your pup’s chew rotation.
- Safety Tip: Opt for high-quality, single-ingredient collagen sticks to avoid unnecessary additives.
3. Yak Cheese Chews
- What Are They? Made from hardened yak and cow milk, salt, and lime juice, these chews are natural, long-lasting, and free from artificial ingredients.
- Benefits: Rich in protein and calcium, yak cheese chews are low in fat and highly digestible. They’re also a great option for dogs sensitive to beef-based chews.
- Best For: Dogs who are moderate to heavy chewers. These chews keep dogs engaged for extended periods.
- Safety Tip: Once the chew gets too small, pop it in the microwave for 30-45 seconds to turn it into a puffy, crunchy treat. This allows you to avoid a potential choking hazard while also utilizing every aspect of the chew.
4. Split Antlers
- What Are They? Naturally shed deer or elk antlers that have been split to expose the marrow. These are harvested humanely, making them an ethical choice for pet parents.
- Benefits: Packed with calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals, they are long-lasting and odor-free. Split antlers allow dogs to access the nutrient-rich marrow inside, which provides additional health benefits.
- Best For: Experienced chewers and dogs who need extra chewing time. They are particularly good for dogs who enjoy gnawing.
- Safety Tip: Choose split antlers over whole ones to reduce the risk of dental fractures. Always supervise chew sessions and discard antlers once they become too small or sharp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selecting Chews
- Choosing the Wrong Size: Selecting a chew that is too small or too large can lead to choking or frustration.
- Overlooking Ingredients: Treats and chews with artificial colors, sweeteners, or fillers can negatively impact your dog’s health over time. Always read the label carefully.
- Ignoring Chew Type: Dogs have different chewing styles. Giving a soft chew to an aggressive chewer may lead to a shortened chew duration as they consume it too quickly.
- Not Rotating Chews: Dogs thrive on variety. Rotating between different chews can prevent boredom and provide a broader range of nutrients.
Chewing is more than just a fun activity for dogs—it’s a vital part of their physical and emotional health. By choosing safe, high-quality chews like bully sticks, collagen sticks, yak cheese chews, and split antlers, you can ensure your furry friend stays happy, healthy, and satisfied.
Remember, supervision is key when giving any chew, and always consider your dog’s size, chewing style, and individual needs. A little thoughtfulness in selecting the right chew can go a long way in supporting your dog’s overall well-being.
Johnna Devereaux is a Clinical Pet Nutritionist, canine wellness expert and Chief Nutrition Officer for Bow Wow Labs.
* This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical or veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon or perceived as specific medical or veterinary advice.
**The points of view expressed above are those of our clinical nutritionist and are supported by science, her education and experience. We are committed to providing the best, most straightforward, and most helpful information possible to help keep your dog happy, healthy and safe.
