To Chew or Not To Chew

If you have ever raised a puppy, then you’ve probably lost a shoe or slipper or even furniture due to puppy chewing. Chewing is a very natural behaviour for dogs of all ages, and it helps them relieve stress, anxiety and boredom. For puppies, it also helps soothe their sore gums during teething. Since chewing is so important for dogs, why not give them some good and safe chew toys to play with, and keep your possessions safe? Let’s take a look at some different kinds of chew toys that may be suitable for your dog.

Different chew toys for different chewers.

Gentle toys for teething

Puppies get their baby teeth at around 2 weeks old, and then at 3-4 months old they start to fall out and are replaced with adult teeth. This teething process can be uncomfortable, so soft chew toys can be used to help relieve pain. Kong Puppy Teething sticks and Nylabone Puppy Teething toys are a couple of options, and their soft rubber is specifically designed for puppy teeth. The ridges even help to clean their teeth. To further soothe sore gums, chew toys can be frozen before given to puppies.

Durable toys for tough chewers 

Some dogs may be gentle chewers, but others can have really strong teeth! Choosing the right strength of chew toys is important so that your dog does not destroy the toy and accidentally ingest part of it. Kong toys have varying levels of toughness, and their most durable one is the Kong Extreme. Many West Paw toys are also made for tough chewers, including the Rumpus Chew Toy and Jive Dog Ball. These toys are durable enough to withstand heavy chewing, but not too hard that they risk injuring your dog’s teeth and jaw. They can withstand long term use and remain safe for your dog. 

Toys for playing

If your dog loves to play games like fetch or tug-of-war, you can choose a toy that’s safe for them to chew and great for games! Skamp by West Paw bounces on land and floats in water, so it’s perfect for a dog who loves to chase toys. For tug-of-war, the Bumi toy is suitable for you and your dog to play together, or for two dogs to tug with each other. Some dogs may also enjoy rope toys, but always supervise them during play to make sure they don’t eat any strands of the rope.

Puzzle chew toys

For quieter entertainment, puzzle chew toys are able to provide your dog with much needed enrichment. These toys, like the Toppl and Qwizl, can be stuffed with food. Your dog can enjoy chewing on the toy while working out their brain and getting a tasty treat! 

Edible chews

Natural edible chews are rich in ingredients and free from additives, preservatives, and other chemicals. They can also help maintain dental hygiene of your dog.   Bully sticks are one of the most popular ones, as they are made from natural ingredients. Tendons are another good choice, and provide nutrition as well as being a delicious treat. Beef tracheas or “moo tubes” are contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which is great for joints. For the more extreme chewers, Himalayan Yak Chews are a great natural treat, as they are known for their durability, and are high in protein but low in salt and fat content. For safety, remove edible chews when they become small enough to swallow whole.

When choosing a chew toy for your dog, pay attention to whether the materials meet safety regulations. Also remember to check them regularly to make sure they are not damaged. Always supervise your dog when they are playing with chew toys, and choose the right size to avoid choking hazards.

Chewing is a very important activity for dogs, so we want to direct their chewing to the appropriate items. Choosing a fun chew toy for them will help them learn to chew responsibly and safely!