Dogs need both mental stimulation and physical exercise to stay healthy and happy. Providing them with safe objects or foods to chew on is an excellent way to keep them occupied and satisfy their natural chewing instincts.
While high-quality commercial dry dog food meets their long-term nutritional needs, it often makes for quick mealtimes. That’s why many owners opt for long-lasting chew treats for their dogs.
The Popularity of “Natural” Style Treats
“Natural” style treats have gained popularity among pet owners. These treats include items such as rawhide, tough jerky-style treats, pig’s ears, deer antlers, and cow hooves.
Long-lasting food treats, puzzle toys, and chew toys offer several benefits, such as:
- Helping to keep your pet’s teeth clean.
- Keeping your pet mentally and physically engaged.
- Satisfying your pet’s natural urge to chew, reducing damage to household items (especially important for puppies).
- Distracting your pet when you’re about to leave the house, helping to minimize separation anxiety.
But are long-lasting chews safe for your pet?
The Safety of Long-Lasting Chews
Deer antlers and cow hooves are popular choices for “tough chewers” due to their durability. However, veterinarians frequently encounter pets with broken teeth resulting from chewing on these harder treats. Broken teeth are painful and may require tooth extraction and surgical treatment.
Just like any raw meat products, rawhide and tough jerky-style treats can be contaminated with harmful bacteria. This can potentially make pets and the humans handling them unwell.
Moreover, large jerky or rawhide treats can get lodged in the esophagus, causing pain and discomfort. Retrieving the stuck treat may require anesthesia and the use of long forceps or an endoscope. Even after removal, damage to the esophagus can lead to long-term issues.
Because of these risks, it is advisable to avoid feeding your pet treats that are too hard and don’t easily bend. Very tough and chewy treats, such as rawhide, jerky, or pig’s ears, should be avoided in pets that have a tendency to gulp or don’t chew thoroughly. It is also not recommended to offer these treats to pets with sensitive stomachs or in households where any pet or person has reduced immunity. Additionally, owners should wash their hands thoroughly after handling such treats.
Safest Long-Lasting Treats for Your Pet
For dental health, veterinarians generally recommend long-lasting dental chews that are approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council for their proven dental benefits. These treats are generally safe as long as your pet is supervised to ensure they chew the treat into small pieces before swallowing.
To keep your pet busy for longer periods, it is safest to purchase high-quality, durable toys that can be stuffed with food, such as Kongs filled with peanut butter, frozen pet food, or cream cheese. Make sure to select a toy that is appropriate for your pet’s size according to the label guidelines.
If you’re unsure which chews are safe for your pet, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian for recommendations. They can provide guidance on safe chew treats tailored to your pet’s specific needs. For more information on dental health maintenance, visit Pawsoha.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coming soon! Check back for answers to commonly asked questions about chew treats for dogs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right chew treats for your dog is essential for their overall health and well-being. While cow hooves may be popular among dog owners, it’s important to consider the potential risks they pose to your pet’s dental health and general safety. Opting for long-lasting dental chews approved by veterinarians and high-quality, durable toys will provide a safer alternative to keep your dog happy and occupied. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations based on your pet’s specific needs.