Gnawing a bone is a dog's favorite hobby. It's not only mentally stimulating, chewing can also be beneficial for their dental health. If you're planning on doing some Christmas shopping for your best friend it's worth first considering what type of chewer your dog is to select the appropriate gift.
Dogs who are adamant chewers intent on destruction should be watched carefully to ensure that they do not break teeth or ingest large pieces of items. Himalayan Dog Chews, Super indestructible Kongs, Tennis Balls and Rope Toys are often better choices. If giving hard items like antlers or bones be sure to supervise carefully. Casual chewers that don't exert too much biting force can enjoy harder items like deer antlers.
With most treats, caution is important to avoid stomach obstructions or expensive trips to the veterinarian to take care of broken teeth. Here's a rundown of common treats and why they may or may not be good choices for your dog:
THE NICE LIST:
ANTLERS: They're natural, last for weeks with the average chewer and are one of the most beneficial treats you can give for dental hygiene. Some antlers are cut to expose the interior and these generally get consumed quicker. I prefer buying pieces a couple sizes up than the recommendation; you spend a little more and it lasts much longer, plus it's less likely your dog will ingest large pieces because they don't splinter as easily as bones.
BULLY STICKS: They have an eye-rolling origin (they're the reproductive parts of bulls), but dogs love them. They usually last less than an hour and are less than a couple of dollars. They are non-staining which is a plus. I wouldn't recommend these for vigorous chewers.
CHICKEN JERKY MADE IN THE USA ONLY: Made of dehydrated chicken, they almost all protein so they are nutritious. However, check the label to ensure that the product is made in the USA. (As a bonus, you're helping our economy!) A good source is Konas Chips.
HIMALAYAN DOG CHEWS: These are basically a hard cheese, which is natural but potentially high in calories if your dog is an avid chewer and is likely to consume them quickly. However, these are a good choice for the casual chewer. Himalayan Dog Chews are non-staining and have little smell. Microwave small pieces to create a puffy treat rather than letting your dog swallow it whole.
KONGS: For most dogs these last forever. However, they're not all that interesting unless you stuff them with something. And please, not cheese or peanut butter. (Feed Your Best Friend Better) has many alternatives that are more nutritious.
MARROW BONES: Good for the average chewer, these last longer than smoked bones and are generally inexpensive. It seems like most dogs I know are initially excited about these bones but quickly grow bored with them.
TENNIS BALLS: Nothing would make the Labrador on your list happier than a bag of tennis balls. They last forever, and can go in the wash periodically to clean them.
THE GRAY AREA:
GREENIES: I'm on the fence about these treats. They're fortified with vitamins and minerals, but your dog's food already has that covered. There are a lot of different ingredients including rice and wheat flour so they may not be good for dogs with dietary sensitivities. They're low in calories but also quick to consume. I don't think they last long enough to benefit your dog's dental health.
THE NAUGHTY LIST:
CHICKEN JERKY TREATS FROM CHINA: Just because they haven't been recalled doesn't mean treats made in China are safe. Too many dogs have fallen ill because of these treats.
COW HOOVES: Although dogs love them, these treats are really hard, they smell really bad and I've stepped on them more than once in the middle of the night and had quite a surprise. Cow Hooves are prone to splintering which creates sharp edges that can cut your dog's gums as well as their insides.
RAWHIDES: There's little nutritional advantage, they tend to get gross and slimy and there's a danger of dogs ingesting large pieces that can cause digestive problems serious enough to
SMOKED BONES: I might buy these as a birthday present for our dog, but it's strictly a once a year treat that has to be consumed outside. Not good for this time of year if you want to keep your rugs suitable for company because they stain.
My best wishes to you and your pups for a safe and happy holiday season.
P.S. Amazon.com has Feed Your Best Friend Better available for less than $12.00 right now - it makes a great stocking stuffer for dog owners on your Christmas list!
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