Read About Chews For Dogs

Chews for dogs - What Is It?

1. Description:

   Toys that allow dogs to express their natural desires to chew and play safely can help prevent problem behaviors and improve dental health.

2. Who Needs These?

   All dogs need chew toys, although some enjoy them more than others.

3. Why Do You Need These?

   Chews help prevent boredom and keep your dog from finding other ways to occupy himself.

4. Types:

   Two basic categories of chews are "active" chews that the dog can carry around and chew, and "distraction" chews that keep a dog occupied and interested, often by concealing a treat inside.

5. Benefits:

   Providing your dog with safe, size-appropriate chews can prevent him from developing inappropriate behaviors. Chews help maintain good dental health by removing plaque and tartar from his teeth. Playing with your dog and his chews also gives him valuable interaction time with you.

Chews for dogs - Food Tips

1. Varieties:

   Some chews, such as rawhide bones, are ingestible. Others can be made of hard rubber and may include an opening that can be filled with pieces of dog food, treats, or even cheese or peanut butter. Your dog must move the toy around or chew into it to retrieve her treat.

2. Quality Choices:

   There are a variety of edible chews and treats on the market. Check with your vet before giving your dog "human" treats, such as peanut butter or cheese.

3. How to Use:

   Allow your dog a few hours of chew time regularly. Always make sure she has fresh water available.

Chews for dogs - Concerns

1. Safety Issues:

   Always be sure the chew is appropriate for your dog's size, approximately twice the size of your dog's mouth. Chews which are too small could get lodged in his throat. Be sure to check the chews often for signs of wear, and replace as needed.

2. Behavioral Issues:

   Allowing your dog an appropriate outlet to chew can prevent destructive behavioral problems.

3. Health Issues:

   If your dog has dietary issues, consult your vet before giving her any ingestible chew, such as rawhide or a pig's ear.

4. Convenience:

   Although some basted rawhide chews may stain when they become wet, most dog chews make convenient toys.

5. Expense:

   Chews come in a wide variety of price ranges, from under a dollar to thirty dollars or more, depending on the type and size.

Chews for dogs - How to Choose

1. Main Considerations:

   Safety is the main concern with dog chews. Be certain the size of the chew is appropriate for your dog. Check the chew frequently to be sure there are no loose pieces or small chunks that could break off and become a choking hazard. Take care with chews that have a "squeak" inside; some dogs may treat it as prey and try to kill it.

2. Other Items You Might Need With This:

   Be sure your dog always has plenty of fresh water available when she is playing with a chew.