Chewing Behaviour and Dog Chew Toys

Why do dogs chew?

Chewing is a normal predatory behaviour in dogs passed on from their wild ancestors. Unfortunately, however, it is when our beloved pooches chew on our expensive home furnishings, that this “normal” behaviour becomes socially unacceptable. Puppies and young dogs have a lot of energy with an intense desire to chew. Often, they will chew to relieve pain associated with teething. Other causes of chewing in any age dog is in response to sudden changes in routine, boredom and separation anxiety. The act of
chewing helps relieve stress. Chewing also helps to keep your dogʼs teeth and gums healthy.

Dogs chew for many reasons. It can make their gums more comfortable when they are teething, and it gives them another means of exploring their environment. That’s all good and well, but if your dog chews the wrong thing, it doesn’t win him any friends. 

One of the main reasons that dogs chew is that they are bored. If your dog falls into this category, then you’ll need to buy them something that they are actually allowed to chew on. That something should also occupy their mind and alleviate that boredom. 

When you’re choosing a chew toy for your dog, look for toys that are durable. It’s also useful if these toys are easy to clean.

Here are some things that you can let your dog chew that will keep them mentally occupied for a while.

Kong Toys: These hard rubber toys are hollow in the middle and can be filled with dog treats and smeared with soft fillings such as peanut butter. Your dog will spend hours licking and chewing on the toy to try and get at the stuffing. While they are very durable, Kongs can still be broken by the powerful jaws of large dogs, so do keep an eye on your dog as he chews.

Beef Hide Chews: Beef hide chews are a great way to keep your dog occupied. These chews come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can easily find one to suit your own dog. It’s a good idea to supervise your dog as they chew on beef hide, so they don’t choke.

Rope: A thick piece of rope is a simple toy for dogs and easy to replace when it gets destroyed. It allows you to interact with your dog as they play, as well as giving them something to gnaw on. Dogs enjoy running around with the rope, chasing it and playing tug of war, as well as just chewing on it. Rope is cheap to buy and reasonably durable. Choose a rope that is thick enough for your dog, and keep an eye on the rope to make sure it isn’t fraying or breaking. If your dog swallows any rope, it can lead to serious intestinal damage, so throw your rope in the trash when it starts to look a bit old and worn out.

Squeaky Toys: Any toy that makes a noise is good for stimulating a dog’s mind as well as their mouth. Because the squeak sounds like prey, these toys encourage their natural predatory behavior. Never leave your dog unattended with these toys; they are not very durable and are easily chewed and swallowed. 

Nylabone: These toys are made of extra-durable nylon, and are designed to resist even the most determined chewer. They are flavoured with beef or bacon, and will keep your dog occupied for quite a while. Again, as with any toy, don’t leave your dog unsupervised while he is chewing.

A good chew toy can help prevent bad behavior associated with boredom in dogs. However, all toys carry some element of risk. You can reduce this risk by choosing a toy that’s a suitable size for your dog, and supervising them as they chew. 

How to stop chewing?

Never use physical punishment to stop chewing. This will only cause more anxiety for your dog and potentially make chewing worse. A dog does not understand the difference between an old pair of shoes or a brand new pair of dress shoes. Itʼs all chew toys to them. When you are unable to supervise your pup, confine him/her to a crate, kennel or puppy-proofed area when you are away. Otherwise, giving your new pup free rein of the house is an open playground for potential dangers and chewing mayhem. It is not uncommon for unsupervised young pups to destroy carpet, furniture and clothing. The best
way to discourage chewing of inappropriate objects is to redirect the chewing to more appropriate chew toys and treats.

Edible Chew Treats

There are many yummy chew treat types. Edible dog chews are generally made from natural beef, pork and other animal products in the form of rawhides and bones. These chews are cleaned, smoked and infused with flavour for your dogʼs chewing pleasure. Rawhide is commonly fashioned into edible bones, rolls, sticks and strips. Also available are naturally preserved beef knuckles and bones that are solid or hollowed out. You can get them pre-filled with beef, cheese or peanut butter flavours or fill them on your own. These bones will keep your dog entertained and guaranteed to get your dogʼs taste buds
going as he tries to gnaw away at the tasty treat inside. At DoggieMart we also recommend the Kong Pet Company chew toy called the Kong Classic Chew Toy which can have food put inside and slowly released treats as a reward to your dog for its chewing of the toy. One a hot summers day you can even fill the toy with ice an reward your dog with a cool treat all day long.

Other Edible Chew Treats

If you want variety, you can also provide your dog with edible chew treats that are plant, vegetable, and fruit based. Many of these plant based treats are marketed as “dental bones” and “dental treats” because they contain a unique blend of plant and fruit materials designed to freshen breath, remove stains and reduce tarter.

Non-Edible Chew Treats

There are also non-edible synthetic bones that are made of tough sturdy rubber and nylon materials. These are advantageous as they are longer lasting, easier to keep clean, and reduce plaque accumulation. We recommend our USA made heavy duty plastic dog bone that is durable, easy to clean and grip and even floats in water.

Final Reminders

Please know that no matter how much your dog loves his chews, chew treats are to be given as treats only and are not a substitute for a well balanced diet. Remember to provide plenty of fresh drinking water at all times. Always supervise your dog when giving chew treats. Remove smaller chewed off pieces to minimise the risk of choking and/or intestinal blockage.