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.
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.