What Makes a Safe Chew Toy for Your Dog?

Chew On This! As a pet owner we want to ensure that our dogs are having fun and are safe while doing so. One such topic that many overlook is chew toys and bones. What is good, what is bad? There are just so many options these days. Don’t be fooled into thinking that just because your local pet shop is selling it there are no risks. It is up to you, as the “parent” to research what is best for your dog and monitor them while they play.

Below is a list of things to keep in mind while shopping for safe chews and toys:

• Chewing is an extremely satisfying action for your dogs. It relaxes them, assists in the elimination of plaque on their teeth and diverts their attention from getting into mischief. Chewing is natural but in what they chew is important.
• Rawhide chews are quite popular and many dogs enjoy these items. However, there are some things to keep in mind when you’re selecting these. Go for the rolled rawhide vs the ones with the knot. The knot can present as a choking hazard. Discard the chew when it gets too small for your dog. They can swallow it and choke. Larger pieces of the chew can cause internal organ damage before it’s even digested. Monitor your pet while they chew to ensure they are not gobbling it down.
• Nylabones are a great choice as they tend to be quite durable. In fact, so is the Roxxter Treat Chamber from For Tails Only by Taylor Rivera.  Again make sure your pet has a size appropriate for their own size. Don’t allow a large dog to chew on a small bone as it can cause choking.
• Watch out for the breeds with the short muzzles. Pugs and Bulldogs can chew their chew toys too quickly and the fragments can become lodged in the back of their throats presenting a choking hazard.

Always supervise your pets while they play and discuss your dogs options for chews with your vet!