If you're a proud puppy parent you know just how important it is to keep those little balls of energy entertained and satisfied. Puppies are a bundle of joy, but they also have boundless energy and a natural urge to chew on anything and everything. That's where natural dog chews come to the rescue! In this blog, we're diving headfirst into the world of puppy safe chews – when to introduce them, the benefits they bring, and some great options to consider.
When to Introduce Natural Dog Chews
Puppies start teething around 3 to 4 months of age and continue until they're about 6 months old. During this period, their baby teeth fall out, making way for their adult teeth. This teething phase can be a challenge – just ask your favorite pair of shoes that mysteriously lost their soles or the table leg! Introducing natural dog chews during this time can provide much-needed relief to your pup's sore gums and help prevent them from gnawing on your valuables.
Benefits of Natural Dog Chews
So, why opt for natural dog chews? Well, besides saving your belongings, these chews offer a huge range of benefits for your puppy:
Dental Health
Chewing on the right kind of treats can help keep your puppy's teeth and gums stay in tip-top shape. As they gnaw on the chews, they naturally help scrape off plaque and tartar buildup and saliva production help keep bad breath away.
Mental Stimulation
Chewing is like a workout for your pup's brain. It keeps them mentally engaged and prevents boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors.
Promote Calm Behaviour
For many dogs chewing is a coming behaviour. This makes natural chews a perfect aid in helping to promote calm, settled behaviour.
Soothes Teething Discomfort
Teething can be a painful experience for puppies. Natural chews provide the perfect texture to soothe their achy gums.
Promotes Healthy Chewing Habits
Teaching your pup what's okay to chew on is essential. Natural chews help channel their chewing instincts toward appropriate items.
Nutritional Value: Many natural chews are rich in essential nutrients that contribute to your pup's overall health. Some even provide an extra dose of protein!
Strengthen teeth and jaws
Chewing helps to strengthen puppies' teeth and jaws, which is important for their overall health.
Promote bonding
Chewing can be a great way for puppies and their owners to bond. It's a way for puppies to show their love and trust, and it's a way for owners to show their puppies that they care.
Choosing a Natural Dog Chew for Your Puppy
When choosing a natural dog chew for your puppy, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Size
The chew should be the right size for your puppy. It should be big enough that they can't swallow it whole, but small enough that they can't break off small pieces that could be a choking hazard.
Texture
The chew should have a texture that's challenging for your puppy to chew. This will help to keep them occupied and prevent boredom.
Taste
The chew should have a flavor that your puppy will enjoy. This will help to encourage them to chew and get the benefits of chewing.
Puppy Safe Natural Dog Chews
Bully Sticks (Pizzle)
These are a great choice for puppies because they are relatively long lasting but not too tough on teeth. They’re also super stinky so dogs love them!
Freeze-Dried Liver Bites
Packed with flavor and nutrition, freeze-dried liver bites are like a party in your pup's mouth. They're easy to chew and perfect for training rewards.
Ears
Cows, rabbit, lamb, goat ears make great natural long lasting treats for pups. For younger pups we’d recommend starting with rabbits ears, and progressing to lambs, then up to cows and pigs ears. Rabbits ears are much smaller and easier to chew for younger pups. For cows and pigs ears it may be best to cut them in half initially as they can be quite large.
Spagetti Sticks
Long thin chewy sticks (often intestines) that are yummy and chewy, long lasting but not too long so they don't end up getting bored.
Stuffable Puzzle feeders and Slow feeders
These toys are not only fun to play with but also allow you to stuff and spread them with treats or their dinner, keeping your pup engaged and entertained. Great for puppies who gobble their food up too quickly or for teaching pups to be calm in situations such as a cafe or a class.
Check out our range of puzzle feeders - most are suitable for puppies 8 weeks +
Sweet Potato Chews
These natural, fiber-rich treats are not only delicious but also provide a healthy outlet for your pup's chewing instincts.
For puppies who just love chewing your table leg, non-splinter wood chews are perfect. They’re safe as they mulch rather than splinter and are long lasting.
Remember, every pup is unique, so it might take some trial and error to find the chews your little one loves the most. If you're unsure what to try, have a look at our Puppy Chew selection box which contains a great pre-selected mix of natural chews and treats to try.
We don't suggest giving puppies hard long lasting chews until they are a bit older and their adult teeth are fully developed.
Yak Chews - 4 months +
Antlers - 12 months +
Cows hooves - 12 months +
Buffalo Horn - 12 months +
Always supervise your puppy during chewing sessions to ensure their safety and ensure fresh water is provided. Once chews become small enough for them to swallow whole, remove the chew for safety.
Tip : There are a few options out there to help keep chews going a bit longer.
Check out the West Paw Quizl for keeping pizzles and similar chews lasting.
As your puppy grows, their chewing preferences might change. Gradually transition to more challenging chews as they develop stronger jaws and teeth. And of course, consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your pup's dental health or chewing habits.
Here's to many happy and healthy chewing adventures with your pup! Keep those tails wagging and those gums gnawing – the right way, of course. 🐾
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