Is your pup chewing you out of house and home (and shoe)? When you have strong chewer, it can feel like nothing satisfies them. And that everything is at risk for a bite mark.
At Barkfield Road, we know that all dogs love a good chew, but not all chews are suitable for every dog. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of dog chews to help you understand the benefits of chewing for dogs, and more importantly, to distinguish between aggressive chewers and strong chewers. Whether your pup relishes a bully stick, an antler, or a marrow bone, choosing the right type of chew can make all the difference for a strong chewer.
Understanding the Benefits of Chewing for Dogs
Chewing is more than just a fun activity for dogs; it’s beneficial to their dental health, mental stimulation, and stress relief. It helps keep their jaws strong, their teeth clean, and their minds engaged. However, not all chews are created equal, and the right choice depends heavily on understanding your dog’s chewing style.
How do chews really benefit my dog?
Chewing works to clean teeth, improve gum AND gut health, as well as being a form of enrichment in a few ways.
First, do you ever notice all that saliva build up in the sides of your dog’s mouth while they are chewing? Yeah…that.
This saliva is filled with enzymes that actually assist in the breakdown of plaque & tartar build up on the gums. It’s their body’s natural way of cleaning the mouth! Plus – many chews physically scrape tartar off, but it’s the combination of these two things that are so valuable!
Second, dogs have a natural instinct to chew and that urge, when fulfilled, can lead to a Zen Pup. Especially for higher energy or anxious dogs that need a lot of physical activity, chews are a great way to burn energy.
Third, boredom or excess energy can lead dogs to engage in undesirable behaviors such as digging, scratching, or chewing on inappropriate items like your new couch or your favorite pair of crocs. Providing dogs – especially strong chewers – with appropriate chew toys helps channel their energy into something constructive rather than destructive, keeping them occupied and entertained.
Last – but not least – dogs who finish chews may learn to stay focused on a task until completion. This focus & concentration may set a foundation for improved behavior through training! Plus – every time a Barkfield Pup comes in that has worked with a trainer, they all praise the power of a good chew!
So, now that we understand the massive benefits – let’s discuss some of the risks.
Defining the Chewers: Aggressive vs. Strong Chewer
- Aggressive Chewers: These pups go through chews quickly. They tend to rip, tear, and break down anything they can get their paws on. This fervor can sometimes lead to swallowing large pieces, which poses a choking hazard, or chipping a tooth.
- Strong Chewers: Strong chewers are powerful but usually more methodical about their chewing. They enjoy long-lasting chews but don’t necessarily destroy them as quickly as aggressive chewers.
- Risks and How to Mitigate Them: For aggressive chewers, the risks include swallowing large chunks of chews or suffering dental damage. One effective solution is to use chew holders like the Bully Buddy, which secures bully sticks and prevents your dog from choking on the last bit. For strong chewers, it’s about choosing chews that can withstand their strength without breaking apart dangerously.
Strong Chewer Solutions:
- Bully Buddies and Chew Holders: These devices are designed to hold chews securely, allowing your dog to enjoy their treat without the risk of choking.
- Recommended Chews: For our aggressive and strong chewers, we recommend yak chews, bully sticks, marrow bones, and sheep horns. Each of these options offers long-lasting enjoyment tailored to different types of chewers.
Curious about finding the perfect chew for your furry friend? Check out our selection of natural chews at Barkfield Road. We’ve got everything to keep your pup happily & safely chewing!
Save on Bully Sticks Today!
Shop our Jack & Pup bully sticks for 25% off a chew for your dog using code:
BLOGBULLY25
Have questions or want to share your experiences with different dog chews? Leave us a comment below, or reach out directly. We love hearing from our community and are here to help you make the best choices for your beloved dogs.
At Barkfield Road, we’re committed to providing you and your pet with products that not only bring joy but also ensure safety. Remember, knowing your dog’s chewing style is key to a happy and healthy chew time. Happy chewing!
