What chew treats are safe for dogs

Pet Care Dogs Pet Health Pets Posted Mar 2, 2021

It’s no hidden secret that dogs love to chew; whether this be your shoes, socks, pillows or children’s toys. In fact, dogs usually do it to cure boredom, and depending on their age!

Dog chews have multiple health and mental benefits for dogs; including lessening boredom, stress and anxiety, keeping jaws strong, teeth clean and relieving pain for younger puppies who are teething. As a dog owner myself, I know the last thing you want to come home to after a long day is to find pillows shredded or a hole in your shirt that fell on the ground! So, I’ve gathered a list of the top 10 long-lasting dog chews that will keep dogs stimulated; all of which, can be found at RSPCA World for Pets online and in store!  

1. Kangaroo Tail

Kangaroo Tail dog treats are a robust source of protein, iron and zinc for dogs - also low in fat. They are mostly suited for medium to large dogs, and whilst also being a tasty and chewy treat they stimulate the mind; keeping dogs entertained for ages!

PROS:

• High in protein, iron and zinc
• Assist in maintaining good dental hygiene
• Low in fat
• No artificial colours, flavours or preservative
• Durable

CONS:

• Choking hazard for larger dogs if eaten incorrectly. Supervise at all times!

2. Deer Shank

Deer shank dog treats are jam-packed with nutrients and marrow for dogs and are very durable; lasting a long time whilst being high in protein and low in fat. However, they are best suited for large dogs due to its texture and size.

PROS:

• High in protein
• No artificial colours, flavours of preservatives
• Decreases bad breath
• Improves dog hygiene

CONS:

• Choking hazard for larger dogs
• Might be too hard for delicate teeth

3. Rubber Chews

Rubber chews toys for dogs; such as the Kong Extreme are used as a therapeutic means to help reduce dog boredom and anxiety, and being made out of ultra-strong rubber helps them become a durable, long-lasting chew. Treats can also be placed inside the Kong; keeping dogs entertained for even longer!

PROS:

• Lasts longer than consumable chews
• Keeps dog stimulated  
• Suitable for all dog sizes and ages
• Different sizes available

CONS:

• Make sure you select the right size for your dog and supervise use at first to ensure correct use and size.

4. Lamb Ears

Lamb ear dog chews are suitable for all dog breeds and sizes; however, are most commonly used for small to medium sized dogs as they are extremely helpful when it comes to teething! They contain no nasty chemicals, and are perfect for dogs who struggle chewing on crunchier treats; with lamb ears, just as durable.

PROS:

• No nasty chemicals
• Suitable for all dog breeds and sizes
• Accommodates to dogs who struggle with crunchy treats
• Soft and therefore do not damage teeth

CONS:

• Potential choking hazard. Ensure you supervise your pets when eating.

5. Duraspike

The Duraspike is specifically designed for dogs who love to play rough and chew everything in sight. Made from extra durable cotton canvas with TPR spikes moulded onto the fabric, the Duraspike can withstand punctures from your dog's teeth and gives a challenge to the roughest of chewers!

PROS:

• No nasty chemicals
• Super durable
• Fun toy
• Soft and therefore do not damage teeth

6. Goat Horn

Goat horn dog treats are loaded with minerals that are advantageous for a dog’s health, and are free of nasty chemicals. They are long-lasting; bound to keep your dog occupied for ages, whilst containing dental benefits and acting as a mental stimulant.

PROS:

• Mental stimulant
• Dental hygiene benefits
• Satisfies dogs need to chew
• Packed with beneficial health minerals

CONS:

• Potential choking hazard if not chewed correctly
• Sharp
• If eaten by younger dogs, has the potential to break their baby teeth

7. Kangaroo Wings

Kangaroo wing dog treats embody a high level of B12 Vitamin and protein, yet are low in fat; acting as a great chewy option for dogs who have let themselves go over the years and need to lose some kilos! They contain no preservatives or chemicals, and are suitable for all dog sizes and breeds.

PROS:

• Dental hygiene benefits
• Suitable for obese dogs
• High in protein, low in fat
• Suitable for all dog sizes and breeds  

CONS:

• Potential choking hazard if not chewed correctly. Supervise your pet during treat time.

8. Rope Chews

Rope chew dog toys are suitable for all dogs; no matter the size or breed, and are fantastic at exercising and strengthening a dog’s jaw whilst keeping them mentally stimulated. Hopefully this rope will save your furniture, pillows and backyard from mass destruction, as it is highly durable and should keep them entertained for long periods of time!

PROS:

• Suitable for all dog sizes and breeds 
• Mental stimulant
• Exercises teeth and jaw muscles
• Highly durable

CONS:

• Enthusiastic dogs could potentially shed the rope chew and swallow pieces. Make sure you keep an eye on how your pet uses the toy and collect any stripped rope and discard.

9. Kangaroo Rib Rack

Kangaroo rib rack dog treats are bound to keep your dog chewing for ages, and their appetite fully satisfied! They embody a high level of protein, iron and zinc yet are low in fat. Kangaroo rib racks also keep the mind stimulated, and helps maintain good dental hygiene in dogs, with no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. However, they are best suited for medium to large sized dogs.

PROS:

• Good for dental health
• High in protein, iron and zinc
• Bound to last a long period of time due to its size
• Low fat

CONS:

• Can be too hard for smaller dog teeth. Choose with care.

10. Furkidz

The Furkidz Safari tough toy has been designed for fun enrichment play and to aid in pet dental health.

If you’ve got a dog who loves to chew, try these handy products, hopefully they’ll help you keep them busy, happy and healthy!

And a bonus tip – all profits from purchases at RSPCA World for Pets go directly towards RSPCA Queensland, to help other dogs in need!

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