Safe Dog Chews: Best Options and What to Avoid

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Dogs chew to explore, relieve boredom and keep their jaws and teeth busy. A good chew can be a wonderful outlet. A bad one can mean a trip to the emergency clinic. Knowing what to look for makes chew time safer.

Why dogs chew

Chewing relieves stress, soothes teething puppies, keeps dogs occupied and may help scrape plaque. Providing safe options also protects your furniture and shoes. See our guide to puppy teething and biting.

The risks

• Broken teeth. Hard chews can fracture teeth, causing pain and infection. See dental disease in dogs.
• Choking. Pieces that are too large or break off can lodge in the throat.
• Intestinal blockage. Swallowed chunks can get stuck and may need surgery.
• Mouth injuries from splinters.
• Digestive upset from rich or contaminated chews.
• Calories. Many chews are calorie-dense.

Rules for safe chewing

1. Choose the right size, large enough that your dog cannot swallow it whole.
2. Apply the fingernail test. If you cannot make a dent with your thumbnail, it is probably too hard.
3. Supervise every session.
4. Take away chews when they become small enough to swallow.
5. Introduce new chews gradually.
6. Keep fresh water available.
7. Count the calories. See healthy dog treats.

Chews to avoid or use with caution

• Cooked bones. Never. See cooked bones.
• Hard bones, hooves and antlers. Frequently cause tooth fractures.
• Rawhide. Can swell, cause choking or blockage, and some products contain chemical residues. If used, choose high-quality products and supervise closely.
• Small chews that fit entirely in the mouth.
• Nylon bones that are too hard for strong chewers.
• Ice cubes and hard plastic.
• Tennis balls that wear down teeth and can be swallowed by large dogs.

Better options

• Durable rubber toys sized to your dog, which can be stuffed with food
• Softer edible chews that bend, such as some dental chews
• Bully sticks and similar natural chews, with caution, since they can be fatty and calorie-rich, and should be supervised
• Puzzle and lick toys
• Frozen carrots for teething. See carrots for dogs
• Veterinary-recommended dental chews. Look for products with recognized approval for plaque control

Matching chews to the dog

• Puppies need soft, size-appropriate items.
• Aggressive chewers need tough but flexible toys, with supervision.
• Seniors may need softer chews due to dental disease.
• Small dogs need smaller chews to avoid choking, but not so small that they can be swallowed.

Dental benefits

Chews can help with plaque, but they do not replace brushing and veterinary care.

Allergies and sensitivities

Some chews contain beef, chicken or other allergens. If your dog has food allergies, choose accordingly. See feeding a dog with food allergies.

Signs of trouble

Contact your vet if your dog shows vomiting, drooling, gagging, abdominal pain, constipation, blood in the stool or a broken tooth after chewing.

Chewing for puppies and seniors

Teething puppies chew to relieve sore gums, so offer a variety of safe textures, such as soft rubber toys and chilled washcloths, and supervise closely. Senior dogs with sore teeth may prefer softer chews or lick mats. If your dog suddenly stops chewing, drops food or paws at its mouth, book a dental exam, since pain may be the reason.

Storing and cleaning chews

Wash rubber and nylon toys regularly with warm, soapy water, and replace them when they crack, fray or lose chunks. Edible chews should be kept dry and sealed, and discarded if they become slimy or moldy. Rotate toys to keep them interesting and to spot wear before it becomes dangerous.

The takeaway

Safe chewing is about the right size, the right hardness and supervision. Avoid cooked bones and very hard items, and pick chews that suit your dog.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.