If you own a dog, then you are probably aware that most dogs need constant action, especially high energy breeds and puppies. Certain dog treats, synthetic bones, and chews are specifically designed to keep your pet mentally stimulated, busy, and their jaw exercised. These bones are especially helpful for puppies who are teething or dogs that are hyper chewers.

Some synthetic bones and chews are more suitable for certain types of dogs. For instance, breeds with sharp canines, who are prone to aggressive chewing will be less mentally stimulated by a brittle natural chew and would benefit more from a long-lasting, durable synthetic dog bone. Another big mistake that dog owners make is giving their pets raw bones from their kitchen. Unfortunately, this is a big no-no that can make your dog sick and even cause fatal results.  

Why You Should Not Give Dogs Raw Bones

The phrase “throw a dog a bone” exists for a reason. In the old days, it wasn’t uncommon for pet owners to give their dogs a raw bone from their chicken, t-bone steak, or whatever one might be cooking up in the kitchen. While this might seem like a convenient solution to keep your dog busy and satisfied, raw bones can be dangerous and unhealthy for dogs.

There are a lot of detriments to giving dogs raw bones, whether they are cooked or not. Raw bones can lead to gastrointestinal disorders, vomiting, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, choking, and even death. Most vets and dog experts agree that instead of giving your pet a raw bone, it is better to opt for an edible synthetic bone or hard chew dog treat.
 

Benefits of Chews and Bones for Dogs

As we mentioned earlier, bones and chews provide a lot of benefits for dogs. They can even help curb behavioral problems. Dogs are natural chewers and having a bone or chew around might just stop your dog from feeling the need to chew up the couch or the corner of the family coffee table. Beyond keeping your furniture safe, they can also provide health benefits for your pet, including:  
 

• Dog bones improve your pet’s dental health. Veterinary dental experts agree that chewing bones can help keep your pet’s gums healthy, along with removing tartar and scraping away bacteria from the teeth.
   

• Dog bones keep your pet mentally stimulated. Not only will dog bones keep your pet entertained, they also provide mental stimulation, which is important to the growth and development of your pet’s brain.
   

• Dog bones help relieve teething pain for puppies. Teething puppies will often feel the urge to chew as a means to alleviate teething discomfort. Bone chews and puppy toys can give your puppy a constructive way to comfort their teething pain.  
   

• Dog bones improve jaw strength. Dogs naturally feel an urge to chew as a way to stimulate their jaw bones, since dog food diets do not provide dogs with enough jaw bone stimulation to keep them satiated. Dog bones can help prevent destructive chewing behavior and provide pets with adequate jaw exercise.

Popular Dog Bones and Chews

Most dog bones and chews found at your local pet store will be safe for your pet. However, some popular types of hard dog bone chews might be more suitable for your pet. Some of the most common and healthy chew for dogs that you can find at your local pet store, include:
 

• Bully sticks for dogs. Bully sticks are shaped like natural bones, but they have a softer texture that are more palatable and easy to digest. Bully sticks are some of the best chews to give your dog.
   

• Dental dog chews. Some dog chews are specifically created with the purpose of improving your dog’s dental health. These are safe for most dogs, but there is little proof that they improve your pet’s dental health more than other chews.
   

• Rawhide dog chews. Rawhide bones are thicker and more durable than bully sticks and edible dog bones. Not to mention, dogs love their natural flavoring. Unfortunately, not all rawhide dog chews are safe for all dogs, as they are sometimes treated with an artificial flavor and chemicals that can upset your dog’s stomach. It is a good idea to opt for rawhides made with 100% beef or horse hide. You should also supervise your dog when giving a rawhide treat, since they can sometimes pose a choking hazard.
   

The type of dog bone or chew that you give your dog will depend on which one he prefers. You might need to try out a few difference kinds to see which agrees the best with your pup. If you get your dog a non-edible chew product that is made from plastic, rubber, or nylon, you will need to make sure that your pet is not swallowing pieces of the chew.

Want to learn more about satisfying a teething pup, along with the best brands of dog bones and chews? Call Port Royal Veterinary Hospital today at 843-418-0100.