Chewing is a natural instinct for our furry friends, but it's more than just a way to pass the time. Chewing helps with dental hygiene, mental stimulation, and can even reduce boredom and destructive behaviors.  However, with so many chew options available, choosing the right one can be confusing.  Never fear, pet parents! This guide from Earthwise Pet will break down some of the most popular chews, including antlers, yak chews, Canophera wood, bully sticks, and raw bones, to help you find the perfect match for your pup!

Earthwise Pet: Your One-Stop Shop for All Things Pet

Whether you're in Marysville or Fremont, Earthwise Pet has you covered! We're your friendly neighborhood pet store offering a wide selection of high-quality pet supplies, from food and treats to toys and accessories.  Looking for a convenient way to keep your furry friend's pantry stocked?  Check out our online pet food store, where you can find all your favorite brands delivered right to your door! 

Chew-per Champions: A Rundown on Popular Chews

Antlers: 
These hard antlers are great for aggressive chewers, lasting a long time and helping scrape away plaque and tartar.  However, their hardness can also be a drawback, potentially cracking teeth.  Also, since antlers are virtually indigestible,  large chunks can cause blockages. Be sure to choose antlers appropriate for your dog's size and supervise them while they chew. 

Yak Chews: 
Made from natural ingredients like yak milk, salt, and lime juice, yak chews are a long-lasting and protein-rich option.  The downside?  As they get smaller, they can become a choking hazard.  Yak chews can also be pricier than some other chews, and quality can vary between brands.

Canophera Wood: 
An eco-friendly choice made from coffee wood trimmings, Canophera wood is safe, durable, and free of caffeine and chemicals.  While great for sustainability-minded pet parents,  some dogs may find Canophera wood less interesting than chews with stronger flavors.  Remember,  pieces shouldn't be small enough to swallow. 

Bully Sticks: 
These protein-packed chews are a fan favorite with most dogs, thanks to their delicious taste and dental benefits.  However,  bully sticks can be high in calories and have a strong odor.  Be sure to remove them when they become too small to prevent choking.

Raw Bones: 
Nature's chew toy! Raw bones are a great source of nutrients and minerals, and they keep dogs engaged for long stretches.  The downside?  Raw bones can harbor bacteria and splinter, potentially causing internal injuries or blockages.  They can also be quite messy. 

Choosing the Right Chew for Your Dog

The best chew for your dog depends on several factors, including their size, chewing style, and dietary needs. Here's a quick guide to help you choose:

😬Aggressive Chewers:  Antlers or yak chews for durability,  but Canophera wood is a safer alternative to antlers.
 

😋Flavor Seekers: Bully sticks or raw bones tend to be more enjoyable.
Dental Chewers:  All options can help, but antlers and raw bones may provide the most cleaning power (with some added risk).
 

🦺Safety First:  Bully sticks and Canophera wood are generally safer for digestion.  Supervise your dog with any chew to prevent choking or swallowing large pieces.

Remember: No chew is indestructible.  Always supervise your dog while chewing and replace any chews that become damaged or too small. 

❓❓❓Are chewables safe for dogs? Can dogs eat chewables?

Chewables can be a safe and enriching part of your dog's life, but it's important to choose the right kind.  Many of the chews we discussed, like bully sticks and yak chews, are perfectly safe for dogs to eat as long as they are the appropriate size and your dog doesn't swallow large chunks.  However, some chews, like antlers and raw bones, can pose a choking hazard or digestive blockage if not chosen carefully.  Always supervise your dog with any chew and look for signs of wear and tear that could create a safety risk. 

When choosing a chew, consider your dog's size, chewing style, and any dietary restrictions.  If you're unsure about a particular chew, consult with your veterinarian for a personalized recommendation. 

Beyond Chews: Earthwise Pet Has You Covered

Looking for more ways to keep your pup happy and healthy?  Earthwise Pet offers a variety of services to meet all your pet's needs, including professional pet grooming at our Fremont location!  We also have a wealth of pet health blogs on our website,  covering everything from nutrition and exercise to common pet ailments. 

Stop by Earthwise Pet Marysville or Earthwise Pet Fremont today and let our knowledgeable staff help you find everything you need to keep your furry friend happy and healthy!
 

In Marysville
Online Store: https://marysville.earthwisepet.com/products/list/
Store Address: 3701 88th Street NE Marysville WA 98270 US

& In Fremont
Online Store: https://fremont.earthwisepet.com/products/list/
Store Address: 114 N 36th St., Seattle, WA, 98103, US