Dogs love to chew. They also love to eat. The right treat can be both. In fact, healthy dog chews can ensure your beloved canine companion enjoys a good chew without putting on excessive pounds or, in some cases, ounces.
Safety First
No matter how much your dog loves to chew, it is imperative to consider the potential risks that many dog chews present. When looking at a dog chew, ask the following questions when looking at dog treats:
- Does it present a choking hazard? Bones that are too small for your dog may be swallowed. Some dogs will swallow a bone quickly. The bone may lodge in the throat. The same logic applies to chewable material such as rawhide. Some dogs chew on it until it becomes soft. They then inhale it. This can cause them to choke.
- Does the treat have the potential to cause dental issues? Some chews are too hard for your dog’s teeth. As a result, they may not clean the teeth but crack or break them.
- Does it contain any unnecessary ingredients? Does it have the potential to cause an allergic reaction or worse?
Consider Caloric Content
Healthy dog chews need to satisfy the dog’s desire to chew. At the same time, you must consider the weight of your dog. For those with dogs who quickly put on weight, e.g., bulldogs, pugs, the amount of calories they inhale is important.
Age is also another factor. Older dogs do not require as many calories as puppies do. Always consider the amount of calories you are feeding your dog. Overweight and obese dogs do suffer from health issues.
Healthy Dog Chews
Choosing a healthy dog chew for your dog can be complex. Your dog loves food and chewing. Be certain you chose a size and breed appropriate chew. Always put the safety of your dog first and, when considering two apparently equally healthy dog chews, look at the calorie content.