Why Dogs Love to Chew: Insights and Safe Chewing Tips

Dogs are happiest when they have a safe chew toy to play with. Chewing not only supports dental health but also provides mental stimulation, relieves anxiety, and eases boredom. This behaviour is deeply rooted in their instincts. When dogs chew, their brains release endorphins, the "feel-good" chemicals that help them stay relaxed and content.

Going for long walks with your dog is a wonderful way to provide exercise and happiness, but when you’re busy or need downtime, offering a good chew toy can keep your dog entertained and emotionally satisfied. Even when alone, dogs can experience comfort and joy through chewing.

Puppies & Chewy Toys: A Perfect Match

Puppies explore the world through their mouths, so chewing is a natural way to investigate textures and tastes. It also soothes their gums as new teeth come through. For owners, providing puppies with safe and appealing chews helps prevent mischievous behaviours caused by boredom or teething discomfort. Active adult dogs also benefit from having interesting chews when left alone for some time, helping to curb destructive tendencies.

When searching for puppies, consider those with high energy levels who will enjoy the stimulation chewing provides and ensure you have the right chews ready to keep them happy.

Choosing the Right Chews for Your Dog’s Health and Happiness

The market offers many quality dog chews. Rawhide chews, made from animal skin, are popular for small to medium-sized dogs but should be avoided for larger breeds due to the risk of swallowing large pieces causing digestive blockages.

Rubber chews, often moulded into fun shapes and sometimes containing treats inside, offer long-lasting entertainment and satisfy a dog’s natural reward-seeking instincts. For instance, many dogs love trying to chew through to the hidden treat.

Deer antlers are a relatively new natural chew option packed with beneficial minerals, very durable and odorless, making them a favourite among dogs. They also help maintain dental health effectively. However, always supervise your dog with new chews to ensure safety.

How Chews Help Dogs Cope with Stress and Loneliness

Dogs in shelters and rescue centres often have access to chews because chewing reduces anxiety and provides distraction during times of stress and loneliness. Similarly, if your dog must spend long hours alone, a favourite chew toy can offer comfort and alleviate separation anxiety.

Affordable and Practical Solutions to Combat Dog Boredom

Dog chews are one of the most cost-effective ways to entertain your pet when you are out or busy. While many owners arrange dog walkers to provide exercise breaks, chews fill the gaps by occupying and engaging dogs mentally between walks.

Even good quality chews are affordable and can be stocked up so your dog always has something enjoyable to gnaw on, promoting happiness and reducing destructive behaviour caused by boredom.

Chews to Avoid for Your Dog’s Safety

Some chews may pose serious health risks. Avoid leather or fabric-based chews as they are not digestible and can cause harmful intestinal blockages. Soft toys that can be torn and swallowed are also dangerous and should be kept out of reach, especially for dogs prone to gulping pieces.

Summary and Responsible Chewing

Caring dog owners want their pets to be happy and healthy, whether spending time together or apart. Chewing is a natural behaviour that provides important mental, emotional, and dental benefits. By providing safe, appropriate chews such as rubber toys, natural antlers, or suitable rawhide, and supervising their use, you support your dog’s well-being and peace of mind.

For puppy owners, this means selecting the right chews early and combining these with plenty of exercise and interaction. For all dogs, chews help channel natural instincts positively, keeping your canine companion content when you cannot always be there.