The importance of chewing for dogs
Chewing is an essential activity for dogs, providing mental stimulation and contributing to their overall well-being. Free-ranging dogs spend up to 5% of their day chewing when resources are available (Mujumder, 2014), making it a species-specific behaviour we should promote. Chewing can stimulate the release of dopamine (associated with the feeling of reward) and GABA (which calms the nervous system).
However, it’s important to approach chewing with careful consideration to avoid potential risks.
Choosing the right chews
Avoiding high-risk chews
As a certified clinical behaviourist working alongside vets, I’m aware of the risks associated with conventional rawhide and raw meaty bones, such as gut impaction. Therefore, our shop avoids stocking bones that pose a higher risk, like ribs, spines, and wings. Wing bones, in particular, can be sharp and should be thoroughly crunched up by your dog to avoid hazards.
Managing digestive load
Constant digestion of heavy matter can be taxing on your dog’s body, so timing chews appropriately is crucial. Here’s what I practise with my own dogs:
Soft chews
- Description: Easily crunched up, taking less than 1-2 minutes to eat.
- Frequency: Daily.
- Timing: Avoid giving them close to exercise. For example, I give my dogs a soft chew after their walk to stabilise blood sugar levels but avoid exercising them for 3-4 hours after.
Semi-hard chews
- Description: Chews that bend slightly.
- Frequency: Every 2-3 days.
- Timing: Given in the early evening while supervised. I monitor my dogs as they finish the product, as the last small bit may be a choke hazard. No exercise follows the consumption of these chews.
Hard chews
- Description: Chews that do not bend.
- Frequency: Once a week.
- Timing: Given under constant supervision. I monitor my dogs as they finish the product, as the last small bit may be a choke hazard. Trade small chew parts for a high-value treat; never just take it off your dog as they may respond with aggression.
Raw knuckle bones or marrow bones
- Frequency: 1-2 times a week, alternating with semi-hard chews.
- Timing: Always supervised, especially around children or in multi-dog households. Given in the early evening.
Ostrich bones / beef shins
- Description: More for gnashing rather than eating.
- Timing: Given instead of semi-hard/hard chews, supervised until their value decreases. They are then left around for the week for my dogs to gnash on as they feel like it.
A day off from chewing
Aside from items left around the home for them to chew (e.g., hooves, antlers, yak snacks), I give my dogs a day off from chews.
Timing of chews
I give all chews in the early evening, generally finished by 6/7 pm, allowing for a 12-hour reduced digestion period until breakfast the next day.
By following these guidelines, you can promote safe and beneficial chewing habits for your dog, contributing to their overall health and happiness.
