Which chews to choose?

By Nikki Kim

Dogs chew for a reason. Chewing supports jaw strength, dental health, stress relief and mental stimulation. When the right chew is available, sofas, shoes and remote controls often survive a little longer. The challenge lies in choosing a chew treat that suits your dog’s age, size, health needs and chewing style.

Below is a practical guide to popular natural chews, what they offer nutritionally, and how to match them to your dog.

Why chewing matters

Chewing plays a key role in a dog’s well-being. It helps relieve teething discomfort, supports clean teeth, reduces anxiety and provides focused mental engagement. Dogs deprived of suitable chews often redirect this instinct toward household items.

Natural animal-based chews mirror what dogs evolved to eat. These products are usually minimally processed, additive-free, and rich in nutrients, making them appealing to both dogs and informed pet parents.

Pizzle sticks

Pizzle sticks remain one of the most popular long-lasting chews. Made from dried bull penis, they offer high protein content and low fat levels. They digest more easily than rawhide and pose less risk than cooked bones.

These chews suit dogs who enjoy extended chewing sessions and benefit from sustained engagement. Strong chewers often find them especially satisfying.

Tendons

Beef paddywhack, sourced from the neck ligament, provides a tough chew with a dense texture. Tendons support dental health and deliver collagen, which benefits joints and skin.

Ostrich tendons offer a leaner option. They suit dogs needing lower-fat treats while still delivering a firm chew. These chews tend to wear down faster but help control plaque.

Trachea

Trachea chews, usually from beef, lamb or venison, suit gentler chewers. Their softer texture works well for dogs who struggle with harder chews.

These treats supply natural glucosamine and chondroitin, which support joint health. Digestibility remains high, making them a practical choice for sensitive stomachs.

Ears

Pig, cow and rabbit ears offer a soothing chew experience. They contain cartilage, which supports joint function. Pig ears have higher fat levels, while rabbit and cow ears are better suited to dogs that require leaner treats.

These chews suit puppies and older dogs who prefer softer textures.

Fish skins

Fish skin chews are available in twists, plaits, and cubes. They provide omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin health, brain function, vision and heart health.

The textured surface helps clean teeth while delivering a strong aroma that many dogs enjoy. These chews suit dogs with sensitivities to land-based proteins.

How to pick the right chew

Age matters
Puppies require gentler chews as their teeth and digestive systems develop. Many vets recommend waiting until around 14 weeks before introducing tougher chews. Senior dogs often benefit from softer options due to dental sensitivity.

Size matters
Chew size should match body size. Oversized chews may overwhelm small dogs and contribute to digestive upset. Undersized chews increase the risk of choking for large breeds. Portion awareness also helps manage weight.

Chewing style matters
Some dogs chew slowly and methodically. Others gulp or chew aggressively. Match the chew to your dog’s behaviour rather than breed assumptions alone.

Supervision and safety

Always supervise chew time. Remove chews once they are reduced to small pieces. Fresh water should remain available to support digestion. Chews supplements a balanced diet rather than replacing meals.

Finding the right chew takes patience and observation. Once matched correctly, chewing supports calmer behaviour, healthier teeth and a happier dog.