7 Chew Toys That Can Damage Your Dog's Teeth: What to Avoid and What to Choose

As a dog owner, you want the best for your furry friend. You provide them with love, care, and plenty of toys to keep them entertained. But did you know that some of those chew toys could be causing serious harm to your dog's teeth? In this blog post, we'll explore seven types of chew toys that can damage your dog's pearly whites and provide guidance on how to choose safer alternatives.

The Dangers Lurking in Your Dog's Toy Box

1. Bones: While they may seem like a natural choice, bones can easily fracture your dog's teeth. Even fresh bones from the butcher pose risks, not just for dental damage, but also for intestinal blockages and punctured stomach walls.

2. Antlers: Despite being marketed as a safer alternative to bones, antlers are just as hard and can cause the same dental issues. Plus, dogs can ingest small, hard pieces that may lead to digestive problems.

3. Tennis Balls: The fuzzy outer coating of tennis balls can wear down your dog's enamel, especially as it picks up dirt and grit. Over time, this abrasiveness can cause severe dental sensitivity and pain.

4. Cow Hooves: Made of keratin, one of the body's hardest compounds, cow hooves can easily crack, chip, or break your dog's teeth. They can also splinter, risking punctures to your dog's mouth or digestive tract.

5. Ice Cubes: While it might seem refreshing, chewing on dense, hard ice cubes can cause permanent tooth damage that may require surgery or extraction. Stick to putting a few cubes in their water bowl instead.

6. Sticks: Although readily available, sticks can wedge between your dog's teeth, causing damage to the teeth, bones, and gums. Splintered pieces can also puncture your dog's mouth or digestive tract.

7. Hard Nylon Chew Toys: Many nylon bones are simply too hard for your dog's teeth. Always opt for chew toys that are soft enough to indent with your thumbnail but sturdy enough to withstand chewing.

How to Choose Safe Chew Toys

Now that you know what to avoid, how do you choose toys that will keep your dog's teeth safe and healthy? Here are some guidelines:

• Soft, Not Hard: Stick to chew toys made of tough rubber or nylon that have some give when you press on them. Avoid anything too hard that could crack or break teeth.

• No Bits and Pieces: Make sure the toys won't break into small pieces that could pose a choking or obstruction hazard. Regularly inspect toys for damage and replace as needed.

• Size Matters: Choose toys that are appropriately sized for your dog. Toys that are too small could be swallowed whole, while toys that are too large could be difficult to chew.
  

Safe Chew Toy Options

Despite the many chew toys that can cause harm, there are plenty of safe options that can provide hours of fun and even promote dental health:

• Kong-Type Toys: These classic rubber toys can be filled with dry kibble and peanut butter, then frozen for a long-lasting treat. The rubber is durable but soft enough to prevent tooth damage.

• Rawhides: While controversial, rawhides can be safe if you monitor your dog closely to ensure they don't chew off pieces that are too small. Look for high-quality, non-contaminated rawhides.

• Dental Chews: Chews like C.E.T Enzymatic Hygiene Chews are approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for their ability to reduce plaque and tartar. Just make sure to choose the right size for your dog.

• Rubber Bones: Textured-surface rubber bones can help remove plaque as your dog chews. They're also safer than real bones and come in a variety of sizes and shapes.

The Bottom Line

As a responsible dog owner, it's up to you to ensure that your dog's chew toys are safe and appropriate. By avoiding the dangerous toys listed above and opting for safer alternatives, you can help protect your dog's teeth and overall health.

Remember, if you ever have questions or concerns about your dog's dental health or toy safety, don't hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian. They're there to help you keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and smiling.

Do you know a dog owner who might be unknowingly giving their pet dangerous chew toys? Share this article with them and help spread awareness about the importance of choosing safe, dental-friendly toys.

And if you're looking for more tips and advice on how to keep your dog's teeth healthy and strong, be sure to check out our other blog posts and resources. Together, we can help ensure that every dog enjoys a lifetime of happy, healthy chewing!