The Hidden Dangers of Dog Chews and Safer Alternatives for Your Pup
- By the dedicated team of editors and writers at Newsletter Station.
As dog owners, we all want what’s best for our four-legged family members. From nutritious food to enriching toys and treats, every choice we make contributes to their health and happiness. Dog chews are especially popular because they help relieve boredom, support dental health, and satisfy natural chewing instincts.
However, not all dog chews are created equal. Some widely available options can pose serious health risks if pet parents aren’t aware of the dangers. Understanding which chews to avoid—and what to choose instead—can help you keep your dog safe while still enjoying the benefits of chew time.
Below, we break down common dog chews that may be harmful and offer safer alternatives you can feel confident providing.
Rawhide Chews
Rawhide chews remain among the most common dog treats, but they can be challenging to digest and may swell when ingested. This increases the risk of choking or intestinal blockages. Additionally, some rawhide products are processed with chemicals or preservatives that may irritate your dog’s digestive system.
Safer alternatives: Look for digestible dental chews made from sweet potatoes or rice, or vet-approved rawhide alternatives that break down safely.
Antlers and Hard Bones
Although they seem natural, antlers and hard bones are incredibly dense and can cause cracked or broken teeth. Dental injuries are painful and often require expensive veterinary treatment. Splintering is another concern, as sharp fragments can damage the mouth or digestive tract.
Safer alternatives: Durable rubber chew toys or softer dental chew toys offer satisfying resistance without increasing the risk of dental trauma.
Meat Jerky Treats
Jerky treats are appealing but require careful selection. Some products contain artificial additives, excessive sodium, or questionable sourcing. In recent years, poorly regulated jerky treats have been linked to serious health issues.
Safer alternatives: Choose jerky treats made in the U.S. with limited ingredients and clear sourcing. Always read labels and avoid artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Pig Ears and Bully Sticks
While popular, these treats can sometimes carry bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli if not processed correctly. High fat content may also upset sensitive stomachs.
Safer alternatives: If offering these treats, choose reputable brands that adhere to strict safety standards, and supervise your dog while they chew.
Plastic or Nylon Chews
Hard plastic or nylon chews may last a long time, but they can damage teeth and break into small pieces that pose choking or intestinal blockage risks.
Safer alternatives: Opt for natural rubber toys or fabric-based chew toys labeled non-toxic and designed specifically for dogs.
Being an informed pet parent means looking beyond packaging and marketing claims. By choosing safer, well-made chews and supervising chew time, you can reduce health risks while still supporting your dog’s natural behaviors.
A healthy dog is a happy dog—and thoughtful choices today can help ensure years of tail wags, playtime, and companionship.
