Dogs LOVE a good chew and from our perspective, it can seem like an item to treat them with every now and then. But did you know that chews actually do GOOD? Here are the benefits we will be talking about in this article:
- Staves off Boredom
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety
- Provides a Source of Protein
- Provides a Source of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Collagen
- Promotes Dental Health
Boredom Buster
Bad weather preventing walks? Or a busy week that meant less time for your dog? Give them a chew to help reduce their boredom and get out excess energy. Even dogs can get bored and this can lead to bad behavior, like shredding your new pair of shoes. Providing entertainment via a chew can burn off energy as dogs have to use muscles to work down those chews. Different shaped products can also offer stimulation. Figuring out the best way to consume the product and how hold on requires focus.
A Dog's Version of a Stress Ball
Some dogs suffer from stress and anxiety daily, others get it during extreme changes. Whatever the cause, sometimes a good chew can help reduce these feelings. Chewing in itself is a distraction (which is why some dogs will chew up furniture when stressed). The mental stimulation it creates forces dogs to focus on the chew, instead of whatever is causing the anxiety.
Keeping Those Pearly Whites....Pearly White
As dogs sink their canines into chews, the treat gently scrapes up against their teeth, heling remove plaque and massaging gums. Shaped chews, like our Beef Curly or Beef Pretzel, encourage dogs to chew at all angles, which helps get more teeth cleaned. While they bite down and get the chew up to the gums, it also helps massage those gums.
Protein Packed
Majority of our chews are extremely high in protein. Our Mr. Twisty is 85% protein while the Bison Backstrap is 89%. Protein is essential for dogs and they need it for their bodies to stay healthy and function on a day to day basis. Depending on the size and age of your dog, they could need 15% to 30% of protein daily. Supplementing with a high protein chew is a an excellent way to ensure your dog is getting enough. A lack of protein can lead to diarrhea and vomiting.
Good for Your Dog, Good for You
Other chews products, like our Puppy World Beef Cheek Roll, contain collagen. Collagen is a protein found throughout a dog’s body: muscles, tendons, bones, hair, nails, etc. It’s important to pick products containing a natural source of collagen to prevent issues with aging. Want to learn more about collagen? Read our article here: https://www.puppylovepetproducts.ca/post/benefits-of-collagen-for-dogs
Glucosamine and chondroitin – aids in joint health and pain – are in several of our products. Our Puppy World Beef Backstrap and Tendons are a natural source of these elements. Glucosamine and chondroitin are great for dogs with joint issues. It encourages healthy cartilage and helps to restore joint damage.
All in all, chews are more than just a treat. They can alleviate boredom, stress and anxiety. There are health benefits too - like being a source of protein, glucosamine and chondroitin. And the whole time the dog is chewing, they are cleaning their teeth. So next time you are at the pet store, grab an extra chew or two. Your dog will thank you.