What Is the Safest Natural Dog Chew
Dogs love to chew. It’s instinct, entertainment, and stress relief all rolled into one. For puppies, it helps with teething. For adult dogs, it’s a way to stay busy and keep their jaws strong. But not every chew is created equal, and some can actually do more harm than good. So let’s talk about natural dog chews and which ones are safest for your furry best friend.
Why Safety Matters
We’ve all seen the horror stories. A dog breaks a tooth. Another swallows a chunk of something too hard. Or worse, gets a blockage that needs surgery. These things are rare, but they’re not just internet myths. The UK Government has even issued a warning about certain dog treats. Picking the right chew can help avoid all of that.
Natural chews are a great option because they’re free of artificial flavors, dyes, and plastics. But “natural” doesn’t automatically mean “safe.” You still need to match the chew to your dog’s size, chewing strength, and habits.
What Makes a Chew Safe?
A safe chew should do a few things:
- Be fully digestible or break down easily
- Be the right size — not something your dog can swallow whole
- Be tough enough to last, but not so hard it cracks a tooth
- Be free from chemicals, bleach, or artificial preservatives
Every dog is different. What’s safe for a Labrador might be risky for a Yorkie. And some dogs are aggressive chewers who need more supervision.
The Safest Natural Chews for Most Dogs
Here’s a list of natural chews that are widely considered safe when used properly. We’ll go over each one, and who they’re best suited for. Most of these treats can be bought on dedicated natural dog treat websites like Floppy Ear.
1. Beef Tendons
These are chewy, stringy, and fully digestible. Tendons are a great option for medium to strong chewers who love to gnaw but don’t need a brick-hard challenge. They also help clean teeth naturally.
2. Fish Skins
Light, crunchy, and packed with omega-3s, fish skin chews are great for smaller dogs or those with sensitive stomachs. They’re usually air-dried and break down easily in the gut.
3. Himalayan Yak Chews
Made from hardened yak and cow milk, these chews are long-lasting and don’t splinter. They're a favorite for medium to large dogs, though they may be too tough for seniors or young puppies. Always take away the small leftover pieces to avoid choking.
4. Cow Ears and Pig Ears
Unlike rawhide, these are natural and digestible. They’re softer than bones but still offer a satisfying chew. Choose ears that are simply air-dried with no added flavors or smoke, and avoid ones that feel greasy or overly processed.
5. Natural Antlers (Split Only)
Split antlers expose the softer marrow inside, which is more chewable and less risky for teeth. These are best for experienced chewers and should always be given under supervision. Avoid whole antlers for most dogs — they’re too hard and can lead to dental injuries.
6. Pumpkin or Sweet Potato Chews
Yes, veggies can be chews too. Dehydrated slices of sweet potato or pumpkin are a healthy option for light to moderate chewers. They’re soft enough for seniors and puppies, and full of fiber.
Chews to Be Careful With
It’s just as important to know what to skip:
- Rawhide — Hard to digest and often chemically treated
- Cooked bones — Can splinter and cause serious injury
- Hooves — Very hard and prone to cracking into sharp edges
- Plastic or synthetic chews — Not natural, and not meant to be eaten
Even with the safest chews, supervision is key. Don’t leave your dog alone with a chew they’ve never had before. Watch how they handle it. Do they chew slowly and evenly? Or do they try to bite off big chunks?
There’s no one-size-fits-all chew. The safest option is the one that fits your dog’s size, chewing style, and dietary needs. Always choose chews made from natural, simple ingredients. When in doubt, go with something fully digestible, and talk to your vet if you’re unsure.
Your dog deserves a treat that’s fun, flavorful, and safe. And with the right natural chew, you can give them exactly that.
