Chew on This: The Role of Dental Chews and Toys in Pet Oral Health
Chewing plays a central role in a dog’s daily life. Puppies learn to chew as a way to soothe gum pain caused by incoming teeth, and as they grow, this behavior channels energy and prevents boredom, frustration, and stress. Chewing has a tremendous influence on pet dental health.
Pet owners looking to maximize their pet’s oral health may wonder whether dental chews and toys are worth the hype. Incorporating these into a pet’s routine can definitely pay off, but there are some important considerations.
The Big Picture
Chewing can be frustrating when a pet doesn’t have the right items designed to satisfy the behavior. Pets may easily find shoes, socks, furniture or other household objects to work their jaws, gums, and teeth. This not only causes damage to human belongings, but may even expose a pet to harm through choking, poisoning, or gastrointestinal obstruction.
When viewed as a necessary facet of healthy development and behavior, chewing serves as an important outlet. Finding the right quality and variety of dental chews and toys can support a pet’s needs, and maintain oral health to boot.
Chew Toys for Pets
We recommend providing your pet with chew toys that are sturdy enough to withstand constant biting, and protect them from chipping or cracking. Try to press your fingernail into the surface of the chew toy. If you can see an indent, your pet’s teeth won’t become damaged by chewing.
- Rubber or silicone toys work best
- Consider the size of the toy; if it’s too small, your pet could be at risk of choking
- Avoid toys with holes that can rip or tear easily
Soft toys made out of fabric or rope are not good for dental care. Not only are these easy to rip apart and chew, they present a choking risk if they have small pieces.
Benefits of Dental Chews
In addition to regular tooth brushing at home, annual exams, and professional cleanings under anesthesia, dental chews or treats provide enormous benefit to pet dental care in these ways:
- Tartar control
- Freshens breath
- Massages gums
The Veterinary Oral Health Council is a great place to find products designed to support a pet’s dental health. There are various types of dental treats that pets find appealing. The key is to find what your pet likes and maintain consistency throughout their life to stand up to plaque, tarter, and gum disease.
New research suggests that providing raw bones and rawhide are not suitable for pets. Not only can pieces of bone or hide get lodged in the gum tissue, throat, esophagus, or stomach, hard pieces can even break teeth.
Preventing Dental Issues in Pets
While dental chews and toys are not substitutes for regular dental care, including daily tooth brushing and annual cleanings/exams, they serve a pet’s behavioral needs very well. If you have further questions about pet dental care and behavior please call us at (616) 457‑9200. Jenison Animal Hospital is always here to help.