Dogs are natural chewers, and for some, chewing is more than just an occasional habit—it’s an essential part of their daily lives. While all dogs chew to some extent, certain breeds and individual dogs have a particularly strong need to chew, which can sometimes lead to destructive behavior if not managed properly. Strong chewers can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can turn this natural behavior into a positive, enriching activity for your dog.
In this blog, we’ll explore effective tips for managing strong chewers, from choosing the right chew toys to providing appropriate outlets for their energy. We’ll also introduce Skippers Pet Products, a trusted brand that offers high-quality dog food designed to support the health and well-being of active, strong chewers.
Dogs Chew and Importance of Managing It
Before diving into the tips, it’s important to understand why dogs chew in the first place. Chewing is a natural behavior that serves multiple purposes:
Dental Health: Chewing helps to clean a dog’s teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup while promoting healthy gums.- Mental Stimulation: Chewing can provide mental engagement, keeping dogs focused and preventing boredom.
- Stress Relief: Some dogs chew to relieve anxiety, tension, or stress. It can be soothing, especially in new environments or during times of separation.
- Exercise for Jaw Muscles: Chewing strengthens the jaw muscles and helps to keep a dog’s mouth healthy and strong.
For strong chewers, this instinctive behavior is heightened. Breeds like Pit Bulls, Labradors, and German Shepherds, or even individual dogs with high energy levels, may have an even stronger need to chew than other dogs. Without proper outlets, strong chewers can become destructive, chewing on furniture, shoes, or even dangerous objects like electrical cords.
1: Provide Appropriate Chew Toys
One of the most important ways to manage a strong chewer is by providing appropriate chew toys. Not all toys are created equal, and strong chewers can quickly destroy soft or poorly made toys. Look for toys labeled as “durable,” “indestructible,” or “for strong chewers.”
Some of the best types of chew toys for strong chewers include:
- Rubber Chew Toys: These are durable and can withstand the power of a strong chewer’s jaws. They often come in different shapes and sizes, with some having hollow centers that can be filled with treats or peanut butter to keep your dog entertained.
- Nylon Bones: Nylon bones are tough and long-lasting, making them perfect for dogs that chew persistently. They come in different flavors to keep your dog interested.
Rope Toys: These are great for interactive play like tug-of-war but can also serve as chew toys. Make sure the rope is tightly woven and durable to avoid fraying or shredding too quickly. - Kong Toys: Kong toys are known for their durability and versatility. These rubber toys are perfect for filling with treats or kibble, providing both mental stimulation and a safe outlet for chewing.
By offering the right kind of toys, you’ll help satisfy your dog’s need to chew while protecting your household items.
2: Rotate Chew Toys
Even the most durable chew toys can lose their appeal if your dog becomes bored. Rotating chew toys every few days can help keep them exciting and fresh for your dog. When a toy is out of sight for a while, it becomes more interesting when it reappears. By keeping a variety of toys in rotation, you’ll prevent your dog from becoming bored with their chewing options.
In addition to rotating toys, consider introducing new textures and types of toys to keep things interesting. For example, if your dog usually chews on rubber toys, try introducing a durable rope toy or a nylon bone to add variety to their chewing experience.
3: Use Durable Chew Treats
Strong chewers don’t just need toys—they also benefit from durable chew treats. Chew treats serve as both a reward and a way to satisfy your dog’s instinct to chew. When choosing chew treats, opt for options that are tough, long-lasting, and made from natural ingredients. Some popular durable chew treats include:
- Bully Sticks: These natural treats are made from beef muscle and are known for being long-lasting and digestible. Bully sticks also promote dental health by helping to clean teeth as your dog chews.
- Yak Chews: Made from hardened yak milk, these chews are tough and can last for hours. They are natural, easily digestible, and provide a satisfying chew for strong chewers.
- Raw Bones: Raw bones from beef or lamb are an excellent option for aggressive chewers. They are much tougher than cooked bones, which can splinter and pose a choking hazard. Make sure to choose bones that are appropriately sized for your dog’s breed and chewing strength.
Providing your dog with durable chew treats will not only keep them entertained but also contribute to their dental health and overall well-being.
4: Supervise Chewing
Even with durable toys and treats, it’s important to supervise your dog while they chew, especially if they are a strong chewer. Strong chewers can sometimes break off pieces of toys or treats, which can pose a choking hazard or cause digestive issues. By keeping an eye on your dog while they chew, you can intervene if necessary and ensure their safety.
If you notice that a toy is starting to wear down or break apart, it’s time to replace it. It’s better to be cautious and remove a toy before it becomes a potential hazard.
5: Encourage Positive Chewing Behavior
One of the keys to managing a strong chewer is encouraging positive chewing behavior. When your dog chews on the appropriate toys or treats, reward them with praise or a small treat. This helps reinforce the idea that chewing on the right items is a good behavior.
If your dog starts chewing on something inappropriate, redirect their attention to one of their designated chew toys. Consistency is key—by continually redirecting them to the right items, your dog will learn what is acceptable to chew on and what is off-limits.
6: Provide Adequate Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Chewing is often a way for dogs to release pent-up energy. Strong chewers, in particular, tend to have higher energy levels, which means they need plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks, playtime, and interactive games can help burn off some of that energy, reducing the likelihood of destructive chewing.
Mental stimulation is equally important. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, and training exercises can keep your dog’s mind engaged and provide a healthy outlet for their energy. A tired dog is a well-behaved dog, and providing both physical and mental enrichment will help prevent unwanted chewing behavior.
Supporting the Health of Strong Chewers
In addition to managing your dog’s chewing habits, providing them with a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for their overall health. Skippers Pet Products offers high-quality dog food that supports the health and vitality of strong chewers. Skippers specializes in grain free dog food made from natural fish sources, rich in omega-3 fatty acids that promote healthy skin, shiny coats, and joint health.
Strong chewers benefit from a diet rich in protein to support their active lifestyle. Skippers Pet Products ensures that your dog receives the essential nutrients they need without the fillers, artificial additives, or preservatives found in some commercial dog foods. By feeding your dog Skippers’ premium grain-free options, you’ll be supporting their energy levels, keeping their muscles strong, and contributing to their overall well-being.
Conclusion:
Managing a strong chewer can be challenging, but with the right tools and strategies, you can turn this natural behavior into a positive experience for both you and your dog. By providing appropriate chew toys, rotating them regularly, offering durable chew treats, and supervising their chewing habits, you can keep your dog engaged, healthy, and safe.
Don’t forget to provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to help channel your dog’s energy in constructive ways. With a little patience and the right approach, you can successfully manage your strong chewer and ensure their happiness.
Complement their chewing habits with a balanced diet from Skippers Pet Products, and you’ll be providing your dog with the best care possible—inside and out.
