Chew time for dogs: how to play

A quiet chew in a comfy spot. Chewing is a natural way for dogs to relax and settle.

You'll need

a safe chew sized for your dog (rubber chew toy, bully stick, dental chew or vet-approved chew)
a bed or mat

Choose a chew that's longer than your dog's muzzle. Settle them in their bed.

Make it easier: Soft rubber chew stuffed with a little food to get them started.
Make it harder: Longer-lasting chews, or a chew inside a box.

Settled lying down, steady chewing, soft body, slow tail.

Guarding (stiffening, growling, freezing over the chew) or gulping pieces.

Pick chews you can dent with a thumbnail; very hard chews (antlers, hooves, weight-bearing bones) can crack teeth.
No cooked bones, ever.
Supervise; take away chews once small enough to swallow.
Give chews separately in multi-dog homes.

Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.

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