My basic reasoning for omitting this chews is grounded in my own personal observation from many years ago. I was attending a group event with several young pups between the ages of 6-18 months and all their puppy raisers. A well-meaning puppy raiser introduced a few rawhide chews to this group of service puppies in training. These were all pups with sound breeding and very comfortable and accepting of each other, until the rawhides were introduced. There were many puppy raisers, including experienced adults, present with these pups, when all heck broke out over these rawhides. The adults took action immediately. The ruckus was stopped before it could escalate into an injury to any pup. The rawhides were removed and the pups all returned to their mellow selves.
“Again, bone likability for your dog is huge, but safety for your dog is most critical. Like kids, our pets may not choose the safest toy, but as the adults, it’s our job to make the right choice when the kids can’t do it themselves.”
For me that experience with the pups was a well-learned lesson. I’ve seen other examples of similar scenarios and have heard stories from others of like reactions. While two or more dogs may easily (for the most part) share all other non-animal-based chews, my personal opinion is that the dogs are well aware of the difference in an animal-based chew. I’m certain with training this could be overcome within a controlled group of dogs, but it would take some serious training, and best done at a young age. There are other concerns I have with some animal-based chews, such as the rawhide. Some dogs seem to do just fine with them, while others can have serious complications after swallowing pieces. I would recommend that you do your own research on all the animal-based chews to determine for yourself if you want to purchase them for you dog—and always supervise.
While I’m not in a position to endorse any brand specifically, I do have some preferences. However I must request readers to do your own research and read all labels carefully while taking a close visual overview of the toy. You know your pet better than anyone. Be honest with yourself, even if the toy is cute. It may not be the best choice. Don’t spend your hard-earned cash on something that you might need to throw away in a week or less.
I find, overall, that the Nylabone brand produces some of the toughest and longest lasting chew bones for my large-breed dogs. Not all Nylabones are equally tough, so choose carefully. Some of my favorites, because of their toughness and lasting ability are:
Galileo – this is a monster bone great for all my tough chewers. (photo 1)
• Dura Chew (straight bone) is another favorite and they chew it down fast too. We have several on hand to replace as needed.
The BIG Dura-chew Power Durable for Large Breeds (knotted on each end) is one that lasts a little longer. (photo 2)
• Dura Chew Textured Souper 10” style—also a good choice for those heavy chewers. (photo 3)
Many of the Nylabones come in a variety of sizes. I always go for the biggest size due to my dogs’ chewing habits. There are bones specifically labeled for very large breeds as well. The largest Galileo bone can last for a year easily at my house when there are other chew bones available as well.
Kongs are great and come in a variety of sizes and styles. The original classic Kong can last forever if you don’t leave it outside for months and months. We have found the black holds up the best, but love the red too. I have no idea if the dogs even care. We also have tugs and bone-style Kongs.
Again, bone likability for your dog is huge, but safety for your dog is most critical. Like kids, our pets may not choose the safest toy, but as the adults, it’s our job to make the right choice when the kids can’t do it themselves.
A favorite chew toy is always a wonderful tool to help teach a puppy not to chew on your shoe, socks, or some other inappropriate item. Having several suitable chew toys located around your home or apartment helps make them readily available to quickly offer as an acceptable alternative to the shoe or table leg you catch them chewing on.
Try introducing a few ice cubes as a fun item to chew. Ice cubes make great treats too. I limit the number of ice cubes at any one time.
In conclusion, my suggestion is to try introducing a variety of safe and durable toys at the youngest age possible. Remember that puppies have a great memory and will never forget what you allow them to chew at even the youngest age, like your old slipper, or an old sock with a hole in it, or an old shoe. They don’t know the difference between the old shoe and the new $200 pair.
Again, always monitor your dogs.
Wishing you safe and fun days with your puppy and all those fun toys you can purchase for him or her. Happy hunting and safe chewing!
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