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5 Reasons Dogs Chew (and How Not to Let it Bother You)

5 Reasons Dogs Chew (and How Not to Let it Bother You)

Posted by Marry Morales on 10th Jan 2025

Do only teething puppies chew? If you've ever come home to a gnawed-on couch arm or rug that fell victim to your 5-year-old labrador, you know that fully grown dogs and even senior pups need to chew.

The natural canine drive to sink their teeth into things serves a variety of practical functions for your pet from puppyhood through the grey chin years.

1. Eases boredom. Chewing is the canine equivalent of scrolling Instagram for us humans. It provides a distraction for your dog when he can't be out walking his favorite trail or wrestling with the neighbor's Rottweiler.

2. Exerts energy. Have you ever watched your dog chew? Like really chew? Dogs get into the activity, chomping with their canines and even gnawing with those adorable front choppers. They switch positions to get just the right angle to get through the challenge of destroying what's between their jaws. Naptime often follows a good chew session.

3. Cleans teeth and gums. This one is a no-brainer. Chewing something like a cow ear or bully stick massages gums and prevents plaque build up. Appropriate canine chewing is veterinarian approved.

4. Soothes anxiety. Is the repairman coming over? Have your dog's favorite natural chew ready to offer as a distraction during stressful times.

5. Provides nutrients. Quality, single-ingredient, natural chews provide lots of protein. Collagen sticks offer joint, skin and bone benefits.

You can either let your dog choose what to chew (destructive chewing lays claim to countless shoes, couches and favorite purses every year!) or you can provide appropriate, satisfying and safe choices.

That's where TreatWag comes in.

We take the confusion out of quality chewing, offering only the best-quality natural chews, such as bully sticks, ears, collagen chews, cheek rolls and more. And before we offer them to your dog, we've had our crew of canine samplers try them out too!