As I write this, my goldendoodle Willow is contentedly gnawing on a bully stick in my office—the soft, rhythmic chewing a familiar soundtrack to our workdays. Beyond keeping your dog occupied, high-quality natural chews offer significant benefits for physical and mental wellness, making them an important part of your dog’s care routine.
Why Natural Dog Chews Matter: Understanding the Benefits
Quality natural chews contribute to your dog’s wellness in several meaningful ways.
Physical Health
Chews, and your dog’s satisfying act of chewing, serve as nature’s toothbrushes, effectively removing plaque and tartar while massaging gums and reaching those back teeth that are so hard to brush. Regular chewing also strengthens jaw muscles, particularly beneficial for both teething puppies and senior dogs maintaining their dental health.
Mental Wellbeing
When Willow was a puppy, natural chews were my go-to solution during Zoom calls. They didn’t just keep her busy—they provided mental stimulation and helped her self-soothe. Chewing releases calming endorphins, making it especially helpful during fireworks, storms, or stressful situations.
Nutritional Value
Quality chews are made from single-source proteins with no artificial ingredients. Many deliver added nutritional value, like collagen, glucosamine, and naturally occurring enzymes that support your dog’s overall health.
A Closer Look: Popular Natural Dog Chews
Each dog has unique preferences, but understanding the options can help you choose what’s best for yours. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to guide you:
Natural Dog Chew Comparison Chart
| Chew Type | Durability | Caloric Content (6″) | Digestibility | Key Benefits | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bully Sticks | High | 80–130 cal | Excellent | Dental health, protein-rich, single ingredient | All dogs, especially with sensitivities |
| Collagen Chews | Medium | 60–85 cal | Excellent | Joint, coat, and skin support | Seniors, light to moderate chewers |
| Tripe Twists | Medium | 60–85 cal | High | Digestive health, probiotics, omega fats | Dogs with sensitive stomachs |
| Himalayan Yak Chews | Very High | 330–380 cal | Moderate | Long-lasting, high in protein and calcium | Strong chewers (not for puppies) |
| Antlers | Very High | <20 cal | Low to Moderate | Minerals, dental benefits | Experienced chewers (not for puppies) |
| Jerky Chews | Low | 60–85 cal | Excellent | High-value training reward | All dogs, especially picky eaters |
Bully Sticks: The Reliable Classic
Made from single-ingredient beef protein, bully sticks offer exceptional durability and digestibility. They’ve earned their reputation as a top-tier chew through their combination of lasting engagement and nutritional benefits.
Key Features:
- 100% digestible protein
- Rich in amino acids for muscle health
- Ideal for dogs with food sensitivities
- Natural dental cleaning action
Selection Tips:
- Choose “odor-free” versions for the best experience
- Consider calorie content: a 6-inch stick contains 50-132 calories
- Monitor size and replace when small enough to swallow
- Always supervise chewing sessions
Collagen Chews: Support for Joint & Coat Health
Crafted from the corium (inner layer of cow skin), collagen chews offer exceptional digestibility and notable wellness benefits. Their unique composition supports joint health while providing a gentler chewing experience.
Key Benefits:
- High-quality protein source
- Natural glucosamine and chondroitin
- Excellent digestibility
- Supports skin, coat, and joint health
Practical Considerations:
- Softer texture suits seniors and gentle chewers
- Lower calorie content than many alternatives
- May not last as long for powerful chewers
- Natural absorption enhances nutrient delivery
Tripe Twists: Digestive Health Support
These nutrient-rich chews, made from carefully dried beef tripe, offer unique benefits for digestive health. The natural composition provides a perfect balance of proteins and beneficial compounds.
Notable Features:
- Rich in natural probiotics
- Balanced omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
- Natural enzymes support digestion
- Unique, engaging texture
Usage Notes:
- Medium durability – longer-lasting than jerky, shorter than bully sticks
- Excellent for sensitive stomachs
- Natural source of digestive support
- Engaging chewy texture dogs love
Hard Cheese Chews: Long-Lasting Engagement
Traditional Himalayan yak chews represent centuries of craft, combining yak and cow’s milk with natural preservatives like lime juice and salt. These dense, long-lasting chews offer exceptional value and engagement.
Key Attributes:
- High in protein and calcium
- Naturally lactose-free through processing
- Remarkably long-lasting
- Creates a unique puffed treat when microwaved
Important Considerations:
- Not recommended for puppies or dogs with dental issues
- Higher calorie content (330-380 calories per 6-inch chew)
- Monitor end pieces for choking hazards
- Can be softened in microwave when small
Antlers: Natural Mineral Source
Sustainably sourced from naturally shed deer, elk, or moose antlers, these chews provide concentrated minerals and long-lasting engagement. Their natural composition offers unique benefits for dental health.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in calcium and phosphorus
- Natural source of zinc and manganese
- Supports dental health
- Environmentally sustainable
Safety Guidelines:
- Choose split antlers over whole for safer access
- Not suitable for puppies or aggressive chewers
- Consider pre-soaking to soften slightly
- Always monitor for splintering
Jerky Chews: High-Value Training Aid
Quality jerky chews, made from dehydrated single-source protein, serve as excellent high-value rewards and training tools. Their palatability makes them especially effective for motivation and positive reinforcement.
Selection Criteria:
- 100% meat content
- No artificial preservatives
- Single-source protein
- Clean processing methods
Best Uses:
- Training rewards
- Quick treats
- Motivation for picky eaters
- Can be portioned as needed
Choosing the Right Chew for Your Dog
Here are a few tips I’ve picked up through trial and error with Willow:
- Bully sticks are her favorite for focused chewing sessions. I opt for odor-free versions and supervise closely as she nears the end of the stick.
- Collagen chews are perfect when she needs something gentler but still engaging.
- Jerky chews work wonders for training—high reward, easy to portion.
You might need to experiment a little to find your dog’s favorites, but once you do, chews can become a reliable tool in your daily routine.
Practical Guidelines
Calorie Awareness:
Chews are treats, not meals. They should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
Safety Tips:
- Match chew size to your dog’s size
- Always supervise chewing sessions
- Replace chews once they become small enough to swallow
- Provide fresh water nearby
- Introduce new chews gradually
Why We Skip Rawhide
Our commitment to quality and safety means we’ve made the choice to exclude rawhide from our selection. Despite its popularity, rawhide comes with too many risks:
- Choking hazards from softening pieces
- Digestive blockages
- Chemical-laden processing
- Poor digestibility
With so many safer, healthier alternatives, we’ve opted to leave rawhide behind and focus on options that better serve our dogs’ health and safety.
Final Thoughts
Natural chews are more than just snacks—they’re tools for health, enrichment, and connection. For Willow, they’ve become part of her daily rhythm, and for me, a simple way to support her wellbeing.
Whether you’re raising a rambunctious puppy or caring for a calm senior, the right natural chew can make a world of difference.
