Want to learn more about dog chews? Check out our ultimate guide to dog chews that will answer ALL of your questions. Read the guide here.

In this article, I'm going to tell you everything (yes, everything) you need to know about dog chews.

I'll cover the 5 W's (who, what, when, where, and why) of dog chews and I'll answer some of the most commonly asked questions about dog chews.

This article will be full of examples, interactive polls, videos, tips, and so much more. You do NOT want to miss this one.

Time to learn about dog chews, let's do it!

The 5 W's of Dog Chews
Who should use dog chews?
What are the best dog chews?
When should I give my dog chews?
Where should I give dog chews?
Why should my dog chew?

Commonly Asked Questions about Dog Chews
How long does the puppy chewing stage last?
What are some natural dog chews?
What are some long-lasting chews?

Commonly Asked Questions About Leaving Dogs Alone and Chews
What chews are safe to leave in a dog crate?
How to entertain a dog home alone?
How to keep a dog busy?

Let's dive first into the 5 W's of dog chews: who, what, when where, and why! This will be a solid foundation for the other commonly asked questions we'll cover later on.

There are two specific types of pup parents who should use dog chews with their pups.

Do you fall into one of those categories? ?

But seriously, every pup parent should give their dog chews.

If you have a puppy, you'll especially want to use chews. Puppies LOVE chewing; it's one way that they explore the world and it's a totally natural behavior.

So, don't focus as much on stopping them from chewing and focus more on getting them chewing on the right things!

I mean, really though, who hasn't had something destroyed by their dog? Let's take a vote 

One of the best ways to avoid things getting destroyed is to control the environment. That's number 1.

But, giving your dog proper chews and rewarding when they do pick the right things to chew is vital.

Just to reiterate, every single pup parent should use chews with their dog.

Of course, some breeds like to chew more than others. For those power chewers, you'll just have to modify the types of chews and how frequently you give them.

It's all about learning what your dog does and doesn't like.

Trying out new chews is the best way to accomplish that!

And, that leads us perfectly to our next question ?

Whenever someone asks what the best is of anything, you're going to have opinions involved in the answer.

So, I'll try to keep as much bias out of this answer as possible... and here's how.

The best dog chews are the ones that your pup enjoys (and of course, are safe for them).

I have three dogs, and two of them love Himalayan Chews while the other one is relatively neutral about them. See what I mean?

The best way to find out which dog chew is best is to try out many different options for your dog.

Some dogs love rubber chews. Some dogs love chewing on sticks (although that's not always safe). Some dogs love chewing on antlers. Some dogs love chewing on tendons and other types of real meat bones.

So, test out different chews and find out what your pup likes most!

Again, I left bias out of my answer... but you should certainly check out some of our dog chew options we have at Pupford.

Check out our full line of dog chews here.

Just to reiterate my point that every dog is different and you should try out new options, check out this poll (and cast your vote as well)!

The question of, "when should I give my dogs chews?" is a tricky one...

Every dog and situation is different. There are many factors that will help you decide when to give your dog chews.

But, here are some general ideas and tips on when to give your dog chews.

When your dog starts chewing on things you don't want them to, you should redirect them to a proper chewing outlet.

Like I talked about before, chewing is healthy behavior.

You just have to help your dog (especially puppies) learn what you want them to chew.

So, if your pup starts chewing up a shoe, say no and redirect them to a tasty chew.  (Also, don't forget to control the environment and keep shoes away from your pup... or keep your pup away from the shoes.)

Another time you can give your dog a chew is if you want them to be distracted and busy for a bit of time. For example, if you need to take a quick phone call and want them to be content and quiet during that call.

Of course, chews aren't a replacement for proper exercise and mental stimulation, but they can help!

In general, you should try to give your dog some type of chew every single day. This healthy behavior helps clean their teeth, stimulate their mind, and keep them happy!

You may notice a pattern here... where you give your dog chews will depend on your dog, your situation, and more!

In general, you can give your dog chews in any location.

Just be aware that some chews can leave residue or smell as your pup chews. So, keep an eye on that whenever your dog tries out a new chew.

You don't want to ruin a nice rug or couch!

Additionally, you can check out chews that don't stink or leave a residue, just to be safe!

I'm gonna give you three major reasons why your dog should chew.

For some dogs that desire is stronger than others. But, pretty much every dog has the desire and drive to chew.

That chewing helps keep their mind and brain busy, aka mental exercise. When our dogs are mentally exercised, it helps them stay more relaxed and calm.

Of course, there is more to it than just chewing, but the chewing does help.

Hot take here... I'm guessing you'll take any help you can get with helping your dog stay calm and relaxed.

Dog Chews: The Ultimate Guide | Pupford