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Dog chews come in different types, sizes, and shapes, but have the same goal – to satisfy your pet’s chewing needs. Dental treats for dogs or classic dog chews; both types are beneficial for your dog as they strengthen their jaws and chewing pressure and keep them busy and entertained.
But, when should you give your dog chews? How many chews per day should you give them? Can you give your dog chews before bed?
Read on to see how to incorporate dog chews into your pet’s daily routine.
When to Give Chews to Your Dog?
You can give chews to your pup as early as 6 weeks of age because they start teething at that period. Teething is painful and causes discomfort, which is why they start chewing everything they see.
Giving chews to your pup during their teething period will soothe their pain and discomfort and satisfy their natural instinct to chew.
What Types of Chews to Give to Your Dog?
You can give your pet the best dental chews for dogs or organic dog chews such as yak dog chews. Both, dental chews and classic chew treats are specifically made for dogs. Just make sure they are all-natural and organic and suitable for puppies.
How to Incorporate Dog Chews into Your Pet’s Daily Routine?
- Give chews after a meal
Chews should be treated like treats since they don’t replace your pet’s meals. That’s why it’s best to give your dog chews after they had their meal.
If you give your pup one chew a day, it’s best to give them after breakfast. And, if you give them two chews a day, give them the second one after lunch.
- Start with short chew sessions and increase them gradually
Chewing usually takes 10 minutes per session, regardless if you give your pet puppy dental sticks or chewing treats. However, when you first start giving your pet chews, the chewing session should last for up to 5 minutes. You can increase the chew time gradually as your dog gets older.
How Many Chews per Day to Give Your Pet?
If you give your dog dental chews, once a day is enough. On the other hand, if you give them chewing treats, like yak chews, two per day is fine.
The exact amount depends on the chew’s calories and your dog’s age. The chew’s calories should make up to 10% of their daily calorie intake. For instance, if your pup needs 400 cal per day and the chews you give them have 20 calories, you can give them two chews a day.
Final Thoughts: Are Dog Chews a Must?
Chews are an inevitable part of a dog’s life, part of who they are. They satisfy your pet’s natural instinct to chew, relieve stress and anxiety, burn excess energy, and help your dog learn about their environment. They also provide your dog with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, omega-3, and proteins. And, dental chews, reduce plaque buildup thus preventing dental disease. So, yes, they’re a kind of a must for every dog to grow healthy and happy.