Chewing is natural and satisfying for dogs, but not every chew is a safe one. The main risks are broken teeth, choking, blockages in the stomach or intestines, and sharp splinters that can injure the mouth, throat, or gut. Here is how to choose safer chews, which bones to skip, and when to call your veterinarian.
The short version
Skip cooked bones and very hard chews, choose something larger than your dog’s muzzle, supervise every session, and call your veterinarian if you see vomiting, gagging, pain, or changes in stool.
Safer chew options
- Dental chews with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal.
- Rubber or tough nylon toys with a little give.
- Stuffable, freezable toys for slower, more engaging chewing.
- Dehydrated chews from reputable brands, with small ends thrown away.
Bones and chews to avoid
- Avoid: Cooked bones of any kind. Cooking makes bones brittle and more likely to splinter.
- Avoid: Weight-bearing beef bones such as femur shanks, a common cause of broken teeth.
- Avoid: Small or narrow bones, such as ribs and small knuckles, that can be swallowed.
- Avoid: Smoked or roasted “bone treats”, which can still splinter and are often very hard.
Choose the right size and type
- Pick chews larger than your dog’s muzzle so they cannot be swallowed whole.
- For strong chewers, favor rubber toys and VOHC chews over rigid bones.
- Rotate a few options to keep interest high.
Supervise every chew session
- Stay nearby and take away small or broken pieces.
- Introduce new chews when your dog is calm, not overexcited or very hungry.
- Follow the product’s guidance and your veterinarian’s advice.
- Keep fresh water nearby, and ask your veterinarian before chews after dental work.
Signs of trouble
Call your veterinarian or an emergency clinic if you notice any of these after chewing. When in doubt, it is always better to ask.
Mouth and teeth (Act now)
- A broken tooth, bleeding, or facial swelling
- Sudden drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Reluctance to eat
Stomach and gut (Act now)
- Vomiting, gagging, or retching
- Black or bloody stool, or straining
- Belly discomfort, lethargy, or behavior changes
Common questions
Are raw bones safe?
What is the safest everyday chew?
My dog swallowed a piece. What now?
Sources & further reading
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