Natural dog chews that are safe for your beloved pet

As a dog owner, I’m always looking for ways to keep my dog, Lady Midnight, happy and healthy without exposing her to harmful additives. Safe, natural dog chews—whether store-bought or homemade—are a fantastic way to satisfy your dog’s chewing instincts, promote dental health, and even sneak in some extra nutrition. Read on for some treat ideas.

Safe natural dog chews (store-bought)

These chews are generally considered safe for most dogs, but always, always want to watch your pet and take into consideration specific dietary needs or aggressive chewing habits. For example, Lady Midnight cannot have certain chews or toys because she will swallow them whole, which can lead to serious issues.

1. Bully sticks: Made from dried bull pizzle, these are fully digestible, high in protein, and promote dental health. Look for odor-free, single-ingredient options from reputable brands like Nature Gnaws or Pawstruck, sourced from grass-fed cattle (e.g., USA or South America). Avoid those with additives or made in countries with less stringent quality controls. I’ve also bought from Chewy (pictured above), and they’ve been good with my dogs.
2. Antlers: Deer, elk, or moose antlers are long-lasting and rich in minerals like calcium. They don’t splinter easily, making them safer than bones for aggressive chewers. Brands like Jim Hodges Dog Training offer naturally shed antlers. Ensure they’re appropriately sized to avoid tooth damage.
3. Himalayan yak chews: Made from yak and cow milk, these are hard, digestible chews that soften as the dog chews. They’re great for dental health and low in odor. Look for brands like Native Pet, ensuring no artificial preservatives.
4. Fish skin chews: Made from dehydrated fish like cod or salmon, these are rich in omega-3s, supporting skin and coat health. They’re often less allergenic for dogs with sensitivities. Polkadog or Icelandic+ are good options, but check for single-ingredient products.
5. Raw bones (marrow or recreational): Raw, meaty bones like beef knuckles or femurs are safe when sourced from trusted butchers or some commercial brands (they may be smoked or freeze-dried). They satisfy chewing instincts and clean teeth. Avoid cooked bones, which can splinter. Freeze fresh, raw bones to reduce bacterial risks.

Precautions

• Avoid rawhides, as they can cause choking, digestive blockages, or contain harmful chemicals (past recalls). All dogs are different. Lady Midnight had found a rawhide chew at a campsite, and I later found out that she cannot digest these.
• Monitor for choking hazards, especially with smaller pieces.
• Check sourcing and avoid chews from countries with poor safety standards.
• Introduce new chews gradually to watch for allergies or digestive upset.

Homemade natural dog chews

Homemade chews are cost-effective and let you control ingredients. Here are simple options with easy-to-get ingredients. Just remember that it’s not usually a good idea to add spices. On another note, each dog is different. Some dogs are pretty picky about what they’ll eat. Maximus wouldn’t eat a lot of veggies, while Lady Midnight would, so don’t go making a huge batch without a test run. Different foods also affect different dogs in different ways. So, start out slowly, introducing any new food, and watch for stomach upset.

Sweet potato chews

To make sweet potato chews, start with 1-2 large sweet potatoes. Wash them thoroughly, peel if desired, and slice into ¼-inch thick strips. Bake the strips at 250°F (120°C) for 2-3 hours, flipping them halfway through, until they are dehydrated and chewy. Allow the chews to cool completely before serving.

These treats are high in fiber and vitamins A and C, promoting digestive health. Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks or freeze for a longer shelf life. Ensure you use plain sweet potatoes without any seasonings.

Frozen carrot sticks

Frozen carrot sticks are a simple, healthy treat for dogs, especially teething puppies. To prepare, use whole or baby carrots and wash them thoroughly. You can freeze them whole or cut them into sticks, leaving them in the freezer for 4-6 hours. Once frozen, serve them as a crunchy, soothing chew.

These treats are low-calorie, rich in beta-carotene, and help clean teeth. Always supervise your dog to ensure they don’t choke on large pieces.

Dehydrated chicken or beef strips

To make dehydrated chicken or beef strips for your dog, start with lean chicken breast or beef, such as flank steak, and slice it into thin strips about ⅛-inch thick. Place the strips on a baking sheet and dehydrate them in an oven at 170°F (75°C) for 6-8 hours, or use a food dehydrator for best results. Ensure the meat is fully dried to prevent bacterial growth. Once dehydrated, store the strips in the fridge for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

These treats are high in protein, made from a single ingredient, and highly enticing for picky dogs. Be sure to trim all fat from the meat, and avoid using any seasonings.

Apple slices (dehydrated)

Start with 2-3 apples, ensuring the core and seeds are removed as they are toxic to dogs. Thinly slice the apples and place them on a baking sheet.

Bake at 200°F (95°C) for 2-3 hours until the slices are crispy. Once done, let the apple slices cool completely and store them in an airtight container. These treats are naturally sweet, rich in fiber, and gentle on dogs’ stomachs. Monitor your dog for any digestive sensitivity when introducing this treat.

Pumpkin chews

To make pumpkin leather, start with one can of pure pumpkin puree, ensuring it has no additives or spices, as pie filling with sugar or spices should be avoided. Spread the puree thinly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 200°F (95°C) for 4-6 hours until it achieves a leathery texture.

Once cooled, cut the pumpkin leather into strips. This treat is not only delicious but also great for digestion, being rich in fiber and antioxidants.

Homemade tips

• Always use dog-safe ingredients; avoid toxic foods like onions, garlic, or xylitol.
• Store homemade chews in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer to prevent spoilage.
• Start with small portions to test your dog’s tolerance.
• Supervise chewing to prevent choking or overconsumption.

Closing remarks

When selecting chews for your dog, size matters—choose options appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing strength to prevent choking or tooth damage. Moderation is key, as even natural chews can upset stomachs if overfed; limit your dog to 1-2 chews daily, depending on their size and the chew’s caloric content.

For dental health, chews like antlers or yak chews can help reduce plaque, but should not replace regular brushing. Always consult your vet before introducing new chews, especially if your dog has allergies, dental issues, or a sensitive stomach.