Chewing is a natural urge for all canines. However, different dogs have different chewing demands and behaviours. And making sure they’re met is more than simply satisfying an urge; it is about ensuring proper mental and physical activity for your pet. 

That said, not any kind of treat will do in this case. Choosing the wrong type of chew for your pet might put them at risk of choking, cause gastrointestinal obstructions, or may simply not be interesting enough.   

Types of Chewers

Generally, dogs are divided into three types of chewers: 

Gentle 

Gentle chewers usually prefer softer textures and are less likely to destroy their chews. This makes them suitable for a wider range of options. Gentle chewers are typically smaller breeds, although not always.  

Moderate 

Moderate chewers enjoy chewing but generally don’t finish their chews quickly. They require durable but not overly rough treats.

Power

These chewers require the toughest chewables available. They’re often large breeds with powerful jaws and a strong desire to bite. Power chewers can finish soft chewables in minutes, making it more challenging for their owners to choose appropriate treats. 

The Best Chews for Power Chewers

In this article, I’ll focus on power chewers because they’re the most challenging to find appropriate treats for. 

A power chewer chews so hard and enthusiastically that it breaks or eats the object it is gnawing on. This can result in choking, intestinal obstructions, and dental damage. Fortunately, there are various tough and lasting choices suitable for power chewers. 

Deer Antlers

Deer antlers are natural chews that provide long-term entertainment. Durable and resilient, they are particularly beneficial for dogs with a strong chewing instinct. 

Available in a range of sizes and shapes, deer antlers for dogs can withstand extended gnawing sessions and are less likely to splinter compared to some other chews. They consist of a bone-like material that makes them incredibly strong and dense. This hardness allows them to withstand intense chewing without breaking down quickly.

The dense structure of these treats also makes them less likely to splinter under pressure, a critical factor in keeping your pet safe. While no option is completely risk-free, deer antlers typically wear down gradually rather than breaking apart.

Another advantage of deer antlers is that they are all natural and unprocessed, free from chemicals and artificial substances often found in other options. As a deer’s antlers grow, they go through a velvety phase, during which a soft, silky layer provides essential nutrients to strengthen the antlers. So, when your pet gnaws on a deer antler, they’re enjoying a treat rich in calcium, iron, potassium, and zinc.

When shopping for deer antlers for strong-jawed pets, opt for larger, thicker options. Avoid small or thin pieces, as these may pose choking risks or cause dental damage. Whole antlers are preferable to split pieces since they’re more durable due to their solid structure. Split antlers, while exposing the softer marrow that may be more appealing, wear down faster and are better suited for moderate chewers.

Although deer antlers for dogs are robust and long-lasting, they will gradually wear down, and small fragments may eventually tear off. For safety and to avoid choking hazards or tooth damage, replace antlers as they become too small or worn.

Bully Sticks

Bully sticks are another safe option for intense chewers. Tough and long-lasting, they offer extended enjoyment without breaking apart too quickly. Firm enough to satisfy a strong-jawed pet, yet not as hard as bone, they help reduce the risk of dental damage.

Made from dried bull or steer pizzle (a protein-rich natural source), bully sticks are not only highly palatable but nutritious, offering amino acids that support muscle development and coat health. They are also fully digestible, meaning even small pieces can be safely processed by the digestive system, reducing the risk of intestinal blockages.

As with deer antlers, choose thicker, longer bully sticks to ensure adequate durability and extended use. The thicker the stick, the more resilient it will be.

Bear in mind that some bully sticks have a strong natural odour, which may be unpleasant. Odour-free or low-odour options are available and undergo additional processing to minimise the smell without compromising quality.

Yak Chews

Also called Himalayan chews, yak chews are ideal for power chewers due to their durability, natural composition, and long-lasting nature.

Yak chews are traditionally made from a simple mixture of yak milk, cow milk, lime juice, and salt. The milk is boiled, curdled, compressed into blocks or sticks, then smoked and dried to harden, resulting in a completely natural and digestible treat, free from artificial ingredients, preservatives, or chemicals. Pets must put in considerable effort to work through yak chews, making them ideal for strong-jawed friends who finish softer treats quickly.

Unlike some alternatives, yak chews are odourless and don’t leave greasy or sticky residue on carpets or furniture.

Select the size of the yak chew based on your pet’s size and chewing strength. Larger pets or more intense chewers will need bigger, thicker chews to prevent choking risks. Ensure the yak chew is made from 100% natural ingredients, without additives or artificial preservatives.

Final Words

Though all of these options are suitable for strong chewers, it’s always wise to supervise your pet when they’re engaged with a treat to ensure their safety. If you notice more aggressive chewing, redirect their focus to a suitable option and reward them for using it. To help reduce excess energy, be sure your pet gets regular mental and physical exercise. This not only helps them manage their natural urge to chew but also supports safer, healthier chewing habits.