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Have you ever taken your dog for a walk in the woods, or let him loose in the backyard, and he eagerly grabs a stick to chew on? You think it is a natural instinct, right? Well, have you thought about it? Is it actually safe?
Some dogs treat sticks like their favorite toys, but there is more to this habit than meets the eye. Before you let your furry friend indulge in some stick chewing, let’s talk about the benefits and risks of this behavior.
So, can dogs chew on sticks? Let’s take a look into all the reasons why dogs love chewing on sticks, and whether you should allow it or not.
Why Do Dogs Love to Chew on Sticks?
Have you ever wondered why your dog chews for hours? Every pet parent should understand the behavior of their dog, and why they do certain things.
Puppies, for example, chew to relieve the discomfort of incoming teeth. Every dog owner knows the struggles of a new puppy who chews on everything, from shoes to newspapers and furniture.
Adult dogs chew for mental stimulation and enrichment. As responsible dog owners, we must understand our pets’ needs, but also ensure their well-being.
Chewing on sticks is a common behavior for dogs. Here are the most common reasons dogs chew on sticks.
Natural Instinct
Dogs have a natural instinct to chew on things. They do it to keep their teeth clean and healthy. Chewing helps remove plaque and tartar, provides a good source of dental care, and keeps your dog occupied for hours.
Relieve Boredom
Without stimulation or enrichment, dogs get bored. Chew sticks keep them occupied and engaged. For dogs, chewing tricks the brain into thinking they are doing something productive. Canines use this behavior to cope with anxiety as it releases endorphins. The more your dog chews, the happier he is.
Natural Need to Hunt
Dogs are descendants of wolves and many of their behaviors mimic canines. In the wild, wolves and dogs hunt and chew on bones to sustain themselves. While we have managed to domesticate dogs, many of their wolf instincts remain. Sticks provide an outlet for their hunting instinct.
Exercise
Sticks are a great source of exercise for your dog’s jaw muscles. When we think of canine exercise, we often think of running and similar activities. But dogs need to work every muscle. Chewing on sticks works their jaw, and keeps them occupied when they are alone.
Why You Shouldn’t Let Your Dog Chew on Sticks
Playing fetch is one of the best activities you can do with your furry friend outside. Often, dog owners use sticks for fetch because it is the easiest item they can find outside. You do not have to carry a ball every time you go outside to play fetch. Yet, the problem with sticks is that dogs may start using them as toys and begin chewing on them. Do you know the dangers of chewing?
Choking Hazard
Wood splinters when chewed. While your dog is chewing on the stick, shards can jam the mouth and cause an infection. When swallowed, shards can cause intestinal blockage and present choking hazards.
Dental Health Risks
We talked about how chewing provides dental care for your pup. At the same time, chewing sticks poses a risk to your dog’s teeth and the soft tissue around them. Chewing on items not designed for chewing can wear down your pet’s teeth. In extreme cases where the stick damages the gums, your dog might need an extraction procedure.
Prolonged chewing results in inner pulp cavities and pain. Think of the same pain you experience when you have a large cavity.
Dangers to the Environment
Do you remember when you were a child, and your parents yelled at you not to run with anything sharp or pointy? The same principle applies to your pup as they run around with a pointy stick in their mouth. If you and your dog are in a crowded or busy area and your dog runs around with a stick, there is always a risk of hurting someone else.
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How to Keep Your Dog Safe
If you allow your dog to chew on sticks, pay special attention to their safety and health and check their mouth for splinters or small pieces. Brush their teeth after playing and if they show signs of extreme distress, contact your vet.
Are there Safe Alternatives?
The safest way to allow your dog to chew and prevent health issues is to provide a safer alternative. Chewing is a rewarding behavior and one you should not forbid altogether. Here are some great options for safer alternatives to stick chewing.
Natural Chew Sticks
Natural chew sticks provide the same benefits as sticks you find outside. As long as you buy from a reputable source, these sticks can clean your dog’s teeth and provide a healthy outlet for chewing activity.
Chew Toys
You can even find stick-inspired chew toys to satisfy your dog’s instinct. When buying a chew toy, pay attention to the material. The most durable and safe toys are made of natural rubber. Avoid plush toys if you have a dog that loves to shred things. The filling on the inside can be a choking hazard, even worse than sticks.
Treats
The good news is that treats will pique your dog’s interest and keep him away from eating or chewing dangerous objects. Some vegetables like celery and carrots help with dental care as well. However, natural chews will generally hold your dog’s attention longer than a vegetable.
Final Thoughts
No matter what you do, try to keep your dog supervised, even with the safest chew sticks. It is a big mistake to leave your dog alone with a chew toy. Your dog might break off a small piece or choke on a larger amount.
While chew toys and natural chew sticks are great for mental stimulation and enrichment, do not overdo it.. Limit your dog’s consumption of chew sticks and always read the instructions.
Consider the safer and more enjoyable alternatives we talked about and your dog can enjoy chewing in peace.
