Dog Chews: Which Ones Are Safe & What Really Works

What are dog chews?

Chew products include all items given to dogs to chew on—from raw bones and compressed chew treats to synthetic chew toys. They serve various purposes: dental care, mental stimulation, satisfying the natural urge to chew, and, in some cases, as a dietary supplement.

Not all chew toys are equally safe or effective. They range from veterinarian-recommended dental care products backed by scientific evidence to items that can cause tooth fractures or pose a choking hazard.

Background + Scientific Context

Rawlings et al. (1998, Journal of Nutrition, PubMed 9634448) investigated the influence of diet and chewing behavior on dental health in dogs: Mechanical chewing reduces tartar buildup through abrasion of the tooth surface. Dogs that regularly chewed on suitable chew toys showed significantly less plaque and tartar than control dogs without chew toys. The size and consistency of the chew toy determine the abrasive effect: materials that are too soft provide little cleaning, while materials that are too hard can fracture teeth.

Hennet (2001, Journal of Veterinary Dentistry, PubMed 11692263) studied the effects of enzymatically treated rawhide chews on gum bleeding and dental plaque: Enzymatically treated chews significantly reduced dental plaque and gingivitis compared to the control group. The VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) awards quality seals to products with proven efficacy—a practical guide for pet owners.

Clarke et al. (2011, Journal of Veterinary Dentistry, PubMed 21595350) analyzed tartar buildup in dogs fed a dry food diet: Dry food alone does not sufficiently reduce tartar—the belief that kibble automatically protects teeth is not scientifically substantiated. Effective dental care for dogs requires mechanical brushing, appropriate chew toys, or both.

Vitomalia-Position

Chew toys are not a substitute for brushing—but they are a useful addition that satisfies your pet’s chewing instincts and supports dental health. The rules of thumb: No harder than the owner’s fingernail, not small enough to swallow, and not made of materials that splinter or have sharp edges.

When do chew toys become important?

• For dental care as a supplement to brushing: VOHC-certified chew treats
• For dogs with a strong urge to chew: Chewing reduces stress-related behavior and boredom
• For dogs that won't tolerate having their teeth brushed: chew toys as an alternative (not a substitute)
• For puppies going through teething: suitable materials for sensitive teeth
• If there are any restrictions (allergies, food allergies): Check the ingredients and materials

Practical application

Chew Toys — Overview by Type:

VOHC Seal of Approval: Products bearing the VOHC seal have been proven in controlled studies to reduce plaque or tartar—the most reliable indicator of quality.

Common Mistakes & Myths

• "Cooked bones are safer than raw ones." Cooked bones splinter more easily and can cause perforations in the gastrointestinal tract. Raw bones are safer—but avoid long bones (risk of splinters and bone blockages).
• "Deer antlers are natural, so they're safe." Very hard material significantly increases the risk of tooth fractures—especially in older dogs or dogs with weak molars.
• “Chew toys are no substitute for brushing.” Even the best chew toys are less effective at cleaning than regular brushing. VOHC products are a useful supplement, not a complete replacement.

Current State of Research (2026)

The VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) criteria remain the most robust evidence-based standard for evaluating the effectiveness of chew products in veterinary medicine. Enzymatic chew snacks and chew teeth are consistently described as effective in studies. New studies on natural chew products (buffalo horn, deer antler) show an increased risk of tooth fracture—confirming the recommendation for caution. Insect protein-based chew products are gaining market significance as a hypoallergenic option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which chew toys are safest for dogs?

The safest choice: VOHC-certified chew treats and enzymatic chew supplements. For natural products: raw, meaty beef bones (no tubular bones, uncooked). Avoid: cooked bones, deer antlers/buffalo horns (risk of tooth fracture), very small pieces (choking hazard). Always offer under supervision.

Can chewing gum clean teeth?

Yes — mechanically abrasive and enzymatic products have been proven to reduce plaque and tartar. The VOHC seal indicates scientifically proven effectiveness. Brushing with a dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste remains the most effective method — chew toys are a useful supplement.

How many chew toys a day is too many?

Chew toys are treats—be sure to factor their calorie content into your dog’s daily diet. Natural products that require a lot of chewing (e.g., tendons) can be high in calories. Chewing on appropriate items every day is good for dental health; however, giving your dog several high-calorie snacks a day in addition to meals can lead to obesity.

Related terms

• Dental Care for Dogs
• Tartar in Dogs
• Raw bones for dogs
• Activities for Dogs
• Obesity in Dogs

Sources & Further Reading

1. Rawlings, J. M., Markwell, P. J., & Lucas, M. K. (1998). Effect of dietary carbohydrate on dental health in dogs. Journal of Nutrition, 128(12 Suppl), 2712S–2713S. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9634448/

2. Hennet, P. (2001). Effectiveness of an enzymatic rawhide dental chew to reduce gingival bleeding and dental deposits in adult dogs. Journal of Veterinary Dentistry, 18(2), 61–64. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11692263/

3. Clarke, D. E., Serber, C., & Miles, A. (2011). Tartar accumulation and removal on the teeth of dogs fed a kibble diet supplemented with a dental hygiene chew. Journal of Veterinary Dentistry, 28(1), 10–14. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21595350/