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Are Bamboo Chews Safe for Dogs?

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

You may be familiar with bamboo chairs, chopsticks, and other household items, but have you ever considered giving your furry friend a bamboo chew?

Well, as an eco-conscious pet parent, I always strive to make sustainable choices for my furry friend, and maybe youre thinking the same way too.

So, when you hear about bamboo chews, its tempting to believe youve discovered the perfect guilt-free treat.

But, as is the case with any new find, there can be nagging questions in the back of your mind: Are bamboo chews safe for dogs?

Dive into this blog post as I give you the low down on this emerging trend and if its suitable for your pet.

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What is the Use and Benefits of Dog Chews?

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs and this act serves more purposes than just cutting food into smaller pieces.

Our furry pals have an innate need to gnaw and chomp on objects. And given a chance, theyll chew on just about anything that they can get their paws on.

Thats why doggy chews were created. These hard treats are safe and appropriate outlets for our pets chewing instincts.

Physical exercise for dogs

Doggy chews offer a way for dogs to engage in physical exercise through chewing.

When dogs gnaw on chew toys, it provides them with a stimulating activity that helps keep their muscles and jaws strong.

Chewing also allows dogs to release pent-up energy. This can be extra beneficial for high-energy breeds like Dalmatians or Border Collies.

When you give them suitable chew toys, you give them a better outlet for their physical exercise needs than tearing through your home.

Dental care benefits

Who thought chewing things can help give your pet better teeth?

Yes, the act of chewing can help remove plaque and tartar buildup from your furry pals teeth.

This can effectively reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay!

The chewing action can also stimulate the gums, leading to better oral hygiene.

Of course, this is possible only if your pet is chewing on appropriate chew toys.

Emotional satisfaction for dogs

Chewing can also give your pet emotional satisfaction because it fulfills their instincts.

Plus, the act itself can provide a sense of comfort and security.

It may not be obvious but when your furry pal chews on a chew toy, they can feel some relief from stress and boredom.

Chewing releases endorphins, which can help them relax and feel good.

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Different Types of Dog Chews

Doggy chews come in so many forms that youd be astounded by the sheer number of options available out there.

What exactly are these chew choices, and what do they have to offer?

Traditional chews

Traditional chews, such as bones and rawhide, have been go-to options for dog owners for many years.

Bones from different animals are highly popular because they offer our pets long-lasting entertainment. Plus, theyre generally cheaper and easier to come by.

Rawhide is another traditional chew. It is made from the inner layer of cow or horse hides. The hides are cleaned, cut, and sometimes flavored or treated before being shaped into various forms like bones, twists, or rolls.

These are popular among dogs as they provide a satisfying chewing experience and can help keep their jaws strong and teeth clean.

I personally dislike them though for the reasons listed here.

Modern alternatives

As fur parents seek safer and more durable alternatives, modern chew options have gained popularity.

For dogs with strong chewing habits or specific needs, nylon and rubber chews are excellent choices. These chews are meant to withstand heavy chewing.

These tough chew toys are durable, non-toxic, and can provide long-lasting entertainment.

Edible chews, such as dental sticks or natural treats, can provide both a tasty reward and dental benefits.

These modern alternatives offer convenience and long-lasting enjoyment for your furry friend.

Natural chews

For more natural options, you can give your pet chews made from wood, bamboo, and antlers.

Chews made from pine or birch can provide a satisfying gnawing experience. These organic treats can help keep your dogs jaws occupied for a long time.

Antlers are also good options. These are typically sourced from deer or elk. Antler chews are long-lasting and can provide a mineral-rich chewing experience.

What Are Bamboo Chews?

Bambone Plus Easy Grip Durable Dog Chew Toy

Durable dog chew suitable for heavy chewers and aggressive chewers.Made with Bamboo Fiber & Nylon for extra strength, a great alternative to rawhide.Easy to grip shape, perfect for teething puppies and heavy chewers.Ethical Products Promise for customer satisfaction.

Bamboo is a very popular material around the world as its used to make chopsticks or furniture.

But who knew that it would also prove to be an amazing material for dog chew toys?

Bamboo chews are basically doggy treats made from durable and renewable bamboo, a versatile plant material.

Rice flour and vegetable glycerin are usually combined with bamboo fibers to make bamboo chews.

Creating bamboo chews involves molding the mixture into bone-shaped or similar forms, such as sticks or fish, and then baking them until they harden.

This ensures a durable and long-lasting chew toy for your canine companion.

The natural fibers and textures of bamboo chews help keep your dog engaged and entertained, encouraging its natural chewing instincts.

What makes bamboo chews even more special is their eco-friendly nature.

Bamboo grows quickly and doesnt need fertilizers, making them a sustainable choice for chew toys.

Advantages of bamboo chews

• One big advantage of choosing this chew toy is that bamboo is a natural and non-toxic material. This makes the chews a safe option for dogs to gnaw on.
• Unlike some synthetic chew toys, bamboo chews do not contain harmful chemicals or additives that could potentially harm your pet.
• Furthermore, bamboo chews are durable and long-lasting, providing dogs with hours of chewing enjoyment.
• They are designed to withstand the strong jaws and chewing habits of dogs, making them a suitable choice for more aggressive chewers.
• Additionally, the texture of bamboo chews can help promote dental health by gently scraping away all that icky buildup, giving your pet fresher breath and healthier teeth.
• Another advantage of bamboo chews is their eco-friendliness. Bamboo is a sustainable and renewable resource that grows quickly, making it an environmentally responsible choice for pet owners.

Potential concerns with bamboo chews

• The main concern for bamboo doggy chews revolves around ingestion concerns.
• Our pets can sometimes become too enthusiastic in their chewing and may accidentally break off pieces that pose a choking hazard or obstruct their digestive system.
• Another concern with bamboo chews is splintering. While bamboo is generally a durable material, there is still a possibility that it may splinter when chewed aggressively.
• Splintered pieces can potentially cause injuries to your dogs mouth or digestive tract.

Are Bamboo Chews Safe for Dogs?

Yes, bamboo chews are generally safe. Bamboo is a natural edible material that is non-toxic to dogs.

That said, its still important to choose the right size of bamboo chews from a reputable manufacturer.

This ensures that the chews you get for your pet are appropriate for your dogs size and chewing strength.

Giving a chew toy that is too small to a larger dog may increase the risk of choking or ingestion of small pieces.

Read next: Spot Bambones dog chew reviews

How to Manage the Risks of Using Bamboo Chews

The best thing you can do to minimize any risks of using bamboo chews is to watch over your pet while they are chewing on them.

This allows you to closely monitor their chewing behavior and intervene if needed.

If you see them attempting to swallow the chew hole or trying to gnaw at a particularly small piece, quickly take away the bamboo chew.

Check your pets chew treats for wear and tear.

If they become broken or fragmented, discard them immediately to avoid the risk of your dog ingesting sharp or small pieces.

Consider your dogs chewing habits when selecting a bamboo chew.

Some dogs are more aggressive chewers than others, so its important to choose a durable chew that can withstand their chewing style.

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Alternatives to Bamboo Chews

If bamboo chews arent quite cutting it for your pets, dont worry! You can try other materials to satisfy your furry pals needs.

• Nylon chews are a popular alternative for dogs who enjoy gnawing on things. Theyre durable and designed to withstand strong chewing.
• Rubber chew toys are another fantastic alternative, offering flexibility and durability, and some can even be stuffed with tasty treats for added fun.
• For dogs who love edible chews, theres a wide variety available, including bully sticks and raw bones, which are tasty and last long.
• You can also find flavored dental chews at pet stores, such as beef, chicken, and even bacon flavors. These flavorful options will give your pet a deliciously enjoyable chewing session while promoting dental health.

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Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Chews

Dental health benefits

Some dog chews are specifically designed to promote good oral hygiene. Look for chews that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and massage gums.

Risk of injuries

Safety should always be a top priority when selecting dog chews.

Stay away from options that are too hard, have sharp edges, or easily splinter. These can potentially cause injuries to your dogs teeth or gums.

Opt for chews that are sturdy, yet gentle on their mouths.

Allergies and individual dog preferences

No matter how good or expensive a chew may be, if your furry pal doesnt enjoy it, theres no point in buying it.

Take into consideration your dogs texture preferences to ensure they truly enjoy their chewing experience. In my experience, pets would chew on anything, but some dogs may be more choosy than others.

Its also crucial to consider any allergies or sensitivities your furry pal may have. Just like humans, dogs can have allergies to certain ingredients.

Be mindful of any known allergies and choose chews that are free from common allergens.

This will help prevent any adverse reactions and keep your dog safe and comfortable while enjoying their chew.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to test your dogs chew for safety

Try pressing your fingernail into the chew. If it leaves an indentation, its likely safe and not too hard for your dogs teeth. Next, bend the chew to see if it breaks easily. Chews that are too rigid and have a high risk of splintering should be avoided.

Are all types of bamboo safe for dogs?

All types of bamboo are generally safe and non-toxic for dogs. They can be enjoyed as chew treats without significant risks. Be aware of plants like Heavenly Bamboo, which is not a true bamboo and is known to be highly toxic to pets.

Can dogs eat bamboo shoots?

No, its not recommended for dogs to eat bamboo shoots. Raw bamboo shoots can be hard to digest and may cause stomach problems. They can also contain certain levels of toxic cyanide. Its best to stick to dog chews made specifically for them.

In Conclusion: Are Bamboo Chews Safe for Dogs?

Now that you have all the facts about bamboo chews for dogs, you can make an informed decision about whether theyre the right choice for your beloved pet.

If youre still unsure about which chew options are best, consult your veterinarian who can offer expert advice tailored specifically to your dogs needs.

In the end, its about finding the perfect balance between eco-friendly choices and your pups health.

So go ahead, lets chew on this information together and make the best decision for your furry companion!

Hey! If you found this post useful, check out these dog care tips too:

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