DAY 5 - Best Chew Bones for Puppies: What to Pick & What to Avoid (Zoey’s Story!)

If you have a puppy who loves to chew everything in sight, you already know how important it is to give them the right chew bones. Puppies chew to soothe teething pain, strengthen their jaws, and prevent boredom, but not all chews are safe.

When Zoey was a new to us and our first puppy, we made the big mistake of giving her rawhide chews—thinking they were a great option. But before we knew it, her tiny teeth were chipped! That’s when we learned the hard way that not all chew bones are created equal.

In this guide, we’ll share the best chew bones for puppies, what materials to avoid, and how to make sure your pup’s teeth stay strong and healthy.

Why Puppies Need Chew Bones

🐶 Teething Relief – Puppies start teething at around 3-4 weeks old, and chewing helps ease the discomfort.

🦷 Healthy Jaw Development – Chewing strengthens their jaws and prevents destructive chewing on furniture.

🧠 Mental Stimulation – Keeps puppies entertained and engaged.

🍖 Better Digestion – Some chew bones provide nutrients like calcium and protein, which support growth.

But here’s the catch: not all chew bones are safe! Many commercial chews contain harmful chemicals, sharp edges, or break easily, putting your pup’s teeth at risk.

What Happened to Zoey’s Teeth? Our Experience with Rawhide Chews

Like many first-time puppy parents, we thought rawhide bones were a great treat. They were cheap, easy to find, and Zoey loved them. But soon, we noticed:

❌ Her baby teeth started chipping – Rawhide gets hard and brittle over time, causing tiny teeth to break.

❌ She had trouble digesting them – Rawhide swells in the stomach and can cause blockages.

❌ Hidden chemicals! – Many rawhide treats contain bleach, artificial flavours, and toxic preservatives.

After a trip to the vet and some research, we realised rawhide chews are a BIG no for puppies. That’s when we switched to Himalayan Yak Chews—and it made all the difference!

Best Chew Bones for Puppies (Safe & Healthy Options!)

If you’re looking for safe, nutritious, and long-lasting chew bones, here are some vet-approved options:

🏆 1. Himalayan Yak Chews (Zoey’s Favorite!)

✔ Made from yak milk, cow milk, lime, and salt—100% natural.

✔ Rich in protein & calcium for healthy bones.

✔ Long-lasting but softens when chewed (gentle on puppy teeth).

✔ Easily digestible and free from chemicals.

👉 Pro Tip: Soak the last piece in warm water and microwave it for a few seconds—it turns into a soft, cheesy treat!

We got ours from Furrchild in UAE. 

P.S: Zoey is a biggest fan of their meals, treats and especially their Himalayan pink chews! 

🦴 2. Natural Antler Chews (Elk or Deer)

✔ Packed with calcium, phosphorus, and collagen.

✔ Long-lasting and won’t splinter.

✔ Good for aggressive chewers.

🚨 Avoid hard, dry antlers for young puppies—stick to split antlers or softer options.

🥩 3. Raw Meaty Bones (Vet-Approved)

✔ Real bones from chicken, lamb, or beef with some meat left on.

✔ Great for cleaning teeth naturally.

✔ Rich in nutrients and minerals.

🚨 Avoid cooked bones! They splinter easily and can cause choking.

🦷 4. Rubber Chew Toys (Like KONG or Nylabone)

✔ Super durable and safe for teething puppies.

✔ Some are fillable with peanut butter for extra fun.

✔ Perfect for dental health and reducing boredom.

🚨 Avoid hard plastic or cheap rubber toys—they can crack puppy teeth.

What to AVOID in Puppy Chew Bones

🚫 Rawhide Chews – Cause choking, digestive issues, and chipped teeth.

🚫 Cooked Bones – Splinter into sharp pieces.

🚫 Plastic or Low-Quality Rubber Chews – Can break and cause mouth injuries.

🚫 Pork Bones – Too brittle, splinters easily.

🚫 Bones with Artificial Flavors or Dyes – May contain toxic chemicals.

Always check the ingredients before buying a chew bone—natural is always best!

How to Choose the Best Chew Bone for Your Puppy

Before picking a chew bone, keep these factors in mind:

🔹 Size & Age – Choose a chew appropriate for your puppy’s size. Too small? Choking hazard. Too big? Frustrating to chew.

🔹 Digestibility – Avoid synthetic chews; pick natural, easily digestible options.

🔹 Hardness Level – If you can’t dent it with your fingernail, it’s too hard for puppy teeth.

🔹 Nutritional Value – Opt for chews with calcium, protein, and minerals to support growth.

Final Woof: What’s the Best Chew Bone for Puppies?

After Zoey’s chipped teeth scare, we found that Himalayan Yak Chews are the best chew bones for puppies—gentle on teeth, long-lasting, and packed with nutrients.

✅ Safe & digestible

✅ Prevents chipped teeth

✅ Supports growth & dental health

✅ Keeps puppies busy for hours

If your pup is a chewer, invest in high-quality, natural chew bones that support their health instead of harming it!

📢 What’s your puppy’s favourite chew bone?

Let us know in the comments! 🐾💛