Tips for Giving your Pet a Chewy Dog Treat

Chewy dog treats are a great way to keep your pet busy when you are unavailable to play. They also work as a wonderful distraction that keeps your canine preoccupied even when visitors arrive or other activity is going on in your home. Listed here are a few helpful tips for selecting a treat and safely offering it to your pet.

Chewing on the Right Size

Depending on your pet’s size, you may prefer a thinner or shorter chewy dog treat. Avoid giving a large dog a very small treat. These can pose a choking problem if your pet can swallow them whole. While most dogs will still try to chew the treat, it is always best to err on the side of safety. A very small dog could be given a lighter chew treat to avoid muscle strain when lifting. Also keep in mind dogs that have gum or teeth problems, especially senior canines, may have a difficult time with a very hard chew bone or other similar treat. If this is the case, look for softer rawhides such as pig ears.

Safety Tips for Chewy Dog Treats

Never hand your dog a chewy treat and leave him or her unattended. Although these are designed for canines, they can become hazards. A well-chewed treat can become small and be swallowed whole while a broken piece or splinter may wind up cutting your pet’s gums. While you do not have to constantly watch your dog chew the treat, it is important to check in frequently. Consider having your pet chew the treat in the same room as you are in. Always remove tiny or sharp pieces and throw them away.

Where to Chew

Some dogs have no problem with others being nearby when they are enjoying dog treats. However, it is in their nature to defend their food. If someone unfamiliar or another dog were to approach your pet while chewing, he or she may growl or even nip. If you have other dogs or visitors, consider placing your pet inside a kennel or other safe confinement. This provides a barrier between your pet and others. Plus, your pet will feel more relaxed knowing he or she is chewing in the safety of a den-like environment.

Good Behavior

Your pet should view you as the alpha. That means you should be able to take the dog treat away, even if he or she is not finished chewing it. The best way to reinforce this is to begin at a very young age. Pet your dog while he or she chews, even gently tugging on ears, tail and paws. Never tug hard, this is only to simulate being touched or handled while chewing. Finally, remove the treat from your pet. He or she should never growl, nip or snarl. If your pet allows you to take the treat without complaint, then praise, pet and finally return the treat as a reward. This practice can help avoid potential aggression problems in the future.

Author Bio: Article by Kimberly Case of www.dogtreatstogo.com where you can find a large selection of Dog Treats Online!

Category: Pets
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