Dogs need to chew and, if they aren’t given something appropriate to chew, they may just chew your shoe or your furniture instead. Many vets recommend against given dogs rawhide, though, because if they swallow a piece, it can lodge in their throats and choke them. Fortunately, there are plenty of rawhide free dog chews for those in search of an alternative.
Antlers
Most dogs love antlers from deer, moose, or elk. They are nearly indestructible and last almost forever. You can buy them in pet stores or online, but you can also purchase a kit to train your dog to hunt for shed antlers in the woods if you like.
Bully Sticks
Bully sticks are made from certain parts of bulls (you may not want to know which part). They have a fairly strong smell, which dog owners may not enjoy but probably just adds to the enjoyment for pups.
Frozen Toys
There are rubber toys available that can be stuffed with treats. If you fill them with something like a mixture of plain Greek yogurt and peanut butter and then freeze them, your dog will have a healthful treat that will take quite a while to eat.
Frozen Marrow Bones
Many butchers sell marrow bones, cut from the legs of cows, and some will even give them to you for free. Keep them frozen and offer one to your dog for a special treat. You might want to put an old sheet down to protect your floor because these can be messy. Dogs love the marrow inside the bones.
Himalayan Chews
Sometimes referred to as yak chews, these are a kind of hardened cheese made from yak’s milk or sometimes cow’s milk. They’re firm and chewy and last a long time, making them great rawhide free dog chews.
