What Can My Dog Chew on Everyday Without Ruining Teeth? My Picks

What can my dog chew on everyday? The best daily chew options for dogs include rubber toys like KONGS, dental chews approved by VDOHC, raw carrots, bully sticks in moderation, and specially designed nylon bones that won’t damage tooth enamel when used correctly.

Look, I get it.

You love your furry friend. But watching them gnaw on everything from your favorite shoes to the coffee table leg? That’s not love. That’s chaos.

And here’s the kicker: giving your dog the WRONG chew can crack their teeth, damage their gums, or even cause a $2,000 vet bill. (Yes, I’ve been there. My Golden Retriever Max broke a molar on a deer antler. Never again.)

So let me save you the headache, the heartache, and the money.

After 10+ years of working with dogs and testing every chew toy under the sun, I’m going to show you exactly what your dog can safely chew on every single day.

Why Daily Chewing Matters for Your Dog

Your dog NEEDS to chew. It’s hardwired into their DNA.

But here’s what most dog owners don’t know: chewing does more than just keep them busy. It:

• Cleans their teeth naturally (like a toothbrush they actually enjoy)
• Reduces anxiety and stress (a tired jaw is a calm dog)
• Prevents destructive behavior (goodbye, chewed furniture)
• Strengthens jaw muscles and keeps gums healthy

The problem? Not all chews are created equal.

Some are too hard. Some break apart and become choking hazards. And some? Well, they’re just plain dangerous.

That’s why I’m obsessed with finding the perfect balance between safety and satisfaction.

My Top Picks: What Can My Dog Chew on Everyday Safely

1. Rubber Chew Toys (The Gold Standard)

I’m talking about high-quality rubber toys like KONGS.

These are my go-to recommendation for 90% of dogs. Here’s why:

• Durable but NOT tooth-breaking hard
• You can stuff them with healthy treats or peanut butter
• They bounce (bonus entertainment!)
• Dishwasher safe

Pro Tip: Freeze a stuffed KONG overnight. Your dog will be busy for HOURS. I do this every morning before work, and my Labrador thinks I’m a genius.

Want to make sure your dog’s getting the right nutrition while they chew? Check out this variety of dog meal plans that pair perfectly with a chewing routine.

2. Dental Chews (The Teeth Cleaners)

Real talk: I was skeptical about dental chews for YEARS.

Then I saw the plaque buildup on my older dog’s teeth shrink after just three weeks of daily dental chews.

Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VDOHC). These aren’t just marketing gimmicks. They actually work.

But here’s the catch: you need to choose the right size. Too small? Choking hazard. Too big? Your dog won’t chew it properly.

If you’re wondering how many bones should a dog have in a day, the same logic applies to dental chews: one per day is the sweet spot for most dogs.

3. Raw Carrots (The Natural Solution)

This one surprises people every time.

Raw carrots are:

• Cheap (like, dirt cheap)
• Low calorie
• Great for teething puppies AND adult dogs
• Naturally crunchy without being tooth-crackers

I keep a bag of large carrots in my fridge at all times. When my dogs start getting that “I need to chew NOW” look, I toss them a carrot. Problem solved.

Important: Make sure they’re LARGE carrots. Baby carrots can be a choking hazard for bigger dogs.

4. Bully Sticks (The Long-Lasting Favorite)

Are bully sticks really good for dogs? Yes, but with some caveats.

Bully sticks are 100% digestible, high in protein, and most dogs go absolutely NUTS for them.

The downside? They’re calorie-dense. If your dog eats one every day, you might notice some weight gain.

My solution: I give bully sticks 2-3 times per week, not daily. And I always supervise because the last little nub can become a choking hazard.

5. Nylon Bones (The Controversial Pick)

Here’s where I need to be honest with you.

Are Nylabones safe for dogs? It depends on your dog’s chewing style.

For moderate chewers? Absolutely. They’re durable and designed specifically not to splinter.

For aggressive power chewers? I’d skip them. I’ve seen dogs break off chunks that can cause intestinal blockages.

The rule I follow: If you see large pieces breaking off, toss it immediately and switch to rubber.

What to AVOID: Chews That Can Ruin Your Dog’s Teeth

Let me save you some pain (and vet bills).

Never give your dog:

• Real bones from the butcher (they can splinter and cause internal damage)
• Ice cubes (too hard, can crack teeth)
• Tennis balls as chew toys (the fuzz wears down enamel over time)
• Hard antlers (I learned this one the expensive way)
• Cooked bones of any kind (they become brittle and dangerous)

Want to know more about what dog cannot eat? That guide covers all the dangerous foods and items in detail.

How I Structure My Dog’s Daily Chew Routine

Here’s exactly what I do with my two dogs:

Morning: Frozen KONG stuffed with their breakfast mixed with dog supplements (keeps them busy while I get ready for work)

Afternoon: Dental chew or raw carrot (depends on the day)

Evening: Rubber chew toy during TV time or a bully stick if they’ve been especially good

This routine has eliminated 95% of destructive chewing in my house. No joke.

I also use a dog camera to check on them during the day. It’s wild how much more relaxed they are when they have proper chew outlets.

Matching the Chew to Your Dog’s Needs

Every dog is different. What works for my Lab won’t work for your Chihuahua.

For puppies: Soft rubber toys, frozen washcloths, puppy-specific dental chews

For seniors: Softer chews, shorter sessions, easier-to-digest options

For aggressive chewers: Extra-durable rubber, supervised bully sticks, appropriately sized hard chews

For picky dogs: Try brain training exercises that make chewing more rewarding and engaging

Track what works best for your dog using a dog health tracker. You’ll start noticing patterns in their behavior and health.

Quick Comparison: Best Daily Chews

The Bottom Line: What Can My Dog Chew on Everyday?

Look, I’m not going to overcomplicate this.

The safest daily chews are rubber toys, veterinary-approved dental chews, and raw vegetables like carrots. Rotate them. Keep it interesting. And ALWAYS supervise, especially with new chews.

If you’re feeding your dog quality food (like Blue Buffalo), you’re already ahead of the game. Add in smart chewing choices, and you’ve got a recipe for a happy, healthy dog with strong teeth.

Want more guidance? Check out can I give my dog a chew every day for a deeper dive into daily chewing habits.

And if you’re looking for the best chew bone for dogs, that guide breaks down every option in detail.

Key Takeaways

• Daily chewing is essential for your dog’s dental health and mental wellbeing
• Rubber toys are the safest bet for everyday use
• Avoid anything harder than your dog’s teeth (the thumbnail test: if you can’t dent it with your nail, it’s too hard)
• Supervise new chews until you know how your dog handles them
• Variety is key to keeping your dog interested and engaged

Make sure your dog stays hydrated during chew sessions with a quality dog water fountain. Proper hydration + smart chewing = one very happy pup.

Got questions? Drop them below. And if your dog needs emotional support certification, check out how to get an ESA letter today.

Now go grab those chew toys and give your dog the safe, satisfying chewing experience they deserve. Your furniture will thank you.