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Edible dog chews are a great way to treat your dog and add a bit of enrichment to their life—not to mention buy yourself a peaceful minute. But there are so many options out there that it’s hard to know which are best for your dog.
One of the biggest differentiators between dog chews is their hardness. All dog chews involve some level of risk, but harder the chew, the greater that risk is. Ultimately, it’s up to you and your vet to decide what kind of chew is appropriate for your particular dog.
To help you get started, we’ve rounded up our favorites, with notes on durability, size, and digestibility so you can find the chew that’s best for your pup. Our picks are roughly organized from softest to toughest to help you choose. And if you want more information on minimizing the risks, hop down to our notes on best practices for chew safety.
Best for Puppies: N-Bone Puppy Teething Ring
When puppies are teething, they have a seemingly insatiable need to chew. These puppy teething rings are wildly popular for slowing down young dogs and providing the gum sensation they crave.
The round shape is easier for tiny puppy paws to hold. Plus, these rings are pliable and digestible, so they’re a relatively safe choice (but still require supervision). They also include calcium and DHA to help keep a little one growing strong.
Notable Features:
- Suitable for puppies 12 weeks and older, weighing over 5 pounds
- Free of wheat, corn, and soy
- Available in additional flavors: chicken, peanut butter, pumpkin, salmon
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Best for Seniors: Happy Hips Jerky
Most senior dogs will require softer treats that are gentle on their teeth and gums. These jerky treats have a chewy texture that’s still pliable enough to be easily torn into smaller pieces. They’re high in protein and low in fat—a winning combination for seniors who need help maintaining muscle mass and keeping their weight down. With glucosamine and chondroitin, these jerky chews also promote joint health and keep your dog active as they age.
Notable Features:
- Available in chicken and duck
- 41 calories per treat
- Come in a resealable package
Best for Small Breeds: DreamBone Twist Sticks
To minimize choking risk, it’s crucial to select a chew that’s appropriately sized for your pup. Small dogs, in particular, will benefit from softer chews that are manageable for tinier teeth.
These twist chews are a great textured treat for small breeds and low- to mid-level chewers. They’re highly digestible, relatively soft, and contain added vitamins and minerals. Their real strength, though, is their high value to dogs. Pet parents and trainers swear by these for crate training and nighttime settling. Their relative affordability and comparatively modest calories are the icing on the cake.
Notable Features:
- Made with real chicken
- Rawhide-free and easy-to-digest
- Help keep your pup’s teeth clean
- Only 18 kcal per treat
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Best for Medium & Large Breeds: Natural Farm Beef Trachea
Made from a cow’s windpipe, beef trachea is naturally rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, which help strengthen hard-working joints and reduce stiffness. These 12-inch trachea chews are suitably sized for bigger dogs, and they feature just one ingredient—a boon for larger breeds who are often vulnerable to dietary intolerances.
With a unique texture and shape, these chews help clean teeth and freshen breath. You can even stuff them with filling and freeze them for a special treat (though reviews note the hollow interiors are a bit inconsistent). While they make a fine choice for low to moderate chewers, these chews won’t last long with a power chewer.
Notable Features:
- Also available for small dogs (3” sticks) and medium dogs (6” sticks)
- High in protein (64.3% on a dry-matter basis)
- Made from grass-fed, free-range cattle in Brazil
- Not ideal for power chewers
Best for New Chewers: Nature’s Logic Beef Tendons
Beef tendons are usually slightly smaller than bully sticks and not quite as long-lasting. If you’ve recently adopted a new dog or puppy and are not yet familiar with their chewing style, these are a good starting point.
Pet parents who have pups with food sensitivities will appreciate that these beef tendons from Nature’s Logic are single-ingredient chews, which reduces the chances of an upset stomach. Nature’s Logic sources its tendons from all-natural Midwest beef and cattle-graded USDA Prime. Since they’re on the pricier side, buying in bulk will give you more bang for your buck.
Notable Features:
- Single-ingredient treat
- Family-owned business
- Made and sourced in the U.S.
Best High Fiber: Caledon Farms Sweet Potato Chews
A fiber-packed chew can help keep digestion on track and help dogs maintain a healthy weight. These dehydrated sweet potatoes have a chewy texture that’s soft enough to break down into pieces for smaller dogs. With 4.7% fiber on a dry-matter basis, they’re highly digestible and offer a low glycemic index to promote a healthy weight. They’re also hand-processed and gently air-dried to retain nutrients and flavor.
Notable Features:
- Vegan and single-ingredient chew
- Made with sweet potatoes from North Carolina
- High in soluble and insoluble fiber
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Best Single-Ingredient Chew: The Honest Kitchen Wolffish Skins
Sensitive dogs can avoid tummy troubles with single-ingredient chews that are easily digestible. These Wolffish chews are made with just one ingredient: dehydrated fish skins. They have a thick, hearty texture that’s more robust than the brand’s cod skins, which lends them longevity. They’re also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support your dog’s skin and coat. Some pet parents don’t love the fishy smell, but most dogs are big fans.
Notable Features:
- High-protein treat (90% on a dry-matter basis)
- Available in small (5.5”) and large (8.5”)
- Wild-caught and sustainably sourced from Europe
- Made with 100% human-grade ingredients & processed in a human food facility
Best Low-Calorie: Get Naked Weight Management Dental Sticks
It’s important to remember that edible chews contribute additional calories to your dog’s diet. If you need to monitor your pup’s weight, they’ll benefit from treats that are low-fat and low-calorie.
At just 25 calories per stick and 2.35% fat on a dry-matter basis, these dental chews are a healthy option. They’re fairly high in fiber (3.5% dry matter) to give your pup’s metabolism a boost. You’ll also find L-Carnitine, an amino acid that helps burn fat.
Texture-wise, most reviews report a nice balance between soft and hard—soft enough to bend and break and hard enough to remove plaque.
Notable Features:
- Available in small and large sizes
- Includes L-Carnitine and Vitamin C
- Contains fiber-rich cranberries, apples, carrots, and flaxseed
- Chewy texture helps keep teeth clean
Best for Dental Health: Whimzees by Wellness Brushzees Dental Chews
Alongside regular brushing, dental chews are a nice way to promote your dog’s oral health. They’re on the softer end of the chew spectrum, and they’re fully digestible. Some dental chews rely on an abrasive texture to remove tartar, and others include plaque-fighting ingredients for a fresher mouth. Whimzees focus on both.
The knobby shape of these dental chews prevents tartar buildup and encourages blood flow through the gums. Whimzees also feature hollow grooves that get in hard-to-reach spaces between teeth. In addition, these chews contain powdered cellulose, a form of dietary fiber that helps polish teeth.
Notable Features:
- Vegetarian chew with limited ingredients
- Low in fat (2.27% dry matter)
- Rich in vitamins and antioxidants
- Available in X-Small, Small, Medium, and Large to suit dogs of all sizes
- Per the company, these aren’t suitable for dogs under the age of 9 months
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Best Budget: Jack & Pup Chicken Feet Treats
Funding a constant supply of dog chews can add up fast. At just $0.81 per chew, these single-ingredient chicken feet are an affordable choice. They have a rough texture that helps remove plaque to promote dental hygiene. While they’re not the longest-lasting chew, they should occupy the average chewer for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Chicken feet also offer a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.
Notable Features:
- High in protein (42.65% dry matter) and low in cholesterol
- Promotes dental health
- No artificial flavors, additives, chemicals, or preservatives
Best for Food Allergies: Purina Prime Bones
Most cases of food allergies in dogs are tied to common proteins like chicken and beef. Dogs affected by these ingredients can avoid a reaction with treats that feature a novel protein.
Purina’s Prime Bones aren’t actually bones. They’re calcium-enhanced venison chews with no rawhide or plastic. That makes them a popular choice for senior dogs and pups who are better suited for a slightly softer treat. While they may not last very long among the power chewers, they’re a popular pick thanks to limited ingredients and USA-based manufacturing.
These chews are made with limited ingredients and contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. If your pup is sensitive to venison, they also carry bison chews and mini knotted chews with duck.
Notable Features:
- Available in small, medium, and large sizes
- Calcium is added to strengthen teeth and bones
- No corn, wheat, or soy included
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Best for Skin & Coat Health: Icelandic+ Cod Chew Sticks
Dogs with dry skin or brittle coats can benefit from treats and chews with omega fatty acids. These air-dried cod chews are naturally rich in both omega-3s and omega-6s to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. They have a unique folded design, and lots of dogs enjoy the challenge of peeling back the layers of skin.
Aggressive chewers might be able to work through these in under 20 minutes, but they can last a few days for others. Be warned: they have a fishy smell. But most dogs love it.
Notable Features:
- Available in long (10”) and short sizes (about 5”)
- Single-ingredient chew: 100% cod skins
- Sustainably wild-caught and processed daily
- Offer a whopping 96.5% protein on a dry matter basis
Best High Protein: I And Love And You Ear Candy
Canine athletes, working dogs, and some senior dogs can usually benefit from extra protein in their diet. With 87.4% protein on a dry-matter basis, this Ear Candy chew certainly fits the bill.
Pig and cow ears are made from cartilage, which is a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin. They tend to fall in the middle of chew toughness—softer than yak chews and antlers but tougher than dental sticks. Made with 100% cow ear, this moderately tough chew should last light to medium chewers a good amount of time.
Notable Features:
- Medium toughness, ideal for light to medium chewers
- Sourced from free-range, South American beef
- The brand prohibits suppliers from processing chews with bleach, glycerin, or other unapproved chemicals
Best Rawhide Alternative: Earth Animal No Hide Dog Chew
Rawhide was once the king of the chew market—but it’s fallen out of favor in recent years over concerns about both digestibility and contamination. Rawhide alternatives like Earth Animal’s No Hide chews have been widely popular in their wake. These easily digestible chews are made with seven natural ingredients: beef, brown rice flour, agar-agar, organic eggs, olive oil, banana powder, pineapple stem.
While pet parents might wish they lasted longer, they still give them high marks for pup appeal and for being gentle on sensitive stomachs. These chews come in a variety of flavors and sizes but are only suitable for dogs that weigh at least 15 pounds.
Notable Features:
- Made in the USA
- Flavors include beef, chicken, peanut butter, and pork
- Free of synthetics and preservatives
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Best for Digestibility: Nature Gnaws Beef Bully Sticks
For dogs with sensitive tums, single-ingredient bully sticks make a fine choice. Made with just beef muscle, these digestible chews can last from a few hours up to a few days. Bully sticks have a firm texture, but they’re usually soft enough that they shouldn’t splinter.
Nature Gnaws carries these beef bully sticks in two lengths: 5-6” and 11-12”. They’re a good source of protein, and the tougher texture promotes dental health. Like most bully sticks, they’re on the stinky side, but dogs don’t seem to mind.
Notable Features:
- Jumbo and skinny varieties also available
- Firm texture helps remove plaque and tartar
- 4Ocean plastic neutral product
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Best Rawhide: Pet Factory Beefhide Chips
Rawhide has come under scrutiny in recent years due to the risks of choking and contamination. Even so, rawhide may be safe for some dogs, provided they’re enjoyed under supervision and sourced carefully. Rawhide is also long-lasting and can help maintain healthy teeth.
To reduce the risk of chemical or bacterial contamination, it’s best to choose rawhides from a reputable brand that prioritizes safe processing methods. Pet Factory prepares its dog chews in facilities certified by the Global Food Safety Initiative. Products are also tested for digestibility by an independent lab.
In terms of dental health, these flat chips are a safer option than knotted or rolled chews that can damage enamel or fracture teeth. As dogs chew, the firm texture scrapes off plaque to prevent tartar buildup.
Notable Features:
- Long-lasting chew
- Made in the U.S.
- Promotes dental health
Best No-Mess: Downtown Pet Supply Yak Chews
We think yak chews are fascinating. These cheesy sticks are somewhere between antlers and tendons in terms of durability, and for many pups they’re a relatively long-lasting chew. Free of dyes and odor, they don’t stain carpets or couches or stink up your house.
Typically made with three ingredients—yak milk, lime, and salt—they’re also more digestible than other chews. However, not all are entirely dairy/lactose-free. These yak chews by Downtown Pet Supply, for example, also use cow’s milk. Rover test pups tried them and were impressed.
For pups who need a gentler chewing experience, most yak chews can be microwaved or soaked overnight to soften.
Notable Features:
- Rawhide-free and chicken-free
- Contain calcium, zinc, vitamins A, D, and E, and Omega 3
- Easily digestible
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Best Long-Lasting: Pupford Split Elk Antler
Power chewers, meet your match! Antler chews are some of the toughest on the market. They’re considerably more expensive than other chews, but they tend to last much longer. They’re best for strong chewers and bigger dogs with powerful jaws.
These naturally-shed elk antlers are split for a safer chewing experience. This also gives dogs easier access to the tasty bone marrow inside. In addition, these antlers offer a natural source of calcium, glucosamine, and iron for strong muscles, bones, and joints.
It’s a good idea to talk with your vet before offering your dog an antler chew. You’ll also want to closely supervise chewers new to antlers and watch for splinters and sharp breakages.
Notable Features:
- About 5″ to 8” long
- Only 20 calories per antler
- Cruelty-free, naturally shed
- Single-ingredient chew: ideal for sensitive stomachs
- Promotes mobility with calcium, glucosamine, and iron
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Best for Power Chewers: QT Dog Buffalo Hornz Water Buffalo Horn
Another long-lasting natural chew, water buffalo horns are a more affordable choice than antlers. Pet parents like that they’re high in protein and low in fat, making them a good option for dogs who are watching their weight. They’re also often high in calcium, contributing to healthy bones and muscles.
This water buffalo horn adds calcium and phosphorus to your pup’s diet. It comes in three sizes to accommodate different breeds, though slight variations can occur since it’s a natural treat.
As with all hard chews, you’ll want to avoid giving horns to dogs with poor dental health and make sure to toss them immediately if they start to splinter.
Notable Features:
- High in protein and fat
- Grain-free treat
- Natural source of minerals without added preservatives
- Best suited for adult dogs
Chew Safety Best Practices
All dog chews come with some risks, and part of the challenge of finding a good fit is figuring out what you’re comfortable with. Here are some steps you can take to moderate the risks of a chew:
- Ask your vet what kinds of chews are appropriate for your particular dog’s teeth and stomach
- Make sure your pup always chews under supervision
- Inspect your dog’s chew after every chew session to make sure it isn’t splintering into dangerous fragments
- Periodically inspect your dog’s teeth and gums to make sure there are no signs of bleeding or damage
- Take away chews that get small enough to swallow whole, or use a bully stick holder
- Read manufacturer advice to get the right size for your pup’s breed and weight
If you want to minimize risk even further, consider skipping tougher chews and opting for fillable toys like KONGs, Toppls, and lick mats. These can contain soft, spreadable treats like dog-safe peanut butter or lower-calorie options like pumpkin. Freeze them to offer more of a challenge to a chew-happy pup, or try a treat-dispensing toy.
Even toys, however, require some supervision to make sure your dog isn’t breaking off pieces in their quest for the filling. With time, watching your dog gets easier, and you’ll develop a sense of their chew style. Armed with this knowledge, the search for a good chew gets a lot simpler.
How We Chose
The chews featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing and a comprehensive look at customer reviews across a wide variety of retail platforms. We considered a range of chewing strengths and prioritized digestibility, safety, and chews with nutritional benefits. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated pets, who are never stingy with their feedback.
