Dog chews can help keep your dog happy and
healthy. Chews and chew toys that allow dogs to safely express their natural desires to chew and play can help prevent problem behaviors and improve dental health. 
All dogs need chew toys, although some enjoy them more than others.
Chews help prevent boredom and keep your dog from finding other, potentially destructive, ways to occupy himself.
Two basic categories of chews are "active" chews that the dog can carry around and chew, and "distraction" chews that keep a dog occupied and interested, often by concealing a treat inside. Providing your dog with safe, size-appropriate chews can prevent him from developing inappropriate behaviors. Chews help maintain good dental health by removing plaque and tartar from his teeth. Playing with your dog and his chews also gives him valuable interaction time with you.
Some chews, such as rawhide bones, are ingestible. There is a variety of edible chews and treats on the market. If your dog has dietary issues, consult your vet before giving her any ingestible chew, such as rawhide or a pig's ear.
Other chews can be made of hard rubber and may include an opening that can be filled with pieces of dog food, treats, or even cheese or peanut butter. Your dog must move the toy around or chew into it to retrieve her treat. Check with your vet before giving your dog "human" treats, such as peanut butter or cheese.
Allow your dog a few hours of chew time regularly. Always make sure she has fresh
water available while she is chewing on something, whether it is an ingestible chew or a toy.
Safety is the main concern with dog chews. Be certain the size of the chew is appropriate for your dog. A proper size chew is one that is approximately twice the size of your dog's mouth. Chews which are too small could get lodged in his throat. Be sure to check the chews often for signs of wear. Check the chews to be sure there are no loose pieces or small chunks that could break off and become a choking hazard; replace worn chews as needed. Take care with chews that have a "squeak" inside; some dogs may treat it as prey and try to kill it.
Allowing your dog an appropriate outlet to chew can prevent destructive behavioral problems and keep your dog happy and healthy.
