Best Chews for French Bulldogs: Top Picks and Tips

Introduction to French Bulldogs and best chews for french bulldogs

French Bulldogs, known for their adorable faces and playful personalities, can greatly benefit from the right kind of chews. These chews not only satisfy their natural chewing instincts but also provide multiple health benefits. In this guide, we’ll discuss the best chews for french bulldogs, their benefits, safety considerations, top recommendations, and how to introduce them safely.

Types of Chews Suitable for French Bulldogs

1. Dental Chews

Age of Use: Dental chews can generally be introduced once French Bulldog puppies have fully developed their adult teeth, typically around the age of 6 months.

Advantages:

• Oral Health: Significantly reduces plaque and tartar buildup.

• Breath Freshening: Helps maintain fresh breath.

• Variety: Usually available in various flavors and textures to suit different preferences.

Disadvantages:

• Hardness Levels: Some dental chews might be too hard for younger or senior dogs, potentially causing dental fractures.

• Caloric Content: Can be high in calories, which may not be ideal for overweight dogs if not monitored.

  

2. Edible Chews

Age of Use: Edible chews can be given once the puppy is weaned and can handle solid food, typically around 8 weeks of age.

Advantages:

• Nutrition: Often fortified with vitamins and minerals beneficial for health.

• Variety: Wide range of flavors and ingredients to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

• Digestibility: Generally designed to be easily digestible.

Disadvantages:

• Caloric Intake: May contribute to unnecessary calorie intake if overused.

• Allergies: Potential for allergic reactions depending on the ingredients.

  

3. Long-Lasting Chews

Age of Use: Suitable for adult dogs, generally advised from 1 year of age when their jaws are strong enough to handle the pressure.

Advantages:

• Durability: Keeps dogs occupied for extended periods.

• Mental Stimulation: Provides lasting engagement and mitigates boredom.

• Stress Relief: Satisfies the natural urge to chew, promoting relaxation.

Disadvantages:

• Hardness: Potential risk of breaking teeth in aggressive chewers.

• Supervision Required: Should be monitored to prevent choking or ingestion of large pieces.

  

4. Antler Chews

Age of Use: Suitable for fully grown adult dogs, ideally over 1 year old due to their hardness.

Advantages:

• Natural Source: Rich in minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

• Longevity: Extremely durable, providing long-lasting chewing satisfaction.

• Clean: Do not splinter easily and are generally odorless.

Disadvantages:

• Very Hard: Can be too hard for some dogs, posing a risk of dental fractures.

• Expensive: Generally more costly compared to other types of chews.

  

5. Himalayan Chews

Age of Use: Appropriate for dogs who are at least 6 months old, once they can handle harder chews.

Advantages:

• Natural Ingredients: Made from yak and cow milk, often with no preservatives or artificial colors.

• Long-Lasting: Durable, providing longer-lasting chewing satisfaction.

• Nutritional Value: Contains protein and other nutrients beneficial for health.

Disadvantages:

• Hardness: Can be very hard, necessitating supervision to avoid potential dental damage.

• Price: Often more expensive than other types of chews.

  

Top Recommended Chews for French Bulldogs

A. Best Dental Chews

Greenies Dental Dog Treats – Highly effective in reducing plaque and tartar build-up.

B. Safest Edible Chews

SmartBones Rawhide-Free Chews – Made with real chicken and vegetables, easy on the stomach.

C. Most Durable Long-Lasting Chews

Benebone Wishbone Chew Toy – Durable and flavored with real bacon, ensuring long-lasting enjoyment.

D. Natural and Organic Options

Whimzees Natural Dental Chews – Made from natural ingredients and free of artificial additives.

E. Chews for French Bulldog Puppies

Nylabone Puppy Teething Rings – Soft enough for teething puppies yet durable enough to last.

Chews to Avoid for French Bulldogs

Choosing the right chews for your French Bulldog involves not only selecting the best options but also avoiding potentially harmful ones. Some chews can pose significant risks to your dog’s health and safety. Here are some chews you might want to avoid:

1. Cooked Bones

Risks:

• Splintering: Cooked bones can easily splinter into sharp pieces that can cause lacerations in the mouth, throat, or gastrointestinal tract.

• Choking Hazard: These splinters can also become choking hazards or cause blockages in the intestines.

• Nutritional Value: Cooked bones offer little to no nutritional benefit.

  

2. Rawhide Chews

Risks:

• Digestibility: Rawhide can be difficult for your dog to digest, leading to potential gastrointestinal issues.

• Chemical Exposure: Often processed with chemicals that can be harmful if ingested.

• Choking and Blockages: Large pieces can break off and lead to choking or intestinal blockages, which may require surgical intervention.

• Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to ingredients used in the manufacturing of rawhide.

  

3. Hard Plastic Chews

Risks:

• Dental Damage: Hard plastic chews can be too hard, leading to broken or cracked teeth.

• Ingestion: Pieces of plastic can break off and be swallowed, posing a risk of choking or gastrointestinal blockage.

• Chemical Risks: May contain harmful chemicals or toxins that can pose health risks when ingested or chewed.

4. Pig Ears

Risks:

• Bacterial Contamination: Pig ears can be contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella, posing a risk to both dogs and humans.

• High Fat Content: High in fat, which can contribute to obesity and pancreatitis in dogs if consumed in large quantities.

• Choking Hazard: Pieces can easily break off, becoming a choking hazard or causing blockages.

5. Hooves

Risks:

• Splintering: Hooves are prone to splintering, causing lacerations and posing choking risks.

• Hardness: Very hard, which can lead to dental fractures in aggressive chewers.

• Digestive Issues: Can be difficult to digest and may cause gastrointestinal blockages.

6. Non-Edible Chew Toys with Small Parts

Risks:

• Ingestion: Small parts can break off and be swallowed, leading to choking or intestinal blockage.

• Toxic Materials: Some of these toys may be made from materials that are toxic or harmful if ingested.

How to Introduce and Use Chews Safely

A. Proper Introduction of New Chews

Introduce new chews gradually to ensure your dog accepts them and doesn’t have any adverse reactions.

B. Monitoring Chewing Habits

Keep an eye on your dog’s chewing habits to ensure they’re not overdoing it or showing signs of distress.

C. Rotating Chews for Variety

Rotate different types of chews to keep your dog engaged and interested.

D. Cleaning and Storing Chews

Properly clean and store chews to maintain hygiene and extend their lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions about French Bulldog Chews

Q : How Often Should French Bulldogs Have Chews?

A : Offer chews a few times a week, but adjust based on your dog’s chewing intensity and health needs.

Q : Can Chews Help with Teething French Bulldog Puppies?

A : Yes, soft chews can soothe teething discomfort and promote healthy chewing habits.

Q : What to Do if a French Bulldog Swallows Large Pieces of a Chew?

A : Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your dog has swallowed large pieces that could cause blockages.

Q : How to Tell if a Chew is Too Hard for a French Bulldog?

A : If you can’t dent the chew with your fingernail, it’s probably too hard and could risk damaging your dog’s teeth.

Q : What are some recommended treats for French Bulldogs?

A : When choosing treats for french bulldogs, opt for options that are low in fat and specially formulated for their sensitive digestive systems. Look for treats that are rich in nutrients like protein and vitamins, such as small pieces of lean meats or specialized dog treats designed specifically for French Bulldogs. Avoid treats that are high in sugar or artificial ingredients, as these can lead to health issues over time.

Read more Best food for french bulldog

Conclusion

Selecting the right chews for your French Bulldog involves considering their dental health, mental stimulation needs, and safety.

Ensure that chews complement your dog’s overall diet and exercise routine for optimal health and

Always consult your vet for personalized advice tailored to your French Bulldog’s individual needs.

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We hope this guide helps you select the best chews for french bulldogs. Happy chewing!