We’ve all been there: you return home after a day/night out to find a trail of torn clothes. Or maybe it’s the throw pillow, swiped from your bed. Or perhaps it’s your favorite pair of shoes. And right besides the mess sits your dog, pulling his most innocent face, as if to say, “I have no idea how this happened!”
Let’s face it: dogs chew. And it’s totally natural. But before you let your pup tear apart anything he can get his paws on, it’s important to make sure he’s safe. Here are 5 things your dog loves to chew, but absolutely shouldn’t:
1. Wood
Dogs love twigs, sticks, and branches, but they’re not so safe to chew. The same goes for wooden furniture. Wood can splinter, getting stuck in the gums, and cause infection. Or worse, sharp pieces can puncture the stomach or intestines causing severe damage.
2. Small Things
Rocks, golf balls… anything that can be swallowed will be. In many cases, the object in question will come out the other end. But sometimes, swallowed objects can get stuck, causing dangerous intestinal blockage and requiring surgical removal. That’s why you should also keep your pup away from shoes. They look tough and durable, but they’re made of lots of small things, like eyelets and laces, that can seriously injure your dog’s digestion.
3. Plastic Bottles
Feel free to let your dog fetch that disposable plastic bottle…but only after you dog-proof it. Make sure to remove the label, cap, and plastic ring (you know, the ring around the top) to minimize choking risks.
4. Mulch
You know those small bits of wood used to fill a playground or a garden? Your dog might love to chew on them, but he definitely, absolutely shouldn’t. Those chips are often made from cocoa shells, which is very toxic to dogs.
5. Walls
If you live in an old home, there’s a chance the paint on your walls could be lead-based. Lead toxicity is very very dangerous – for dogs and humans alike.
Here are 6 toys your dog will love to chew (and absolutely should).
