Nothing is worse than buying your pooch a new dog chew and watching him finish it in a flash before looking up at you with those big, sad eyes pleading for more.
And to think, you thought that dog chew would last him all day! Or at least a few hours…
Worse, flimsy dog chews can be dangerous, risking the ingestion of broken chunks that can cause stomach upset, blockages, and painful potty problems.
With that in mind, we’ve gathered our favorite long-lasting dog chews that will keep your dog chewing happily (and safely!)
Check them out with us below.
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Best Bully Sticks for Dogs
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Best Yak Chews for Dogs
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Best Non-Edible Chew
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While dog chews provide many health benefits, none are 100% risk-free. Always monitor your dog when he’s enjoying one!
The Best Long-Lasting Dog Chews: Something for Every Pooch!
Many dog chews exist today, making finding the right long-lasting one for your doggo quite the feat. The most common long-lasting dog chews on the market include the following:
You’ll see us reference something called “the fingernail test” several times below. It’s essentially a method vets have developed to determine whether or not a given dog chew is likely to damage your dog’s gums or teeth.
To perform the fingernail test, you simply press your fingernail into the hardest portion of the dog chew. If your fingernail dents the chew, it has “passed” the fingernail test and is likely safe for your dog to chew (with supervision).
But if your fingernail fails to produce a dent, the dog chew has “failed” the test, meaning that you may want to opt for a softer chew.
1. Bully Sticks
About: A bully stick is an all-natural chew made of dried bull penis. Another more pleasant name for the penile product is a pizzle.
Offered in single sticks and braided varieties, these dog chews are solid but not as hard or risky for teeth as bones or horns.
Since they’re sourced from a single animal protein, they’re also ideal for puppers with sensitive systems and generally unlikely to upset your dog’s stomach.
Pros
- Entirely edible and digestible
- They don’t shatter, making them pretty safe
- Doggos usually love them
- Available in several forms (sticks, braids, etc.)
- They’re strong contenders for the title of best dog chew on the market
Cons
- Don’t last as long as some other dog chews
- They smell bad
- They’re pretty expensive
Think pizzle sticks are pawfect? Pawstruck’s Bully Sticks are our favorite!
2. Yak Cheese
About: Also known as yak chews, yak cheese is a product made by combining yak milk (although some brands actually substitute cow’s milk), salt, and lime juice and smoking or drying the mixture over an extended period.
The result is a compressed hunk of hard yak cheese. The formula may also include smoke flavoring or color and is typically low-odor compared to some other dog chews.
Pros
- Some of the few manmade dog chews that are entirely edible and (usually) easily digestible
- Really big ones last a long time
- Most dogs love, love, love the taste
- Available in sizes big enough for large dogs
Cons
- Really hard versions may damage teeth
- Excessive cheese consumption may lead to stomach upset
- They’re pretty pricey
Ready to give yak cheese a try? You can’t beat Pawstruck’s pricing and quality!
Long-lasting, all-natural chews that are made in Nepal and available in several different sizes and package counts.
3. Pig / Cow Ears
About: Ear chews are some of the most popular dog chews out there with pooches and their parents alike.
Natural and inexpensive, they’re widely available in stores and come in several varieties, including smoked.
Cow ears are larger and typically last longer, while the ears of pigs are smaller, softer, and higher in fat.
Pros
- Softer than most other natural dog chews
- Potentially the best chews for mild- to moderate-chewers
- Drive most dogs wild
- Relatively affordable
Cons
- They don’t last very long
- They’re greasy, which may cause tummy trouble or stain furniture
- Some dogs swallow large pieces whole
Think pig or cow ears are a winner for your woofer? Check out Pawstruck’s Pig Ears!
Check out our cow ear review article to learn more about these chews and see a few of our favorites. You may also want to consider beef cheek rolls!
4. Collagen Chews
About: Collagen chews are some of the safest chomper treats out there.
Made using protein-rich beef collagen, these tasty dog chews come in an array of shapes and sizes, letting you pick what works best for your dog.
They’re hard, but not overly so, making them ideal for most dogs to enjoy without too much of a risk of tooth or mouth injury. They’re best suited for low-to-moderate chewers.
Pros
- Easily digested
- Some brands offer flavored collagen dog chews
- Full of glucosamine and chondroitin
Cons
- Small bits may present a choking hazard
- They don’t always last very long
- Some dogs suffer stomach upset
Ready to drive your dog wild? Pawstruck’s Beef Collagen Sticks will do the trick!
Protein-packed collagen chews that are made from premium South American cattle and processed in Pawstruck's SQF- and FDA-approved facilities.
5. Beef Trachea
About: Beef trachea is a good option for low-to-moderate chewers. The tube-like shape is easy for most doggos to handle, though the width can be a bit large for small breeds.
For petite pooches, esophagus strips may be a better option.
Pros
- Unlikely to damage dog teeth
- Relatively affordable
- Good source of chondroitin and glucosamine
Cons
- Some dogs turn their noses up at tracheas
- They’re not good chews for super tough chewers
- Can be greasy and smelly
Tracheas sound like they’ll do the trick? Check out Natural Farm Beef Tracheas!
All-natural beef tracheas that are tasty, made from a single ingredient, and full of glucosamine and chondroitin.
6. Fish Chews
About: Made of dehydrated fish, fish chews are protein-rich treats that are best for light to moderate chewers.
These aren’t as risky for dental or oral injuries, and most pups go crazy over the taste. Since they’re from a single source, they also are friendly for floofs with sensitive systems.
Pros
- Softer than most other natural dog chews, making them safer
- Offer a different taste profile for picky puppers
- Some forms may provide omega-3s
Cons
- Not very durable; they won’t withstand super vigorous chewing for long
- Some owners object to the smell
- Don’t provide a ton of dental health benefits
Want to try fish chews? The Honest Kitchen Ocean Chews are our favs!
All-natural, sustainably sourced, human-grade fish skins derived from your choice of two species: cod and wolffish.
7. Non-Edibles
About: Consisting of popular dog chews like rope toys and KONGs, non-edibles come in varying strengths to suit dogs with varied chewing styles. Pricing, size, and shape varies, allowing you to cater the dog chew to your budget, your pupper’s preference, and his chewing style.
These dog chews are crafted with man-made materials, so they’re not the all-natural products that some pup parents seek. But they still provide a wealth of benefits, including an improved safety profile and flexibility. Some kinds also feature bumps and ridges that provide dental benefits and keep your dog’s teeth clean.
Pros
- Some forms provide tooth-cleaning benefits
- Some forms are stuffable
- Many are durable enough to last for months or years
- These long-lasting dog chews keep dogs engaged and provide great value
Cons
- If swallowed, many will cause problems
- Some are too tough and fail to pass the fingernail test
- Some (such as ropes) can harbor bacteria
Looking for a non-edible chew toy? You simply can’t beat the Classic KONG!
Need more info on non-edible chews that’ll last?
Check out our review of rope toys, or get some ideas about things you can stuff inside a KONG.
8. Nylon Chews
About: Nylon chews like Nylabones and Benebones are crafted into a chew-friendly shape for your pup.
These artificial chews can withstand heavy-duty chewing and added flavoring makes them extra appealing to pups. They also come in many sizes and thicknesses, allowing you to find the best size for your dog’s safety and needs.
We generally consider nylon dog chews like Benebones and Nylabones safe for most pooches, but due to the hardness of these chews, they can be somewhat controversial, with some dogs breaking their teeth on them.
Pros
- Usually a long-lasting dog chew (even for aggressive chewers)
- Provide better value than things like pig ears
- Easy to wipe clean; usually not very messy
- Flavored nylon bones are available
Cons
- They aren’t truly edible; may cause obstructions
- Many fail to pass the fingernail test
- Some canines are completely uninterested in these chews
Ready to buy a nylon dog chew treat? We think Benebone Wishbones are hard to beat!
A taste-bud-tempting chew flavored with your choice of bacon, chicken, or peanut.
9. Rawhide
About: Made of untanned cowhide, rawhides are rolled or knotted into a chew-friendly form for your dog.
Rawhide comes in many varieties, with some much harder than others. This makes in-person examination a must to ensure you get the hardness that works best for your pooch.
You should also pay close attention to the country of origin and manufacturing processes used, as rawhides can undergo toxic treatments overseas with deadly chemicals like arsenic used. This can make rawhides especially dangerous when swallowed by dogs.
Pros
- Very affordable and readily available
- Less likely to cause tooth damage than some other chews
- Dogs often love them
Cons
- Rawhide presents pretty serious ingestion risks
- Low-quality versions often treated with dangerous chemicals
- Once chewed, becomes a magnet for bacteria
Ready to try some rawhide chews? It’s hard to beat Pet Factory’s Beefhide Chews!
Made without additives or preservatives, these rawhide chews are made in the USA from US-sourced, corn-fed cattle.
Interested in learning more about rawhides or seeing some product recommendations? Check out our rawhide review article!
10. Beef Knee Caps / Knuckles
About: These cartilage-heavy bones are typically meaty and intriguing to most four-footers thanks to their smoked nature.
They’re larger and sturdier than other beef body parts like pizzle sticks, and their size is less risky for choking than ears or hooves.
Pros
- Long-lasting, making them good for power chewers
- Dogs usually love the taste
- The cartilage serves as a source of chondroitin
Cons
- Won’t pass the thumbnail test and may cause tooth injury
- May splinter, leading to obstructions
- Some individual products are a bit greasy
Sold on the idea of beef knee caps? Make sure you purchase them from a reliable manufacturer, such as Pawstruck!
Slow-roasted, US-sourced, 100% natural beef knees that come with attached tendons and muscles.
11. Bones
About: Bones are a serious hit and miss area for dog chews. The safest ones are those that are raw as they’re softer and more pliable.
Raw beef bones are the best variety for chewing since they’re larger. Just note that cooked animal bones of any kind are dangerous and should never be given to your pooch. — always stick to raw bones.
Cooking breaks bones down and leaves them brittle, risking shattering that will cause serious mouth and internal injuries. Always avoid cooked bones with your canine.
Pros
- The all-natural aspect appeals to some pet parents
- Meaty bits are tasty and edible
- Relatively affordable
Cons
- One of the most dangerous options — cracked teeth are common
- Swallowed bits of bones can become choking hazards
- Can become contaminated with bacteria
Ready to give your dog a bone? Check out K9 Connoisseur’s Single Ingredient Dog Bones!
Made in the USA from a single ingredient, these all-natural bones are harvested from free-range, grass-fed cows reared in the US.
12. Hooves
About: Cow hooves are a tough chew durable enough to stand up to powerful jaws, and even aggressive chewers will see these last a bit.
They’re natural too, lacking the heavy treatment seen in other chews, like rawhides.
Pros
- Some of the most affordable long-lasting chews around
- Can be purchased pre-filled with tasty treats (you can also do that yourself)
- Dogs usually love them
Cons
- The hoof edges can be sharp and cause damage to the digestive tract
- More likely to be swallowed than some other chews
- Some owners dislike the smell
Excited to try cow hooves? Pawstruck offers some of the best ones around!
100% natural, additive-free cow hooves that are manufactured in the USA and available in multiple package counts.
Think these may be a good fit for Fido? We’ve examined cow hooves in depth before.
13. Horns
About: Typically coming from a sheep or a water buffalo, horns are a natural chew option that can withstand heavy chewing. You can also stuff them with goodies like peanut butter to keep your doggo interested in them longer.
Pros
- They tend to last a long time
- You can stuff them with peanut butter or cheese spread
- Relatively inexpensive
Cons
- They’re really hard and may damage teeth
- Sharp edges are present in some
- Some puppers just don’t like the taste
Wanna give horns a try with your dog? These buffalo horns from QT Dog are a great option!
Premium, US-made buffalo horns for dogs, which are affordably priced and available in several package counts.
14. Dogwood
About: Dogwood is a processed material made to mimic the sticks that some doggos can’t get enough of.
Using wood and polypropylene, the chew’s can be used for chewing only or mouth-friendly games of fetch too.
Offered in multiple lengths, they can be purchased for pooches of any size and work best for moderate chewers.
Pros
- Safer than real sticks
- Also work for fetch
- Available in flavored varieties
Cons
- Don’t pass the fingernail test
- Not truly edible (though real sticks aren’t, either)
- Some owners simply don’t like synthetic chews of any kind
Want to try one of these interesting chews? Check ’em out from Petstages!
Made from a combination of real wood and non-toxic synthetics for additional strength, dogs love these US-made chews.
15. Antlers
About: These harvested antlers from elk, deer, or moose are some of the closest to all-natural dog chews you can find.
They’re shed naturally by the animal yearly, limiting their overall environmental footprint.
Antler chews typically don’t stain or stink, making them ideal for in-house chewing. They are on the pricier side, however.
Pros
- Very long lasting natural chews
- Sustainable and eco-friendly
- A source of calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals
- Though pricey, they provide great value
Cons
- Won’t pass the fingernail test; may cause tooth injury
- May splinter, causing problems if swallowed
- Some floofs simply don’t like the taste
Antlers sound like the best choice for your dog? Devil Dog Pet Co. Elk Antlers are our favorites antlers on the market!
100% natural, responsibly sourced, naturally shed elk antlers that are available in an array of sizes.
The Importance of Chewing
Chewing is as natural for your four-footer as wagging his tail is. Simply put, it’s good for your dog’s health.
It’s a positive, healthy energy outlet that you should encourage, (though you should put boundaries on chewing of course — no one is saying you need to sacrifice your favorite shoes).
Offering dog-friendly chews helps fulfill this instinct, keep your dog busy, and prevent the kind of canine boredom that can lead to more mischievous behaviors.
Chewing is also a good way to promote dental health. Think of it as a fun and easy way to keep your dog’s teeth and gums free of harmful buildup — in addition to regular brushing with a quality dog toothpaste. You can also incorporate specially-formulated dental chews into your dog’s routine to keep his chompers clean.
Dog Chew Safety 101: Risks Involved
Chewing is important, but so is chewing safety. Some long-lasting dog chews are safer than others, though all options present several risks. So, consider the following when trying to choose between different chews:
- Choking: Anytime your pupper chomps, there’s a risk he may swallow (intentionally or accidentally) the entire chew or broken off pieces. Like CPR, learning the Heimlich for dogs is always a good idea for every pawrent. To avoid this, be sure to remove any pieces of chew that have been worn down to be less a few inches or whatever size poses a choking risk to your dog based on his size.
- Broken teeth: Too hard of a chew (or too eager of a chewer) can lead to tooth damage, including painful cracks or entire breaks. Broken teeth are not only painful for your dog, but you’ll have to spend a small fortune to fix them.
- Mouth injuries: Cuts on the tongue, gums, lips, and other parts of your dog’s mouth are possible if the chew has sharpened edges or a rough surface. Remove or sand down any pointed edges that may develop from your dog’s chomping over time.
- Obstructions: If swallowed, a chew could lead to a painful, costly, and potentially life-threatening intestinal blockage.
- Stomach upset: Ingested chews can cause tummy troubles, especially if your dog has food sensitivities or if the chew is oily. Even chews that your canine can digest may cause trouble if given in excessive quantities.
- Bacterial contamination: As your dog chews and slobbers on an item, bacteria spreads across it. Over time, the chew can become a potential bacterial bomb of trouble in the home for you and your dog. Not only is odor a concern here, but so is sickness. You can prevent bacteria from growing by cleaning off your dog’s favorite chew now and then, or swapping it out for a new one if it’s been several months.
It’s important to remember that every doggo and situation is different. A dog may be fine with one treat for years and suddenly have an issue, while another dog may experience problems with nearly every chew he has.
When selecting long-lasting dog chews, it’s important to consider key things regarding your dog, such as:
- Your dog’s personality and chewing habits: Some dogs are more voracious of chewers than others, so you need to select a chew that suits his chewing style. If he’s overly eager to bite down hard — rather than more gentle gnawing — ultra-hard chews may not be the best idea, as you don’t want to risk tooth damage. Similarly, too soft of a chew can make it easy for your dog to bite off large pieces or create splinters, creating a choking hazard.
- Your dog’s size: Always choose a chew appropriate for your dog’s size. Treats that are too large can be hard to chew, while those that are too small create an obvious risk for choking and bowel obstruction if swallowed. Your dog should never be able to fit the entire chew in his mouth.
- Your pet’s health: Keep your doggo’s overall well-being in mind. If he has known allergies or dental issues, certain chews are no-gos. Similarly, a dog with a history of stomach blockages shouldn’t be trusted with a chew at all. If you’re unsure about your dog’s dental health or risks, check with your vet.
- Your pupper’s age: Adult dogs tend to be savvy in the chewing department, whereas puppies may be more prone to swallowing things they shouldn’t and chomping too hard, risking tooth and mouth injury. Also, senior pups with failing teeth require softer chews (or none at all) if their teeth are damaged.
With dog chews, the most important steps you can take toward keeping your dog safe are:
- Monitor your dog: There are no exceptions here. Accidents happen, even if your mature chomper has chewed the same treat since he was a puppy. As with babies, choking happens in the blink of an eye.
- Know your pups limits: A more destructive chewer may tolerate hardier chews, while a casual chewer should ideally receive softer varieties.
- Test chew hardness: Do the thumbnail test on a prospective chew. If you press your nail into an item’s surface and it doesn’t leave an impression, it may be too hard for your dog and poses a higher risk of causing tooth damage.
- Examine chew’s preparation: Not all chews are created equal. American-made products are generally preferred due to their superior safety and quality standards. Always check what processes and checks are in place during manufacturing. Some “all natural” chews aren’t so natural, either. For instance, some rawhide may contain trace amounts of toxic chemicals used in manufacturing, like formaldehyde.
- Scrutinize ingredient lists: Look for any potential allergens, as some chews are flavored with proteins like chicken or reinforced with grains, such as potato starch. Smoking and flavor coatings can also introduce additional additives that can cause stomach upset, particularly if your dog ingests a lot at once.
Long-Lasting Dog Chews
Quick Reference Chart
There’s a lot to take in when you start trying to pick the best long-lasting chew for your pooch.
So, we’ve put together the table below so you can see how these chews stack up against each other at a glance.
We briefly describe the pros and cons of each style below, and provide our own overall safety rating. Chews that have a score of 1 are the riskiest options, while those with a 3 are the safest. Those that earn a 2 are somewhere in between the two extremes.
Just remember to monitor your dog closely — even those that we rank the safest can cause problems for some pooches.
Do you have an aggressive chewer at home? Have you tried any of these long-lasting dog chews with your pup? Have they helped keep your dog occupied? Has a chew ever caused injuries to your dog’s mouth? What chew lasts the longest for your four-footer? Let us know in the comments!
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