Dogs are our best friends, but are we being theirs?

There are so many of us that love our dogs, but are we really loving them to the fullest? Are we actually giving them what is best for them? We want our dogs to have long, healthy lives, but do we know what's healthy for them?

Learning what they can and cannot have, from dog food, treats, to chews is very important. I want to help you choose healthier food and treats for your dog, but my main focus today will be chews or chewies. So, hopefully, after today, you can make smarter, healthier, and safer decisions for your best friend.

Let us start with dog food. The best thing to feed your dog is raw, but that is not for everyone. So, we are going to talk about dry foods. All dogs should stay away from grains, MSG (monosodium glutamate), corn syrup, corn, pea protein, gluten, sugar, sodium nitrite, STPP (sodium tripolyphosphate), sodium hexametaphosphate, meat by-products, born meal, BHA/BHT, ethoxyquin, Propylene Glycol, rendered fats, cellulose, soy, salt, vegetable oil, artificial flavors, and food dye.

I know most people are looking at this list lost, but this is why I am writing this. I want to simplify this for you.

The first few ingredients are the most important. That is where you will find things like meat by-products, bone meal, cornmeal, wheat, animal fat, and more. If these are some of the first few ingredients Than I would suggest putting it back. It's honestly that simple.

Now that we know what we do not want to see. Let us talk about what you want to see.

First, we need to remember that dogs are carnivorous animals and depend on proteins they receive from meat. When looking at what food to buy for your dog look for things like whole chicken, beef, lamb, salmon, etc. You do not want it to read meat, fish, poultry, or any unspecific food. If the species is not identified, then you cannot be sure of the quality, and it most likely is a by-product.

Dogs cannot digest grain as we can, so we need to replace that in dog food. With dog food, you want to see whole fruits and vegetables high up on the ingredients list, as well. Oils like sunflower or flax are good too, but they will still be at the bottom of this list.

Some people think too deeply into this and panic at every little ingredient, don't do that. If you find something high in protein with real meat by its name (ex. chicken), fruits and vegetables, and no by-products, you should be good.

Let's move on to treats. With treats, the same rules apply. When we eat something unhealthy, we might not feel the best. When looking for healthier treats for your dog the same rules apply. Personally, I rather freeze-dried meat treats.

Lastly, I want to talk about chews or chewies. This is what my main focus is. Chews can be dangerous if given the wrong kinds. Chews are toys or treats, like rawhides, pig ears, bones, antlers, Nylabones, hooves, antlers, sticks, etc. Some of these can be very dangerous. Take it from someone who had to learn the hard way, twice. The first time my friend's dog ate rawhides, it caused a blockage, and the second time my dog ate a stick, it splintered in her mouth and went through her gums.

So, what should you stay away from?

Bones are bad for dogs and can splinter. This is a choking hazard, and yes, you will hear several people say uncooked bones are good for dogs because wolves and wild dogs eat them. This is true and false. Wild animals eat the bones because they need the extra calcium, and after many studies, they have learned wild dogs mainly eat knees and ribs. Domesticated dogs do not need the extra calcium because we feed them a healthy diet, or hopefully, you will after this.

Rawhide is another big one that is very dangerous. Rawhide can splinter as well, but it can also cause digestive issues or blockages. That smelly gas your dog has after eating one is a big sign.

Antlers is another one that's not good for your dog. They can puncture your dog's gums or cheeks, and they can cause your dog's teeth to break or shatter. This can cause major problems for your dog. Just like in humans, when your teeth hurt, you don't want to do much and don't eat much. It can also cause inflammation and infections.

Nylabones are another big one that a major no-no. These are bad in everywhere. Nylabones can cause punctures in the mouth and intestines, scratches or sores in the mouth, shatter teeth, digestive issues, and so much more.

Now you are most likely wondering, well, what is a good chew for my dog then? Here are a few ways to know.

There is the teeth safety test or the fingernail test. If you can push it with your fingernail and make a small indent, temporary or not, then it safe for a dog's teeth.

Knowledge of the item and if it splinters. Bones, nylon, sticks, and more. These types of chews can be extremely dangerous, and not recommended.

Now I know you're wondering what's good for your dog? Always remember the more natural, the better. Here is a list of my top 5 recommendations in order and why.

Number one is bully sticks. They are easily digestible for most dogs, don't splinter, contain high-protein beef, and free from artificial chemicals, additives, and preservatives. They are an all-around win that lasts a few days, well, for most dogs.

Number two is another natural chew that will last for days, gold yak chews. These are healthy for your dogs in many ways. They are easily digestible, high in protein, raw milk. Gold yak chews also help clean teeth and with bad breath. That is another win in my book.

Number 3 beef tendons. These are another chew that lasts a little longer, depending on the dog, and are very healthy. Being high in protein, all-natural, naturally floss your dog's teeth, helps prevent plaque and bacteria, and helps with bad breath.

Number 4 is an Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews. These are amazing for oral health. They are clinically proven to help with plaque control and helps with bad breath. One every night at bedtime will help your dog breathe.

Number 5 is something that would normally be lower on the list, but it is the best rawhide alternative. If your dog is a big rawhide fan, then peanut brittle chews are for them. Make sure it doesn't have Xylitol in them. I would suggest Smartsticks peanut brittle chews. They are safe and the healthiest ones I've found.

A ll in all, we need to start putting as much thought into our dog's health as we do in ours. Our dogs are in our lives for a very short period of time, but we are in their lives their whole life. Why not make them live as long and healthy as possible.