We have talked a lot about the best food for Frenchies, and now it’s probably time to find the best chews for French Bulldogs? You’ve come to the right place! Every French Bulldog owner knows that these adorable dogs love to chew, and choosing the right product can make a huge difference.
In this article, we’ll dive into some great options that will meet your dog’s needs and preferences. Whether you have a teething puppy or an adult dog who loves to chew, there’s a perfect option for you!
Why Your Frenchies Need Special Chews?
Teething Relief
Chew toys are crucial for French Bulldog puppies during their teething stage. We know how challenging this time can be for new Frenchie owners! The right chew toys not only protect your furniture but also:
- Alleviate sore gums
- Offer relief from teething pain
- Promote chewing on suitable items instead of furniture or shoes
However, chew toys aren’t just beneficial for puppies. Adult Frenchies enjoy chewing too, for a variety of reasons. Keep reading!
Dental Health
The primary advantage of chew toys is their role in supporting dental health. However, due to their facial structure, French Bulldogs are susceptible to dental problems. Their closely packed teeth can trap food debris and bacteria, which may result in plaque accumulation, unpleasant breath, and potentially more severe dental issues.
Regularly chewing on appropriate toys aids in:
- Eliminating plaque and tartar buildup
- Massaging gums and enhancing blood flow
- Freshening breath by decreasing oral bacteria
By offering your Frenchie suitable chew toys, you provide them with an enjoyable way to maintain their oral hygiene between professional cleanings.
Mental Stimulation
Many people may perceive French Bulldogs as being less energetic compared to other breeds. However, spending time with them reveals their curiosity and intelligence. These clever dogs require mental engagement to remain happy and well-mannered.
Chew toys, particularly those filled with treats or designed like puzzles, provide valuable mental stimulation. This type of mental activity can:
- Help avoid boredom and minimize destructive behaviors
- Reduce anxiety and stress levels
- Offer a healthy outlet for their natural chewing instincts
A Frenchie that is mentally engaged is a happy one, and chew toys are essential in fostering this.
Physical Exercise
French Bulldogs aren’t known for their endurance. Although they are cute, their flat faces can make it difficult for them to breathe. Nevertheless, they still need regular exercise to stay at a healthy weight.
Chew toys can offer a gentle way for our pets to engage in physical activity. It’s similar to light yoga for their jaw and neck muscles. Additionally, it’s an excellent method for them to expend energy without straining themselves!
Bonding Time and Training Treats
Have you ever wondered how to effectively train a Frenchie? Here’s a helpful tip from our team: incorporate chew toys into your playtime or training activities. This not only strengthens your bond with your Frenchie but also makes mastering new tricks more enjoyable. Additionally, it’s a fantastic substitute for high-calorie treats when you’re aiming to keep your dog in shape!
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Chews for French Bulldogs
Now that you recognize the significance of providing a special chew toy for your pet, our experts suggest keeping these essential factors in mind when selecting one:
- Size: Always pick chews that are suitable for your Frenchie’s size. If they’re too small, they could pose a choking risk. Conversely, if they’re too large, your dog may have difficulty enjoying them. Generally, small to medium-sized chews work best for most Frenchies.
- Durability: Next, think about your dog’s chewing habits. Is your Frenchie a strong chewer? Choose more robust options to avoid pieces breaking off and being swallowed!
- Material: We always advise opting for non-toxic materials that are safe if ingested in small quantities. Natural rubber, nylon, and certain edible chews are excellent choices. Steer clear of those containing harmful chemicals or artificial additives.
- Texture: Some chews are designed to aid in dental hygiene. If dental health is a priority, look for chews with ridges or nubs that can help eliminate plaque. Just make sure the texture isn’t too harsh for your Frenchie’s sensitive mouth.
Best Chews for French Bulldogs: Our Top 7
Now, let’s dive into the most thrilling section: Our top recommendations for the best chews for French Bulldogs! To create this list, we consulted veterinarians who specialize in brachycephalic breeds, spoke with numerous Frenchie owners, and even tested these chews with our own drooling panel of Frenchie judges. These choices focus on ensuring the safety and addressing the unique needs of your beloved pets.
1. KONG Classic Dog Toy
With a score of 4.8 out of 5 on various popular platforms, the KONG Classic remains a top choice for dog owners. Its sturdy rubber design is ideal for French Bulldogs who enjoy chewing but aren’t overly aggressive chewers.
What we appreciate most about the KONG Classic is its adaptability. It can be used simply as a chew toy or filled with treats to provide extra mental engagement. This stuffing feature offers an entertaining activity that keeps your Frenchie busy for long periods.
The toy is available in multiple sizes, and we suggest opting for the small or medium size for French Bulldogs. Additionally, it’s dishwasher-safe, which is beneficial for Frenchies, as they often have allergies and sensitivities. Regular cleaning ensures the toy stays hygienic and safe for your dog.
2. Nylabone DuraChew Textured Ring
Nylabone is a reputable brand for dog chews, and veterinarians recommend the DuraChew Textured Ring specifically for French Bulldogs. This chew toy is crafted for strong chewers, making it durable enough to endure your Frenchie’s persistent chewing.
One of the key features of the Nylabone DuraChew Textured Ring is its textured surface. These different textures assist in cleaning your dog’s teeth and managing plaque while they chew, which helps improve dental health.
Additionally, the ring shape is advantageous. Your pet will find it easy to grip and maneuver, even with their unique jaw structure. This design also allows them to chew from various angles, enhancing their overall chewing experience.
3. Benebone Real Flavor Wishbone Chew Toy
With its distinctive shape that allows your French Bulldog to easily grasp and chew, the Benebone Real Flavor Wishbone is our third recommendation. This innovative design caters specifically to the facial structure and chewing habits of French Bulldogs.
A standout feature of the Benebone Wishbone is that it is crafted from real food ingredients, delivering an irresistible flavor that is more enticing for your Frenchie compared to artificial options. The use of genuine food components also ensures a more natural chewing experience for your dog.
The curved design of the Wishbone provides a grip that is friendly for paws, making it perfect for French Bulldogs who may find traditional stick-shaped chews difficult to hold. This thoughtful design allows your Frenchie to comfortably grasp the chew with their paws while gnawing, resulting in a more enjoyable and ergonomic chewing experience.
4. West Paw Zogoflex Tux Interactive Treat Dispensing Dog Chew Toy
If you’re in search of a chew toy that offers mental stimulation as well, consider this choice! The West Paw Zogoflex Tux merges the advantages of a tough chew with the fun of a treat-dispensing puzzle.
You can fill the Zogoflex Tux with treats or kibble, creating an entertaining playtime that can keep your French Bulldog engaged all day long. Additionally, this toy is notable for its durability. Crafted from a unique, non-toxic material, it’s built to endure even the most persistent chewers.
5. Himalayan Pet Supply Himalayan Dog Chew
For a natural chewing option, the Himalayan Dog Chew serves as a healthy substitute for synthetic chews. Crafted from a traditional recipe that includes yak and cow milk, salt, and lime juice, this long-lasting chew offers a unique texture and flavor experience for your French Bulldog.
The primary advantage of Himalayan Dog Chews is their all-natural ingredients. They contain no artificial preservatives or additives, making them an excellent choice for French Bulldogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies. The hardened cheese material is also fully digestible, minimizing the risk of intestinal blockages that can sometimes occur with other types of chews.
As your dog chews on it, the chew gradually softens, releasing flavor and delivering a satisfying chewing experience. This slow wearing down process also aids in cleaning your Frenchie’s teeth, promoting better dental health.
6. KONG Stuffable Puppy Teething Stick
Don’t let the name mislead you—the KONG Stuffable Puppy Teething Stick is highly effective for French Bulldogs of all ages, especially those with delicate teeth or gums. This soft rubber chew is crafted to alleviate gum discomfort and encourage healthy chewing behavior.
Its ridged design is gentle on your Frenchie’s mouth while still offering enough resistance to satisfy their chewing instincts. For French Bulldog puppies, this can be especially helpful during teething, providing relief from pain.
Like other KONG products, this chew toy can be filled with treats, adding an extra element of engagement for your Frenchie. This feature also makes it a fantastic tool for mental stimulation. You can even freeze the stuffed toy for a refreshing, soothing treat on warm days.
7. Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy
Finally, we have the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick. Although it isn’t a conventional chew toy, it deserves recognition for its ability to stimulate your French Bulldog’s mind and fulfill their need to chew. This interactive puzzle toy merges mental challenges with treat rewards, offering a distinctive experience for both chewing and play.
The Dog Brick includes various compartments and sliding pieces that conceal treats. Your Frenchie needs to figure out how to move these pieces to uncover the hidden snacks, which provides excellent mental engagement. This type of activity is especially helpful for pets that require stimulation to avoid boredom and potential destructive behavior.
As your Frenchie attempts to solve the puzzle, they will naturally engage in licking and gentle chewing as they seek out the treats. This satisfies their chewing instinct in a positive manner. The toy is constructed from durable, food-safe materials that can endure moderate chewing.
Safety Tips for Chew Time
Even after selecting the best chew toy, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Here are some tips to make chew time enjoyable and secure:
- Supervise: Always keep an eye on your Frenchie when they are chewing, especially with new toys.
- Check often: Regularly check chews for signs of damage. Replace them if they are worn or starting to fall apart.
- Introduce gradually: When introducing new chews, allow your dog to explore them for short periods of time. This helps prevent overeating, especially with edibles.
- Know your dog: Every dog is unique. Observe how your pet interacts with different chews.
- Shake toys: Keep a rotating selection of chews. This keeps your puppy interested and prevents overuse of any one toy.
- Clean regularly: Regularly wash non-edible chews to avoid bacteria buildup.
Wrapping Up
Discovering the ideal chews for French Bulldogs may require some experimentation, but it’s definitely worth the effort. The right chews can ensure your Frenchie remains joyful, healthy, and engaged. Whether you choose sturdy rubber toys, delicious edible treats, or challenging puzzles, there’s a suitable chew for every French Bulldog.
Always take into account your dog’s specific needs, prioritize safety, and be open to trying various options. With some patience and care, you’ll quickly find the chews that bring a delightful smile to your adorable Frenchie’s face!
As an experienced dog foster and canine advocate, I have a special place in my heart for French Bulldogs. Their charming personalities and unique needs sparked my interest, leading me to specialize in Frenchie care. I’ve fostered over 200 Frenchies over the year, gaining deep insights into their dietary requirements and health concerns. This expertise drives my contributions to bestfoodforfrenchbulldog.dog, where I share practical advice on nutrition, care, and enrichment for these lovable flat-faced pups.
My articles aim to educate Frenchie owners on optimal feeding practices and health management. When not writing or fostering, I’m often cuddling with my own Frenchie, Biscuit, my inspiration for helping others care for this delightful breed.