10 Common Things Dogs Chew on That Are Bad for Their Teeth
Dogs chew on just about anything—shoes, sticks, furniture, even things that shouldn’t be in their mouths. And although chewing is a natural habit, not everything they gnaw on is safe for their teeth. Some items can wear down enamel, crack teeth, or cause painful injuries that might require a trip to the vet. This list will help you spot the biggest dental dangers that may be lurking in your home. If you want to keep your pup’s smile healthy and pain-free, you’ll want to steer clear of these.
Bones
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We’re not quite sure who pitched the idea that bones are great for dogs when, in reality, they can cause severe damage. They’re hard enough to crack teeth, and sharp fragments can get stuck in gums or, worse, may cause internal blockages. Even raw bones from the butcher aren’t safe. Your dog might love them, but their teeth won’t.
Tennis Balls
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That fuzzy outer layer on tennis balls is like sandpaper on your dog’s teeth. Over time, it grinds down enamel and makes teeth sensitive and more prone to damage. If your dog loves a good game of fetch, try a rubber ball instead.
Ice Cubes
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On a hot day, giving your dog an ice cube might seem like a refreshing treat. The only problem is that ice is rock-hard, and biting the wrong way can lead to painful tooth fractures. Instead, try a frozen dog-safe treat. It will keep them cool without the risk of dental disaster.
Antlers
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Antlers are marketed as a long-lasting chew, but they’re way too complicated for most dogs. They don’t break easily, but teeth do. If you wouldn’t want to bite down on it yourself, it’s probably not safe for your pup, either. Stick to softer, vet-approved chew toys instead.
Sticks
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Dogs love picking up sticks on walks, but these natural “chew toys” are full of hidden dangers. Splinters can get lodged in gums or even puncture the roof of the mouth. Plus, some types of wood are toxic to dogs. Play it safe and keep sticks out of reach.
Cow Hooves
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Although cow hooves look like a fun, durable chew, they’re incredibly tough. Many dogs chip or crack their teeth, trying to gnaw on them. Even worse, they can splinter into sharp pieces that pose a choking hazard.
Hard Nylon Chew Toys
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Some nylon bones are so hard they might as well be made of concrete. While they’re designed to be “durable,” they can also lead to broken teeth. Look for softer alternatives that still satisfy your dog’s chewing instincts without the dental risks.
Plastic Bottles
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Your dog may love the crunch of plastic bottles, but those sharp edges can cause gum injuries and cracked teeth. Not to mention, they can swallow small pieces of plastic, which will lead to serious health issues. If your dog loves the crinkly sound, try a dog-safe bottle toy instead.
Rock Collecting
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Some dogs have a strange obsession with chewing on rocks. Unfortunately, this usually results in chipped or fractured teeth and potential digestive issues if they swallow one. If your dog likes to play with rocks, redirect them to a safer, chew-friendly toy.
Hard Dog Biscuits
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Some crunchy dog biscuits are harder than they need to be. While they may help scrape off plaque, they can also lead to cracked teeth, especially in older dogs or small breeds. Softer dental treats can do the job without the risks.
Corn Cobs
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Despite seeming harmless, corn cobs are one of the biggest culprits for dental and digestive emergencies. They’re tough enough to break teeth and can easily get lodged in the intestines if swallowed.
Jerky Treats
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Some jerky treats are so tricky they might as well be leather. If your dog has to struggle to chew it, it could be too hard on their teeth. Choose softer jerky options that are easy to chew and digest.
Pits and Seeds
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Dropped a cherry or an avocado pit? Better pick it up before your dog does. Pits and large seeds are not only choking hazards, but they’re also hard enough to break teeth. Plus, many contain toxins that can be harmful if swallowed.
Hard Rawhide Chews
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While some rawhides are safe, most of them are way too hard for a dog’s teeth. If they don’t soften as your dog chews, they can lead to fractures or swallowing risks. Look for digestible, vet-approved rawhide alternatives instead.
Your Furniture
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If your dog has ever chewed on a chair leg or baseboard, you already know the struggle. Not only does it ruin your home, but it can damage their teeth, too. A good chew toy can save both your dog’s teeth and your furniture.