If you're searching for the best products on the market, you can get overwhelmed.
Many companies claim their products to be "puppy proof" or "indestructible". And then you're left with holes in your bed or toys and a trip to the vet.
We loaded up one of our pups to take back to our handler a few weeks ago. This boy is
competing in the show circuit and is quickly on his way to a Champion title.
We took him for a bath and let him pick out a toy for his trip. Within minutes, he had already chewed two holes in his brand new toy.
Money down the drain.
So, how can you know which products are safe and furry friendly? We're here to help you find the right products that are safe for dogs and have passed our tests.
Safe for the Crate
We honestly only recommend one thing for when a puppy or dog is in their crate. If they have plush toys or anything soft, they can easily swallow the contents and choke. And for that same reason we do not recommend rawhides. They just aren't good.
So, what do we recommend? Bully Sticks.
"Bones & Chews Bully Stick 6" Dog Treats deliver a protein-rich chewing experience dogs absolutely love. These all-beef chews are 100% digestible, making them a great alternative to rawhide. They feature an incredible flavor dogs crave, and even help to clean teeth and gums as your dog chews. These safe and healthy, single-ingredient treats have no chemicals or preservatives." - Bones & Chews Bully Stick 6" Dog Treats
Click here to order from Chewy.com.
Chewing
Dogs differ in their desire to chew based on their breed, age, and energy level. ALL dogs will chew because they teethe. This is the process of their teeth growing or what we call "coming in". It feels good on their gums to bite on something so, instead of them gnawing on your favorite slippers, set them up for success. Give them toys that will feel good on their gums as they chew. Plus, for older dogs, it can help with cleaning their teeth.
No matter the age, we recommend using Kong toys. I won't say they are completely indestructible, but with our labs, which are known for being heavy chewers, they work very well. Kong makes several products, some of which have fabric instead of just rubber. If you get a Kong toy with fabric, make sure your pooch is supervised. We have had a few with a leg, an ear, or a rope torn off.
Beds
I love a cute dog bed. Especially, if you have the chance to get someone to embroider their name on it. So adorable! But...
We do not recommend leaving a dog bed in a crate with a puppy. 9.9 times out of 10, they will have it destroyed by the time you return. Of course they will look all cute and pull an Urkel from the 90's, "did I do that?"
We use an old towel in the bottom of their crate while they are still in training, just in case they have an accident.
All of our dogs have their own Kuranda bed. These beds are not indestructible, but are heavy duty and Kuranda offers a 1 year chew proof warranty. Not all products are covered though. Check out their site to be sure the product you are purchasing is covered before buying.
Want to know about food and treats? That's a whole other topic that we'll discuss in another post, but for now, check out TLC Pet Food. They ship straight to your door within 2-3 days and in most states with free shipping!