We have discussed a lot about the best food for French Bulldogs, and now, it might be the time to find an ultimate chew toy. As any Frenchie owner knows, these adorable pups have a knack for chewing, and finding the right options can make all the difference.
In this guide, let’s explore some top-notch choices that cater to your fur baby’s needs and preferences. Whether you are dealing with a teething puppy or an adult dog who loves to gnaw, our list of the best chews for French Bulldogs will help you find the suitable option!
Why Your Frenchies Need Special Chews?
Teething Relief
For French Bulldog puppies, chew toys are essential during the teething phase. Well, we understand how frustrating this phase can be for first-time Frenchie parents! The right chew toys don’t only save your furniture, they also:
- Soothe sore gums
- Provide relief from teething discomfort
- Encourage chewing on appropriate items rather than furniture or shoes
But it doesn’t mean chew toys only benefit puppies. Grown-up Frenchies love a good chew now and then – for various reasons. Keep scrolling!
Dental Health
The major benefit of chew toys is promoting good dental health. Due to their facial structure, French Bulldogs are prone to dental issues, though. Their crowded teeth can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to plaque buildup, bad breath, and potentially more serious dental problems.
Regular chewing on appropriate toys helps:
- Remove plaque and tartar buildup
- Massage gums and promote blood circulation
- Freshen breath by reducing bacteria in the mouth
By providing your Frenchie with suitable chew toys, you give them a fun way to maintain oral hygiene between professional cleanings.
Mental Stimulation
People might think that French Bulldogs are less active than other breeds. However, if you stay with them long enough, you will know how curious and intelligent they are. Smart pups need mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.
Chew toys, especially those stuffed with treats or have puzzle-like features, offer mental enrichment. This mental exercise can:
- Prevent boredom and reduce destructive behaviors
- Alleviate anxiety and stress
- Provide a positive outlet for natural chewing instincts
A mentally stimulated Frenchie is a content Frenchie, and chew toys play a crucial role in achieving this.
Physical Exercise
Frenchies aren’t exactly marathon runners. While adorable, their squishy faces can make breathing a bit of a challenge. Still, they require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
Chew toys can provide a form of low-impact physical activity for our furry friends. It’s like gentle yoga for their jaw and neck muscles. Plus, it’s a great way for them to burn off some energy without overexerting themselves!
Bonding Time and Training Treats
Have you ever wondered how to effectively train a Frenchie? Here is a pro tip from our staff: use chew toys during playtime or training sessions. It’s a great way to bond with your Frenchie and make learning new tricks more fun. Plus, it’s an excellent alternative to high-calorie treats when you are trying to keep your pup fit!
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Chews for French Bulldogs
Now that you understand the importance of providing a special chew toy for your pet, our experts recommend considering these key factors when shopping for one:
- Size: Always choose chews that are appropriate for your Frenchie’s size. Too small, and they could be a choking hazard. Too large, and your pup might struggle to enjoy them. For most Frenchies, small to medium-sized chews are ideal.
- Durability: Next, consider your dog’s chewing habits. So your Frenchie is a power chewer? Opt for more durable options to prevent pieces from breaking off and being swallowed!
- Material: We always recommend looking for non-toxic materials that are safe if ingested in small amounts. Natural rubber, nylon, and certain edible chews are good choices. Avoid those with harmful chemicals or artificial additives.
- Texture: Some chews are designed to help clean teeth. If dental health is a concern, chews with ridges or nubs can help remove plaque. Just ensure the texture isn’t too abrasive for your Frenchie’s sensitive mouth.
Best Chews for French Bulldogs: Our Top 7
Here comes the most exciting part: Our top picks on the best chews for French Bulldogs! To compile this list, we have consulted with veterinarians specializing in brachycephalic breeds, chatted with countless Frenchie parents, and even put these chews to the test with our own slobbery panel of Frenchie judges. These selections prioritize the safety and specific needs of your furry friends:
1. KONG Classic Dog Toy
With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 on popular marketplaces, the KONG Classic is always a favorite among dog owners. Its durable rubber construction makes it perfect for Frenchies who like to chew but aren’t extreme chewers.
What we love most about KONG Classic is its versatility. You can use it as a simple chew toy, or stuff it with treats for added mental stimulation. This stuffing option provides an engaging activity that keeps your Frenchie occupied for extended periods.
The toy comes in different sizes, and we recommend choosing the small or medium option for French Bulldogs. It’s also dishwasher-safe, which is great for French Bulldogs since they can be prone to allergies and sensitivities. Regular cleaning helps keep the toy hygienic and safe for your pup.
2. Nylabone DuraChew Textured Ring
Nylabone is a trusted name in dog chews, and our veterinarians recommend DuraChew Textured Ring for your French Bulldogs. Since this chew toy is designed for powerful chewers, it is durable enough to withstand your Frenchie’s determined gnawing.
The standout feature of the Nylabone DuraChew Textured Ring is its textured surface. These varied textures help clean your dog’s teeth and control plaque as they chew, promoting better dental hygiene.
The ring shape of this chew is another plus. Your furry friend will find it easy to hold and manipulate, even with their distinctive jaw structure. This shape also allows them to chew from multiple angles, providing a more satisfying experience.
3. Benebone Real Flavor Wishbone Chew Toy
With a unique shape that makes it easy for your Frenchie to hold and chew, the Benebone Real Flavor Wishbone is our third choice. This innovative design is particularly suited to the French Bulldog’s facial structure and chewing style.
One of the key features of the Benebone Wishbone is that it’s made with real food ingredients for irresistible flavor. This makes it more appealing to your Frenchie than artificial flavor alternatives. The real food ingredients also mean you’re giving your dog a more natural chewing experience.
The curved shape of the Wishbone allows for a paw-friendly grip, which is ideal for French Bulldogs who struggle with holding traditional stick-shaped chews. This design enables your Frenchie to comfortably hold the chew with their paws while gnawing, providing a more satisfying and ergonomic chewing experience.
4. West Paw Zogoflex Tux Interactive Treat Dispensing Dog Chew Toy
If you are looking for a chew toy that also provides mental stimulation, go for this option! West Paw Zogoflex Tux combines the benefits of a durable chew with the engagement of a treat-dispensing puzzle.
The Zogoflex Tux can be filled with treats or kibble, providing an engaging play experience that can keep your Frenchie occupied for the whole day. Another standout feature of this toy is durability. Made from a proprietary, non-toxic material, it’s designed to withstand even the most determined chewers.
5. Himalayan Pet Supply Himalayan Dog Chew
For a natural chewing option, the Himalayan Dog Chew is a healthy alternative to synthetic chews. Made from a traditional recipe using yak and cow milk, salt, and lime juice, this long-lasting chew provides a novel texture and taste experience for your French Bulldog.
The Himalayan Dog Chew’s biggest selling point is its all-natural composition. It contains no artificial preservatives or additives, making it a great choice for French Bulldogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies. The hardened cheese material is also fully digestible, reducing the risk of intestinal blockages that can sometimes occur with other types of chews.
As your dog gnaws on the chew, it slowly softens, releasing flavor and providing a satisfying chewing experience. This gradual wearing down process also helps to clean your Frenchie’s teeth, promoting better dental hygiene.
6. KONG Stuffable Puppy Teething Stick
Don’t be fooled by its name – the KONG Stuffable Puppy Teething Stick works wonders for French Bulldogs of all ages, especially those with sensitive teeth or gums. This soft rubber chew is designed to soothe sore gums and promote healthy chewing habits.
The ridged surface is gentle on your Frenchie’s mouth while still providing enough resistance to satisfy their urge to chew. For French Bulldog puppies, this can be particularly beneficial during the teething phase, offering relief from discomfort.
Like other KONG products, this chew toy can be stuffed with treats, adding an extra layer of engagement for your Frenchie. This feature makes it a great tool for mental stimulation. You can even freeze the stuffed toy for a cool, soothing treat on hot days.
7. Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy
Last but not least, we have the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick. While not a traditional chew toy, it deserves a place on this list for its ability to engage your French Bulldog’s mind and satisfy their oral fixation. This interactive puzzle toy combines mental stimulation with treat rewards, providing a unique chewing and playing experience.
The Dog Brick features multiple compartments and sliding pieces that hide treats. Your Frenchie must figure out how to move the pieces and access the hidden goodies, providing excellent mental stimulation. This level of engagement is particularly beneficial for furry friends who need activities to prevent boredom and potential destructive behaviors.
While your Frenchie works to solve the puzzle, they will naturally engage in licking and light chewing behaviors as they try to access the treats. This satisfies their urge to chew in a constructive way. The toy is made from durable, food-safe materials that can withstand moderate chewing.
Safety Tips for Chew Time
Even when you have chosen the most suitable chew toy, it’s still crucial to keep safety in mind. We have some tips to ensure chew time is both fun and safe:
- Supervise: Always supervise your Frenchie during chew time, especially with new toys.
- Inspect regularly: Check chews for signs of wear and tear. Replace them if they become small enough to swallow or start to break apart.
- Introduce slowly: When introducing a new chew, let your dog explore it for short periods. This helps prevent overconsumption, especially with edible chews.
- Know your dog: Every dog is different. Pay attention to how your fur baby interacts with different chews.
- Rotate toys: Keep a variety of chews in rotation. This keeps things interesting for your pup and prevents overuse of any single item.
- Clean regularly: Wash non-edible chews regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
Wrapping Up
Finding the best chews for French Bulldogs might take some trial and error, but it’s well worth your time. The right chews can keep your Frenchie happy, healthy, and entertained. From durable rubber toys to tasty edible options and mentally stimulating puzzles, there’s a perfect chew out there for every French Bulldog.
Remember to consider your individual dog’s needs, always prioritize safety, and don’t be afraid to try different options. With patience and attention, you will soon discover which chews bring that adorable Frenchie smile to your pup’s face!
As a veterinarian specializing in French Bulldog care, I contribute my expertise to bestfoodforfrenchbulldog.store, sharing insights on nutrition and health management tailored for Frenchies. My knowledge stems from years of clinical experience and dedicated research into the breed’s unique needs. I bridge the gap between veterinary science and practical, everyday care, helping dog owners make informed decisions. My writing covers a range of topics, from dietary recommendations to behavioral insights, all focused on enhancing the lives of French Bulldogs. When not treating patients or writing, I’m often at the local dog park with my own canine companion, gathering real-world inspiration for my articles.