Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.
Dogs that are heavy chewers can eat through an ordinary biscuit before you know it. I have witnessed numerous frustrated owners dealing with ‘boredom chewing’ that resulted in lost living room furniture and frustration on the part of both owner and dog.
Fortunately, these ten DIY dog treats will create a safe, productive way for your pup to satisfy this natural instinct.
In addition, giving these homemade chews will keep your powerful chewer busy and help keep their teeth extremely clean.
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Why Long-Lasting Chews are a Veterinary Necessity
Over the years, I’ve found that chewing is as much a mental need as a physical one for dogs. It releases endorphins that calm a stressed or high-energy dog.
The Benefits of a Good Gnaw
- Dental Maintenance: Mechanical scraping helps reduce plaque buildup.
- Mental Enrichment: Solving the “puzzle” of a tough treat reduces anxiety.
- Jaw Strength: Keeps the facial muscles toned and healthy.
A busy mouth usually belongs to a happy, settled dog.
1. The “Everlasting” Sweet Potato Plank
When dehydrated properly, sweet potato becomes as tough as old boots—in the best way possible.
Why It Works
The dense fibers become leathery and resilient, requiring significant effort to break down.
How to Make
- Slice a large sweet potato into 1/2-inch thick “planks.”
- Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 3 hours, flipping halfway.
- Cool completely until they are tough and bendy.
2. Frozen Peanut Butter “Kong” Filler
A classic method that uses temperature to slow down even the fastest eater.
Why It Works
Freezing the filling turns a five-minute snack into a thirty-minute project.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Xylitol-free peanut butter
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 mashed banana
How to Make
- Mix and stuff into a hollow rubber toy.
- Freeze overnight before serving.
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3. Dehydrated Beef Lung “Jerky”
Beef lung is light but becomes incredibly chewy when dried out.
Why It Works
It has a unique, spongy texture that provides a different kind of resistance for the teeth.
How to Make
- Slice raw beef lung into strips.
- Dehydrate at 160°F (70°C) for 8–10 hours until fully dry.
4. The Frozen “Ice Block” Treasure Hunt
A marvelous way to keep a dog hydrated and busy on a warm afternoon.
Why It Works
The dog must patiently lick through the ice to reach the treats hidden inside.
How to Make
- Fill a large plastic container with low-sodium chicken broth.
- Drop in a few carrots and blueberries.
- Freeze solid and pop out of the container to serve outdoors.
5. Hard-Baked Oat and Cinnamon “Bricks”
These aren’t biscuits; they are structural achievements in baking.
Why It Works
By “curing” them in a cooling oven, they become rock-hard, requiring the dog to gnaw at the edges.
How to Make
- Mix 2 cups oat flour, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup water.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.
- Turn the oven off and leave them inside for 4 hours to harden.
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6. Braided Chicken Skin Chews
A rich, savory treat that uses the natural toughness of the skin.
Why It Works
The braiding creates a complex texture that is difficult to pull apart.
How to Make
- Slice raw chicken skin into strips and braid three together.
- Bake at 250°F (120°C) until crispy and rendered of fat.
7. The “Whole” Frozen Carrot
Nature’s simplest and most effective toothbrush.
Why It Works
A large, frozen carrot is surprisingly durable and provides a satisfying “crunch.”
How to Make
- Scrub a large carrot and freeze it for at least 4 hours.
- Serve cold for a soothing, long-lasting chew.
8. Dehydrated Apple Rings (Thick Cut)
Apples provide a leathery texture that is sweet and fiber-rich.
Why It Works
Thick-cut rings (with the core removed) become chewy and resilient when dried.
How to Make
- Slice apples into 1/2-inch rings.
- Dehydrate at 135°F (57°C) for 6–8 hours.
9. Pumpkin and Yogurt “Lick Mat” (Frozen)
Focuses on the repetitive action of licking to calm the mind.
Why It Works
Licking is a self-soothing behavior for dogs; freezing the mat extends the session.
How to Make
- Spread pumpkin puree and yogurt onto a textured silicone mat.
- Freeze for 1 hour before giving to the dog.
10. The “Chewy” Salmon Skin Roll
Packed with Omega-3s and incredibly tough once dried.
Why It Works
Salmon skin is naturally oily and very leathery, making it a high-value, long-lasting prize.
How to Make
- Roll raw salmon skins into tight cylinders.
- Dehydrate at 160°F (70°C) until firm and dry.
Essential Tools for Heavy Chewer Treats
| Tool | Purpose | Estimated Cost | Substitution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food Dehydrator | Best for consistent, safe drying | $40 – $80 | Oven on the lowest setting |
| Silicone Lick Mat | For soothing, long-lasting licking | $10 – $15 | The back of a textured baking sheet |
| Hollow Rubber Toy | For frozen stuffing recipes | $12 – $20 | A large, hollow marrow bone (cleaned) |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | For thick, uniform vegetable slices | $20 – $50 | A mandoline slicer |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are these safe for dogs with sensitive teeth?
If your dog has dental issues, stick to the “softer” long-lasting options like the frozen lick mat or the pumpkin bites. Avoid the hard-baked “bricks” or frozen carrots which might be too taxing.
How often can I give a long-lasting chew?
One significant chew session a day is usually plenty. Remember to account for the calories in these treats by slightly reducing their main meal.
Should I supervise my dog while they chew?
Always. Even the safest DIY chew can become a choking hazard if a large piece is broken off and swallowed whole. Once a treat gets small enough to fit entirely in the mouth, it’s time to take it away.
