While the urge to chew is still present, it is much more deliberate and infrequent compared to younger dogs. Older dogs simply aren’t as energetic as younger dogs and often need a little more “encouragement” to help promote chewing, which is vital for dental health. As puppies, anything that was within “jaw” distance was fair game. This often included table legs, tennis shoes, tree limbs, etc. For many years, rawhide was the chew of choice for many dogs.
Over the last 5 years or so, many veterinarians and other dog professionals have begun to advise their clients that alternatives to rawhide may be safer for their pets. The problem, unfortunately, has been to find a suitable substitute that is safe, palatable, digestible and provides the chewing activity to interest the senior dog while at the same time promoting improved dental health and fresh breath. Oral health is a major issue with many older dogs and it’s been recommended that daily chewing is a must for senior dogs. Tooth decay and gum disease can result in prolonged systemic illness through infection and poor nutrition. Chewing activity for as little as 15 minutes a day can significantly aid in the prevention of some of these issues.
Recently, PetMatrix, LLC, introduced a vegetable-based chew that meets all of these requirements. Smartbones are easier to chew, 99.2% digestible, tastes great and eliminates the concerns vets have about the safety of rawhide.
Smartbones come in 3 flavors…chicken, peanut butter and dental and 4 different sizes…mini, small, medium and large. All of them contain real chicken jerky and provide the chewing activity perfect for the senior dog due to the fact that they are easier to chew, have outstanding taste (preferred 99 to 1 over rawhide), and they actually encourage increased chew-time.
Remember, all dogs, seniors included, need to satisfy their chewing instinct and receive the benefits that result from this chewing activity, not least of which is a contented feeling. Smartbones provide everything your senior dogs need for chewing exercise and oral health without the health risks associated with rawhide.
SeniorPetProducts.com features dog food supplements, dog vitamins, dog beds and various other products that help the pets stay healthy as they grow older. The company has also provided an online platform for pet owners and experts to discuss issues concerning the senior pets.
Learn more on joint supplement for dogs and best dog boots from senior pet products.
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