Introduction
A bored dog is often a mischievous dog. Chewed shoes, dug-up gardens, and restless pacing are usually signs your pup needs more stimulation. While walks and play are important, long-lasting chews are a simple way to keep your dog busy, satisfied, and calm — all while supporting their health. Let’s dig into why long-lasting chews are boredom-busting heroes and which ones are best.
Why Dogs Need Long-Lasting Chews
Chewing is more than just a pastime for dogs — it’s a natural behaviour. Long-lasting chews give dogs a safe outlet to satisfy that urge while also providing benefits such as:
- Stress relief – Chewing is self-soothing and helps release calming endorphins.
- Boredom buster – Keeps dogs occupied when they’re home alone or resting after exercise.
- Dental support – Natural chewing action helps scrape away plaque.
- Mental stimulation – Chews make dogs work for their reward, engaging brain and body.
What Makes a Chew Last Longer?
Not all chews are created equal. The lifespan of a chew depends on factors like:
- Density – The tougher the texture, the longer it lasts.
- Size – A chew that matches your dog’s size and chewing style lasts longer.
- Protein type – Some proteins, like roo or goat, are naturally lean and durable.
Choosing the right chew means finding one that’s tough enough to engage your dog, but not so hard it risks damaging teeth.
Bonza’s Top Picks for Long-Lasting Chews
We’ve tried and tested natural Australian chews that tick all the boxes. Customer favourites include:
- Roo Lumbar – Chunky, lean, and tough enough to last a good chewing session.
- Beef Achilles Tendons – Dense, satisfying, and a natural dental cleaner.
- Wallaby Skin Strips (Fur On) – Great for digestion and add an extra textural challenge.
- Cow Hooves – Incredibly long-lasting and can be stuffed with mince or soft foods for enrichment.
- Venison Ears with Fur – A boredom buster that’s also gentle on tummies.
Each is single-ingredient, air-dried, and free from additives — nothing but natural goodness.
Tips for Safe Chewing
Long-lasting chews are fantastic, but safety always comes first. Keep in mind:
- Choose chews suited to your dog’s size and chewing strength.
- Always supervise your dog while chewing.
- Rotate chews to keep things fresh and exciting.
- Remove small leftover pieces to avoid choking hazards.
How to Get Started With Long-Lasting Chews
If your dog hasn’t had many natural chews before, start slow:
- Offer a chew after exercise when your pup is calmer.
- Begin with medium-tough chews like tendons before introducing ultra-durable options.
- Limit chewing sessions at first to avoid tummy upsets.
- Rotate proteins to add variety and nutrition.
Quick FAQs
How long should a chew last?
It varies by dog and chew type — anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours across multiple sessions.
Are hard chews safe for all dogs?
Most are fine if chosen correctly, but avoid extremely hard options if your dog has dental issues.
How often should I give long-lasting chews?
A few times a week is plenty. Daily chewing is fine if balanced within the overall diet.
Conclusion
Long-lasting chews are more than tasty treats — they’re tools for mental stimulation, stress relief, and dental support. By choosing natural options that suit your dog’s chewing style, you’ll give them a safe outlet for their instincts while keeping boredom at bay.
