The Benefits of Natural Dog Chews: Why They're the Best Treat for Your Dog’s Health
Looking for the best way to keep your dog healthy, entertained, and satisfied? Natural dog chews with additives are quickly becoming the go-to treat for UK dog owners who want a wholesome, long-lasting alternative to artificial snacks. At Cotswold Chew, we believe every dog deserves the benefits of real, healthy chews — and in this post, we’ll explain exactly why.
Whether you're exploring healthy dog chews or are already a fan of healthy, single-ingredient treats, here's everything you need to know.
What Are Natural Dog Chews?
Natural dog chews are made from minimally processed, single-source ingredients, such as Yak Chews, Rabbit ears, and Antlers or Horns. Unlike rawhide or plastic-based chews, they’re free from chemicals, artificial flavourings, or preservatives.
They’re healthy, digestible, and closer to what dogs would chew in the wild, making them a far better choice for long-term wellbeing.
Why choose Natural Dog Chews?
1. Natural Dog Chews Promote Dental Health
One of the primary benefits of natural chews is their support for dental hygiene. As your dog chews, the tough, fibrous texture helps to:
Scrape away plaque and tartar
Strengthen gums
Prevent bad breath
Regular chewing on natural treats like lamb horns or rabbit ears can reduce the need for dental cleanings and keep your dog’s smile sparkling.
2. Chewing Provides Mental Stimulation & Reduces Anxiety
Dogs love to chew — it’s calming and helps reduce boredom or stress, especially during:
Alone time
Storms or fireworks
Crate training
Natural chews provide a safe, satisfying outlet that encourages calm behaviour and helps prevent destructive chewing habits around the home.
3. No Artificial Ingredients — Just Real Nutrition
Unlike mass-produced dog treats, natural chews contain no additives, fillers, or colourings. That means:
Fewer allergens
Lower risk of stomach upset
More nutrients per bite
Most of our natural dog chews are rich in protein, collagen, and amino acids, supporting everything from muscle development to a shiny coat.
4. Easier to Digest Than Rawhide
Many dog owners in the UK are turning away from rawhide, which is often treated with chemicals and can be hard to digest. In contrast, natural dog chews such as pizzles, tracheas, or air-dried meats break down more easily and are safer for your dog's digestive system.
5. Great for Training and Behaviour Reinforcement
Using a healthy chew as a training tool can reinforce good habits and reward calm, positive behaviour. They’re especially useful for:
Crate training
Redirecting puppy chewing
Rewarding downtime
Chews with strong natural scents (like hairy cow ears or our fish training treats) are especially enticing for dogs and help keep their focus.
6. Sustainable, Eco-Conscious Choice
Many of our chews at Cotswold Chew are made from by-products of the food industry or naturally shed items (like horns & ears). This makes natural chews a more sustainable, environmentally friendly option for conscious dog owners across the UK.
Which Natural Dog Chew is Best for Your Dog?
At Cotswold Chew, we offer a wide selection of healthy, natural dog chews suitable for all breeds and ages — from puppies to seniors. Whether you're looking for:
Long-lasting chews (e.g. lamb horns, yak chew)
Gentler chews (e.g. turkey necks, rabbit ears)
Hypoallergenic options (e.g. venison legs or fish-based chews)
🛒 Shop Natural Dog Chews in the UK
If you're ready to ditch artificial treats and choose something better, check out our full range of natural dog chews at www.cotswoldchew.co.uk. We carefully select and hand-pack each order to ensure quality and satisfaction.