Giving your dog something to chew is great for their mind and teeth — but some chews are so hard that they can actually cause dental damage. Knowing how to spot an overly hard chew can save your dog from cracked teeth, gum injuries, and painful chewing experiences.
How Do I Know If a Chew Is Too Hard for My Dog?
A simple test many vets recommend:
If you can’t press your fingernail into the chew and leave a dent, it’s too hard.
Other warning signs include:
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Your dog drops the chew immediately
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They only lick it instead of chewing
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They chew on one side of the mouth
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You hear sharp cracking sounds
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Their gums bleed after chewing
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They lose interest quickly or seem frustrated
These are early clues that the chew is causing discomfort.
Do Hard Chew Toys Hurt Dogs’ Teeth?
Yes — overly hard chews can crack or fracture teeth.
Common culprits include:
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Antlers
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Weight-bearing raw bones
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Dense nylon toys with no flex
Safer alternatives that still satisfy chewing urges include:
These provide resistance without being rock-hard.
Are Dog Dental Chews Supposed to Be Hard?
Dental chews should be firm, not rigid.
They should bend slightly under pressure and not feel like a stone.
Gentler dental-style chews include:
These provide natural scrubbing without risking tooth fractures.
Is Chewing Hard Things Good for Dogs?
Chewing is healthy — it relieves stress, keeps jaws strong, and helps clean teeth.
But chewing too hard of an item can cause:
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Fractured teeth
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Gum injuries
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Worn enamel
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Jaw fatigue
Safer chewing options include:
These satisfy the chewing instinct without dental danger.
When Should You Replace a Chew Immediately?
Throw the chew away if:
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Sharp edges appear
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Large pieces break off
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Your dog gulps pieces too quickly
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There’s blood on the chew
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Your dog suddenly refuses to chew it
Chews should be enjoyable — not painful or risky.
Final Thoughts
If you can’t dent it with your fingernail, it’s likely too hard for your dog. Choosing gentler, safer chew textures — like Bully Sticks, Beef Collagen Sticks, Beef Cheek Rolls, Sweet Potato Slices, or Cow Ears — keeps chewing enjoyable and protects your dog’s teeth from injury.