Does your dog enjoy the musky, earthy taste of a stick every now and then? It’s nothing to worry about, this is a very common ‘hobby’ amongst the dog community. But why is it that they do this and can it cause any harm? What alternative sticks that are safe for dogs to chew and play.

3 Reasons for Why Do Dogs Love Sticks

1. Sticks Resemble Bones
One of the main reasons why dogs enjoy chewing sticks is actually quite straightforward; sticks look like bones. Don’t be fooled though, your dog does actually know the difference between a stick and a bone, next to the earthy taste, which they are a fan of, the stick is easier to chew and that’s why they enjoy it.

2. Chewing is a Natural Dog Behavior and Stress Reliever
Let’s face it, dogs love chewing things (and destroying them); whether it’s your favorite pair of shoes, your sock, or a stick. You might have noticed your dog chewing on sticks when it was a pup, this is because when they are teething, the soft texture of a stick is perfect. Did you know that chewing is actually a big stress reliever for most dogs?

3. Picking Up Sticks Heightens Your Dogs’ Hunting Instinct
As cuddly and fuzzy as they might be, dogs are hunters at heart. It is not just chewing the stick that is the enjoyable part but fetching it, finding it, searching for it, and eventually claiming it gives them a certain excitement. Of course, once they capture a stick they will definitely chew it; which is part of the thrill.

Be a responsible dog parent when your dog loves to pick up, play and chew sticks.

2 Ways A Stick Can Harm Your Dog

1. Some sticks are harmful to your dog. Sticks from trees like walnut and black cherry can have life-threatening effects on your dog’s health. Also, sticks from fruit trees can be enticing but still have harmful effects.
Here’s a fun fact: A stick from a white willow bark is non-toxic for dogs, and under veterinary supervision, it can provide your dog with a natural pain reliever and prevent blood clots.

2. When your dog picks up and plays with a stick, make sure to examine on your dogs’ gums for splinters, these can get stuck in their gums or teeth, and even cause tearing in their esophagus. Many say that a bigger stick, the less of a chance to get stuck in their throat. However, no matter the size of the stick your dog is playing, always check as it has the potential to damage your dog’s teeth.

If you are worried your dog will get seriously injured playing with a stick, there are fun alternatives to spoil your dog with toys that resemblance a stick.

Favorite Safe Sticks Your Dog Can Play

1. Tall Tails
Floating Rubber Stick Toy

This stick toy is 12 inches and made of flexible and rugged natural rubber. The natural shape offers fun bounces. A perfect stick toy for dogs that love to play fletch and enjoy some water fun. This stick features grooves where you can spread tasty treat and use as an enrichment dog toy and promotes dental and gum health. Plus, you can easily clean this stick dog toy in the dishwasher.

2. Chuckit
Chuckit! Breathe Right Stick Dog Toy

This stick dog toy is made with dog-safe plastic that can withstand fun chewing. It has a unique hollow design that facilitates airflow and allows your dog to breathe easily while carrying the toy. The breathable feature allows for an amazing bounce where your dog can enjoy longer fetch play (your dog won’t get tired easily) and even run farther. This stick dog toy also floats for fun swim fetch play. Also, the unique design allows for you to use it as an enrichment treat stick toy. Keep your dog occupied and engaged by stuffing with treats.

3. Chuckit!
Ultra Fetch Stick Dog Toy

This fun stick dog toy is made with the same material as the Chuckit! Ultra Ball; natural, high-bounce rubber. The bright color makes it easy for your dog to spot during land and water fetch play. For a free-slobber pickup, this stick is compatible with the Chuckit! RingChaser Launcher

4. Barkshop (BARK by BarkBox)
Soft Dog Stick Toy
One of KORU BEAR’s favorite stuffie dog stick from his BarkBox. Unfortunately, this stick dog toy is no longer available for purchase. When KORU BEAR was a young pup, he loved carrying this BARK stick toy on his walk.

Stick toys guarantee to give your dog enjoyment plus being part of your dog’s stick play will definitely strengthen your bond and love for one another.

Keep in mind that every dog plays differently. It is important to keep a close watch on your dog stick plays. Keep your dog safe as no dog toy is really indestructible. Take away and discard the toy when pieces begin to break off.

Does your dog love sticks?