I rank the best chew "toys" for your dog.

I follow a strict criteria to give you the best chewys for your dog.

[@aaronolsen8390]

I don't even watch for advise anymore, I just like watching this guy living his dream doing what he cares about. Great advice though, as to be expected.

[@effieffie]

I'm glad I'm not the only one! I don't even have a dog but I watch Joel's videos everyday lol

[@fgdc1980]

Totally agree my dog is great and has non of these problems, I just love watching his content and the great advices that comes with it.

[@stevebino3742]

A lil bit of both

[@helenggme]

I love that he is confident and doesn't care what people think about him

[@tomb.2224]

@@helenggme you mean arrogant, he's shitting on other dog trainer, while his methods are very unorthodox and questionable.

[@austinwinsor5572]

Totally agree about the filled Kongs. I have 7 of them for my Aussie, one for each day I leave for work. A long walk followed with a filled, frozen Kong essentially stopped all of the separation anxiety. I do a "meal prep" once a week and I will add in some fruits, veggies, cheese etc to the wet food. The kong method has worked wonders for my dog.

[@jaycilangehennig2059]

How long do you let your dog chew on the wet dog food frozen Kong?

[@billelston677]

Doesn’t it make a terrific mess in your house?

[@Tsino07]

What size did you get? I have Large for my puppy and it doesn't last that long for her to eat what's inside, even when frozen

[@Mattfreeman89]

We're supposed to give it to them straight out the freezer? Thx in advance if you're able to answer this. Also, anyone tell me a good brand of wet food for this? Pitbull female; 1& 1/1 yrs old 55 lbs. Just don't wanna accidentally buy garbage thx

[@SM12397]

​@@Mattfreeman89Hey, so I give mine straight from the freezer, but my dog isn't excited to start. What I do is put a small dab of peanut butter on the food when it comes out and let him start on that. It works better to get him interested. I just use Purina, pedigree may work, but it doesn't have to be super expensive.

[@marieronnegardfors122]

Brilliant idea to fill "empty" marrow bones. My puppy never got how to use a Kong, but yesterday I tried stuffing a marrow bone with his barfmix and put in the freezer. He understood at once. It took him 30 minutes to eat his break fast this morning instead of 20 seconds. We both love it.

[@camillet9883]

For my German Shepard’s first birthday, I got her a whole dried cows leg. It might not have been the safest thing, but she carried it around for 2 weeks. It was a stinky gruesome slow anatomy lesson as she gradually peeled back the layers. Happiest dog ever.

[@Night-ud4ew]

THAT'S AMAZING, LMAO 🤣😭😂

[@1nvisible1]

*Best mom ever!*

[@Luckingsworth]

@@1nvisible1 Mom? You mean pet owner? Dogs arent kids. You are delusional.

[@pbft.j]

This has me laughing so hard! I could never. Maybe one day. Okay, I would totally do this and regret it hahaha. Beautiful imagery you crafted there.

[@trishthibodeaux4061]

😂😂😂😂😂mental pic😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@JLSPiglet]

The frozen Kong with wet food is the best thing ever. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with all of us. Your training methods are turning my 3 year old "owner surrender" shelter boxer into a well adjusted dog. He even has "dog friends" now thanks to you.

[@BradHutchings]

"I won't even tell you what it is." LOL! 😂

[@dookshi]

Looks like a fish which I don't know the English name for. Probably the most venomous fish in Mediterranean.

[@Grumpah]

🍌🐄

[@Mimijona]

I think you missed Beef Trachea (both dried and frozen). Super reinforcing and lasts between 30-45 mins and I don't have to watch my dog chewing on it as they do with a bone since it doesn't break in sharp pieces. Also, it's cartilage so it has a lot of healthy stuff. Still for super chewers it does last 20 min max, but depends on the dog.

[@MB-lf8rm]

Heeler-Lab, 16-months, loves to chew, and she can shred an anvil. Makes your skin crawl hearing her teeth grinding, grinding, on the antler, the marrow bone, himalayan stick -- which is why I took those things away from her. That grinding *must* be hurting her teeth. And sticks -- on every walk she picks up a stick and chews on it as we walk along. The DNA test results didn't mention 'beaver,' but it seems a possibility.

[@debbiedaley1609]

Beaver 😂

[@peterwreford1520]

I had to stop giving lamb legs to our Tibetan Mastiff male puppy at 7 months old because he'd eat the whole damned thing, bone and all. Goat horns work for us at the moment.

[@MB-lf8rm]

@@peterwreford1520 Hmm. Goat horns. I'll look for those. Thanks.

[@puddincup7934]

for heavy heavy chewers is definitely is hard to find a safe yet reinforcing chew for them. I usually only recommend getting chews that will have a give in them to prevent fracturing teeth, I've heard enough horror stories about that ($3000 is the average for getting them removed, although canine teeth can be up to $6000 per tooth). For raw bones, stick to ones like large ribs since they break quite easily and break into safer sized/shaped pieces. I know they don't last nearly as long, but safety > longevity for sure.

[@claudiablanco13]

I saw another one of your videos about separation anxiety and went out to buy a bully stick. My dog was OBSESSED! she absolutely loved it. She spent like an hour chewing on it and wagging her tail at times like she was having the time of her life. You made a dog very very happy with your videos today 😂

[@tennesseehusky]

FYI, with marrow bones and all bones you do have to worry about dogs cracking their teeth. Cracking a molar, slab fracture, is going to cost a lot of money to fix, can easily cost $500 to $1,000 or more. I use to give my dogs bones until I started working as a vet tech, I saw too many cases of broken/cracked teeth to continue giving my dogs bones. This may never happen with your dog but if it does, it's something you'll always remember. By the way, big fan of this site and this dude knows his shit. I own a Rotti and my go to is the Bully Stick.

[@hippiefarts]

Yup my dog cracked 2 teeth. Never giving bones again.

[@drbrog190]

Color me gobsmacked! I just found this video yesterday though I've been subbed to this channel for a little bit already. (takes me awhile to wade through all the good videos :D ) I've used a Kong before, and my Dobby enjoys it usually. However, on seeing the marrow bone, I went down a rabbit hole, found a store locally that carried it, ordered it and picked it up curbside after work. It comes frozen, and I got the large because he's a 65+lbs still growing Aussiedoodle. I am not exaggerating when I say that last night was the first time in 1 year and 2 months that I've been able to use the restroom by myself without my 1 yr 4 month old quadruped teenager following me, either trying to come in to lay down between my feet (awkward), or lay down right in front of the bathroom door until I open it again. I actually was able to walk out of a room and he did not even raise his head or twitch an ear, he was so thoroughly engrossed, not even when I came BACK into said room. He was ENGAGED from the first sniff. I have strong hopes this will help training him away from his rampant separation anxiety. Joel said a good average for "long-lasting" was what, somewhere around 45 minutes-ish? Ya'll, my boy hunkered down over this thing for almost 3 HOURS. Plus he actually slept deeply that night once it was time; he was slap worn out. If that doesn't tell you Joel is recommending things that WORK, I don't know what else will.

[@terridavis9278]

Thank you for doing this Joel. Always appreciate your information.

[@MrSrbija11000]

Totally agree with everything you said, this is the definitive top chew list. My two cents: I've had one dog who would chew a fish skin enough for it to get soft and then attempt to swallow it like a noodle, which I had to pull out when she started choking. Another story, and old dog who is well versed in bully's had it's first choking event. Same thing owner had to go in after it. Always supervise your dog with anything swallowable! Even if "they get them all the time."

[@k9angel777]

I got my dog a Bully Buddy...it’s basically a hard plastic bully stick holder. They can’t swallow it when it gets soft or smaller. Best invention! Got it on Amazon.

[@elizabethbaker2902]

Thank you for this great video. I follow several dog trainers, but you're my 'go-to' guy for sure as I have a leash-reactive dog. I've learned an incredible amount from watching your videos.

[@jspur22]

The place by my apartment has freeze-dried whole duck head, pig snouts and ears, chicken feet, salmon skin, turkey necks, etc. I'll usually grab my boy one or two when I go in. By far his favorite treat. He looks so focused when he is waiting for them.

[@omegafighters]

I like this puzzle feeder thing. You fill it up with dry food and it rolls around and drops a few pieces of dry food at a time. Maybe not every dog will like it, but it's another "work for your food" one.

[@lisaleondires9576]

Thank you for doing this. I’ve never seen anyone else do a video like this 👍🏽💕

[@vanteal]

I used to buy packs of frozen chicken necks for my AmStaff and used them like normal treats. They're small enough to not be filling, yet satisfying enough to be worth while for your dog and want to work for more. Fresh or frozen, doesn't matter. Just not cooked obvisouly. I also gave him frozen pigs tails on special occasions. They're quite a bit larger. And of course fresh knuckle bones from the butchers shop. Freeze those up and they'll last for quite a while if you keep putting it back in the freezer when it thaws out. Other than that, I never gave my boy a dog biscut or anything man-made like that, and he kept his adult weight the same his entire life. Never had any plaque on his teeth, and never had any bone health issues, arthritis or anything his entire life.

[@truecynic1270]

Frozen chicken feet, too , are good

[@mintchimp4203]

love you joel. lately ive been a huge fan of snuffle mats. I doesnt satiate the chewing urge, but it stimulates the drive to scavenge, smelling the ground and working the brain. some people buy mats, i just use a towel that i crinkle to create folds and pockets, and sprinkle regular kibble throughout. it lasts for about 30 minutes, depending on how "polite" your dog is with scavenging, and how much kibble you hide in there. my dog gently steps in and around smelling each pocket, but i have seen some dogs just grab the towel and run away with it. it doesnt smell, and it uses things you already have. super cheap, easy solution for me when i dont have a bully stick or i need more time to freeze a kong.

[@tinashutz1811]

Agree with all these options! I also like using the bully stick safety chew holder with a bully stick which prevents them swallowing the small end piece. Just gives that added peace of mind!

[@dardar267]

Agreed!!! I have 4 dogs(I live on a farm); Malinois, 2 Australian Cattle Dogs and a Pom. In years prior we had 5 Great Danes and I have sworn by the frozen and filled Kong for approximately 20 years. Recently we have tried Bulky Sticks and Yak chews (expensive in Canada😩), and they both run a close second although the Yak IS very hard on puppy teeth which we experienced, and so are the antlers, so for pups stay away from those two products. I am so pleased to know that we have been choosing products that you would endorse, since I value your opinion highly!

[@noahlundberg3288]

For the kongs it's important to get the sizing right as well. Been cases where the dog's tounge have gotten stuck and as it was stuffed a vaccum created, making the dogs tounge swell up getting stuck further. So you want it big enough their tounge wont cover the entire hole and small enough that their lower jaw won't fit. But yeah lifesavers, licking is a soothing/calming activity too. A favourite here is buffalo horn, not as hard as marrow bones, lasts forever but the dog is able to tear tiny shreds out of it in a satisfying way and works great to stuff and freeze too.

[@shayle62]

I think you mean the dog’s “tongue”. :-)

[@deb9806]

I love lick mats too to calm my lab puppy. I put them in fridge, not freezer for a cool treat. The action of it seems to relax him

[@ritapmartins]

What about lick mats?

[@risky_.y8137]

Joel, can you do a video on raising a guard dog (such as Rottweiler, Cane Corso and Doberman) with a family. Lots of videos teach you on how to raise a dog and how to be leader, but it's rare to see good content on KZbin that teaches you how to raise a guard dog with kids. It gets tricky here, because positive reinforcement trainers could say the exact opposite of what your supposed to do so we need videos from people we trust, like you. There are people who say that correcting your dog from trying to attack other dog is cruel, how are we supposed to trust what those people have to say about anything else if they don't know the simplest things? So It would be nice to see your input on how to raise a guard dog with family, and i'm sure it will help lots of people.

[@chelseag724]

To have a reliable guard dog needs a lot of things into play. One being picking the right dog that's clear headed.

[@carlosbarragan6729]

he has a couple of boerboel/ mastif/ and am.bull dog video that may help you out. it would be nice to see more of it tho XD. i do hear guard dogs are not the friendliest w other dogs tho. my boerboel is friendly but overwhelms the other dog to the point the other dog reacts negatively. and he get like 8hrs a day of free play w a couple of dogs (borzois) he gets along with.. good luck fellow beast master ;)

[@gloriagehring8676]

Someone wanted me to train a Corso. I couldn't do it. They are not covered by insurance Companies for damages and there will be damage.

[@BDTraining]

That’s a good idea. Ill try to make it.

[@susinok]

Look up Robert Cabral channel here on KZbin. He deals with those dogs and does IPA events.

[@inspire2respire382]

Thanks! I see where to use the frozen Kong in our routine. This would be perfect in the middle of the day when it’s too hot to play and we need to get some energy out! A plus would be to give it outside in the shade. Love your channel ❤

[@karengreene1999]

Very helpful video! Thank you! You are my go to for anything dog, mainly because you are no bs and it isn’t ALL about giving treats when training. I tried the treat method and Charlie wouldn’t do anything if he didn’t see a treat in my hand. Dogs aren’t stupid 😂

[@WebbJam]

I use a product called “Pork Chomps.” They’re a raw-hide substitute that my golden retriever LOVES. I did pull a piece from his throat as a smaller puppy which has scarred me for life. He doesn’t leave my sight but as he’s gotten older I feel much more comfortable leaving him with one. Thanks for your info, Joel

[@kellyjo319]

Your list has helped me save so much on the toy budget. The kongs and marrow bones are great to use for crate training. I give Archie bully sticks and fish skins after our evening exercise to help him get out all the energy he didn't get out from the walk. One suggestion I have for people is after an hour or so of chewing and there's at least half of the bully stick, fish skin, kong, etc and put them in a baggy to save for another time which helps reduce the smell and keeps them from getting bored of it. If it's less than half and small enough to swallow throw it away. My pup routinely scares me by trying to swallow the last bit then choking then vomiting. Love the videos 👍

[@mikelazure7462]

I am five weeks into getting to know my rescued GSD adult. One thing is for sure clear, he has a 'hardness' preference when it comes to chewing stuff. Very hard nylon chews he entirely ignores. Uncooked heavy bones he chews down till they are gone and it can take him five or six hours, which is a great investment when he is in the backyard while we are at work. I have a Kong product but clearly I was using it wrong so I'll be trying the frozen stuffing method and see if that gets his interest. As always Joel - informative with "why" backing up your opinion and choices, much appreciated.

[@AbraKVavra]

Thank you! I have a 12 yr old English bull terrier and recently adopted a previously abused and abandoned young one from the shelter. She’s so EBT they had her 2 months and thought she was deaf. She’s not she’s a ebt. Iforgot how much work young ones are. lol I was starting to get worried I can’t handle this and I’ve been binge watching you, I even have dreams about you lol I really wish I still lived in SD bc we would most certainly be coming to see you. I’m determined not to give up bc she’s already been through so much but I’m emotionally exhausted she’s so high energy. I work from home and it’s so much I’m having a hard time even working, I really appreciate these videos. They keep me going and trying.

[@pbft.j]

you're making a difference in her life. it can be stressful but sometimes we need to take a break when we can. remember that she will get better as long as she has what she needs. good luck!

[@AbraKVavra]

@@pbft.j thank you!!!

[@tracymills3174]

Thanks for the tips. My dog will only eat from her orange treat ball. It’s her self-appointed job to roll the ball around then hunt for her food. Not much of a chewer, but these ideas may open her world up to more value for chewing. Great, varied content!

[@kathyedwards2863]

my 8 year old lab has a purple mushroom (puzzle) slow feeder - only way he will eat his kibble.

[@chrisfallon2986]

Love this! I have a four month old pup and we just started giving him bully sticks. He loves them but even these start to get a little pricey for daily use. I am excited to try the Kong method and see how he responds! Thank you for the advice!

[@kait9091]

Very informative! I didn't realize bully sticks go stale so thank you for that! The split antlers are good for my puppy cause he can "get the goods" (marrow) just enough to keep his interest.

[@deb9806]

I read they are safer for teeth too. I know all dogs are different but every time I read about a cracked or broken tooth, I cringe. I've read that with full antlers and yak bones

[@debraleathery6877]

Thank you for the advice and direction.

[@mtngrammy6953]

Great video and I agree with you. Been in the dog business for over 50 years. I love marrow bones the best and am sorry that I can no longer get them from the butchers for free, as I did in the past. They would cut up a nice leg bone for me into as many pieces as I specified (considering the size of the dogs). Now it is hard to find bones that are not already cooked (why do they think this is better?). I have one dog who really needs more chewing than others and she loves the Kongs. I have some smaller ones that I can stuff with small treats that won't fall out,. She brings me the Kong, I put her in a different room, then hide the Kong in the main room. That way, it keeps her busy for a bit longer and is kept busy chewing for a while after finding it. (She's a busy Border Collie!). I think I will start putting some in the freezer, too. Very good advice in this video for anyone who owns a dog!

[@karmandjojo1999]

Omg! I have been needing this episode!

[@Willabear826]

Love this advice. One idea- I rub the antler with coconut oil on occasion to encourage chewing. Hoping this ok for her teeth. I have a five month old super sweet black lab who’s a maniac. After watching Joel’s videos with our newest addition I’ve learned so much more in 5months than I ever did in 15years with my last pup. Thanks for the great amazing training videos🎉

[@patiknappen]

I have a 4 mo old goldend retreiver and I am loving these videos He is a great teacher and so confident

[@judyp464]

My doggo definitely likes the elk antler and I use the kong wobbler, it’s hard plastic, not rubber, I fill it with dry kibble and she pushes and works on the thing for ever to get the food to drop out, I definitely recommend it! It occupies her time. I’m going to try the pate in the regular kong and the ocean chews, for something different. Thank you for the new ideas!

[@daddystu7046]

Mine just pushes it around with his nose till all the kibble falls out. He is a bit too quick with it tbh.

[@rockymtnsteeze1815]

The Kong Wobbler is a good toy. I feed my dog her kibble in it everyday. She gets the food out very fast.

[@rockymtnsteeze1815]

​@@daddystu7046try putting larger treats in it that barely fit through the hole.

[@daddystu7046]

@@rockymtnsteeze1815Had to check my comment then - you couldve been referring to something very different ;)

[@VicTahMoan]

thanks for the tips, I'm buying a few of these. Not sure if it's hard to setup but I see a lot of KZbin channels that recommend products put an Amazon link in the description where any purchases made on Amazon through the link will give some money back to the channel; might be weird for you if you don't want to appear like you're biast but I feel as long as channels are honest about how the links work it's just a win win. Great stuff as always, love the channel

[@beachgirl9697]

Thanks, Joel. I needed this before my Aussie friend ate the siding off the garage. My go-to now is the marrow bones!

[@rachelb1046]

I've personally use 4 of these products and my pup loves them. I would suggest one that is also an amazing, when sourced properly is cow's ear. I make sure I get ones that still look like an ear and is not coated with anything. The one negative I've found is the do not have a pleasant smell. I also give raw frozen carrots and green beans and lastly freezing organic pumpkin puree on a link mat!

[@diannedawson8431]

Hi Joel. I buy frozen grass fed beef marrow bones for my retriever. They are $2 a lb. Just a cheaper way to improve on the packaged marrow bones. Thanks for sharing your training methods. They have really helped with my reactive retriever.

[@edwardrichard2561]

Can you tell me where you get them from? Or drop a link please.

[@-whackd]

I buy those for myself for soup stock lol

[@-whackd]

@@edwardrichard2561 Asian or Vietnamese markets will usually have beef bones. Butchers are another good bet. I don't have a Latino community in my area but if you do I would check there too, I know they use all parts of the animals.

[@leokeo6871]

​@@-whackdthat sounds tasty lol

[@tommyrq180]

Any major grocery butcher shop has frozen beef marrow bones. Sometimes you have to ask, though.

[@marcifolkersen8525]

Frozen Kongs are the best. My beagle can clean them out pretty quick so we use a large one. Thanks so much for this video.

[@marshareed7565]

Frozen food Kong was a game changer! I used his raw food frozen in there. About an hour to eat it. Gave me tome to clean, make my food. There are bully stick holders too if you have a dog that wants to swallow it. Also holds Yak chew. Thanks for the great video!!

[@merlinaly]

Can you thaw raw frozen food and then refreeze inside the king toy?

[@marshareed7565]

@@merlinaly yes. Thaw the frozen raw… stuff Kongs then refreeze and serve frozen. Took my boy 45-1 hour to eat it. First time you do the Kong just feed it stuff UNFROZEN so they know how to get it.

[@Lizzardward]

My little 16 week Yorkie love the bully sticks! Thank you! He’s a hard chewer and he hasn’t had problems with his baby teeth yet.

[@sabrinasilk4283]

Great video! I have to try the marrow bone. I also use water buffalo horns which last longer than antlers and you can put stuff in it.

[@LeighWinspear]

Great options thanks. The frozen additions I make to my labradors diet are frozen, pre boiled liver cubes. Full of everything a growing or adult pup needs but I am now going to buy a few kongs now on your advice and not only add the liver through meals but the dogs need to chew......

[@grannygear1001]

Ok, I take you up on your challenge. The Bark Box, ‘tough chew’ toys are just great! My dogs still seek them out after 3 years, although these days it’s hard to fit them in the budget. . Make sure it’s the Tough Chewer box. They have a black Bark Box version of a Kong that is great and just as tough. Their stuffer toys I put canned dog food in or kibble w Greek yogurt (thicker than regular) and they love them. I have a Siberian husky, a half Sib/Malinois and a lab/whippet. Woo-hoo. They have taught me a lot.

[@foxesproject5031]

I love filled kongs !!! Great for distracting barking dogs and you can put peanut butter, yogurt or leftover / recently out of date food !!!! Also I recommend going to a local butcher and seeing if they can give you bones! Sadly a butcher in my area that gave bones away for free closed . Also marrow bone if your dog hollows it out you can put something in it like peanut butter or wet food and freeze it , you can now reuse it !

[@spectral_moss]

My dog has bad resource guarding issues. So we can’t usually give him something high value that lasts a long time. His favorite thing on this earth though, is raw carrots. It was recommended by our vet for his gut health and dental health (we are unable to brush his teeth in any way). He’s a small dog and gets about 1/2 carrot a day, he still has all his teeth in good condition, despite being 10 years old.

[@sydoly123]

Carrots are great especially if your dog loves them. Some dogs enjoy how crunchy they are. Great for their teeth too.

[@puddincup7934]

try the fish skins, but instead of just giving it to them, hold it for them so they feel it's a shared treat/activity and won't feel to guard it since it'll only last a little while

[@guapochunkers3914]

Hi joel! Im 13 and have an almost 2 year old husky/malamute mix. Unfortunately, i didn't know what i was doing when i first got her so she was under socialized, didn't listen, was (and still kinda is) a little dominant, and was a huge puller. Since she has a throat disorder pulling wasn't an option and i had to be careful. About a few months ago i found your channel and omg it saved me! Using your techniques her pulling is nearly gone, she listens and checks up on me constantly, and we have been working on her recall which has gotten SO much better. She is now playing with dogs and going out to new places on a regular basis. She is so lovely and well behaved thanks to you and a little hard work + consistency. Thank very much.

[@BDTraining]

Keep up the good work.

[@TRXvaulterGIRL]

Awesome information!!! Thank you Joel. I was just talking to my girlfriend yesterday, about your frozen kong idea for her English Bulldog. I’ll send this to her. I also plan on trying it with my Mini Bull Terrier and Frenchie.

[@danigirl7473]

Omg, Just Adopted a 7~8 mouth old puppy (she may be a bit older or younger not fully sure), but we are having a bit of problems with jumping. You have now given an answer to try when others come over. Thanks!

[@NYyazoofan]

Great review and 100% agree with kong, marrow bones (I get them from the butcher and freeze), and bully sticks. My two Dobermans love bully sticks. I use a device that you insert the bully stick into and locks in place so as to prevent swallowing . Gives me a piece of mind if I leave them unattended. My vet isn't wild about bully sticks for the chocking hazard (which I have almost eliminated with the locking device) as well as possible bacteria if they are left laying around and not immediately consumer. I throw away any unused bully stick away after a day (very rare my Dobermans don't finish them).

[@WineandBeauty]

Thank you so so so much for being on youtube!!!! We've had 4 dogs in the 14 years now that I've been with my husband...and I've always thought I was a great dog mom...now that 2 of those puppers (our first two babies) have passed on - one was a pug and the other a DESTRUCTIVE golden retriever (who was only 3.5 months old when we got her and who settled down and became the bestest girl in her old age - I miss her SO much!)...but those two are gone and now we have two 60 pound labs - a 6 year old yellow lab who we've had for 4 years and our newest lab - a 2 year old black lab - is "insane" to put it lightly lol... we got her a year ago right before our golden passed away (at 13.5 years old!)...anyways...we've quickly learned just how "crazy" black labs are... Yes, I use the words "insane" and "crazy"...but honestly she's just very high energy. AND while I WISH we'd have known better 13 years ago with the golden (I'll admit it, we were young and while we grew up with dogs we had NO CLUE that we "needed" to actually train her...) but she's for another story...rest her soul...anyways, I'm starting to learn that while we weren't "bad" dog parents...we definitely were not "great" dog parents...until this past weekend, I had NO IDEA what "enrichment" toys or games were... We have always owned one large size kong, but RARELY ever used it... We have put our black lab, Olive, into "command" training...so she knows how to sit, lay down, get in place (some times...this one we are working on daily)...but she is just SO HIGH ENERGY! I work from home and one of her biggest issues is demand barking. She sits next to me barking as LOUDLY as caninely possible in my ear... The vet even gave me anxiety medicine to calm her down (which is great when I use it) but I don't want to "drug" my dog every day. Yes, I do take her on walks, but she's also a puller and I'm TRYING to learn how to walk her properly with the gentle leader (as per your other videos)...which I used yesterday for the first time and OH MY GOD - GAME CHANGER! Now onto this video and kongs and enrichment...I'll be honest yesterday was the first time I used them for her and WOW!!!!!!!!!!!! I actually started researching over the weekend and immediately bought 3 new XL kongs from Chewy...which I'm planning on getting more next paycheck...but between those, lick mats (which I'd had two but used them once last year), enrichment games (like the food in a towel wrapped up and tied up... yesterday was SO MUCH BETTER! it wasn't perfect...it was only day 1. but oh my it was great! to be honest, my husband and I have talked and kept saying "she's bored, how do we beat her boredom? she needs stimulation all day long!" which I just couldn't give her because - while I work from home, I'm WORKING... But I've been eating up your videos and tons of tik tok videos on how to stuff kongs...and there's 4 kongs in the freezer plus a west paws frozen cup...plus I have a kong wobbler...I'm just so freakin' excited to start all of these things for her and the older pup (who loved his kong yesterday too!) Now it's just figuring out the best foods to stuff in the kongs... :)

[@thomasgriscti1645]

Thanks for the great video!!! We buy this all natural sticks which are really reinforcing and long lasting. They have many different options like beef harders, pork croquets, beef stomachs (not as long lasting) and others.

[@mummalicious5]

Thank you, thank you, thank you, watching this has been fabulous. My puppies are ready and needing to chew.

[@laurak2385]

Great video! I hope you start getting sponsored by some of these companies really soon. Ive learned so much from watching you.

[@nnelsy]

Extremely helpful. Thank you!

[@eggo7126]

As someone with a wood connoisseur, gorilla chews are the one thing I think we’re omitted and are safe for dogs to chew! My dog goes crazy for wooden chews and marrow bones as well as the fish skins. Kong is definitely king, though. It has so many purposes it’s insane - you can soak some kibble and still get a good hour out of ‘em. Great list!

[@kenanwtube]

Mine loves wooden chews too, I've been using "dog wood"

[@daddystu7046]

Mine has a thing for wood. Literally eats twigs as we walk along and will not drop, even for me.

[@rockymtnsteeze1815]

My dog wants to eat sticks all the time. I should get her a wood toy.

[@wren1114]

Great advice as usual!! Thx!!

[@jdo2574]

I use Kong with peanut butter then fill with kibble then peanut butter cap to keep the kibble from falling out, then freeze. My dog loves it once a day for dinner

[@kimmoore322]

My dogs have chewed on cow hooves for years! You can buy them at feed stores. Pick thick ones. You can put stuff in it and freeze it. Not as hard to get out as kong, but they stink some and the dogs keep chewing on them after the food is out.

[@debbiemartell8100]

Fantastic video. Thanks so much 😊

[@Oregonracer2]

Thank you for this information!

[@Tealadie_8]

My 7 month old puppy absolutely loves to chew cow hooves. Safe (I do chuck it out when it gets too small), long lasting, reinforcing but some people find them smelly. Thanks for your videos Joel, love them and learning so much, esp your recent one outlining puppy stages.

[@dsc-nr5zy]

They smell the WORST 💩🤣

[@debra2107]

LOVE THIS! Antlers are the bomb at our house (we have 3 pittie mixes). Bully sticks were great, but couldn't stand the smell and it turned one of our sweet babies into a demon if you tried to take it away from her (she has only ever resource-guarded the bully stick). Great suggestion for the Kong--I've always used peanut butter, but will try the wet food frozen. Thank you so much!

[@belenharris8174]

Cow ears are good for the leather-seeking chewer. Dried water buffalo lung is a great introductory treat for tiny puppies because it's softer, and makes a great filling - doesn't last as long with an older puppy or adult. Turkey and chicken necks (raw) can make a good snack, also can work as a filler for a marrow bone or kong. Pig feet last longer. Make some farm and hunting friends! Ask for marrow bones, feet, etc. that don't typically get used. People usually like to keep the antlers, but may part with them. And find a local butcher or smaller grocer with a meat department for bulk bones!

[@ValtaKash]

I used to give my wolfdog pig ears when she was in the chewing stage. Worked like a charm.

[@lindenpeters2601]

I would add that puppies often need to be taught how to use a Kong. We have had our dog 3 months, she is coming up on 6 months old, and she still gives up on frozen Kongs and won't work on them until they've thawed, hours later. I have to make it easy by just filling it without freezing. And that's Phase 3. Phase 2 is just lining the inside with wet food and filling the rest with kibble, adding a peanut butter plug. Phase 1 is just dry kibble inside that they can easily get out. I need to get some more so I can fill a bunch for meals!

[@TaelonSHU]

I saw this aweseome youtube video of a lady showing how to train a puppy using a Kong with kibble. I basically showed him how to get the kibble out by rolling the kong. Unfortunatly he also learned the trick to pick up the kong and just drop it. So occasionally he tries that still with a frozen Kong, BOOM! XD

[@lindenpeters2601]

@@TaelonSHU Haha, mine does the same thing! She tosses it to try and get wet food out. Sometimes it knocks it loose, but not always!

[@LindaMarieMagnusson]

I use natural dried elk skin. Looks like a regular chew "bone" but are really good for sensetive stomachs. No checicals, and the big 60 cm long ones lasts a long time. No smell, but of course s little messy and slimey 😁. I also use Kongs so my doberman is working for his food. Only difference is that I use raw minced food. Another thing I give is raw ribs. I can't give marrow bone because Vito's stomach can't handle it, and even if he could tolerate it I wouldn't dare because all freak accidents I have seen where the dog's lower jaw got stuck in the empty bone so that it has to been sawed of! Nylone bone with chicken and beef taste is well liked by Vito too. And all natural frozen ears from wild boars, with the furry still on. He really loves those ❤️❤️❤️, natural dried rabbit ears with furry still on is also something I give, but those don't last more than a couple of minutes, so that more counts as a treat..

[@mikey_atman]

Thanks for these tips. Our dog loves antlers. They can be expensive at the big stores, but if you get a good connection for them, they can be quite cost-effective. They're also shed by deer so no animals get harmed. They don't stink, and they don't leave a mess on the floor. aside from a few crumbles here and there. Our dog especially loves when I make him puzzles by dropping a few treat pellets into a Kong, and then stuffing antler pieces tightly into it🦌

[@rafaelah3521]

Great video again. Thank you 🙏

[@johnmortison5763]

I agree on the first two. Kong makes several toys of different shapes and sizes with various shape holes which I fill with cheese, etc. My Amstaff really likes marrow bones. I get them fresh frozen from Publix and bake them in a slow oven to render most of the fat out (too much fat upsets her stomach). What's left is crispy, tasty remains which she loves to chew on. Once the flavorful stuff is gone, she loses interest in the bone itself, so I never have to worry about her breaking the bone up and ingesting pieces. Have not tried the other items he suggests, so can't comment.

[@maggiesmuttsandmoggies6868]

Fantastic video - such an honest dog treat review and I LOVE that it wasn't sponsored! I'm a UK dog trainer and the only thing I would like to add to your video is that some dogs have sensitive stomachs and if they ingest too much marrow they will have diarrhoea. I advise my clients to remove the marrow, place it in an airtight container in their fridge and add a small portion daily to the emptied bone.

[@gailscibelli9148]

Great suggestion. Yes my dobe will go very loose from the marrow. Never thought to do that. Funny thing after he's done with his bone I leave out for the birds. Woodpeckers LOVE THAT MARROW. They will peck into the bone and remove what's left.

[@kaylaschulz7515]

Thank you for that help

[@mikewright9547]

Man what an awesome video.

[@sofja368]

Hi, I am a new subscriber, thank U for very good videos. I am definitely a new Fan of yours. I am not a beginner with Dogs and can say- you are doing very good job. So now for Toys. For me as a dog owner A Kong is a number 1, course it offers so many varieties. In summertime I fill it with goat quark, liver paste, some times I have nothing better than just Ice Qubes to stop in there and my dog loves it. I be also done Ice out of some meat or vegetable stock. There are very many possibilities with Kong. I found also a stick of a Koffetree very good. It last like very long time and it’s a bit like toothbrush for a dog. I would recommend it definitely. Sofja

[@janmowinski4853]

also cheap stuff you can fill and freeze there are also cow hooves. also if the dog is already experienced in kongs you can do stuff like just soaking and blending their kibble (with or without any additional stuff) or up the difficulty by layering normal kibble, cut apple/carrot pieces and whatever you can think of to make it harder, more long lasting and rewarding. extra: once in a while one of the best rewards I have for my little demon that he has to work for is a kong filled with mushed banana mixed with plain yogurt and a bit of peanut butter if I happen to have it (it's frozen more solid than just wet food, but is so reinforcing that there is no way he will get frustrated and leave it, can take up to an hour while normal frozen kongs are 10-20 minutes for him). tip for filling stuffed shin bones (you call them marrow bones, but for me marrow bones are fresh animal bones that have a lot of marrow) - plastic wrap on one side, rubber band, flip and fill. makes it cleaner and easier for the lower tier extremely safe and healthy (and smelly), but a bit more long lasting than fish skins. I like to give those as sort of rewards after training, playing to help my crazy dog chill or just when I have a work call and need a few minutes of peace: - dried beef rumen/stomach strips or bits (super healthy and low calorie as well as cheap so you can give a lot of those, stinks if u don't like it's smell, good stuff to give for the dog to chill in few minutes. it also helps poop eaters, because it has a lot of good bacterial flora they probably lack. also other dried stuff like this: lungs, livers any part u can find in a shop. natural and dogs love them, they don't last longer than few minutes, but I find them really useful with high energy dog that has issues with calming down after playing or training.) - dried cow/pig/deer/etc skin, can be a little less reinforcing for some dogs, but lasts longer and is still perfectly safe - calcium bones or however it's called, pretty good overall. I like to cut them in 4 pieces and stick in my kongs before freezing, makes it more interesting and harder - dried animal parts (ears/noses/tracheas/...). just avoid smoked ones as they can be harder to digest and be careful to not go overboard with fatty ones. special mention: dried rabbit ears along with option to have them with fur left (ik, might sound disgusting, but dogs love them) other super long lasting, but not so reinforcing tier, stuff like antlers that I just treat like decent redirection chews for teaching what the dog can chew indoors: - ox horn - nylabone - some types of wood (you can find them online, they cost around the same as antler, are safe and interesting because you can have different tasting/smelling types) hot summer specials: - frozen carrots - frozen toys you fill with water for dogs to lick/chew - frozen cloth - ice cubes (if you are cooking meat for high value treats then you can freeze that water/broth in and ice cube tray for chilly summer treats) DiWhy - I'm too lazy for this and also don't think it's needed, but for those that like doing stuff like this there are a lot of recipes for home made treats and chews. Safe and on a budget, but needs extra effort. the most amazing chews though require a dog that can safely eat them (you can try and correct them for going too fast to teach them, but I noticed that it usually just depends on a dog), basically 20/10 reinforcing, 10/10 long lasting, 4/10 safe. Can't imagine anything being more reinforcing for a dog than a bone or a dried leg. But of course even if your dog eats them safely you have to supervise it a bit and if you are dealing with resource guarding then this might make things worse or even dangerous. In my case I give a good beef bone or some dried deer leg on Saturday once every few weeks when I have more work during the week so it's for both of us, a reward for doggo putting up with slightly less exercise and attention as well as seeing me stressed and tired, and a way for me to rest in peace after a hard week.

[@nicolejean2294]

My dog is obsessed with barkworthies pork pizzle sticks but they last her a min, if even🤦‍♀️ definitely gonna try the fish skins since I feed her honest kitchen as her regular meal anyway, thanks Joel!

[@davidjr24]

Love the videos. My dogs love the results even more. Newfoundland, German Shepherd, boxer, schnauzer....and they all walk behind me..."Behind me Satan". Great videos!

[@truecynic1270]

Tip about the Tibetan cheese stick : when it gets down to what is too short for your dog, put it into the microwave for about 1 minute or 1 1/2 minutes. It will puff right up!! Let it cool and its makes, NOT a long chew, but a nice cheesy chew for some minutes (maybe 15?) Some of the cheese stays gooey inside. I buy two of these per month - yes, because of the cost. I have a local butcher who both smokes bones and sells them raw. I only get the beef knuckle but have bought cross-cut ( exposing the marrow) smoked leg bones - satisfied his chewing. Thank you for your info!

[@rico4you]

Joel the CHEWMASTER ! Great video...fundamental In having a civilized dog!

[@joycelee7512]

Joel - we get dried kangaroo knee caps in Oz, they last about 5-10mins for my super chewer Great Dane. He doesn’t chew the marrow bones that I get him, just leaves them in the sun to get “funky” with flies. Goat horns seems to last as well, but must be supervised.

[@Brendan3195]

Try Raw and Fresh for kangaroo ribs and tails

[@tsmfff9251]

Came back from vacation to this fabulous video. I stuff kongs and bones with a variety of items - helps the dogs so much. Occasionally I do bully, man does it smell. Himalayan chews are a hit/miss depending on the dog. You can make your own Himalayan chew! It's a quick cheese with dehydrator. The only product I do like that wasn't mentioned is a buffalo horn.

[@t.lledsmar6052]

I have used a product called "jughead" it's similar to Kong you're supposed to buy proprietary bone/pizzle stick things. I just go ahead and put one of those fish skins in there. It ups the fish skin to about 20 minutes as the dog has to work to get it out... also prevents my one boy from rolling in the fish rather than eating it.

[@pamelaguaicochea6355]

I took the idea of using canned dog food to fill kongs instead of peanut butter to the rescue I work at. It’s been a great tool to help occupy the pups ❤

[@cherylschaeffer7832]

I like your choices. What I would add is there are different types of antlers and different sizes. I prefer the whole antlers, but some of my clients have dogs that like the split antlers better. I used to work with a trainer who was also a bow hunter. He'd take down a stag or 2 during deer season and his dogs got the antlers (cut to size for their size). I love that idea because when the whole animal is repurposed it makes the idea of hunting more palatable.

[@kimlarsen8515]

My dad used to leave a deer carcass out for his Chesapeake

[@kristacook1211]

We get antlers from our friend and cut it into pieces and it's great. Our dog loses interest eventually in a piece but it keeps her busy for hours and days before that happens!

[@Lonz0603]

Deer shed antlers naturally - maybe you can find someone in your area that collects them for this purpose. If not, I can send you the contact info for my guy in Michigan. He walks the woods & finds them naturally. No deer/animal is harmed. THAT I can live with.

[@Lonz0603]

@@kristacook1211 Might need a softer antler. There is a difference.

[@debbiedaley1609]

I laughed out loud at the face Joel made describing the bulky sticky smell (about 8:16)

[@IzzyMartinez01]

Haha i wish I never found out what they were

[@debbiedaley1609]

@@IzzyMartinez01 lol

[@bailey9r]

AND @ 10:35 looks down "I already told you that" lol

[@debbiedaley1609]

@@bailey9r haha

[@Cathan1856]

I could smell it by the look 😆

[@Irishwabbit59]

In my adult dogs they eat from bowls occasionally with bowl exercises, but rest of meals are their kibble soaked filled and frozen. They enjoy the fun they have, it gives me time to eat my meals and since I work from home it is convenient

[@elizaalmabuena]

Don't know if you have a video on it yet, but selecting a proper size chew is another aspect that can be covered

[@aurab6251]

I got my border collie puppy a buffalo horn instead of antler and he loves it. It has a distict gamey scent to it which maybe why I think it’s better than antler. He only gets it in his crate before settling in for a good night’s sleep.

[@ImprovPerformanceLab]

Yes, marrow bone is #1 for my dog too. Great idea to fill bone with food when done.

[@dogtrainerHillary]

Small dog & puppy chew solution to add: can’t beat a cow ear. Digestible, but not high in fat like the pig or lamb ears. Also the jumbo ones will last several sessions. Small dog teeth and jaws are often too small or teeth can break on Joel’s great options for full size dogs. Small dog folks, check out a dried cow ear. If your pup isn’t into em at first, smear with a little coconut oil, or stuff the jumbo ear basin with wet food. They’ll love it. Supervise always of course.

[@MrDoggy78]

Man, I wish you could see my three-month old Lagotto Romagnolo (Italian Water Dog) girl with the Kong thing filled with soft food. It’s the best thing ever. I’m addicted to your videos, dude, keep up the good stuff.

[@PitifulDelay]

We have a co-op that sells these stuffed hooves. I got one for each of our dogs; one was still a little puppy. For 3 days I was hunting the house looking for the dog poo that I was sure that the still house training puppy HAD to have left somewhere. Once I realized that was the smell coming from the hooves once they'd been chewed on a bit and were soft and wet, I got rid of the hooves.

[@iriswu4427]

These products are what I am giving or going to give to my pup in the future(because she is just a little puppy now so some of them are too hard). I mainly use kong or kong like product, filling partial of her daily food or fruits and veggies. It works amazing. And I will give fish skin after night walk just to calm her down before bed. Plan to give bully stick or yak chew after the teething phase since she is not a tough chewer at all right now. Very good list. Everything is just natural products!

[@TheScholar13]

The Frozen Kong is a life changer, My dog is in aa tough phase dealing with anxiousness and has difficulty tiring himself out; 1 bully stick, and 2 frozen kongs tired him out and gave him more relief then anything else

[@Mrohrn]

I have a border terrier that is around 4 months old and I found that large carrots works great for entertaining my dog and you can freeze if so it is a bit harder and last longer. accessible and cheap.

[@jojo5715]

thanks, I would add tracheas, bladder sticks and dehydrated green tripe. When I go out, my dogs will be too anxious to chew a bully stick or even a trachea. But if I put a dehydrated green tripe stick or a dried fish skin inside the trachea they can't resist it. It doesn't last a super long time, but a little longer than most things. A liki mat or liki mat bowl is also worth mentioning.