Are you on the hunt for a healthy and tasty treat for your furry friend? We’ve recently had the opportunity to try the USA-made Native Pet Yak Chews with our dogs as a healthy dental chew and a recreational chew in one. If you are considering purchasing these chews, let’s look at what they are, which dogs would benefit from these chews and a few cautions.
Through the years, our dogs have had four extractions due to cracked or broken teeth caused by hard chews–so we’re always on the lookout for long-lasting chews they’ll love that won’t risk a cracked tooth. Let’s give these Native Pet Yak Chews a try!
What’s a Himalayan Yak Chew?
If you’re not already familiar with them, a yak chew, also known as a Himalayan yak chew, is a type of long-lasting edible chew toy for dogs. It originated from a recipe used by the people of the Himalayas, which has been adapted and commercialized for dogs in other parts of the world.
These chews are traditionally made from a mixture of yak and cow milk, with lime juice (to help create curds) and a small amount of salt added. The mixture is then heated until the milk curdles and is separated from the whey. The curd is compressed and dried to create a hard, chewy product. Native Pet smokes their chews over a fire for one to two months.
The result is a hard cheese that is low in fat and high in protein, providing a very tough chew that’s good for dental health, helping to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, and with less dental risk than bones and horns.
Also, Himalayan yak chews are known for being more digestible than rawhide, making them a popular choice among dog owners looking for a long-lasting treat.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Simple Ingredients: Native Pet Chews are made with only four ingredients, making them a healthier choice for your dog.
- Low Odor & Long Lasting: Unlike many chews, these Yak Chews have minimal odor and can keep your dog occupied for hours.
- Promotes Oral Health: These dental treats encourage active chewing, beneficial to your dog’s oral health and also behaviorally.
- Protein Rich, Gluten Free, Grain Free: Native Pet Yak Chews are a healthy source of protein and are gentle on sensitive stomachs.
- Satisfaction Guarantee: If you aren’t happy with your purchase, Native Pet promises a full refund with no questions asked.
Cons
- Choking risk: Like a bully stick, dogs will gnaw a yak chew until it reaches a short plug which can present a choking risk. Always supervise your dog when giving them any type of chew, and discard any small pieces that may break off to prevent choking. Native Pet recommends microwaving the short portion of this chew to create a puffed treat!
- Dental risk: Yak Chews are harder than bully sticks and retriever rolls. If your dog has had dental issues (or if you worry about cracked teeth), try soaking the chew for a few minutes to soften it up before giving it to your dog.
Overall, Native Pet Yak Chews seem to be a great choice for dogs who love to chew. With simple ingredients and a satisfaction guarantee, they are definitely worth considering.
Our Dogs Give Them a Try
Both Barli and Isla were crazy about the yak chews, which were new treats for them.
These chews are designed to last for hours, a great choice if you’re busy on a zoom call or are trying to distract your dog while you have friends or family visiting at your house.
One of the best things about these chews is the low odor compared to other types of chews like bully sticks.
Barli and Isla give Native Pet Yak Chews a big paws up!
Want to give them a try? You can purchase them directly (with or without a subscription plan) on the Native Pet website, on Amazon, Chewy and in numerous retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right size Yak Chew for my dog?
Native Pet Yak Chews come in four sizes: small, medium, large and extra large. It’s important to choose the right size chew for your dog to avoid any choking hazards. Here’s a general guideline:
- Small chews: For dogs under 15 pounds
- Medium chews: For dogs under 50 pounds
- Large chews: For dogs 50-100 pounds (This is the size in our photos.)
- Extra Large chews: for dogs over 100 pounds
Are these suitable for puppies?
Yes, Native Pet Yak Chews are suitable for puppies and dogs of all life stages. However, it’s important to choose the right size chew for your dog to avoid any choking hazards. Always supervise your puppy or dog when giving them any type of chew.
Can dogs with dairy allergies have yak chews?
If your dog has a dairy allergy, it is generally advisable to avoid giving them any products that contain dairy, including Himalayan yak chews. Although the process of making these chews does reduce the lactose content significantly, they are still made from yak and cow milk, which can potentially trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive dogs.
Each dog’s sensitivity to dairy products may vary. Some dogs with mild intolerances may handle the low lactose levels in yak chews without any issues, while others with more severe allergies could experience adverse reactions. Symptoms of a dairy allergy in dogs can include gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea, as well as skin issues like itching and rashes.
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