June 27, 2012
Posted in Pet Supplies

You may have read frightening stories on the internet about the dangers of Greenies, leading you to worry about whether Greenies dental chews are safe for your dog. Several years ago, there were reports of some dogs choking or experiencing intestinal obstruction after ingestion of Greenies dental chews. In response to concerns that Greenies were difficult to digest, the product was reformulated by the manufacturer in September 2006.  These changes were to improve solubility and digestibility, as well as addressing the shape and size of the Greenies chews to make it less likely for a dog to bite off a large chunk of the dental chew.

An independent study conducted by the University of Illinois which simulated gastric and small intestinal digestion confirmed that the newer formulation of Greenies is highly soluble. When exposed to the enzyme solution in the test, all five sizes of Greenies dental chews broke down and lost structural integrity. Additionally, the mechanical chewing action when your dog eats the Greenies will further enhance the solubility of the Greenies.

Remember that dogs can choke on any food, treat or rawhide that is not sufficiently chewed, so monitor your pet to ensure he or she is not gulping the Greenies chew. It is also important to follow the label guidelines on any treat or food you provide to your pet. Greenies are to be used for dogs over 6 months of age, and weighing over 5 pounds. Follow the feeding guidelines of one Greenies dental chew per day, and make sure fresh drinking water is always available.

Greenies dental chews are specially designed based upon the shape of a dog’s skull, how hard the dog can bite, and how wide it can open its mouth.  Because the chews are tailored for specific sizes of dogs, it is important that you select the correct size of Greenies, based upon your dog’s weight. Be sure to re-seal the Greenies package to ensure the texture and freshness of the uneaten Greenies dental chews.

Greenies dental chews carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council Seal of Acceptance for plaque and tartar control.

Related posts:

1. Greenies: More Than Just Dental Chews
2. Greenies for Your Dog’s Dental Health
3. Which chews are best for your pooch?
4. Dental disease? In pets?
5. Give the dog a bone: Practicing bone safety

Tags: Dental treats, Greenies