Your teacup Yorkie’s breath shouldn’t smell like a dumpster, and that two-pound Chihuahua’s tiny teeth shouldn’t be rotting before her first birthday. Yet veterinary dentists report that toy breeds under five pounds suffer from periodontal disease at nearly three times the rate of larger dogs—not because you’re neglectful, but because the dental chew market has largely ignored the unique physiology of micro-sized mouths. Those “small breed” chews at the pet store? They’re often designed for a fifteen-pound Shih Tzu, not your three-pound Maltese whose entire jaw could fit in a tablespoon.
Finding truly appropriate thin-strip dental chews for these miniature companions requires more than grabbing the smallest package on the shelf. It demands a sophisticated understanding of jaw strength, esophageal diameter, metabolic rate, and ingredient sensitivities that are exponentially more critical when your dog weighs less than a bag of sugar. This guide dismantles the marketing fluff and equips you with veterinary-level criteria to evaluate any thin-strip dental chew before it enters your micro-pup’s mouth.
Top 10 Thin-Strip Dental Chews for Toy Breeds
Detailed Product Reviews
1. SuperPaw Dental Chews for Dogs - Banana Flavor, Digestion Support - Healthy Dog Dental Treats for Teeth and Gum Cleaning, Natural Chew Toy Alternative, Lactose-Free Dog Chews - Small, 50 Treats
Overview: SuperPaw Dental Chews offer a unique dual-action approach to canine wellness, combining dental care with digestive support in a banana-flavored treat. Designed for small dogs, these lactose-free chews provide a natural alternative to traditional rawhide while addressing multiple health concerns simultaneously.
What Makes It Stand Out: The banana flavor is genuinely distinctive in the dental chew market, appealing to dogs tired of standard poultry flavors. Coconut oil infusion provides natural antimicrobial benefits, while the proprietary “bubbly texture” simultaneously cleans teeth and ensures easy chewing. The formula’s emphasis on digestive health through fiber-rich ingredients sets it apart from single-purpose dental treats.
Value for Money: At $34.99 for 50 treats, each chew costs approximately $0.70. While priced at the premium end, the value proposition strengthens when considering the dual dental and digestive benefits, natural ingredient profile, and suitability for sensitive stomachs that might otherwise require separate supplements.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include natural banana flavor, coconut oil for dental health, lactose-free formulation ideal for sensitive dogs, and digestive support. The variety of sizes and flavors enhances versatility. Weaknesses involve the relatively high price point and banana flavor’s limited appeal—some dogs may reject it. The small breed specification also restricts multi-dog households.
Bottom Line: Ideal for health-conscious owners of small dogs with sensitive stomachs or food intolerances. The premium price is justified by natural ingredients and dual-functionality, though picky eaters should test acceptance first.
2. Barkbox Bright Original Dog Dental Chew Sticks, Plaque and Tartar Cleaning - Small Breeds (30 Chews)
Overview: Barkbox Bright Dental Chew Sticks deliver a straightforward daily dental solution for small breed dogs through a toothbrush-inspired design. These ridged chews prioritize mechanical cleaning action while using real chicken to ensure palatability without artificial additives.
What Makes It Stand Out: The pronounced scrubbing ridges effectively mimic toothbrush bristles, massaging gums and accessing hard-to-reach dental surfaces during natural chewing behavior. The grain-free, corn-free formulation with real chicken as the primary flavor distinguishes it from treats relying on artificial palatants.
Value for Money: Priced at $15.99 for 30 chews ($0.53 per stick), this product sits in the mid-range category. The cost reflects quality ingredients and thoughtful design, offering reasonable value for owners seeking a simple, effective daily routine without the premium pricing of specialty veterinary brands.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include effective ridge design for mechanical cleaning, high palatability from real chicken, absence of artificial additives, and straightforward daily usage protocol. The grain-free formulation benefits dogs with sensitivities. Weaknesses include the relatively low count per package, potential allergen concerns for chicken-sensitive dogs, and possible rapid consumption by aggressive chewers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for establishing a consistent dental care routine with minimal fuss. The realistic chicken flavor and effective texture make it a winner for most small dogs, though those with poultry allergies should avoid it.
3. Oxyfresh Dog Dental Chew Toy - Best Dog Teeth Cleaning Toy – A Simple Bite and Brush Toy That Helps Remove Plaque, Cleans Teeth & Freshens Breath Without Brushing - Small
Overview: Oxyfresh offers a reusable dental toy alternative to consumable chews, utilizing natural rubber with soft ridges to clean teeth through play. This non-edible solution targets owners seeking a sustainable, long-term dental care option that eliminates ongoing treat expenses.
What Makes It Stand Out: The reusable design represents significant long-term value and environmental consciousness. Its soft, natural rubber construction distinguishes it from harder plastic toys that can damage gums, while the flavor-free material suits dogs with allergies. The ability to stuff treats or toothpaste into specialized grooves transforms it into an interactive enrichment tool.
Value for Money: At $12.95 for a durable, reusable toy, this offers exceptional economic value. Unlike consumable chews requiring constant repurchase, this one-time investment provides indefinite dental benefits, making it the most budget-friendly option for cost-conscious owners.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include reusability, gentle material suitable for puppies and seniors, versatility with treat stuffing, and excellent price point. The natural rubber is safer than hard alternatives. Weaknesses involve requiring owner participation for treat stuffing, potential disinterest from dogs preferring edible rewards, and the need for regular cleaning to maintain hygiene.
Bottom Line: An outstanding economical choice for owners willing to invest minimal effort in stuffing treats. Ideal for multi-dog households, seniors, and puppies, though it works best as a supplement to—not replacement for—other dental care methods.
4. Ultra Chewy Denta-Mint Minis Value Pack Dental Dog Treats. Made in The USA, Healthy Treats, Easy to Digest, Promotes Dental Health - 20 Oz
Overview: Ultra Chewy Denta-Mint Minis deliver American-made dental care in a substantial 20-ounce value pack. These rawhide-free treats feature a dual-texture design that satisfies chewing instincts while promoting oral health through mechanical abrasion.
What Makes It Stand Out: The 2-in-1 construction combines a long-lasting outer layer with a flavorful center, extending chewing time and enhancing dental benefits. Proudly manufactured in the USA without rawhide’s chemical processing, these treats address safety concerns while maintaining durability. The highly digestible formula prevents gastrointestinal distress common with traditional chews.
Value for Money: At $9.99 for 20 ounces ($7.14 per pound), this represents exceptional value. The bulk packaging and competitive per-pound pricing make it ideal for multi-dog households or owners seeking maximum quantity without quality compromise.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include outstanding price-to-quantity ratio, American manufacturing, rawhide-free safety, high digestibility, and portable convenience. The dual-texture design enhances cleaning effectiveness. Weaknesses include mint flavor potentially alienating some dogs, ambiguous sizing for small breeds, and the harder texture may challenge senior dogs or those with dental issues.
Bottom Line: The best value proposition for owners prioritizing quantity and domestic manufacturing. While the mint flavor requires taste-testing, the safety profile and bulk sizing make it a practical choice for households with multiple dogs or aggressive chewers.
5. Ark Naturals Brushless Toothpaste, Dog Dental Chews for Small Breeds, Freshens Breath, Helps Reduce Plaque & Tartar, 12oz, 1 Pack
Overview: Ark Naturals Brushless Toothpaste targets small breed dogs with a specialized 4-in-1 dental chew featuring a unique toothpaste center. Designed for dogs 8-20 pounds, these medium-hard chews aim to deliver brushing benefits without the associated struggle.
What Makes It Stand Out: The integrated toothpaste center provides an innovative approach to delivering active oral care ingredients during chewing. The carefully calibrated medium-hard texture optimizes plaque removal without excessive hardness. Specifically formulated for the small breed weight range, it addresses a often-overlooked market segment with precision.
Value for Money: At $16.49 for 12 ounces ($1.37 per ounce), pricing falls in the mid-to-premium range. The specialized formulation and toothpaste center justify the cost for owners seeking maximum convenience, though budget-conscious buyers may find better value in larger packages.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the unique toothpaste center, targeted small breed sizing, USA manufacturing, absence of corn/soy/wheat, and flexible twice-daily usage option. The textured ridges effectively clean along the gumline. Weaknesses include medium-hard texture potentially unsuitable for very small or senior dogs, restrictive weight range, and higher cost per ounce compared to bulk options.
Bottom Line: An excellent specialized solution for small breed owners wanting brushless convenience. The toothpaste center innovation delivers enhanced cleaning, though owners should monitor their dog’s chewing ability given the medium-hard density.
6. ARK Naturals Protection Plus Brushless Toothpaste for Mini Breeds, 4 oz Bag, Dog Dental Chew with Toothpaste Center, Prevents Plaque & Tartar, Freshens Breath
Overview: ARK Naturals Protection Plus delivers specialized dental care for the tiniest canine companions. This 4-ounce bag contains vet-formulated chews engineered specifically for mini breeds under 8 pounds, featuring an innovative toothpaste center surrounded by a textured outer layer that works as a 5-in-1 defense against plaque and tartar without traditional brushing stress.
What Makes It Stand Out: The toothpaste center technology creates a protective barrier while cleaning, a feature rarely seen in breed-specific products. Unlike generic chews, these are precisely sized for miniature jaws, ensuring safety and effectiveness. Natural breath-freshening ingredients—alfalfa, cinnamon, vanilla, and clove—eliminate odors without artificial additives. With over 25 years of veterinary formulation expertise, this represents targeted science for petite pups who need gentle but effective care.
Value for Money: At $2.17 per ounce, this premium pricing reflects specialized sizing and superior ingredient quality. For owners of teacup breeds, alternatives are limited to stressful brushing or ineffective regular chews. The made-in-USA production and vet-approved formula provide confidence that mass-market options lack, making it a justified preventive health investment despite the higher cost.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include precise mini-breed sizing, natural ingredient profile, dual-action cleaning mechanism, and veterinary backing. Weaknesses involve the high per-ounce cost, extremely limited weight range (8 pounds maximum), and two-chews-daily recommendation that accelerates expense. The small bag size requires frequent repurchasing for daily users.
Bottom Line: Perfect for toy and teacup breed owners seeking professional-grade dental care convenience. While expensive, the breed-specific engineering and quality ingredients deliver measurable value for your diminutive companion’s long-term oral health.
7. Ark Naturals Soft Brushless Toothpaste, Dog Dental Chews for Small Breeds, Freshens Breath, Unique Texture Helps Reduce Plaque & Tartar, 12oz, 1 Pack
Overview: Ark Naturals Soft Brushless Toothpaste provides a gentler approach to canine dental care in a generous 12-ounce package. These soft-baked chews feature strategic ridges that clean along the gumline, complemented by a toothpaste center that polishes teeth while natural spices freshen breath through daily chewing sessions.
What Makes It Stand Out: The notably softer texture makes this ideal for small dogs with dental sensitivities or older pets with weaker jaws. The unique ridge design specifically targets gumline buildup, while the toothpaste center adds a second polishing action. Aromatic spices naturally combat halitosis without synthetic additives. The substantial 12-ounce quantity supports consistent daily use without frequent reordering.
Value for Money: At $1.37 per ounce, this offers superior value compared to breed-specific formulas. The larger bag size reduces per-chew cost and serves multi-dog households efficiently. While premium-priced against basic brands, the quality ingredients and thoughtful design justify the investment for owners serious about preventive dental care.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the soft texture perfect for sensitive mouths, effective gumline-focused ridges, better price-per-ounce, and ample quantity. Weaknesses include vague weight guidelines (no specific range), potentially too soft for vigorous chewers, and “globally curated ingredients” may concern purists preferring all-USA sourcing. The softer consistency means faster consumption.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for small breed owners seeking effective yet gentle dental care. The soft texture and strong value proposition make it particularly suitable for dogs with dental issues or owners wanting quality results without premium pricing.
Why Dental Health Matters More for Micro Toy Breeds
When your dog weighs under five pounds, dental disease isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it’s a systemic health crisis waiting to happen. Their tiny jaws cram the same 42 teeth as a Great Dane into a space the size of a walnut, creating overcrowding that traps bacteria and accelerates tartar formation. Research shows that bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums, colonizing heart valves and kidneys in as little as 72 hours. For a three-pound dog, this bacterial load represents a massive inflammatory burden relative to body size, often leading to life-threatening complications before age five.
Understanding the “Thin-Strip” Design: Not Just Marketing Speak
The term “thin-strip” refers to a specific engineering principle, not just a slender appearance. These chews typically measure between 1.5-3mm in thickness and are designed to flex rather than fracture under the 30-50 pounds of pressure a micro toy breed’s jaw can generate. This flexibility is crucial—it allows the strip to wrap around tiny teeth and scrub plaque from all surfaces without requiring the crushing force that would risk tooth fracture. True thin-strip chews also feature a pliable matrix that encourages sustained chewing rather than rapid consumption, maximizing contact time with dental surfaces.
Size Matters: The 5-Pound Threshold
The five-pound cutoff isn’t arbitrary—it’s the weight at which esophageal diameter drops below 15mm and stomach capacity shrinks to less than 50ml. A chew designed for a seven-pound dog can easily become an esophageal foreign body in a four-pound pup. When evaluating thin-strip chews, look for products specifying dimensions under 3 inches in length and weighing less than 3 grams each. Anything larger forces your dog to bite off pieces rather than chew the entire strip, defeating the purpose and creating choking hazards. The chew should be small enough that your dog can hold it comfortably with their front paws while chewing with their incisors and canines.
Texture Science: Finding the Goldilocks Zone
Micro toy breeds require a durometer rating (a measure of material hardness) between 70-85 Shore A—soft enough to indent with your fingernail but firm enough to provide mechanical abrasion. Too soft, and the chew collapses without cleaning; too hard, and you risk slab fractures of the carnassial teeth. The surface should feature microscopic ridges or a fibrous weave that creates a “squeegee” effect on tooth enamel, pulling plaque away from the gumline. Avoid chews with deep grooves or holes where tiny tongues can get stuck, and steer clear of overly dense materials that don’t begin to soften within 30 seconds of saliva exposure.
Ingredient Integrity: What Goes Into Tiny Bodies
A three-pound dog’s liver processes toxins with the same enzyme capacity as a 70-pound dog, making ingredient purity non-negotiable. Prioritize chews with fewer than eight whole-food ingredients, where the first ingredient is a named protein or vegetable base rather than a byproduct meal. For micro breeds, avoid sodium hexametaphosphate concentrations above 0.5%—while effective at reducing tartar, higher levels can trigger gastrointestinal upset in sensitive systems. Look for natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) and rosemary extract, but ensure they’re present at less than 0.1% of total weight to prevent flavor overwhelm.
The VOHC Seal: Your Trustworthy Shortcut
The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Acceptance is your only objective verification that a chew actually reduces plaque or tartar. However, for thin-strip chews designed for dogs under five pounds, this seal is rare because manufacturers rarely invest in the expensive testing protocol for such a niche market. When you find a VOHC-accepted thin-strip product, verify it was tested on dogs weighing less than six pounds—some seals apply only to the “small breed” version, which may still be too robust for your micro pup. The VOHC website lists specific protocols for each accepted product, including minimum chew time and dog size parameters.
Calories Count: Avoiding the Hidden Weight Gain Trap
A three-pound dog requires only 120-140 calories per day total. A single inappropriate dental chew can deliver 25-40 calories, representing nearly a third of their daily intake and setting the stage for obesity-related tracheal collapse. Ideal thin-strip chews for micro breeds should contain no more than 5-8 calories per piece. Check the package for “kcal per chew” rather than “kcal per kg”—the latter requires math that obscures the true caloric impact. Remember, weight gain in a three-pound dog happens rapidly; a half-pound increase represents a 17% body weight change, equivalent to a 150-pound person gaining 25 pounds.
Digestibility: When Small Stomachs Can’t Compromise
Toy breeds under five pounds have gastric emptying times of just 1-2 hours compared to 4-6 hours in larger dogs, meaning undigested material passes quickly into the small intestine where it can cause obstruction. Thin-strip chews must demonstrate >95% digestibility within 60 minutes in vitro testing. Look for chews that begin dissolving when placed in warm water—this simulates gastric conditions and indicates they’ll break down if swallowed in larger pieces. Avoid rawhide-based products entirely; they can expand up to 400% in stomach fluid, creating a life-threatening gastric impaction in a dog whose stomach holds only a few tablespoons.
Material Breakdown: Rawhide vs. Alternatives
While rawhide dominates the dental chew market, it’s particularly hazardous for micro breeds. The dense collagen requires aggressive chewing that micro jaws can’t sustain, leading to frustration and gulping. Instead, focus on hydrolyzed protein chews, vegetable-based resins (like sweet potato and pea protein composites), or fish-skin derivatives. These materials break down into safe, digestible particles with minimal jaw pressure. The ideal thin-strip chew uses a layered construction—a soft inner core that encourages chewing with a slightly firmer outer layer that provides abrasion. This composite design mimics the texture gradient of natural prey, engaging your dog’s chewing instinct appropriately.
Flavor Without Compromise: Natural vs. Artificial
Micro toy breeds possess olfactory receptors that are proportionally more sensitive than larger breeds, making them particularly reactive to artificial flavors and scents. Natural palatants like dehydrated chicken liver, salmon oil, or dried cheese powder are effective at concentrations as low as 2%. Avoid chews listing “natural flavor” without specifying the source—this vague term often hides hydrolyzed yeast or other low-cost palatants that can trigger allergic reactions. For dogs with pancreatitis risk (common in toy breeds), ensure flavorings are low-fat; dehydrated chicken breast adds flavor at 3% fat, while liver powder can contain 25% fat.
Age-Appropriate Selection: Puppy to Senior Considerations
A three-pound puppy’s deciduous teeth are softer than permanent teeth and can be damaged by chews appropriate for adults. For puppies under six months, select chews with a durometer below 75 Shore A and avoid any abrasive additives. Senior micro breeds often have compromised dentition or missing teeth; they need ultra-pliable chews that can be managed with remaining teeth while still providing gum massage. For dogs over seven years, look for thin strips that contain joint-supporting ingredients like green-lipped mussel powder (0.5% concentration) to provide dual benefits, but ensure these functional additives don’t increase the calorie count beyond the 8-calorie maximum.
Safety First: Supervision and Choking Hazards
Never leave a micro toy breed unattended with any dental chew, regardless of marketing claims. Establish a “two-paw rule”—if your dog can’t hold the chew with both front paws and chew comfortably, it’s too large. Watch for the “three-minute shift”: if your dog tries to swallow the remaining piece after three minutes of chewing, remove it immediately. Keep a pair of blunt-tipped scissors nearby to trim strips if they become soggy and prone to tearing into hazardous chunks. Post-chew, inspect your dog’s mouth for any lodged fragments, particularly between tightly spaced premolars where strips can wedge and cause gingival trauma.
Transitioning Strategies: Introducing Chews Without Stress
Micro toy breeds are prone to food neophobia—fear of new foods—which can trigger hypoglycemia if they refuse meals. Introduce thin-strip chews gradually by offering a 1-inch piece as a “dessert” after a familiar meal for three days. If your dog shows hesitation, lightly coat the chew in a tiny amount of plain kefir (probiotic and low-lactose) to increase palatability without adding significant calories. Never force the issue; a stressed micro breed can develop a lifelong aversion. If rejection persists beyond five days, switch to a different protein base rather than pushing the same chew.
Frequency and Timing: Building a Sustainable Routine
For dogs under five pounds, daily dental chews are ideal, but timing matters. Offer the chew when your dog is naturally calm—mid-morning or early evening—to prevent overexcited gulping. Avoid post-exercise offering; increased respiratory rate can lead to accidental inhalation of small pieces. The chew should replace, not supplement, a small portion of their regular meal to maintain caloric balance. A practical schedule: offer the dental chew at 10 AM, then reduce lunch kibble by 5-8 calories. This integration prevents weight gain while establishing a predictable routine that reduces anxiety.
Red Flags: When Dental Chews Aren’t Enough
If your micro breed shows persistent bad breath, pawing at the face, or reluctance to chew after two weeks of appropriate thin-strip use, underlying pathology likely exists. Toy breeds frequently retain deciduous teeth (creating double rows), develop dentigerous cysts, or experience early-onset periodontitis that chew alone can’t resolve. Schedule a veterinary dental assessment if you notice gum recession (roots visible), tooth mobility, or bleeding that lasts more than 30 seconds after chewing. For dogs with existing stage 2 periodontal disease, chews become maintenance tools only—professional cleaning under anesthesia is unavoidable and must precede any home care regimen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a thin-strip chew is actually too big for my 4-pound dog?
Perform the “paper towel tube test.” If the chew can’t pass through a standard cardboard paper towel tube (approximately 1.5 inches diameter), it’s too large for safe esophageal passage in a dog under five pounds. Additionally, watch your dog’s chewing mechanics—if she has to open her mouth wider than a 45-degree angle to bite down, the chew is oversized.
Can I give dental chews to my teacup puppy who weighs only 2 pounds?
Yes, but only after 12 weeks of age and with strict parameters. Select chews specifically labeled for puppies with a durometer under 70 Shore A, and limit sessions to 90 seconds. Puppies this size have immature digestive enzymes, so choose highly hydrolyzed protein sources. Always offer post-meal to prevent hypoglycemia, and never exceed one chew per day.
What’s the maximum calorie count I should accept per chew?
For dogs under five pounds, reject any chew exceeding 8 calories. Ideally, aim for 5-6 calories to maintain dietary balance. Remember to calculate the percentage of daily intake—if your dog eats 130 calories daily, a 10-calorie chew represents nearly 8% of their nutrition, equivalent to a human eating an extra 160 calories daily.
My dog swallowed a piece whole. What should I watch for?
Monitor for gagging, repeated swallowing motions, or stretching the neck upward—signs of esophageal obstruction. Vomiting within 2-4 hours indicates gastric irritation. More dangerous is the 12-24 hour window when intestinal blockage symptoms appear: lethargy, abdominal tenderness, and refusal to eat. With micro breeds, any suspicion warrants immediate veterinary evaluation; their narrow intestines (often less than 1cm diameter) obstruct rapidly.
Are grain-free dental chews better for toy breeds?
Not necessarily. “Grain-free” marketing often replaces grains with legume flours that are calorie-dense and can exacerbate heart disease concerns (DCM) in predisposed breeds. For dogs under five pounds, focus on simple ingredient lists rather than grain-free claims. Rice flour or oatmeal as a binder is perfectly safe and often more digestible than pea protein concentrates for sensitive micro-breed stomachs.
How often should I replace the chew if my dog doesn’t finish it?
After 24 hours, discard any partially chewed strip. Saliva introduces bacteria that proliferate rapidly on the chew’s surface, essentially turning it into a biofilm-coated bacterial stick. For aggressive chewers who consume half a strip, remove the remainder after the session—refrigeration doesn’t significantly slow bacterial growth on these porous materials.
What’s the difference between thin-strip chews and “slim” chews for small breeds?
“Slim” typically refers to reduced diameter (5-7mm) but maintains standard chew density and rigidity. Thin-strip chews are engineered at the molecular level to be pliable and flex under minimal pressure, usually featuring a laminated construction. For dogs under five pounds, slim chews are still often too dense and can cause tooth fractures, while true thin strips bend and wrap around tiny dental arches.
Can dental chews replace daily tooth brushing for my micro breed?
Absolutely not. Think of chews as adjunctive therapy that reduces plaque by 20-30% in compliant chewers. For a three-pound dog with crowded teeth, daily brushing with a 360-degree silicone finger brush remains the gold standard. Use chews on days when brushing isn’t possible, or offer them as a mid-day plaque disruptor between morning and evening brushings.
My toothless senior still tries to chew—should I let her?
Yes, but switch to “gum massage strips” designed for edentulous dogs. These are essentially flavor-infused, ultra-soft silicone meshes that provide gingival stimulation without requiring teeth. Avoid any chew that lists “abrasive action” or “mechanical cleaning”—without teeth, these properties cause gum trauma. The goal is saliva production and blood flow, not plaque removal.
How do I store thin-strip chews to maintain freshness without making them harder?
Store in the original resealable bag with a desiccant packet to control moisture, but add a small piece of bread to maintain pliability. The bread prevents over-drying that makes strips brittle and hazardous. Keep the bag in a cool pantry—not the refrigerator, which can cause condensation and microbial growth. Use within 30 days of opening, regardless of the package’s best-by date, as oxidation degrades the chew’s structural integrity.