As so many of us look for healthier, natural chews for our pups, yak chews have become one of the most popular dog chew treats of choice.
And with that, come the questions we hear most from you about our own Mighty Paw Yak Cheese Chews: what's in them, how they're made, which nutrients they contain, how long they'll last, how they help calm dogs, whether they're good for dogs' teeth, and more.
Let's jump in and answer your most-asked questions about what makes this Himalayan dog chew good for your dog's instinctive chew-loving spirit.
What are yak chews made of and why are they called Himalayan yak chews?
Yak cheese is a time-honored snack in the majestic Himalayas (for humans and dogs) made from Himalayan yak and cow milk. The only other ingredients in each yak cheese dog chew are very small amounts of lime juice and salt, both used to harden the cheese into long-lasting chews.
What are the nutritional benefits of yak cheese for dogs?
Yak cheese is packed with nutritional goodness that benefits dogs in multiple ways. They're an excellent source of protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that promote overall health and well-being. Yak milk has been shown to have antioxidant properties that can help protect against oxidative stress and related health problems. Himalayan dog chews' fatty acids, such as linoleic acid and omega-3s, are known for reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and supporting brain function.
An excellent source of protein
Studies have shown that the protein in yak milk is higher quality than cow's milk, with a higher content of essential amino acids and better digestibility. Dogs rely on protein for muscle development and repair. Protein also supports your dog's healthy skin, coat, and overall vitality, making it essential for dogs of all ages and activity levels.
Rich in calcium
In addition to being high in protein, yak cheese is rich in calcium. Calcium plays a vital role in maintaining strong bones and teeth. Ensuring your dog gets enough calcium can help prevent issues like osteoporosis and arthritis as your pup ages.
Easily digestible
Another advantage of Himalayan yak milk and yak cheese is its low lactose content, which makes it easily digestible even for dogs with lactose intolerance. Unlike regular cheese, which can cause digestive issues in sensitive dogs, yak cheese offers a gentle alternative. Our yak chews are also free of grains, gluten, chemicals, and preservatives making them a great choice for dogs with sensitivities and allergies.
Yak chews' beneficial probiotics support your dog's healthy gut microbiome. A balanced microbiome is essential for efficient digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to improved overall health and vitality.
Dogs with sensitive stomachs often find yak chews easier to digest with their low lactose content and natural fermentation process, reducing gastrointestinal upset.
Can chewing yak cheese help calm anxious dogs?
Yes, for a number of reasons!
The science behind your dog's instinctive love of chewing and why it's calming...
Dogs are born chewers; they're hard-wired self soothers by chewing. There's a solid scientific framework for chewing as an anxiety-reducer. When your dog chews, the act of chewing produces "feel good" chemicals in your dog's brain, such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, and releases them throughout your dog's system.
Chewing stimulates and occupies your dog mentally while channeling excess energy in a healthy way, helping your pup feel calm and relaxed. Chewing a slow, long-lasting, clean chew like yak chews maximizes the calming effect of your dog's chewing instinct.
Are yak cheese chews good for my dog's teeth?
Standout features of yak cheese chews are their texture and durability, which make them an excellent dental chew for dogs. When dogs chew on yak cheese, the abrasion helps clean their teeth and gums. This process reduces plaque and tartar buildup, promoting better oral hygiene and fresher breath.
The act of chewing also stimulates saliva production, which naturally helps to cleanse the mouth and reduce bacteria. Yak chews tend to soften naturally with your dog's saliva as your dog chews. That makes it soft enough for your dog's teeth while allowing teeth to penetrate the chew, creating almost a flossing effect.
Dental health is a critical aspect of your dog's overall well-being, helping avoid the spread of bacteria from teeth and gums that can lead to serious problems throughout your dog's body. Yak cheese chews provide an easy way to support your dog's teeth and gums. (It's important to note that while yak cheese can significantly aid in dental health, brushing is always a good idea along with regular check-ups.)
How long do yak chews last?
Every dog is different, of course, but yak cheese chews tend to be long lasting, even for aggressive chewers. Most dog parents tells us their dog gets several separate sessions out of each chew. Our own 55-pound power chewer Barley (the official taste tester of all things Mighty Paw) gets multiple sessions out of each chew, engaging him for about 45 minutes per session.
Chews not only contribute to overall and dental health but also keep your dog occupied and content.
How to choose the right yak chews for your dog
When you're selecting yak chews, it's important to choose high-quality products since not all yak chews are created equal. Look for yak cheese made from natural ingredients (only the three ingredients noted above) and from reputable sourcing.
Take for example our all-natural yak cheese dog chews ... they're made from only three ingredients, sourced from farmers who handcraft them in Nepal, and hand-inspected here in the US in New York by our Mighty Paw team.
When it comes to portion control, yak cheese should be treated as a supplement to your dog's regular diet. While it's a nutritious treat, moderation is key to maintaining a balanced calorie intake. Keep your dog's size and activity level in mind as you consider portions.
What is the right size yak chew for my dog?
Here's a quick size guide for our Mighty Paw yak chews that come in 4 sizes:
- Small for small dogs up to 15 pounds
- Medium for dogs 15-30 pounds
Then large and monster recommendations vary and overlap a bit depending on what feels right for your dog -
- Large for dogs 30-75 pounds
- Monster for dogs 30-90 pounds
You want to be sure to check that the yak chew isn't too small for your dog's mouth. If your dog is a power chewer or has a really strong jaw or when in doubt, size up for safety. You never want to size down on dog chews.
Pro tip: Don’t waste the end piece when a yak chew gets too small for your dog!
Soak it in water for 5 minutes, then microwave it for 45-60 seconds. Check out our how to video here. Your dog will enjoy a delicious and safe treat puff of yak cheese goodness.
Are yak cheese chews good for my high-energy (or my more inactive) dog?
Dog parents of highly active dogs love yak cheese for its high protein content and also for its sustained energy release. Yak chews are solid, natural energy source to give active dogs a good reserve of energy for long walks or play sessions without the potential spikes of a quickly consumed treat.
Yak chews are equally good for a quieter dog to relax, savor, and get a base of energy, nutrition, and digestive support.
Added bonus: You support rescue dogs with our Chews for Change with each yak chew purchase.
For every yak chew you buy, we donate yak chews to rescues and shelters so dogs waiting to be adopted can enjoy them and get their nutritional and calming benefits too. Yak chews are a great bridge to help keep dogs happy and relaxed in the shelter or foster home as they wait for and transition into their forever homes.
Yak cheese chews offer a host of benefits physically, mentally, and emotionally that make them a nutritious, natural treat to help keep your dog happy and calm.
Happy chewing!
At Mighty Paw, we believe in helping all dogs live their healthiest, happiest, and fullest lives by our sides. That's why we're dedicated to finding ways to help you bring more health, wellness, and joy to your dog and your adventures together. And to help you get the most out of every moment with your dog.
We're committed to providing high-quality products that are safe, durable, and practical for everything you need to keep your pup healthy, happy, and enjoying life together.
