You've probably noticed that yak cheese dog chews have taken the dog world by storm. They're becoming a much-loved choice among dog parents looking for healthful, long-lasting chews for their pups.
If you're thinking of trying them for your dog, you may be wondering...
- Exactly what are yak cheese dog chews?
- And what makes yak chews good for dogs?
Let's dive into what yak cheese chews are all about and what might make them a good choice for your dog.
What are yak cheese dog chews?
Yak chews, also known as Himalayan yak cheese chews, are a natural treat made from the hardened milk of yaks. Yak chews originated in the Himalayan region, where they have been enjoyed by both humans and dogs for centuries and are now spreading around the world.
Originally crafted by Himalayan communities for human consumption, yak cheese chews have been embraced by dog parents as chew treats for dogs due to their durability, nutritional value, and safety.
The production process starts with yak and cow milk, which is boiled, treated with a touch of lime juice and salt to separate the curds, and then compressed into dense shapes and dried for several weeks. The result is a hard, long-lasting chew dogs love. For dog parents, they're a natural, digestible, nutritious alternative to unhealthy bleached rawhide and synthetic chews.
Why do dog parents love yak cheese chews?
Yak chews have become the chew of choice for good reason. They boast a variety of benefits that set them apart from other treats.
Here's five reasons why yak cheese dog chews are a favorite with dog parents (and dogs!):
1. Long-lasting engagement and natural calm
Unlike softer, traditional dog chew treats that can be easily devoured within minutes, yak cheese chews, due to their dense texture, offer a long-lasting chewing experience that can keep dogs busy for hours. That's especially helpful if you want to curb boredom or redirect chewing behavior away from furniture or your favorite shoes.
Dogs are hardwired to self-soothe with the act of chewing. Your pup instinctively knows that chewing reduces stress and boosts a sense of calm by releasing "feel-good" hormones like endorphins in the brain released as messengers throughout the body. Chewing naturally relaxes and mentally stimulates your dog.
Yak chews' durability makes them perfect for dogs who love to chew. They can keep even the strongest chewers engaged and provide mental stimulation and de-stressing for extended chew times -- often over multiple sessions.
2. Highly nutritious
Good yak cheese dog chews are made from milk and contain minimal ingredients (only three-- milk, lime, and salt), providing a rich, natural source of protein, calcium, and other nutrients. They are typically low in fat, making them a healthy treat option for dogs of all breeds and sizes.
3. Free from additives and artificial Ingredients
Unlike many commercial dog treats loaded with artificial flavors, preservatives, and fillers, yak chews are free from unnecessary additives and common allergens. They are an excellent option for pet parents trying to keep their dog’s diet as natural as possible.
4. Easily digestible
While rawhide treats can be hard on a dog’s stomach and take forever to break down (and contain toxins), yak chews are more naturally digestible. They are made almost entirely of milk (plus a tiny amount of lime and salt for hardening) with no synthetic binding agents, making them safer for dogs to consume.
5. Supportive of dental health
Chewing on a yak chew can help maintain your dog’s oral hygiene. The hard, dense texture promotes chewing action, which can reduce plaque buildup and keep teeth and gums healthier over time. As your dog's saliva softens the surface of the yak chew, your dog's teeth can get a flossing-like action, further cleaning your pup's teeth.
Are yak cheese chews safe for dogs?
Yak chews are considered safe, but there are a few precautions to keep in mind with any kind of chew :
- Always supervise your dog with any chew.
When your dog is enjoying a yak cheese chew, always supervise as you would with any chew. As with all hard treats or chews, there’s a small risk of choking, especially toward the end of the chew.
What to do when yak chews wind down to the small pieces at the end?
When your pup is getting down to the end piece, take the nub and soak it in water for a few minutes, then pop it into the microwave for 45–60 seconds, and watch it puff into a crunchy new treat!
- Determine the right hardness for your pup.
Every dog is different, and knowing your dog is the best starting point for choosing any chew or treat. While the hardness of yak chews is part of what makes them long-lasting, it’s also important to ensure they’re not so hard that they damage your dog’s teeth.
Part of the magic of yak chews is they soften and become more pliable as they are exposed to your dog's saliva. If your dog is a fast, more aggressive chewer, or a puppy or senior, you can soak the chew in warm water for a few minutes to soften it before giving it to your dog.
How to choose the right yak cheese chew for your dog
Not all yak chews are created equal, so knowing what to look for will help you pick the best option for your pup.
Here are three tips to help you choose the right yak chew:
Chew size matters.
Yak chews come in various sizes to suit different breeds and chewing tendencies. Choose a size that’s appropriate for your dog. (Our yak chews are available from Small to Monster size.) Smaller chews are ideal for toy breeds, while larger options are better for bigger dogs or aggressive chewers. When in doubt, it's always a good idea to size up.
Check for quality ingredients.
Check the ingredient list before purchasing. Quality yak chews should have a simple ingredient list (yak milk plus a small amount of salt and lime juice used to harden the cheese). Avoid any chews made with added chemicals or artificial ingredients.
Pro tip: To keep them fresh and at maximum nutrition between chew sessions, store your yak chews in a cool, dry place.
Match your dog's age and chewing strength to the right chew.
Think about factors like your dog’s age and chewing style. Puppies with developing teeth might need softer options, while adult dogs with robust chewing tendencies can handle tougher chews. With yak chews, you can adjust their softness/hardness simply by soaking them in water and/or microwaving a bit to get the texture that best suits your dog.
Simplify treat time with healthful yak chews
All the reasons why yak chews have become a beloved treat for dogs and their parents make them a simple choice to give your dog multiple benefits. They’re natural, nutritious, long-lasting, and offer several health benefits—from better oral hygiene to being entertained, mentally stimulated, and calm.
Yak chews can be a fantastic addition to your dog’s treat rotation as an all-in-one chew treat to boost your dog's mental and physical health.
Even better -- with our Chews for Change program, when you buy a Mighty Paw yak chew for your dog, we give one to a shelter dog to help keep them happy and healthy while they're waiting for their forever homes.
To healthy, happy chewing for your pup!
We're dog people, and we know there's no better feeling than knowing you're doing something that makes your dog happy -- and healthier at the same time. We're here to make it easier for you and your dog to live your best lives together every day.
We're committed to creating high-quality products that are safe, healthful, and practical for everything you need from long-lasting chews dogs love, to healthful supplements, to durable, comfortable equipment for your adventures large and small.
