6 Benefits of Himalayan Dog Chews (+ Safety Tips)

If you are looking for a healthy, durable, and delicious chew for your dog, Himalayan dog chews are a great option. But what are yak milk chews? And are they safe for dogs? Here’s everything you need to know about yak milk dog chews!

Dogs love to chew, and there are a TON of different types of chews available on the market to keep them occupied, some worse that others (hey there, rawhide and Nylabones). But what if you could give your dog a chew that is not only entertaining but also healthy? Yak chews are just that – a natural, healthy chew made from yak milk that dogs love.

What are yak milk chews?

So what are yak chews, anyways? They’re basically hard, compressed cheese! Yak chews are made with just three ingredients: milk, salt, and lime juice. These are combined and baked into hard, delicious yak sticks.

The benefits of yak chews for dogs

We love yak chews in this household for so many reasons, from their nutritional benefits to their durability. Let’s break down all the benefits of yak chews for dogs.

1. Yak chews are nutritious

As far as treats go, yak milk chews are incredibly nutritions. They are high in protein, calcium, and other nutrients, which make them a healthy snack or treat for dogs. They also contain very little lactose due to the manufacturing methods, making them easier on your dog’s digestive system. If that’s all not good enough, they’re naturally gluten- and grain-free.

2. Yak chews are durable

Unlike many other types of chews, yak chews do not easily break apart or crumble. This makes them a great choice for dogs who like to chew on things for a long time.

3. Yak chews are flavorful

Dogs love the natural flavor of yak chews, which have a mild cheesy flavor.

4. Yak chews can clean your dogs teeth and gums

Yak chews are hard and rigid, meaning your dog will be chewing on these for a while! This chewing motion (especially if they chew with their molars), can help to clean teeth and gums by removing plaque and tartar. This can help to keep your dogs teeth and gums healthy (and are a great alternative to Greenies!).

5. Yak chews are good enrichment for dogs

The combination of delicious flavor + durability is a recipe for a high enrichment treat! This means that these chews can help to relieve boredom and anxiety in dogs, which in turn can prevent destructive behaviors (like biting furniture).

6. Yak chews don’t stink

Perhaps my favorite benefit of yak chews…they don’t smell bad! Unlike so many other dog chews (looking at you bully sticks, buffalo ears, and beef cheek rolls), yak chews don’t smell like a farm. In fact, they don’t really smell like anything! This makes them great for bringing to social gatherings or public places where you want to treat your pup (without the embarrassing smell).

Are yak chews safe for dogs?

As with all dog chews, be sure to take the right precautions to ensure your pup is safely enjoying their Himalayan dog chew.

Always supervise your dog while they are chewing on a yak chew to make sure they are not choking or swallowing any large pieces. Once they get to the bottom of the chew, remove it to avoid a choking hazard (tips on how to repurpose the last bit of yak chew below!)

Not suitable for puppies under the age of 4 months old, who’s teeth are still developing.

Not suitable for dogs with weaker teeth, such as small dogs and senior dogs. Due to the rigidity of yak chews, they can pose a risk for broken teeth if given to dogs who do not have strong, healthy teeth.

How to microwave a yak chew

Once your dog chews down to the last 2 or 3 inches of the yak milk chew, it’s important that you take it away from them, as it can become a choking hazard.

But fear not, you’re not going to waste it! To make the last bit of yak chew safe to eat, we’ll puff it up! Here’s how:

1. Place the yak chew in a microwave-safe dish
2. Microwave on medium heat for 30-60 seconds
3. Cool completely before giving it to your dog