Chewing is more than a pastime for dogs—it’s a biological imperative that keeps jaws strong, teeth clean, and minds occupied. Yet every year concerned owners flood forums with the same worry: “Are popular long-lasting chews like Nubz really safe for my pup?” The short answer is that most healthy adult dogs can enjoy an appropriate chew without incident, but the long answer involves manufacturing standards, ingredient sourcing, digestibility data, and your individual dog’s chewing style. In 2025, emerging research and updated AAFCO guidelines mean the safety bar is higher than ever, and savvy pet parents need a roadmap to navigate the noise.
Below you’ll find a deep-dive that strips away marketing buzz and replaces it with evidence-based criteria. We’ll unpack what “safe” actually looks like in a chew, how to read labels like a veterinary nutritionist, and which risk factors matter most—from the hardness scale of a treat to the country in which it was extruded. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to evaluate any chew (not just the ones trending on social media) and discover practical, safer alternatives that satisfy your dog’s urge to gnaw without triggering an emergency vet visit.
Top 10 Nubz Dog Treats Safe
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Nylabone (Pack of 2) Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews 22ct. (2.6lb/Bag) -Total 5.2lb
Overview: Nylabone’s Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews arrive as a twin 2.6-lb, 22-count bundle—5.2 lb total—marketed toward adult dogs of every breed. Each ridged bone is designed to scrub plaque while dissolving safely in the digestive tract, turning chew time into a dental routine.
What Makes It Stand Out: You receive 44 individual chews in one purchase, a bulk quantity rarely matched at this price. The gnaw-friendly nubs create a natural flossing action, and the recipe skips rawhide, instead relying on digestible starches and chicken flavor that entices even picky eaters.
Value for Money: At $7.34 per pound, the cost sits below most single-bag competitors and undercuts professional dental treats by almost half, making daily oral care affordable for multi-dog households.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros include generous volume, USA sourcing, noticeably fresher breath within a week, and no staining residue on carpets. Cons: the “large” size can still be swallowed whole by vigorous 60-lb chewers, supervision is mandatory, and calorie-conscious owners must factor 160 kcal per bone into diet plans.
Bottom Line: If you own medium to large adults and want a month’s worth of guilt-free chewing, this twin-pack is the smartest cart-filler on the market.
2. Nylabone Nubz Natural Dog Chew Treats for Small Dogs, Long Lasting Dog Bones Made in USA, Chicken Flavor Breath Freshener Dental Chews, for Dogs Up to 25 lbs. (36 Count)
Overview: Tailored for toy-to-small breeds up to 25 lb, this 36-count pouch delivers petite Nylabone Nubz shaped to fit little jaws. Real chicken headlines a short ingredient list baked into a firm, long-lasting dental nub.
What Makes It Stand Out: Miniaturized dimensions prevent gagging hazards common when small dogs tackle standard chews. The ridged texture still reaches back molars, attacking tartar where smaller mouths need it most, while USA manufacturing keeps quality tight.
Value for Money: $11.20 per pound looks steep versus bulk bags, but each 36-count box stretches over a month for a typical 15-lb pup, translating to roughly 85¢ per day for oral care—cheaper than tooth-brushing wipes and far less messy.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros: limited-ingredient recipe pleases allergy-prone pets, no artificial dyes, and the smell is mild enough for indoor use. Cons: determined chewers finish one nub in under ten minutes, packaging isn’t resealable, and picky dogs may ignore the faint chicken scent if accustomed to stronger flavors.
Bottom Line: For small-dog parents seeking a tidy, USA-made dental treat sized correctly, this pouch is worth the slight premium.
3. Nylabone Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews, 22 Count
Overview: A single 2.6-lb, 22-count bag of Nylabone Natural Nubz delivers full-size edible chews advertised for all adult breeds. The same dental ridges, chicken flavor, and digestible formula appear here minus multi-bag commitment.
What Makes It Stand Out: You gain entry-level bulk without the twin-pack price, letting first-time buyers test the concept. Each bone is scored in the center, so owners can halve portions for lighter chewers or calorie control while still leveraging the plaque-scraping texture.
Value for Money: At $8.30 per pound, it lands mid-range—cheaper than small-dog specialty packs yet pricier than the double bundle. For single-dog households, it hits the sweet spot between affordability and supply length.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros: resealable bag keeps chews fresh, noticeable whitening after two weeks, and no sharp shards. Cons: not suitable for teething puppies, large breeds may gulp halves whole, and calorie density demands meal-time adjustments for less-active dogs.
Bottom Line: If you want to trial Nubz without storing 5 lb of treats, this 22-count bag offers balanced value and visible dental benefits.
4. Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews 22ct. (2.6lb Bag)(Pack of 2)
Overview: Essentially the twin sibling of Product 1, this listing supplies two 2.6-lb, 22-count bags—44 total chews weighing 4.12 lb. The same chicken-based, USA-made, highly digestible formula fills each nubbed bone.
What Makes It Stand Out: Split scoring allows every chew to become two half-size treats, instantly turning 44 units into 88 portions ideal for training rewards or dieting dogs. Combined with the lowest per-pound price in the Nubz lineup, flexibility is the headline.
Value for Money: $7.30 per pound undercuts even Costco’s generic dental chews, dropping the cost of daily plaque control to roughly 60¢ per serving when halved—exceptional for multi-pet homes.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros: economic bulk, made in America, halves fit most treat-dispensing toys, and breath improvement surfaces within days. Cons: kennel-sized volume requires airtight storage to prevent summer humidity spoilage, and strong chewers still power through a half-nub in minutes, limiting duration.
Bottom Line: For households with two-plus dogs or a single heavy chewer, this double pack is the cheapest path to consistent dental care.
5. Nylabone Nubz Natural Edible Chew Treats for Dogs, Made in USA, Chicken Flavor, Large – Up to 50 lbs. (40 Count)
Overview: Sized for dogs up to 50 lb, this 40-count carton of Nylabone Nubz provides large edible chews packed with real chicken flavor. USA manufacturing and a limited-ingredient promise target health-conscious owners of big breeds.
What Makes It Stand Out: The count-to-weight ratio is optimized for larger jaws: 40 thicker bones in one box mean fewer reorders and less packaging waste. Each chew lasts noticeably longer than small-breed versions, satisfying power chewers without resorting to rawhide.
Value for Money: $8.90 per pound sits between bulk twin-packs and petite pouches, but the dedicated large size reduces the temptation to overfeed, ultimately stretching the supply across six weeks for a single 45-lb dog.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros: impressive durability, no staining dyes, noticeable tartar reduction, and resealable bag. Cons: caloric load per bone nears 190 kcal, demanding meal adjustments; the chicken aroma is strong enough to linger on hands; and very aggressive chewers can still consume one in under 15 minutes.
Bottom Line: If you share your home with one large dog and want an American-made dental chew that balances longevity and ingredient integrity, this 40-count box is a worthy, mid-priced pick.
6. Natural Nubz Edible Dental Dog Chews Treats Made in Usa, No Preservatives
Overview: Natural Nubz Edible Dental Dog Chews are USA-made, preservative-free treats designed to improve canine dental health through natural chewing. These highly digestible chews feature a unique textured surface that helps clean teeth and massage gums while satisfying your dog’s natural urge to chew.
What Makes It Stand Out: The absence of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives sets these chews apart from many competitors. The specialized nubbed texture effectively reaches between teeth to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, making dental care enjoyable for dogs who resist traditional tooth brushing.
Value for Money: At $8.08 per pound, these chews offer reasonable value for USA-made, natural ingredients. The dental health benefits can potentially reduce expensive professional cleanings, making them a worthwhile investment in your dog’s oral health.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include natural ingredients, digestive safety, effective teeth cleaning, and American manufacturing. Weaknesses are the higher price point compared to some alternatives and potential quick consumption by aggressive chewers. Some dogs may not find them as appealing as flavored alternatives.
Bottom Line: Natural Nubz Dental Chews are an excellent choice for health-conscious pet owners prioritizing natural ingredients and dental health. While pricier than some options, the quality ingredients and dental benefits justify the cost for dogs who enjoy them.
7. Nylabone Nubz Wild Natural Dog Chew Treats for Small Dogs, Long Lasting Healthy Dog Chew Bones Made in USA, Bison Flavor, for Dogs Up to 25 lbs. (12 Count)
Overview: Nylabone Nubz Wild Natural Dog Chews offer small dogs a taste of the wild with real bison flavor in a long-lasting, digestible treat format. These USA-made chews provide extended chewing enjoyment while promoting dental health through their unique nubbed texture.
What Makes It Stand Out: The authentic bison flavor differentiates these treats from typical chicken or beef options, appealing to dogs with sophisticated palates. The long-lasting formula ensures dogs remain occupied while the textured surface effectively cleans teeth and gums.
Value for Money: At $22.61 per pound, these are premium-priced treats. However, the extended chewing time means each treat lasts longer than typical alternatives, potentially offering better value per minute of engagement.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include unique bison flavor, American manufacturing, no artificial additives, and appropriate sizing for small dogs. Weaknesses include the high price point and limited suitability for larger breeds. Some dogs may consume them too quickly for optimal dental benefits.
Bottom Line: These bison-flavored chews are ideal for small dogs who enjoy unique protein sources. While expensive, the quality ingredients and extended chewing time make them worthwhile for pet owners seeking premium treats for their small companions.
8. Nylabone Nubz Natural Dog Chew Treats for Puppies, Long Lasting Dog Bones Made in USA, Puppy Training Treats, Turkey & Sweet Potato Flavor, for Puppies Up to 25 lbs. (28 Count)
Overview: Nylabone Nubz Natural Dog Chew Treats for Puppies combine irresistible turkey and sweet potato flavors with essential nutrients for growing dogs. These USA-made treats include DHA Omega-3 for brain development and calcium for healthy bone growth, specifically formulated for puppies under 30 pounds.
What Makes It Stand Out: The puppy-specific formulation with DHA Omega-3 and calcium addresses developmental needs beyond basic chewing satisfaction. The turkey and sweet potato flavor profile offers a gentler alternative to common proteins, ideal for sensitive puppy stomachs.
Value for Money: At $11.91 per pound with 28 treats per package, these offer excellent value for puppy-specific nutrition. The developmental benefits justify the investment in your puppy’s health and training.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include developmental nutrients, natural ingredients, appropriate softness for puppy teeth, and generous quantity. Weaknesses include size limitations for larger breed puppies and potential quick consumption. Some puppies may prefer different flavors.
Bottom Line: These puppy-specific chews are an outstanding choice for new pet parents. The nutritional benefits, appropriate texture, and training utility make them essential for puppy development and dental health introduction.
9. Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews Value Pack of 66 Chews. Total (3 x 22 ct Bags)
Overview: The Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews Value Pack delivers 66 large dental chews across three convenient bags, designed for adult dogs of all sizes. These treats focus on dental health through mechanical cleaning action while freshening breath, making oral care enjoyable for dogs.
What Makes It Stand Out: The exceptional value proposition of 66 chews at under $1 each makes this pack unique. The bulk packaging ensures you’ll have dental treats on hand for consistent oral care routines without frequent reordering.
Value for Money: At $0.95 per chew, this represents outstanding value for USA-made dental treats. The bulk purchase significantly reduces per-treat cost compared to smaller packages, making daily dental care economically feasible.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include exceptional value, generous quantity, dental benefits, and suitability for all adult dog sizes. Weaknesses include the large upfront investment and exclusion of puppies. Storage space for three bags might challenge some households.
Bottom Line: This value pack is perfect for multi-dog households or dedicated dental care routines. The significant savings and convenience of bulk purchasing make these an economical choice for maintaining your dog’s dental health long-term.
10. NylaboneNatural Nubz Dog Treats, Allergen-Free Peanut Butter, Jumbo – Up to 50 Lbs. (2 ct) (Pack of 1)
Overview: Nylabone Natural Nubz Allergen-Free Peanut Butter treats provide jumbo-sized dental chews for dogs up to 50 pounds, featuring a hypoallergenic peanut butter flavor. These USA-made treats offer long-lasting chewing enjoyment while promoting dental health, specifically formulated for dogs with food sensitivities.
What Makes It Stand Out: The allergen-free formulation addresses the growing need for hypoallergenic treats, allowing sensitive dogs to enjoy dental chews without adverse reactions. The jumbo size accommodates larger breeds often overlooked in treat sizing.
Value for Money: At $6 per treat, these are premium-priced but justified by the specialized allergen-free formula and large size. For dogs with allergies, the ability to enjoy safe dental treats is invaluable.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include hypoallergenic formula, appropriate size for large dogs, natural ingredients, and effective dental cleaning. Weaknesses include limited quantity per package and high per-treat cost. The peanut butter flavor may not appeal to all dogs.
Bottom Line: These allergen-free chews are essential for large dogs with food sensitivities. While expensive, the specialized formulation and size appropriateness make them worthwhile for dogs who otherwise couldn’t enjoy dental treats safely.
## Why Chew-Toy Safety Matters More in 2025
Veterinary dentists report a 29 % spike in fractured carnassial teeth since 2020, and emergency clinics now list “chew-related obstruction” among the top five reasons for exploratory surgery. Three converging trends explain the jump: heavier chews marketed for “aggressive chewers,” pandemic puppies now entering peak chewing adolescence, and owners feeding more treats to combat boredom. Safety, therefore, isn’t a marketing luxury—it’s a medical necessity.
## Understanding the Nubz Design Philosophy
Most compressed-digestible chews share a common blueprint: a blend of animal protein, gelatinized starch, and humectants that are heat-extruded into a bone-shaped mold. The goal is a treat hard enough to provide mechanical dental benefits yet soft enough to erode gradually. Knowing this baseline helps you spot when a brand deviates from accepted norms—say, by adding bone meal or artificial hardeners that compromise digestibility.
## Key Safety Metrics for Any Chew
Look past the front-of-package claims and focus on four quantifiable levers: hardness (measured on the Shore durometer scale), solubility in gastric fluid, caloric density, and fragment size after 15 minutes of controlled chewing. If a manufacturer can’t supply those numbers, you’re essentially flying blind.
## The Role of Ingredient Sourcing
“Made in USA” is comforting, but the raw material journey matters more. Chicken meal sourced from USDA-inspected facilities has a lower microbial load than imported meal shipped in bulk containers. Ask for a letter of guarantee (LOG) that traces each lot to a specific slaughter plant; reputable suppliers provide it within 24 hours.
## Digestibility vs. Durability: Striking the Balance
A chew that lasts eight hours but is only 40 % digestible poses a greater GI risk than one that vanishes in 30 minutes yet breaks down at 95 %. Academic studies use an in vitro pepsin assay to predict digestibility; anything scoring above 85 % is considered low-risk for obstruction.
## Size & Texture: Matching Chew to Dog
Large breeds can swallow a “wolf-size” treat whole if it’s too small, while toy breeds may exhaust themselves trying to gnaw an XL bone. Texture gradients—ridges, nubs, or pockets—should align with your dog’s bite force. A brachycephalic Frenchie needs a different topography than a German Shepherd.
## Manufacturing Standards to Insist On
Third-party audits (BRCGS, SQF, or GFSI) go beyond FDA minimums and verify hazard-analysis controls at every conveyor belt. Request the latest audit score; anything below 90 % indicates non-conformities you don’t want in your dog’s mouth.
## Red-Flag Additives & Preservatives
BHA, BHT, and TBHQ are legal but controversial; propylene glycol can trigger Heinz-body anemia in cats and should be avoided in multi-pet homes. Natural tocopherols (vitamin E) and rosemary extract perform just as well without the baggage.
## Allergen & Intolerance Considerations
Chicken and beef remain top canine allergens. If your dog shows seasonal itch or chronic ear infections, opt for novel proteins like rabbit, venison, or insect meal, and confirm the facility runs a validated allergen-control program that includes swab testing between batches.
## Recognizing Unsafe Chewing Behavior
No chew is idiot-proof. Lip licking, head-shaking, or sudden pawing at the muzzle can signal a lodged fragment. Teach a reliable “drop it” cue and perform weekly oral exams so you spot slab fractures before they turn into abscesses.
## Emergency Preparedness: What Vets Wish You Knew
Keep a digital X-ray on file (many clinics offer complimentary baseline images). If ingestion occurs, note the time, estimate the grams consumed, and call ASPCA Animal Poison Control before symptoms appear. Early emesis within 30 minutes can prevent a $4,000 bowel resection.
## Safer Protein-Based Alternatives
Air-dried single-ingredient strips, collagen-rich fish skins, and high-pressure pasteurized (HPP) raw bones each carry different risk–benefit profiles. The unifying principle: minimal processing retains nutritional value while reducing chemical load.
## Plant-Based & Limited-Ingredient Options
Sweet-potato chews infused with coconut glycerin offer a hypoallergenic solution for pancreatitis-prone dogs. Look for verified non-GMO status and < 8 % crude fiber to avoid fecal bulk overload.
## Homemade Chews: Rewards & Risks
Dehydrated chicken breast jerky is simple, but pathogens like Salmonella can persist at home-dryer temperatures. Post-dry pasteurization at 160 °F for 30 minutes or a quick dip in 2 % lactic acid solution slashes bacterial counts without rehydrating the strip.
## Budget vs. Premium: Where Extra Dollars Go
Premium brands invest in inline metal detectors, X-ray bone fragment removal, and randomized batch culturing. Budget lines may meet FDA standards but skip the voluntary 15-point safety checklist. Decide whether the added insurance is worth an extra $0.25 per chew.
## Reading the Label Like a Vet Nutritionist
Ingredients are listed by pre-processed weight, so “chicken” sounds dominant but is 70 % water. Focus on the guaranteed analysis and the calorie content (kcal/kg). Anything above 3,500 kcal/kg is essentially doggie potato chips—fine in moderation, disastrous when overfed.
## Transitioning to a New Chew Safely
Introduce over seven days: 25 % of the recommended amount for days 1–2, 50 % for days 3–4, 75 % for days 5–6, and full ration by day 7. Monitor stool quality; a sudden shift to soft serve indicates the pancreas is protesting the fat load.
## Storing & Handling to Prevent Contamination
Reseal in original foil, then drop the whole bag into an airtight glass jar. Refrigeration doubles shelf life but can create condensation; add food-grade silica packs to sop up ambient moisture and halt mold bloom.
## Frequently Asked Questions
-
How hard is too hard for a chew?
Anything that doesn’t indent when you press it with your thumbnail is hard enough to fracture a tooth. -
Are grain-free chews safer?
Not necessarily; the link between dilated cardiomyopathy and legume-heavy diets is still under FDA investigation. -
Can puppies have compressed-digestible treats?
Yes, but choose a puppy-specific size and soften briefly in warm water to reduce bite-force trauma. -
How many calories should come from chews daily?
Limit to 10 % of total caloric intake to avoid unbalancing the primary diet. -
What should I do if my dog swallowed a large chunk?
Contact your vet or emergency clinic immediately; do not induce vomiting without professional guidance. -
Do dental chews really reduce tartar?
VOHC-approved products can reduce plaque by 20–30 % when used daily, but they don’t replace brushing. -
Is “human-grade” a regulated term?
No—look for “USDA-inspected and passed” on the ingredient audit trail instead. -
Are natural smoked bones safe?
Smoking doesn’t eliminate Salmonella; choose HPP-treated bones or cook to 165 °F internal temp. -
Can I recycle partially chewed pieces?
Discard anything small enough to fit entirely through a toilet-paper tube to reduce choking risk. -
How long can an open bag sit on the shelf?
Most plant-based chews last 12 months unopened; once opened, use within 30 days or freeze in portions.