🚫 Prevent Choking During Chew Time — Simple Tools That Make a Big Difference
Those who know my Labrador, Bear, will know he’s a huge fan of pizzle sticks — but as he’s grown, what used to take him minutes now disappears in seconds! 😅 That means not only do I go through chews faster, but there’s also a higher risk of him swallowing the end piece whole, which can become a choking hazard — especially for smaller dogs.
So, I’ve been testing two brilliant products that help slow dogs down while chewing and make chew time safer and more enriching. Both give the dog an extra challenge, make chews last longer, and reduce the risk of gulping or choking.
1. West Paw Qwizl
The West Paw Qwizl is a tough, flexible toy designed to hold treats or chews securely. You simply slot the pizzle stick through the opening, and it keeps it firmly in place — preventing your dog from swallowing the last bit too quickly. It’s dishwasher safe, recyclable, and made from West Paw’s non-toxic, durable material that’s gentle on teeth.
2. Benebone Pawplexer
The Benebone Pawplexer works in a similar way but adds its own twist — literally. It’s a flavoured chew toy that can hold a stick or treat through the middle, meaning your dog can chew the Benebone itself as well as the inserted chew. This keeps them mentally engaged and makes the chew session last much longer.
3. Quality Pizzle Sticks Matter
It’s worth remembering that not all pizzle sticks are the same. Some cheaper versions can be overly hard or processed, which isn’t ideal for your dog’s teeth or digestion. I use and recommend Britten & James Thick Pizzle Sticks — they’re natural, long-lasting, and perfect for use in the Qwizl or Pawplexer.
✅ Top Tip: Always supervise your dog during chew time, and choose chews that you can dent slightly with your thumbnail — that’s a good general indicator that it’s safe for their teeth.
🐶 You can find all three of these products in our Natural Dog Chews section. If your dog tends to gulp, these are simple, effective tools to make chewing safer and more rewarding.
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