Chewing is not just as a treat, it is essential for dogs to be able to do for at least ten minutes at a time – the longer the better. This is why:
Chewing is a biological ‘off switch’ for stress. When chewing, the brain lowers the cortisol levels and increases oxygen flow to the prefrontal cortex by 20%. It calms the ‘fear centre – fight/flight/freeze’ to enable calm rational thinking.
By stimulating the vagus nerve, chewing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the body’s primary “rest and digest” mechanism for restoring calm.
Plus of course it is good for their teeth and keeps them clean.
Chewing is such an important natural activity for our dogs, and we must give them the opportunity to be able to chew on the right things. Anything manmade has chemicals included so that includes raw hide. Natural is best, and there are many options out there, work out what is best for you and your dog.
#helpathanddogbehaviour#dogs#rescuedogs#rescue#chewing#calm#reset#dog#lovedogs#dogbehaviour#vagusnerve#nervoussystem#recovery
