1. Skimping on chew toys

When left to their own devices, dogs often make poor choices in what they decide to chew on—table legs, shoes, throw pillows, you name it. However, sometimes we unknowingly contribute to the problem. One surprising item on the no-chew list is tennis balls. “Tennis balls are fun for fetching, but allowing a dog to gnaw on them for extended periods can wear down the enamel on her teeth,” explains Dr. Brown. “The fuzzy surface acts like a Brillo pad. Depending on your dog’s size, consider using a racquetball or even a lacrosse ball instead.”

Another item to avoid is anything hard or brittle. “Dogs have powerful jaws that can easily fracture cooked bones, antlers, and pig ears,” Dr. Brown warns. “This can result in broken teeth, cuts to gums, or pose a choking hazard.” If your dog enjoys chewing, opt for toys that are virtually indestructible to ensure their safety and dental health.