The classic image of a happy dog trotting along with a stick in its mouth seems so natural — but is it safe?

The short answer: No.
While many dogs love chewing on sticks, it can be dangerous. Fortunately, natural, safer alternatives — like coffee wood chews — offer the same satisfying experience without the health risks.

Why Chewing on Sticks Is a Serious Hazard for Dogs

1. Splintering Can Cause Serious Injuries

Sticks splinter easily, and sharp fragments can puncture your dog’s mouth, gums, throat, or stomach. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove lodged pieces and repair internal damage.

2. Choking Hazards Are Real

Dogs can break sticks into chunks that can block their airway in seconds — a potentially life-threatening emergency.

3. Dental Damage Adds Up

Hard, uneven wood can crack teeth, cause painful abscesses, or lead to gum infections — and expensive vet bills.

4. Dangerous Digestive Blockages

Swallowed stick fragments can obstruct the intestines, causing vomiting, lethargy, or abdominal pain. These situations often require immediate medical intervention.

5. Outdoor Sticks May Carry Hidden Toxins

You never know what’s on that stick — mold, bacteria, pesticides, or chemical residues could all pose a risk to your dog’s health.

Dogs Need to Chew — Just Not on Sticks

Chewing is a natural and healthy behavior for dogs. It helps:

  • Soothe teething in puppies
  • Relieve boredom and stress
  • Strengthen jaw muscles
  • Support dental health

But it’s crucial to provide safe and appropriate chew alternatives.

Safer Alternatives to Sticks for Dogs

Veterinarians recommend these options instead:

  • Durable rubber toys (like KONGs, especially when stuffed with treats)
  • Tough nylon bones
  • Dental chews that help remove tartar
  • Coffee wood chews — the perfect choice for dogs who love the texture of wood

Why Coffee Wood Chews Are the Ideal Replacement for Sticks

Dogs love the texture of wood — and coffee wood chews offer that same sensation, without the risks.

Here’s why coffee wood chews stand out:

✅ Less Likely to Splinter

Coffee wood has a dense, tight grain that wears down slowly. It frays into soft fibers rather than breaking into sharp shards — making it much safer for chewing.

✅ Long-Lasting Satisfaction

Hard and durable, coffee wood chews can withstand even the most enthusiastic chewers for hours. They mimic real wood, offering a familiar and rewarding texture.

✅ All-Natural & Chemical-Free

Made from pruned coffee branches that no longer bear beans, these chews are sustainable, eco-friendly, and free from glues or artificial additives.

✅ Gentle on Teeth & Gums

As your dog chews, the natural abrasion helps clean teeth and reduce plaque — supporting oral hygiene in a fun, satisfying way.

✅ Eco-Conscious & Ethical

Coffee wood chews are made from recycled branches. No trees are cut down, making them an environmentally responsible option for pet parents.

How to Use Coffee Wood Chews Safely

To get the most out of your coffee wood chew — and keep your dog safe — follow these tips:

  • Size up, never down: Choose a chew that’s larger than your dog’s mouth to reduce choking risk.
  • Supervise chew time: Always keep an eye on your dog, especially when introducing a new chew.
  • Inspect regularly: Replace the chew if it becomes too small or if large chunks begin to break off.
  • Buy from trusted brands: Avoid low-quality products with cracks or questionable sourcing.

Final Thoughts: Smarter, Safer Chewing

Letting your dog chew on random sticks in the yard just isn’t worth the risk. Splinters, choking, blockages, and dental trauma are all too common.

Coffee wood chews offer the perfect compromise — they give dogs the wood-chewing experience they love, in a safe, natural, and satisfying form. Plus, they’re eco-friendly, long-lasting, and gentle on teeth.

Your dog will love it.
You’ll love the peace of mind.