If you just got a puppy that's teething a lot or looking for a new healthy dog chew for enrichment, then yak cheese chews might be exactly what your dog needs. In this guide, we’ll break down why it’s good for dogs, how you can make a puff with them, and where to get the best yak cheese chews for any dog breed.
Key Takeaways
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Yak cheese chews are made from yak milk, and are often used as a dog chew or treat!
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Yak cheese is a safe option for dogs. It’s packed with protein and other nutrients. They’re long-lasting chews and great for enrichment.
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You can make yak cheese puffs by microwaving the ends; this turns the leftovers into an extra crunchy snack for your dog.
How Are Yak Chews Made?
Yak cheese chews are made from yak milk, which is a higher protein milk than other species. They’re made by farmers in the Himalayan regions.
First, the milk gets boiled, then skimmed. After some slow stirring, chunks of cheese start to form with the help of a little salt and lime juice. Those cheese curds get taken out and dried. The curds are put into bags and pressed, which is what ends up giving them their shape.
Initially, they look like big bricks but then get cut into different sizes. At Zenta Pets, we offer six sizes which include mini (.7 - 1 oz), small (2-3 oz), medium (3-4 oz), large (4-5 oz), extra large (5-6 oz), and mega yak (7+ oz).
Are Yak Chews Good For Dogs?
Yak chews are a great treat for dogs. They are a healthy and beneficial treat for most dogs (not ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to dairy). They’re great for heavy chewers or teething pups. Yak chews also offer both physical and mental stimulation to the dog.
Yak Cheese is high in protein and calcium so it naturally fits into a lot of dogs’ diets. Even dogs with a limited-ingredient diet can use these chews as a well-deserved treat.
Another plus is that since the chew has a firm texture, it can actually help clean dogs’ teeth by scraping away plaque. This is not a dental chew, but it can promote better dental health over time.
While they can be a great addition to a dog’s diet, moderation is key. This is still a treat and is not meant to replace a balanced diet. As with any new food or treat, always introduce it to your dog gradually.
Tip: If it’s your dog’s first time trying Yak cheese or your dog is a puppy, limit their chew time to about 5 to 10 minutes.
Are Yak Cheese Chews Safe?
Yak cheese treats are a safe and digestible chew for dogs. They don’t splinter or get soggy as your dog chews them, making them even safer than other alternatives. Of course, there are a few things to consider.
Things To Consider:
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Consider any allergies or sensitivities your dog may have to ingredients like cheese. If you notice your dog starting to itch more or have breakouts, this may be a sign that they are sensitive to this treat.
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Always use an appropriate size for your dog’s breed and chewing style. A large piece may be too much for a toy breed. Meanwhile, a large breed that enjoys chewing may swallow a small piece whole which can be a choking hazard.
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Similarly, once the yak cheese stick becomes too small for your dog, it may be time to remove it. The good thing about this treat is that you can turn it into a cheese puff!
How To Make Yak Cheese Puffs
One of the coolest things about these treats is that the tiny bits don’t have to go to waste. You can transform these small pieces into crunchy puffs for your dogs. Here’s how:
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Take all your small leftover pieces (Each piece should be around 1-2 inches)
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Place them into the microwave for about 30-45 seconds. They’ll puff up like little cheesy clouds.
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Let them cool down! Always check their temperature before giving them to your dog.
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Give them to your pup as a treat or a special something during their meal time.
Conclusion
Yak cheese chews are a tasty and healthy dog treat that keeps your dog entertained. They’re long-lasting and all-natural. Treat your dog to a chew they’ll love from the very first bite!
For anyone who loves to stock up or runs a business that caters to our furry friends, yak cheese chews are a great option to keep on hand. Be sure to check out all of the bulk dog treats we offer.