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Is it better for my dog to chew treats or swallow them whole?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Female | spayed | 7 years and 5 months old | 17 lbs

Do dogs care about the size of the treat they are given? For example, would they rather have a slightly bigger treat that they could chew in several bites or one that they can swallow in one gulp but could have more of? Do most dogs have a preference? thanks!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 24th, 2019

Dogs don't have a preference, but you should! By that I mean you should give Chloe treats she needs to chew in several bites. If she swallows one whole that's smaller, it could cause some problems. Better for her to chew them up.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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