Over recent years, yak chews have surged in popularity as a convenient, ethical, tasty and budget-friendly snack to give to dogs. A favourite amongst dog owners and furry friends alike, these treats now come in a range of flavours (for example, blueberry, turmeric, strawberry and mango) and sizes that can suit any dog. If this is your first time hearing about these tasty treats you might have some questions about what yak chews actually are, and why they are such a common choice of chew. Below is your guide to yak chews as we answer some FAQs.
What are yak chews and what are they made of?
Yak chews are tough, durable dog chews that are comprised of 3 simple ingredients: yak or cow milk, lime juice and salt.
Where do yak chews come from?
The traditional yak chew recipe originates from the Himalayan region, where local herds-people initially used the milk from their cattle to create high-protein snacks that would sustain their diet in high-altitude terrains. This same recipe is used today for the yak chews you see marketed towards dogs, with most yak chews being produced by small-scale farms within the same Himalayan regions of Nepal, India, Tibet and Bhutan
Are yak chews natural?
Yes, yak chews are a natural dog treat, with no added harmful chemicals or flavours. Yak chews are made up of yak or cow milk, lime juice and salt. Flavoured yak chews achieve their flavour by using either real pieces of fruit, such as crushed blueberries or strawberries, or natural extracts, which are infused into the base mixture.
Are yak chews low in fat?
Yes, yak chews are low in fat. This is because the milk used is pasteurised and nearly all the cream is removed during the manufacturing process.
Are yak chews vegetarian?
Yak chews are vegetarian as they do not contain any animal meat, bone or animal hide.
What are the nutritional benefits of yak chews?
High in protein, high in calcium and low in fat - a healthy and nutrient-dense choice of snack. The high-protein content is great for muscle growth and tissue repair, whilst the high levels of calcium strengthens bones and teeth.
Can lactose-intolerant dogs eat yak chews?
These chews aren't off limits for dogs with lactose intolerances or sensitive stomachs. Despite being made of yak/cow milk, yak chews themselves contain as little as 1% lactose, and are a digestible alternative to raw milk.
Are yak chews safe for puppies?
Yak chews are safe for puppies, but only once their adult teeth have grown in, at about 6 months. Tough chews such as yak chews should be introduced slowly and under supervision.
Are yak chews safe for my dog's teeth?
Despite their tough, hard texture, yak chews can actually really benefit your dog's dental health. As your dog gnaws down the yak chew, the rough edges scrape away at plaque and tartar on your dog's teeth. However, it is important to monitor this; if your dog is an aggressive chewer, they may risk damaging their teeth if they chomp down too enthusiastically.
How long should it take for my dog to eat a yak chew?
This can really depend on your dog's chewing style. Some dogs prefer to lick and gnaw gently, whereas some may chew a lot more enthusiastically. Larger dogs may eat through yak chews quicker than small dogs as they can apply more jaw pressure. In general, yak chews can last anywhere from several days to several weeks. This is because it is recommended to limit chewing sessions to about 30 minutes a day, making the chews last longer.
How many yak chews should my dog eat in a day?
As with any dog treat, yak chews should remain an indulgence, not a regular fix. One yak chew should last a few days and it is recommended to only give your dog one chew at a time.
Why do some yak chews look different to others?
Yak chews are natural, handmade products, so do not tend to be uniform in appearance. Changes in colour are safe and normal due to the smoke-drying process and changes to the yak's diet.
What should I do with the small leftover pieces of yak chew?
When the yak chew gets too small for your dog to hold, it can become a choking hazard. It is important to remove the small leftover pieces from your dog's vicinity. However, these leftover bits do not need to go to waste! Yak chew leftovers can be turned into tasty yak chew nuggets or 'puffs' that are crunchy and crumbly rather than rigid. Click here to find out how to make them.
Are yak chews ethical and sustainable?
Yak chews are still widely produced by small farms in the Himalayan region, supporting local herds-people rather than industrial factory farming. Yaks and cattle graze freely and the ingredients used to create yak chews are clean and free from chemicals.
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