How to Choose the Right Chew Size for Your Dog

Because size definitely matters (when it comes to chews).

Choosing the right chew isn’t just about the type—it’s also about the size. The wrong size chew can be ineffective, unsafe, or just plain boring to your pup. At Summit Dog Chews, we hand-cut and size every chew with care so your dog gets the perfect fit for their needs and gnawing style.

Let’s walk through how to pick the right size chew for your pup—whether they’re a tiny teether or a full-grown furniture destroyer.

Why Size Matters

Too small = choking hazard or accidental swallowing
Too big = frustration and disinterest
Just right = safe, satisfying, long-lasting enrichment

🐾 Start with Your Dog’s Weight

Here’s a quick chew sizing guide by weight class:

Dog Weight	Recommended Chew Size
Under 15 lbs	Small Split Antler, 6” Bully Stick, Small Yak Chew
15–30 lbs	Medium Split or Small Whole Antler, Regular Yak Chew, 6–12” Bully Stick
30–60 lbs	Medium/Large Whole Antler, Large Yak Chew, 12” Bully Stick
60+ lbs	Jumbo Whole Antler, Jumbo Yak Chew, 12” Bully Stick or Braided Stick

🦴 Match the Chew Type to Their Chewing Style

Need help figuring out your dog’s chew personality? Check out our post:
🔗 Best Chews for Every Chewer Type

For Gentle or Older Dogs:

Split Antlers – the marrow is easier to access
Yak Chews – softens with saliva over time
Bully Sticks – digestible and easy on teeth

For Power Chewers:

Whole Antlers – tough and long-lasting
Jumbo Yak Chews – dense and satisfying
Extreme Chewer Bundle – curated for serious gnawers

🧠 Bonus Tip: When in Doubt, Size Up

We always recommend sizing up if you’re between sizes—especially for chews like antlers and yak bars. Bigger chews last longer and provide more surface area for gnawing (which means fewer replacement purchases for you).

🛒 Our Most Popular Chew Sizes by Breed Type

Breed Type	Suggested Chew
Chihuahua, Yorkie	Small Yak Chew, 6” Bully Stick, Small Split Antler
Frenchie, Corgi	Medium Split Antler, Regular Yak Chew
Aussie, Boxer	Large Whole Antler, Large Yak Chew
GSD, Lab, Retriever	Jumbo Antler, Jumbo Yak, 12” Bully Stick

Have a puppy? Skip the antlers for now and go for yak chews or bully sticks until their adult teeth are in.

What If I Pick the Wrong Size?

Don’t worry—we offer guidance via email or DM @summitdogchews if you’re ever unsure. Plus, we’ve got a post coming soon on “What To Do If Your Dog Doesn’t Like Their Chew” with tips on warming up stubborn pups to new textures.