7 Common Myths About Himalayan Yak Cheese Dog Chews – Debunked!

Himalayan yak cheese dog chews are gaining popularity fast—but along with that popularity comes a fair share of myths. Are they too hard for teeth? Too salty? Only for big dogs?

Let’s set the record straight. Here are 7 of the most common myths about Himalayan dog chews—and the facts that bust them wide open.

Myth 1: They aren’t digestible and can cause blockages

Truth: Authentic yak cheese chews are fully digestible if pets ingest small softening fragments. Unlike rawhide, which often passes through the gut undigested and can lead to obstruction, yak cheese softens as your dog chews and breaks down naturally in the stomach as reported by the American Kennel Club.

Yak & Paws chews are made using the traditional Himalayan process, which results in a chew that gradually dissolves with saliva. Just supervise your dog as with any chew, and choose the right size.

Myth 2: They’re full of fat and will make my dog gain weight

Truth: These chews may be made from cheese—but they’re surprisingly lean. Himalayan chews are high in protein (over 60%) and low in fat (about 7%), according to a 2023 study in the Journal of Ethnic Foods. The fat composition is far lower than treats like sausage sticks. That makes them a great option for dogs watching their waistline. 

Myth 3: They’re too salty to be safe

Truth: While many producers may add a small amount of salt during the cheesemaking process, Yak & Paws chews are made with no added salt at all. The result is a chew that is naturally mild and safe for everyday enjoyment. If your dog is drinking normally and chewing gradually, there's no cause for concern.

Myth 4: Milk-based chews are bad for dogs because of lactose

Truth: It’s true that many dogs don’t tolerate lactose well. But Himalayan yak cheese chews are virtually lactose-free. That’s because the milk sugars are broken down during fermentation, leaving behind a hardened cheese that’s gentle on sensitive stomachs, as indicated in Journal of Ethnic Foods.

Most dogs—even those sensitive to dairy—have no trouble digesting them. Yak & Paws chews undergo traditional fermentation and drying that reduces lactose to near-zero.

Myth 5: Smoke-dried means they’re full of chemicals

Truth: Smoke-drying is a natural preservation method, not a chemical process. Traditional producers cure the chews with wood smoke, removing moisture and adding a subtle aroma dogs love.

Yak & Paws chews are made using controlled indoor drying, not open-fire smoking. This ensures a clean product with a long shelf life—without artificial preservatives.

Myth 6: They’re too hard and will break my dog’s teeth

Truth: Yak chews are firm—but they gradually soften with saliva as a dog chews. Unlike antlers or bones, which can splinter or crack teeth, a properly formulated yak chew becomes more pliable over time.

A carefully crafted chew made in a climatically controlled environment—like those from Yak and Paws—maintains a regulated moisture level. With enough internal moisture, these chews present a low risk of splintering or causing dental injury during normal chewing.

Myth 7: They’re only for big dogs

Truth: Himalayan chews come in all sizes. Tiny pups to giant breeds can enjoy them—as long as you choose the right size and supervise. Yak and Paws offers chews in eight distinct sizes tailored for dogs ranging from under 10 lb to over 100 lb. Check the size guideline below to find the perfect fit for your dog.

And if your pup gets to the end of the stick, you can microwave the last piece into a cheese puff—safe, tasty, and no waste.

Final Takeaway: Yak & Paws Chews Bust Every Myth

When you hear a myth about Himalayan yak cheese chews, ask where the information came from. Most are based on misunderstandings. When made properly—like we do at Yak & Paws—these chews are safe, digestible, long-lasting, and loved by dogs of all sizes.

So the next time someone warns you they’re too salty, too hard, or not right for your dog, you’ll know the truth: they’re a natural, vet-recommended chew with real benefits.

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