Returning from a long, exciting walk, guests arrive at home, or a storm is raging outside, and your dog… is immediately looking for something to put in its mouth? Does it grab its favorite chew, work on a toy, or, in the worst case, take a look at your slippers?

This is not malice or "bad behavior" at all. From the point of view of canine psychology and neurobiology, biting, chewing, and licking are natural, innate ways for self-emotional regulation. See what happens in your pet's body then and how you can help it calm down on a daily basis!

What happens in a dog's head when it is chewing something?

For a dog, chewing is much more than just a way to break down food. It is a real, home relaxation treatment! Here is what science says about it:

1. Switching to "rest and digest" mode 

Rhythmic mouth movements and jaw work stimulate the vagus nerve. This causes the sympathetic nervous system (responsible for the "fight or flight" response) to quiet down and shifts the body to the dominance of the parasympathetic system ("rest and digest"). The effect? The dog's heart rate slows down, its breathing becomes calm, and tense muscles finally relax.

2. Natural reduction of stress levels

Research shows that repetitive chewing lowers the level of cortisol, the main stress hormone. It affects a dog exactly the same way a series of deep, calm breaths does for us after a hard day.

3. A surge of "happy" neurotransmitters

When a dog chews or licks a treat, its brain releases dopamine (responsible for a sense of satisfaction and pleasure) and endorphins, which provide relief and reduce anxiety. That is why this activity is so effective at calming a dog down (self-soothing behavior).

The superpower of chewing: A healthy mouth and better digestion

In addition to its great impact on emotions, chewing also supports your pet's physical health:

• Less plaque and tartar: A hard chew acts like a natural toothbrush. While chewing, the dog mechanically scrapes off fresh bacterial plaque and limits tartar buildup. Specially contoured Mersjo Dental Sticks with rabbit work perfectly in this role, reaching the furthest corners of the dog's jaw, supporting daily oral hygiene. 

   

• More saliva and better digestion: Chewing stimulates the production of saliva, which contains natural enzymes and antibacterial substances (e.g., lysozyme) that protect the mouth and facilitate digestion.

Worth knowing: Do you see your dog curling up into a ball and falling into a deep sleep after a long chewing session? This is not physical fatigue, but a sign that its nervous system has just regenerated. 15 minutes of chewing can calm a dog down more effectively than another hour of running after a ball!

When is a chew best used?

A natural chew is your best ally during difficult daily moments. It is worth using it:

1. After an exciting walk: So that the dog does not walk around the house at "high speed," but smoothly shifts into rest mode.

2. When the dog is learning to stay alone: A delicious activity distracts it from loneliness and helps alleviate separation anxiety.

3. During a storm, home renovations, or when guests visit: It gives the dog a safe activity and allows it to literally "chew through" its stress.

How to choose the perfect chew for your dog?

To ensure chewing brings maximum relaxation and zero risk, match the chew to your pet's age and capabilities:

• For puppies and seniors: Opt for treats tailored to more delicate teeth and more sensitive gums. A great choice would be the specially created Mersjo bone with rabbit and prebiotic (10 cm), which gently massages the gums, and thanks to the addition of a prebiotic, also cares for the intestinal microflora.
  

  

• For adult chewing masters: Choose harder natural chews that will keep the dog occupied for a longer while. A great challenge will be the 100% natural, extremely durable Mersjo Himalayan cheese, created based on a traditional recipe. An alternative for long chewing (with a delicious surprise inside) is the Mersjo raw beef bone with meat filling, which additionally calms the dog through the relaxing process of licking out the center.
  

  
   

• Opt for simple, clean ingredients: Choose treats dried with warm air – without artificial colors, flavor enhancers, or unnecessary chemicals. If your dog loves natural meat flavors, match the size of the treat to its build: for smaller and medium dogs, Mersjo natural skin twist chews with duck meat, while for larger four-legged friends, a solid Mersjo XXL beef skin chew with duck breast will be an excellent choice.
  

  
  

Summary

Give your dog what nature intended! Chewing and licking is the simplest, science-backed way to a happy, calm pet.

Take care of your dog's daily relaxation and check out the full range of natural Mersjo treats and chews!