Dogs use their teeth for much more than eating. Their mouths and teeth are the closest equivalent they have to hands, and are used for exploration, play, and communication. To keep their jaws and teeth in good working condition, dogs must regularly exercise their mouths with vigorous chewing. Your job is to teach your dog when, where, and on what (or whom) it's acceptable to chew, and to prevent, interrupt, or redirect him from using his teeth inappropriately.