For dogs that love to chew, finding durable toys is essential. Some pups can destroy toys quickly, making it important to invest in options designed for aggressive chewers. While no toy is completely indestructible, the most robust ones last significantly longer than standard alternatives. This guide, informed by veterinarians and dog trainers, explores top choices that are both safe and engaging for your canine companion.
Top Picks for Aggressive Chewers
When selecting toys for dogs who are tough on their playthings, consider these expert-recommended options:
Best Overall: Kong Extreme Tires – Available at Chewy.
This extra-tough rubber toy is a hit with dogs, offering a satisfying chewing experience. Its unique shape and texture keep dogs engaged, and it can even be filled with treats for added enjoyment.
Best Plush: Kong Cozie Marvin the Moose – Available at Chewy.
For dogs who love plush toys, this option features durable fabric and minimal stuffing, reducing mess when it’s inevitably torn apart. It includes an interior squeaker for extra stimulation.
Best Rope: Pacific Pups Rescue 6-Knot Knotted Rope Toy – Available at Chewy.
This large, durable cotton rope toy is perfect for interactive play like tug-of-war. The tightly knotted construction and ample length make it suitable for larger breeds and multi-dog households.
Best Chew: Petstages Dogwood Calming Chew – Available at Chewy.
Designed to mimic the texture of natural wood, these chews are a safer alternative to real sticks. Made from a blend of wood and hemp, they are durable yet gentle on a dog’s teeth and gums.
Best Interactive: Fable The Puffin Game – Available at Fable.
This durable, food-dispensing toy challenges dogs to problem-solve for treats. Its weighted base and bobbing motion add an element of interactive fun, satisfying a dog’s natural need to work for rewards.
Best Ball: Chew King Supreme Rubber Ball – Available at Chewy.
Constructed from super-tough rubber, this ball is built to withstand strong jaws. Its textured surface provides good grip for both dogs and owners, making it excellent for games of fetch.
Best Bone: Spot Bam-Bones Plus – Available at Chewy.
This T-shaped bone offers varied textures and enticing flavors, making it a captivating chew. Made from a blend of nylon and bamboo, it provides a safer chewing experience than real bones or antlers.
Best for Treats: Kong Extreme – Available at Chewy.
An even tougher version of the classic Kong, this toy is ideal for stuffing with peanut butter, treats, or kibble. Its durable rubber construction is designed for aggressive chewers, providing long-lasting entertainment.
Best for Tug: Kong Wubba – Available at Chewy.
While not intended for constant gnawing, the Kong Wubba’s ballistic nylon exterior is exceptionally durable for games of tug. Its unique design with fabric strips makes it easy to grip and throw.
Best Subscription Box: Bullymake – Available at Bullymake.
For a continuous supply of robust toys, Bullymake offers a monthly subscription box tailored for aggressive chewers. Each box contains two to three durable toys and treats, ensuring your dog always has something safe to gnaw on.
What to Look for in Durable Dog Toys
Choosing the right toy for an aggressive chewer involves several key considerations:
- Safety: Toys should be made from materials that are safe for dogs. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to indent the material with your fingernail; if it’s too hard, it could damage your dog’s teeth. Dense rubber is often recommended for super chewers.
- Durability: The toy must withstand significant chewing force. However, even durable toys require supervision, as some dogs may still break off and ingest pieces.
- Size: Ensure the toy is appropriately sized for your dog. A toy that is too small can be a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
- Materials: Dense rubber is a popular choice for its durability. For plush toys, look for options with double-layered fabric and reinforced seams. Different dogs also respond to various textures, so offering a variety can be beneficial.
Expert Insights on Toy Selection and Supervision
It is crucial to supervise dogs, especially aggressive chewers, when they are playing with toys. If a dog tends to swallow pieces of destroyed toys, this can lead to serious medical emergencies like intestinal blockages. Experts advise that if you see your dog beginning to chew off pieces of a toy, it’s better to “trade up” for a high-value treat rather than simply taking the toy away. This prevents the dog from developing resource guarding behaviors.
When choosing toys, professionals recommend balancing durability with your dog’s interest. A toy that is virtually indestructible but uninteresting to your dog might lead them to chew on inappropriate items. For dogs who tend to swallow pieces, edible chews designed for consumption might be a safer alternative. Chewing is a natural and pleasurable behavior for dogs; aggressive chewing typically only becomes a problem when it’s directed at household items.
Testing and Recommendations
The recommendations in this guide are based on expert advice from veterinarians and professional dog trainers, combined with hands-on testing. Researchers have observed dogs interacting with these toys over extended periods and have subjected the toys to rigorous testing, including attempts to damage them with tools. This thorough approach ensures that the selected toys meet the demands of aggressive chewers while prioritizing safety and engagement.
