For dogs with a powerful chew drive, finding toys that can withstand their enthusiasm is a constant challenge for owners. While no toy is truly indestructible, investing in durable options designed for aggressive chewers can save money and prevent potentially dangerous situations. This guide explores the best dog toys for aggressive chewers, offering expert insights and tested recommendations to keep your canine companion safe and entertained.
Understanding Your Aggressive Chewer
Dogs chew for various reasons, including boredom, anxiety, and simply because they enjoy the sensation. For some breeds and individual dogs, chewing is a highly rewarding activity that requires toys built to last. However, the intensity of chewing can pose risks. As Dr. Kelly Ballantyne, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, notes, “Some dogs are inclined to gobble up pieces of the toys they destroy, which can lead to serious medical emergencies due to intestinal blockage.” This underscores the importance of selecting appropriate toys and always supervising playtime.
Key Factors When Choosing Chew Toys:
- Safety: Toys should be made from materials that won’t splinter or break into small, ingestible pieces. A good rule of thumb, according to experts, is that you should be able to make an indentation in the toy’s material with your fingernail. If it’s too hard, it risks damaging your dog’s teeth.
- Durability: The toy must be able to withstand the force of an aggressive chewer’s jaws. However, even the toughest toys require supervision to prevent ingestion of broken parts.
- Size: Selecting the correct size is crucial. A toy that is too small can be a choking hazard or lead to intestinal blockages if swallowed. Always check the manufacturer’s sizing guidelines.
- Materials: Dense rubber is often recommended for aggressive chewers. For plush toys, look for those with multiple layers of durable fabric and reinforced seams. Different textures can also cater to a dog’s individual preferences.
Top Picks for Durable Dog Toys
Our selections are based on expert advice and real-world testing, focusing on toys that offer a balance of durability, safety, and engagement.
Best Overall: Kong Extreme Tires
This extra-tough rubber toy is designed to withstand significant chewing. Its unique shape and textured surface make it engaging, and it can be filled with treats for added appeal. The durable natural rubber is tough yet gentle on a dog’s teeth and gums.
Best Plush: Kong Cozie Marvin the Moose
For dogs who love the feel of plush toys, this option features double-layered fabric and minimal stuffing, reducing the mess if it’s eventually shredded. It also includes an interior squeaker for added stimulation.
Best Rope: Pacific Pups Rescue 6-Knot Knotted Rope Toy
This large, durable rope toy is made from cotton and features tight knots, making it suitable for interactive play like tug-of-war. It’s a great option for larger dogs or multi-dog households.
Best Chew: Petstages Dogwood Calming Chew
A safer alternative to real sticks, these chews are made from a blend of wood and hemp. Their wood-like texture satisfies a dog’s natural urge to chew, while the material prevents the dangerous splintering associated with natural branches.
Best Interactive: Fable The Puffin Game
This durable food-dispensing toy challenges dogs to work for their treats. It has an adjustable difficulty level and a weighted base, making it an engaging puzzle for intelligent chewers.
Best Ball: Chew King Supreme Rubber Ball
Constructed from super-tough rubber, this ball is designed to resist punctures and hold up to vigorous play. Its textured surface provides good grip for both dogs and owners during fetch.
Best Bone: Spot Bam-Bones Plus
This T-shaped nylon and bamboo bone offers a unique texture and flavor that entices dogs. While durable, it’s designed with a slight give, making it safer for teeth than extremely hard nylon toys.
Best for Treats: Kong Extreme
An even tougher version of the classic Kong, the Extreme model is perfect for stuffing with treats like peanut butter or yogurt. It serves as an excellent introductory food puzzle, keeping dogs occupied long after the treats are gone.
Best Tug Toy: Kong Wubba
While not intended for prolonged chewing, the Kong Wubba’s ballistic nylon exterior and reinforced stitching make it robust enough for intense tug-of-war sessions. Its unique shape also makes it suitable for fetch.
Best Subscription Box: Bullymake
For a consistent supply of durable toys, consider a subscription box like Bullymake. Each monthly delivery contains several tough toys and treats specifically chosen for aggressive chewers.
Expert Advice for Choosing Toys
Ivan Petersel, a professional dog trainer, emphasizes the importance of balancing toy durability with a dog’s interest. A toy that lasts but isn’t engaging might lead a dog to chew on inappropriate items. Patrick Flynn, another professional trainer, highlights that puzzle toys can satisfy a dog’s need for mental stimulation and problem-solving.
When selecting toys, always consider your dog’s individual chewing style and preferences. If your dog tends to swallow pieces, edible chews designed for consumption might be a safer alternative.
How We Tested These Toys
Our recommendations are based on a combination of expert interviews and hands-on testing. We evaluated toys for their durability, safety features, and how well they held up to aggressive chewing over extended periods. We also considered the ease of use for owners and the overall engagement level for the dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aggressive Chewers
What is the best dog toy for a heavy chewer?
Toys from the Kong Extreme line, made from dense rubber, are consistently recommended for heavy chewers due to their durability and safety.
What material is best for aggressive chewers?
Dense rubber is generally ideal for aggressive chewers. However, for dogs who enjoy shredding plush toys, ensure they are made with extra-durable fabrics and reinforced seams, and always supervise playtime.
What do you give an aggressive chewer?
The best toy for an aggressive chewer balances durability with interest. Consider your dog’s personality and chewing habits. If they tend to swallow pieces, opt for edible chews.
Why does my dog aggressively chew toys?
Chewing is a natural and often enjoyable behavior for dogs. Aggressive chewing can stem from boredom, anxiety, or simply a strong instinct. It becomes a concern when it’s directed towards forbidden items like furniture or shoes.
