For dog owners whose furry companions have a penchant for destruction, finding toys that can withstand enthusiastic chewing is a constant quest. While the concept of an “indestructible” dog toy is a myth, several durable options are designed to last significantly longer than standard toys, providing safe and engaging entertainment for even the most aggressive chewers. This guide delves into the best toys for dogs who love to chew, drawing on expert advice and real-world testing to help you make the best choice for your canine companion.
Understanding Aggressive Chewers
Dogs, especially those with strong jaws, can quickly turn standard toys into a pile of shreds. This behavior is natural, but it necessitates a focus on durability and safety when selecting toys. Dr. Kelly Ballantyne, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, emphasizes that while chewing is pleasurable, aggressive chewing can become problematic if it leads to the destruction of household items or, more importantly, poses a health risk to the dog. The key lies in understanding your dog’s chewing tendencies and choosing toys that cater to their needs without compromising their safety.
Top Picks for Durable Dog Toys
When selecting toys for aggressive chewers, prioritizing durability and safety is paramount. Experts like professional dog trainer Ivan Petersel advise choosing toys that are tough but not so hard that they risk damaging a dog’s teeth.
Best Overall: Kong Extreme Tires
The Kong Extreme Tires toy is a standout choice, appealing to dogs with its robust construction and interesting shape. Made from extra-tough natural rubber, it’s designed to withstand aggressive chewing while remaining gentle on teeth and gums. Insider Reviews editor Sarah Saril notes that this toy satisfies a crucial trifecta: it’s engaging, durable, and can be filled with treats, making it a consistently popular choice for her dogs. Its unique shape bounces well, adding an element of unpredictable fun during playtime.
See Kong Extreme Tires at Chewy
Best Plush: Kong Cozie Marvin the Moose
For dogs who love the comfort of plush toys, the Kong Cozie Marvin the Moose offers a more durable alternative. It features two layers of tough fabric and minimal stuffing, reducing the mess if your dog does manage to rip it apart. Freelance reporter Rachael Schultz found that her super-chewer pup, Croc, couldn’t destroy this toy, noting that the material doesn’t shed and that the toy held up even after being washed. Its interior squeaker adds an extra layer of engagement.
See Kong Cozie Marvin the Moose at Chewy
Best Rope: Pacific Pups Rescue 6-Knot Knotted Rope Toy
Interactive play is crucial for many dogs, and a durable rope toy can be a great option. The Pacific Pups Rescue Knotted Rope Toy, an XXL 42-inch rope, is ideal for larger dogs and multi-dog households. Its knots are tightly bound, offering more resistance than many other rope toys. While some wear is expected, the numerous knots help maintain its integrity. Remember to supervise dogs with rope toys to prevent them from ingesting loose fibers.
See Pacific Pups Rescue 6-Knot Knotted Rope Toy at Chewy
Best Chew: Petstages Dogwood Calming Chew
For dogs who instinctively gnaw on sticks, the Petstages Dogwood Calming Chews offer a safer alternative. Made from a blend of wood and hemp, these toys mimic the texture of real branches without the risk of splintering or causing internal damage. While they will show wear and tear over time, they are designed to be a safer chewing experience. Freelance reporter Christy Caplan’s stick-loving basset hound, Herschel, found these chews highly engaging.
See Petstages Dogwood Calming Chew at Chewy
Best Interactive: Fable The Puffin Game
Puzzle toys are excellent for engaging a dog’s mind and satisfying their need to problem-solve. Fable’s The Puffin Game is a durable, food-dispensing toy with an adjustable difficulty level. Its weighted base keeps it upright, while the bobbing motion makes it challenging and rewarding to get treats out. Insider Reviews senior pets editor Lisa Sabatini uses this toy to feed her dog Homer, noting its durability despite some playful biting.
See Fable The Puffin Game at Fable
Best Ball: Chew King Supreme Rubber Ball
For fetch-loving dogs, a durable ball is a must. The Chew King Supreme Rubber Ball is constructed from tough rubber that stands up to strong jaws and energetic play. Its textured surface provides a good grip for both dogs and owners, and it offers excellent bounce. Saril notes that its weight makes it ideal for throwing, but advises caution to avoid accidentally hitting your dog.
See Chew King Supreme Rubber Ball at Chewy
Best Bone: Spot Bam-Bones Plus
The Spot Bam-Bones Plus offers a unique T-shaped design with varying textures and flavors to keep dogs engaged. Made from nylon and bamboo, it’s a safer alternative to real bones. While durable, the material is softer than some other nylon chews, allowing for a slight indentation with a fingernail, which experts recommend as a safety indicator. It comes in chicken, peanut butter, and beef flavors.
See Spot Bam-Bones Plus at Chewy
Best for Treats: Kong Extreme
Building on the classic Kong design, the Kong Extreme is made with a more robust rubber compound, making it ideal for aggressive chewers. Its hollow interior can be filled with treats like peanut butter or kibble, providing mental stimulation and a rewarding chewing experience. While excellent for treat dispensing, its size and shape might make it less ideal for general chewing compared to the Kong Extreme Tires.
Best Tug Toy: Kong Wubba
The Kong Wubba is not designed for constant gnawing but excels as a tug toy and for fetch. Its durable ballistic nylon exterior and reinforced stitching can withstand the rigors of tug-of-war with aggressive chewers. The toy features two balls, one of which squeaks, and strips of nylon that are easy to grip during play. Schultz praises its durability, noting that it holds up exceptionally well even after weeks of intense play.
Best Subscription Box: Bullymake
For a consistent supply of durable toys, consider a subscription box like Bullymake. This service curates monthly boxes specifically for dogs who are tough on their toys. Each box typically includes two to three toys made from sturdy materials like nylon, rubber, and rope, along with treats.
What to Look for in Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers
When choosing toys for your dog, several factors are crucial:
- Safety: A quality toy should be safe. Experts recommend that you should be able to indent the toy’s material with your fingernail. If it’s too hard, it could damage your dog’s teeth. Dense rubber is often a good material choice, but remember that almost any toy can break into pieces if chewed aggressively.
- Durability: The toy must withstand the strength of your dog’s jaws. However, direct supervision is key, especially if your dog enjoys ripping toys apart.
- Size: Ensure the toy is appropriately sized for your dog. Too small a toy can be a choking hazard or lead to intestinal blockages if swallowed. Consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about the right size.
- Materials: Dense rubber is a recommended material. For softer options, look for toys with double-layered fabric and reinforced seams. Offering a variety of textures can also cater to different preferences.
How Toys Are Tested
The recommendations in this guide are based on expert advice and rigorous testing. This includes observing how dogs interact with the toys over extended periods and even subjecting the toys to stress tests to evaluate their durability and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aggressive Chewers
What is the best dog toy for a heavy chewer?
Toys from the Kong Extreme line are highly recommended for heavy chewers due to their tough rubber construction. While no toy is indestructible, these are known for their durability and safety for teeth and gums.
What material is best for aggressive chewers?
Dense rubber is generally ideal. However, for dogs who enjoy shredding plush toys, close supervision is essential to prevent ingestion of stuffing or fabric.
What should I give an aggressive chewer?
Balance safety with your dog’s preferences. A toy should be durable yet interesting. If your dog tends to swallow pieces, edible chews designed for safe consumption might be a better alternative.
Why does my dog aggressively chew toys?
Chewing is a natural and pleasurable activity for dogs. Aggressive chewing typically becomes an issue when it’s directed towards inappropriate items. Boredom or anxiety can also contribute to destructive chewing behaviors.
This article was written by Steph Coelho, a freelance writer with a passion for pet products, and edited by Lisa Sabatini, a Senior Editor specializing in pets at Business Insider.
