Tough Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers: A Practical Guide

Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with the remnants of plush toys? Are you tired of wasting money on "indestructible" dog toys for aggressive chewers that don't last? Then this post is for you. We'll cover everything you need to know about finding the best dog toys for aggressive chewers, so you can finally give your pup something safe, durable, and fun.

Sounds like you have a Super Chewer.

You’re not alone. Per Sniffspot’s proprietary research into dog chewing behavior, 47% of dog guardians report having a dog that is an aggressive chewer. And only 56% of dog parents with tough chewers have been satisfied with their dogs chew toys while 44% have not found them up to snuff.

We have you covered!

Here’s a roundup of some of the best dog toy products for aggressive chewers. One of these tough, durable chew recommendations is sure to not only make your pup happy—but also actually stand up to their strong teeth. Win-win because providing appropriate chewing outlets can help prevent household destruction!

Why is chewing important for dogs?

Dogs evolved in an open world. They could act naturally without unfair repercussions. Ancient canines had space to run, interesting scents to sniff, food to scavenge for, and opportunities to move their bodies freely.

In today’s human society, though, these things are at a premium for our domestic dog companions. While it’s important our pets can fit into our modern lives, it’s also important we meet their needs!

Enter canine enrichment: A movement to provide them with the kinds of experiences they evolved for. Proper mental and physical stimulation can be an important way to prevent unwanted behaviors and improve our pets’ overall quality of life.

One type of this mental and physical stimulation? Chewing! Natural behaviors like sniffing and chewing can help our dogs relieve anxiety and feel more comfortable with their surroundings. Chewing is also a way to shake off stress after the fact—plus it can give your dog an appropriate outlet when they’re feeling antsy and you’re unable to interact with them. Heavy super chewers in particular benefit from being able to engage in this instinct.

You can read more about natural canine instincts and behaviors in our comprehensive guide to canine enrichment.

Key Takeaways

• Choose durable toys wisely: Select toys made from tough materials like dense rubber or thick nylon, keeping your dog's age and chewing habits in mind. Avoid easily destructible toys or those with small, swallowable parts.
• Supervision is essential: Always monitor your dog during chewing sessions, even with durable toys. This prevents accidental ingestion of toy pieces and allows you to redirect inappropriate chewing. Positive reinforcement helps build good habits.
• Keep chewing engaging: Offer a variety of durable chew toys and rotate them regularly to prevent boredom. Combine chew toys with other enrichment activities, such as walks, training, and puzzle toys, for a well-rounded and happy dog.

What kind of chews are safe for dogs to use?

There’s a lot of conflicting information out there about what dog chews are and aren’t safe for your pet. We wish there was a simple, straightforward answer—but the truth is that it depends on your individual dog.

Some canines are able to chew just about anything with no problems. Others are only able to have the softest possible toys to avoid cracking teeth, pulling off big chunks, or experiencing digestive problems.

According to Sniffspot’s survey, 87% of dog guardians with aggressive chewers have bought toys specifically designed for aggressive chewers.

Risks of poor quality chews and toys

30% of dog guardians with aggressive chewers reported to Sniffspot’s survey that have had a dog experience a health issue, like a fractured tooth or upset stomach, from a dog chew.

• Per our proprietary research, the most common breeds to report health issues from dog chews are:
  • Border Collie (44% reported)
  • Australian Shepherd (38% reported)
• And the least common breeds to report health issues from dog chews are:
  • Golden Retriever (28% reported)
  • Mixed breed (28% reported)
  • Pitbull / American Staffordshire Terrier (26% reported)

Teeth fractures and other dental problems

When you give your dog a toy, bone, antler, or other chew that’s too hard for their chewing style, you run the risk of them cracking a tooth. These fractures can range from minor to severe and might even require complete extraction (which is a costly process for you and a painful, stressful one for your pup who’s used to having all their teeth).

Super chewers might be more prone to tooth fractures because they exert so much force when chomping on their pet products. This is something to keep in mind while looking at toys for dogs!

Digestive upset

Some dogs seem to naturally know not to swallow anything that isn’t food. They’ll spit out stuffing or rubber chew toy remnants without issue. Unfortunately, though, most dogs don’t fit into this category—vets across the country deal with thousands of foreign body removal surgeries each year. Consuming part of a toy or chew could result in minor digestive discomfort while the object passes or more serious complications like a full obstruction.

Choking Hazards and Blockages

Some toys are more dangerous than others. For example, toys with small parts or ones that easily break apart pose a choking hazard. A tennis ball-sized toy can be dangerous for a small dog, while a slightly smaller toy can be dangerous for a medium or large dog. Always supervise your dog with any new chew toy to make sure they aren’t able to break off and swallow small pieces. According to one source, balls smaller than 1.75 inches in diameter can easily become lodged in a dog's throat. Even if a toy isn’t small enough to be a choking hazard, large pieces can still cause digestive upset or blockages.

Rope toys, while popular, can also present a risk. As your dog chews and frays the ends of the rope, they may ingest loose fibers, which can lead to intestinal blockages. If you choose to give your dog a rope toy, make sure to replace it when it starts to fray. Experts warn against certain rope toys for this reason.

Toxicity from Materials or Dyes

In addition to physical hazards, the materials and dyes used in dog toys can also pose risks. Some toys contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful if ingested. Always choose toys made from safe, non-toxic materials. Look for certifications or labels that indicate the toy meets safety standards. It’s also important to be mindful of toys from other household members, especially small children, as these may not be designed for dogs and could contain harmful substances. Safe materials are key for your dog's health.

Prioritizing your dog's safety when selecting toys is crucial. By considering the potential choking hazards, blockage risks, and toxicity of materials, you can help ensure your furry friend enjoys playtime without unnecessary health risks. If you are ever unsure about the safety of a particular toy, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian.

Here are some general things to look out for in the chew products you buy:

First things first: Read customer reviews from fellow dog parents!

This word-of-mouth input can be invaluable in determining whether a certain pet product will be a hit with your own pup or not. Prioritize the most recent customer reviews when scrolling through to get the most updated information.

Tough chewer toy sizes

The right size chew will depend on your individual dog. In general, you want your dog’s toys to be small enough that they can pick them up and enjoy playing with them but large enough that they aren’t able to swallow them (either by accident or on purpose).

Powerful, tough chewers can break larger toys into smaller parts, which is why it’s important to consider the material as well. Opt for heavy duty options when in doubt.

More on that next!

Aggressive chewer toy materials

Edible chews for tough chewers

If you’re going to give your dog an edible chew—something like a bully stick or treat designed to be completely consumed—look for natural, single-ingredient options as much as possible. Avoid rawhides or heavily processed chews with lots of additives. As a bonus, these natural chews can often help clean your dog’s teeth alongside your regular brushing routine!

Natural Chews (Antlers, Bully Sticks, etc.)

If you’re going to give your dog an edible chew—something like a bully stick or treat designed to be completely consumed—look for natural, single-ingredient options as much as possible. Avoid rawhides or heavily processed chews with lots of additives. As a bonus, these natural chews can often help clean your dog’s teeth alongside your regular brushing routine!

Always supervise your dog with any chew, edible or not, to mitigate choking hazards. Even single-ingredient chews can present a choking risk if a dog breaks off and swallows a large chunk. If you are looking for a place for your dog to enjoy a chew and play freely, check out Sniffspot's listings of private dog parks near you! Many hosts allow edible chews on their property.

Synthetic Edible Chews

While there are many synthetic edible chews on the market, it's important to be cautious. Some dogs seem to naturally know not to swallow anything that isn’t food. They’ll spit out stuffing or rubber chew toy remnants without issue. Unfortunately, though, most dogs don’t fit into this category—vets across the country deal with thousands of foreign body removal surgeries each year. Consuming part of a toy or chew could result in minor digestive discomfort while the object passes, or more serious complications like a full obstruction. If your dog ingests something they shouldn't, consider taking them to the emergency vet.

If you choose to offer your dog a synthetic edible chew, prioritize those made of digestible materials, and look for options free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. As always, supervise your dog closely when they have any chew.

Inedible chew toy materials

If you’re looking for an inedible chew toy, a range of materials work for different dogs. Still look for natural varieties and aim for durable, sturdy materials that won’t fracture or break easily. (Avoid simple plastic objects or soft, flimsy fabric that sharp teeth can easily puncture. Soft rubber is out, too.)

Durable rubber (like thermoplastic rubber), dense nylon, thick rope, and similar options can be good ideas depending on your pup. Many pets especially appreciate a textured surface that makes chewing more interesting.

Some chew toy material floats in water while many others will sink quickly. It’s up to you how much this matters for your individual dog. (Most pups probably won’t do much chewing while near a pool or pond, after all.)

To squeak or not to squeak?

Squeakers can be a bonus or a challenge for some dogs. Many pets find the high-pitched squeaks incredibly fun! Other pups become extra fixated on toys that have squeakers inside, which makes them more likely to rip the product apart.

In summary, materials to look for:

• Durable rubber (thermoplastic rubber, other dense rubber)
• Durable nylon (there are different formulations of nylon, sometimes just a ballistic nylon exterior is enough)
• Thick rope designed not to fray
• Natural materials
• Single-ingredient chews whenever possible
• Squeakers if your dog enjoys and is safe with them

Super chewer toy shapes

The shape of your dog’s chews and toys can affect not only their interest and excitement about them, but also their risks of swallowing them whole or breaking pieces off.

• Ring-shaped toys are a common option for intense chewers, since it’s harder for dogs to tear off small parts. Depending on the sizes, many of them are also great for games of tug!
• Bone- and stick-shaped toys are popular because many dogs enjoy that particular shape and are able to “hold” it between their paws. There’s more wiggle room for different sizes due to the shape.
• Balls are a great choice for fetch, but it’s important to be extra thoughtful about how small or large they are. Many dogs accidentally swallow too-little options while playing fetch, especially as they get slobbery (and slippery). Some aggressive chewers also enjoy nibbling on ball toys on their own.
• Frisbees are also a good fetch option and, depending on material, can be a great choice for dogs who love to chew and consume their toys since they’re usually too large to entirely fit in a dog’s mouth.

Ring-shaped

Ring-shaped toys are a common option for intense chewers, since it’s harder for dogs to tear off small parts. Many of these are also great for games of tug, depending on the size! This can be a good option if your dog likes to play fetch and chew. A ring-shaped toy can give your dog a satisfying chewing experience while also providing an opportunity for interactive play.

Bone/Stick-style

Bone- and stick-shaped toys are popular because many dogs enjoy that particular shape and are able to “hold” it between their paws. There’s more wiggle room for different sizes due to the shape. These can also be good for solo chewing or playing fetch. If you're looking for ways to handle your dog's chewing habits, check out this article.

Stuffable

Food-stuffed toys can keep your dog entertained and engaged. This can be a good option for dogs who are motivated by food or who enjoy puzzle toys. Some stuffable toys are also designed for aggressive chewers, with durable materials that can withstand lots of chomping. For more tips on aggressive chewers, this article has some helpful advice.

Tug Toys/Ropes

Rope toys are a popular choice for tug-of-war games, but they can tear and fray. If your dog enjoys ripping apart rope toys, it might be best to avoid them. However, some rope toys are designed for aggressive chewers, with thicker ropes and reinforced knots. Check out this Reddit thread for more discussion on toys for aggressive chewers.

Ball-style

Balls are a great choice for fetch, but it’s important to be extra thoughtful about how small or large they are. Many dogs accidentally swallow too-small options while playing fetch, especially as they get slobbery (and slippery). Some aggressive chewers also enjoy nibbling on ball toys on their own. This article offers more guidance on choosing the right size chew toy for your dog.

Discs/Flying Toys

Frisbees are also a good fetch option and, depending on material, can be a great choice for dogs who love to chew and consume their toys since they’re usually too large to entirely fit in a dog’s mouth. Look for frisbees made of durable rubber or nylon. Here's some additional information on selecting appropriate toys for your dog's chewing habits.

Durable Plush Toys

Even plush toys can be made durable for aggressive chewers. These toys often have multiple layers of stitching and reinforced seams to prevent them from being easily ripped apart. They can be a good option for dogs who enjoy cuddling with their toys as well as chewing on them. This blog post from City Line Vet discusses various dog toys for chewers, including durable plush options.

Here’s what to pay attention to in your individual pet:

Age and dental health

Age often correlates with dental health and teeth strength. (Know there’s always variability within individuals, though.)

Teething puppies require ample things to chew on, but it’s important to provide softer options that won’t cause pain or be too difficult for them to maneuver. Young adult dogs can generally handle the hardest, most durable chews. Elderly dogs often need softer options.

Chewing style

Some dogs are gentle nibblers. Others go hard on their chews and toys, tearing off pieces and destroying things quickly. (If you’re reading this article, you’re probably here because you have the latter type of companion.)

Nibblers can be trusted with a wider variety of chew toy sizes and materials, since it’s unlikely they’ll break pieces off (or press hard enough to fracture a tooth.)

Digestive system strength

Some dogs have very sensitive stomachs or chronic digestive conditions. It’s extra important to limit the materials they chew on—both for edible treats and inedible toys—since the potential fallout from them ingesting something they shouldn’t is higher.

That’s not to say we should be relaxed about allowing otherwise healthy dogs to consume anything they want! Simply that some dogs require even more caution. (We know. Being a responsible dog parent is a lot of work.)

Breed-Specific Considerations

While every dog is an individual, some breeds are known for being more intense chewers than others. Many herding breeds, for example, have strong jaws and a natural instinct to bite and nip, which translates to a higher likelihood of them destroying toys.

According to Sniffspot’s survey, 30% of dog guardians with aggressive chewers reported that their dog experienced a health issue—like a fractured tooth or upset stomach—from a dog chew. The most common breeds reported to experience these issues were Border Collies (44%) and Australian Shepherds (38%). Golden Retrievers, mixed breeds, and Pitbulls/American Staffordshire Terriers were the least common breeds reported (28%, 28%, and 26% respectively). Keep in mind that these are just averages, and your individual dog's chewing habits might vary.

If you have a breed known for powerful chewing—or simply a dog who loves to destroy their toys—pay extra attention to the materials and durability of the products you buy. Prioritize toys designed specifically for aggressive chewers to reduce the risk of tooth fractures or digestive upset. Super chewers might be especially prone to tooth fractures because they exert so much force when chomping on their toys. This is something to keep in mind while shopping.

Remember, providing appropriate chewing outlets can help prevent household destruction and keep your dog happy and entertained. Finding the right chew toy can be a game-changer!

Should you have separate chew toys and interactive toys?

Many trainers recommend having designated toys that you store out of your dog’s reach and only take out when you’re going to play an exciting game together. This has a few benefits, like:

• Lengthening the life of toys since your dog can’t play with them 24/7 (or while unsupervised)
• Creating more value in the special toys that are only used for play with you
• Preventing your dog from choking on or swallowing pieces of more fragile toys

Many owners do like giving their dogs the option to play with chews or toys when interactive games aren’t possible, though—like during the work day or while making dinner. One solution here is to divide toys up into two categories based on your pup’s interest level, chewing style, and product durability. One group will always be available for your dog to channel arousal into and chew on their own. The other will be kept away and only brought out for play time with you.

What’s more: Rotating your dog’s toy selection can keep them from getting bored! You might also consider changing out the toys that are available every couple of weeks to keep things interesting.

The best dog toys for aggressive chewers

No toy is completely indestructible. That said, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular products based on online reviews from fellow dog owners with aggressive chewers. Take a look below!

Recommendations from Dog Owners (Reddit r/DogAdvice)

Brands and Specific Toys

Natural Chews and Cautions

DogTuff.com: Durable Dog Toys

Brands, Price Range, Sizes, and Discounts

Durability Ratings and Guarantees

M.C. Works on Amazon: "Indestructible" Dog Toys

Features, Shapes, and Treat-Dispensing Options

Customer Reviews and Price Range

Subscription Boxes for Aggressive Chewers

Popular Brands and Customization Options

21 Specific Toy Recommendations (Cityline Vet)

Tough interactive toys for games like tug

• Goughnuts Tug: Goughnuts are often cited as some of the most indestructible dog toys available. This large double ring is specifically designed for tug-of-war with strong, intense dogs. The manufacturers boast that the dense rubber material is basically impossible to destroy.
• Otterly Pets Puppy Dog Pet Rope Toys: Rope can be a hit-or-miss material for intense chewers, and we recommend these most for interactive games where you’re clearly supervising so the ends can’t fray and be consumed. Otterly Pets says these toys are made of nontoxic cotton and can hold up to aggressive chewers.
• West Paw Zogoflex Bumi Dog Tug Toy: West Paw is known for many tough, durable dog toy options. They note that the Bumi is designed for more gentle chewers due to its flexibility during tug (it can stretch out to almost a straight line) but many owners have found the material to be effective for their stronger dogs’ jaws so long as they don’t allow free chewing. It’s made of thermoplastic rubber for durability.

Durable interactive toys for dogs who like to play fetch

• KONG Extreme Dog Toy Rubber Ball: Kong is another brand known for creating strong toys that can stand up to many dogs’ jaws. Of this heavy-duty rubber ball, they say “the natural KONG Extreme black rubber formula is created to be very durable for power chewing dogs” and “this toy is puncture resistant for continued safe play.” It’s perfect for extreme chewers. The bouncy rubber construction makes for fun, fast-paced games!
• Chew King Fetch Balls Durable Natural Dog Toy Ball: Chew King boasts that these balls’ “durable, natural, no chemical smell rubber retains shape, bounces well, and stands up to tough chew. Safety air vent protects your pup, keeps happy tongues from getting stuck.” You can also store treats inside the dense rubber for your dog to work out as a type of food enrichment instead of just interactive fetch, or even put soft food like peanut butter inside the small opening.
• IMK9 Dog Frisbee Indestructible Disc Toy: IMK9 has two main claims about this tough dog frisbee. The first is that “hard plastic Frisbees can shatter or splinter, and sharp shards of plastic could injure your beloved pooch. Our frisbee is different—it’s made of soft natural rubber. It will never break up into sharp pieces that could hurt your dog.” They also offer a replacement guarantee: “If your dog destroys this frisbee, then we’ll refund your money or send you a new one for free.” We usually don’t recommend soft rubber for heavy chewers, but IMK9 knows what they’re doing here with their flexible rubber disc!
• Kong Flyer: Kong highlights that “the natural rubber [of the Kong Flyer] makes for a softer, forgiving catch during fetch. It also delivers a dynamic rebound if your dog misses the initial toss. The natural KONG Classic red rubber formula is created to be durable.” This is a classic, flexible rubber disc that can generally stand up to some tug-of-war action, too. Note that it only sometimes floats in water—depending on the way it lands, it can collect liquid and eventually sink to the bottom or hover somewhere beneath the surface.
• Outward Hound Invincibles: Plush toys usually aren’t recommended for intense chewers—and for good reason! Outward Hound creates some designs that can stand up to many tough jaws, though. They say “Invincibles are durable plush dog toys uniquely designed with an inner Dura-Tuff lining and reinforced with double-stitched seams for longer-lasting interactive play!”

Sturdy toys for dogs to chew on their own

• Pet Qwerks BarkBone Stick: These sticks can keep your dog occupied for long chunks of time—safely. “BarkBone Nylon Stick Dog Bones are designed with an all-new natural look and texture and made for easy pickup with plenty of nubs & knots to chew. Made with premium artisan nylon, these dog bones work best for determined & aggressive chewers.” They are flavored, too. The peanut butter option is popular!
• Willie Bones Modern Dog Chew Toy: According to the company, “Willie Bones are made with 100% natural rubber and are non-toxic, BPA and Phthalate free! Chewing is crucial for jaw strength, oral health and cleanliness, relieving separation anxiety and curing boredom.” Durable non-toxic rubber is a great material option to avoid adult teeth fractures while still satisfying your dog’s heavy chewer instincts.
• West Paw Tux Treat Toy: West Paw says their Tux Treat Toy is built for aggressive chewers. “With three solid lobes, Tux is our toughest treat toy—made to stand up to some fearsome fangs. Tux’s treat-hiding hollow cavity makes it ideal for short-snouted breeds to get to the nut butters, biscuits, and meaty bits. Once treats are long gone, Tux floats in water, bounces, and hangs tough through serious chew sessions.” We recommend filling it with plain greek yogurt, peanut butter, or even a special can of wet food.
• Feeko Ring Dog Chew Toy: Feeko takes advantage of the ring shape, though this toy is not big enough for most dogs to tug with—its better as a standalone chew option. “The shape is designed using basic mechanics and engineering principles. So these irregularities make the product more durable. Our chewing toy has passed countless times tested with German Shepherd, French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Siberian Husky, Rab Rado, Golden Retriever, and many other powered chewers.” They also provide a lifetime replacement service.
• Gucho Chew Ring Indestructible Dog Toy: Gaucho says “the new material is updated based on previous rubber and nylon materials. The new industrial-strength natural rubber is softer than nylon toys, tougher than previous rubber toys, no breaking teeth or chunks but can hold almost the toughest chews.”
• Goughnuts Black MAXX Ring: As mentioned above, Goughnuts are often cited as some of the most indestructible dog toys available. These are single rings in multiple sizes meant for your dog to chew to their heart’s content.
• Goughnuts Stick: The same Goughnuts material many dog owners love in a straight stick format to enable your pup to hold it between their paws while they chew.
• KONG Extreme Chew Toy: This is a more durable take on the classic red Kong toy that has become a common sight in many dog owner homes. Kong says “this rubber toy is specifically designed for super power chewers and can help them get the exercise they need.” You can fill it with their favorite treats (peanut butter, greek yogurt, small bite-sized pieces, wet food, etc) to keep them occupied for different periods of time, like as you do chores around the house or practice introductory crate training.
• KONG Extreme Goodie Bone: Kong says “made from the most durable KONG Extreme unique, natural black rubber formula this bone is designed for determined chewers.”

Supervise your dog while they chew!

Note that when we say “chew on their own” we mean not directly interacting with you in a game of tug, fetch, or other structured play—but that you absolutely should still supervise! Even durable rubber toys. designed for aggressive chewers, can be dangerous in the wrong circumstances.

Only leave your dog unattended with a toy or chew if you’re fully confident they won’t have problems with it. For example, some owners provide kongs or other thermoplastic rubber enrichment toys stuffed with treats like peanut butter in their dogs’ crates before leaving the house, without issue. Others keep crates completely empty because of their pets’ tendencies to rip or devour anything they’re confined with (even if it purports to be made of indestructible rubber or nylon).

The best advice we have: Get to know your own dog and make careful risk assessments.

When in doubt? Consult with your trusted veterinarian or a professional trainer who can help you make decisions about your pup’s wellbeing!

Tips for Managing Aggressive Chewers

Finding the right chew toys is a great first step, but it’s not the only thing you can do to help an aggressive chewer. Here are some additional tips for managing your dog's chewing habits:

Environmental Management

Think of environmental management as setting your dog up for success. One of the simplest things you can do is manage your dog’s environment to reduce the temptation to chew on inappropriate items. Keep shoes, personal belongings, and anything else your dog might be attracted to out of reach. Remember, your scent on these items makes them particularly appealing. If you can’t put things away in a closet or drawer, try using storage bins or placing items on high shelves. A tidy space can make a big difference!

Providing Appropriate Chew Toys

As we’ve discussed, providing a variety of appropriate chew toys is essential for aggressive chewers. Offer a selection of durable toys designed for aggressive chewers, such as ropes, Nylabones, rubber balls, and rawhide chews (always supervise with rawhide). Choose toys that are the right size for your dog to prevent swallowing hazards. A good rule of thumb is that the toy should be large enough that your dog can’t fit it entirely in their mouth. Variety is key! Just like us, dogs can get bored with the same old toys. Rotating toys regularly can help keep things interesting and prevent your dog from seeking out other, less desirable items to chew on. You can also try offering toys with different textures and materials to keep your dog engaged.

According to Sniffspot’s research, 87% of dog guardians with aggressive chewers have already invested in toys specifically designed for powerful chewers. If you haven't yet, it's definitely worth exploring these options.

Enrichment and Mental Stimulation

Chewing isn’t just about having something to gnaw on; it's also a valuable outlet for your dog’s energy and a way to relieve stress and boredom. A bored dog is much more likely to become a destructive chewer. Provide plenty of opportunities for physical exercise and mental stimulation to keep your dog happy and engaged. This could include daily walks, playtime in a secure dog park (Sniffspot has some great options!), puzzle toys, or even training sessions. Chewing can also be a great way for your dog to self-soothe when they’re feeling anxious or restless. Consider offering a frozen Kong or other food-stuffed toy to keep your dog occupied and entertained.

Positive Reinforcement Training

Positive reinforcement training can be incredibly effective in managing aggressive chewing. When you see your dog chewing on an appropriate toy, praise them enthusiastically and offer a small treat or a favorite toy. This helps reinforce the desired behavior and makes it more likely that your dog will choose their toys over your belongings. If you catch your dog chewing on something they shouldn’t, calmly redirect them to one of their chew toys. Avoid punishment, as this can create anxiety and actually worsen the problem. Consistency is key with positive reinforcement, so make sure everyone in the household is on the same page.

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Finding the Right Toys for Your Dog at Sniffspot

While Sniffspot focuses on connecting dog owners with safe and enriching spaces like private dog parks, dog water parks, and even indoor dog parks, we understand the importance of providing your dog with appropriate chew toys, too! Finding the right toys can contribute to a happy and well-adjusted pup, whether they're enjoying playtime at home or exploring one of our Sniffspot locations.

Choosing suitable toys for your furry friend can significantly enhance their overall well-being. Just like humans, dogs benefit from mental and physical stimulation, and toys play a crucial role in providing this. Appropriate toys can help alleviate boredom, reduce anxiety, and even prevent destructive behaviors stemming from pent-up energy. For aggressive chewers, durable toys are especially important to ensure their safety and satisfaction. You can find more tips on enrichment and training on our blog.

When selecting toys for your dog, consider factors such as their age, chewing habits, and any specific needs they may have. Puppies, for instance, require softer toys that won't damage their developing teeth, while senior dogs may benefit from toys that are gentle on their aging jaws. For aggressive chewers, look for toys made from robust materials like durable rubber or tough nylon. Our article on how to handle a dog chewing offers valuable insights into choosing the right toys for aggressive chewers, including material considerations and size recommendations.

At Sniffspot, we believe that every dog deserves a safe and stimulating environment, whether it's at a Sniffspot location or in the comfort of their own home. By providing your dog with appropriate chew toys and engaging in regular playtime, you can contribute to their physical and mental well-being, strengthening the bond you share. If you're looking for a safe and fun place for your dog to play and socialize, be sure to explore the dog parks available on Sniffspot!

Trainers that reviewed this article

There is so much misinformation out there, and we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality content to our community. We have our articles reviewed by qualified force free trainers.  

This is the trainer that reviewed this article:

Lindy Langum
Founder – K9 Fun Club
Staff Trainer – Summit Assistance Dogs
Certified in Canine Studies (CSS), NW School of Canine Studies

Sniffspot’s Proprietary Survey Statistics

Sniffspot Research 2023, n = 4,092

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• Best Toys for Herding Dogs - Border Collies, Cattle Dogs, Shepherds

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Frequently Asked Questions

My dog destroys every toy within minutes. Are there really toys that can hold up? While no toy is truly indestructible, many products on the market are designed specifically for aggressive chewers. Look for toys made from durable materials like dense rubber (like thermoplastic rubber), thick nylon, or tough rope. Reading reviews from other dog owners with similar pups can also help you find a toy that will last.

My dog swallowed a piece of a chew toy. What should I do? If your dog swallows a piece of a chew toy, monitor them closely for any signs of distress, such as vomiting, loss of appetite, or changes in bowel movements. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. They can advise you on the best course of action.

Are certain chew toys safer than others? The safety of a chew toy depends on your individual dog's chewing style, size, and age. Even toys marketed as "indestructible" can pose a risk if your dog manages to break off pieces. Always supervise your dog with any new chew toy, and inspect their toys regularly for wear and tear. Replace toys as needed to prevent choking hazards or digestive issues.

What's the difference between a chew toy and an interactive toy? Chew toys are designed for independent chewing and can help satisfy a dog's natural urge to gnaw. Interactive toys, like tug ropes or fetch balls, are meant for engaging in playtime with your dog. It's a good idea to have both types of toys to provide a variety of enrichment opportunities.

Besides toys, what else can I do to manage my dog's aggressive chewing? Managing your dog's environment, providing plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation, and using positive reinforcement training can all help curb destructive chewing. Make sure your dog has plenty of appropriate outlets for their energy and that they are rewarded for chewing on their toys instead of your belongings.