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This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet has a health problem or a sudden change in behavior, talk to your vet.
If your dog destroys a plush toy in four minutes, you already know that "tough" on the label doesn't mean much. Here's what holds up, and what's too hard to be safe.
The safety rule: not harder than teeth
Many veterinary dentists warn against chews that are harder than a dog's teeth, such as antlers, cooked bones, and hard nylon, because they can fracture teeth. A common rule of thumb: if you can't dent it with your thumbnail, or it would hurt to be hit on the knee with it, it's too hard.
Also avoid anything small enough to swallow whole, and throw away toys once chunks start coming off.
Durable toys power chewers tend to respect
- KONG Extreme: the black version of the classic KONG, made from a tougher rubber. It bounces unpredictably and can be stuffed with food, which keeps chewers busy longer.
- West Paw Zogoflex Hurley: a bone-shaped toy made of a firm but flexible material. West Paw offers a one-time replacement if your dog damages it (check the current terms).
- GoughNuts: rubber rings and sticks built specifically for power chewers, with a colored safety indicator layer inside: if you see it, it's time to replace the toy.
Make toys last longer
- Rotate. Keep a few toys out and swap weekly. Novelty keeps interest high.
- Supervise new toys until you know how your dog treats them.
- Add food. Stuffed and frozen rubber toys shift chewing from destroying to working.
- Size up. When in doubt, pick the next size up.
When chewing is a symptom
Destructive chewing is often boredom, under-exercise, or anxiety when left alone. More exercise, puzzle feeders and training usually help more than a tougher toy. If the chewing happens mostly when you're gone, it may be separation-related; a vet or certified trainer can help.