Chew toys for dogs are very popular and exist in various materials, shapes and sizes.
© Nataliajakubcova - Shutterstock
Best chew toys for dogs in 2024: Our Top 5
Chew toys are essential for a dog's well-being. They help fight boredom and ensure good dental hygiene, as long as they are chosen properly. Discover our top selection of indestructible dog toys.
Made from various materials, such as rubber, rope or even deer antlers, neutral or flashy colours, chew toys for dogs come in all shapes and sizes. The old, let's be honest, pretty disgusting chew bone or used tennis ball have now thankfully been replaced.
A good dog chew toy must meet several requirements: it has to be durable, safe and interesting for the animal. Fortunately, there is something for every dog’s taste, from tasty antlers and the fun Kong toys to the timeless chew rope. When it comes to safety, avoid stuffed toys or thin plastic objects and opt for an indestructible dog toy. Make sure your purchase is suitable for your pet's jaw size. Of course a Chihuahua, for example, won't be able to play with the same toy as an Australian Shepherd.
How do you find the right chew toy for your pet? Let our selection be your guide and help you choose your pet's newest toy in just one click.
Summary
Why should I buy a dog chew toy for my pet?
Dogs are domestic carnivores, their ancestors hunted and fed on raw meat and bones that they had to chew and grind. Our adorable pets inherited a set of sturdy teeth and an irrepressible instinct to chew. Chew toys for dogs safely meet this need. Chewing in dogs can be observed from a very young age. Unfortunately, it can sometimes be satisfied with the help of your most beloved tennis shoes. To prevent this, nothing is better than a quality chew toy for dogs. A friendly tip: avoid chew toys in the shape of shoes, as your dog may get confused. Buying a chew toy for your dog will help first and foremost protect your belongings and, above all, please your pet... but not just that.
What are the benefits of chew toys for dogs?
Like we said earlier, dog chew toys cater to the chewing needs of dogs. Chewing on a toy for hours on end can keep the animal occupied when they are alone. Chewing is also relaxing and soothing for dogs, which means there’s nothing better than a chew toy for an anxious animal. If their favourite toy can also be filled with treats or tasty food, your pet will be happy for hours.
Chew toys for dogs improve your pooch’s oral health as they strengthen their jaws and mechanically fight plaque. Some toys have nubs or bristles to enhance the tartar-fighting effect. And if you add a little dog toothpaste to the grooves, you can call it a dog toothbrush. Some chew toys can also be thrown or tossed in the air, allowing you to play with your pet for maximum bonding.
How long can chew toys for dogs last?
It depends. Certain toys, like deer antlers or solid rubber Kong toys, are very durable. As long as you choose the right size for your dog's jaw, that is. Keep in mind that a Pinscher and a German Shepherd have very different jaw strengths. Make sure to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before buying a chew toy for big dogs. Some are certified as "large jaws" or "strong chewers".
Others, made of plastic or cotton, are more fragile and are not suitable for every dog. Some animals with strong jaws or hyperactive chewing will destroy them in a few minutes. A crushed and swallowed dog chew toy can cause an intestinal obstruction, which is a serious condition. These more delicate items may be suitable for a small or medium breed dog, but if your dog is the Attila type, better leave them on the shelf.
From what age can I give my dog chew toys?
Why wait? The need to chew is already very present in young dogs. You can give your puppy a chew toy for dogs as soon as they arrive home, usually at around 2 or 3 months old. Like adults, chewing on a toy helps puppies to calm down and strengthen their jaws. It can also relieve the pain of the permanent teeth coming in which usually happens between the age of 3 and 7 months old. If your new puppy is prone to chewing on your hands or clothes, feel free to give them a chew toy instead. They'll soon understand what's allowed and what is not!
Are there chew toys for indoor dogs?
City dogs who spend long hours in a house or flat really appreciate chew toys for dogs. For indoor pets, it's best to forget about balls or bouncing objects, as these can break a few vases or annoy the neighbours. A thick rope swung in all directions can also cause problems in tight spaces.
What about squeaky toys for dogs? A lot of fun at first, they can become a real pain at 5 am, so use those with caution. For better hygiene, washable or odourless dog chews are recommended for use indoors.
