Some dogs destroy a plush toy in minutes and chew through “tough” toys within days. If your dog is a power chewer, finding toys that last, and that are safe, can feel like a constant challenge. No toy is truly indestructible, but some materials and designs hold up much better than others.
This guide explains what makes a toy suitable for heavy chewers, popular options to compare and how to keep chewing safe. We describe products based on published design and materials rather than our own testing.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Ask your veterinarian about safe chews for your dog, especially if your dog has dental issues or has swallowed toy pieces before.
Why Dogs Chew
Chewing is a normal dog behavior. Dogs chew to:
- Relieve boredom and stress
- Explore their environment
- Ease teething discomfort in puppies
- Satisfy a natural urge
Providing appropriate chew toys can redirect chewing away from furniture and shoes.
What Makes a Good Toy for Heavy Chewers?
Durable Materials
- Natural rubber: Firm but with some give. Often used in stuffable toys.
- Nylon: Hard and long-lasting, but can be very firm.
- Thermoplastic elastomers: Flexible, bouncy materials used by some brands.
Appropriate Size
A toy should be large enough that your dog cannot swallow it or get it lodged in the throat. When in doubt, size up.
Solid Construction
Avoid toys with small parts, squeakers or seams that a power chewer can tear open.
Appropriate Firmness
Many veterinarians caution against chews that are too hard, since very hard objects may risk tooth fractures. A common guideline is that if you cannot press a fingernail into the surface or it would hurt to be hit on the knee with it, it may be too hard. Ask your veterinarian for guidance.
Popular Toys for Heavy Chewers
KONG Extreme
A black natural rubber version of the classic KONG, designed for powerful chewers. It can be stuffed with food or treats for enrichment and frozen for longer engagement.
West Paw Zogoflex Toys
West Paw makes a range of toys from Zogoflex, a flexible, durable material. Some toys are designed to be stuffed with treats. West Paw has offered a replacement guarantee on some toys; check current terms.
Goughnuts
Goughnuts makes rubber ring and stick toys designed for heavy chewers, with an indicator layer meant to show when the toy should be replaced.
Nylabone Power Chew
Nylabone offers hard nylon chews in a range of flavors and sizes. Monitor wear and replace when worn.
Benebone
Benebone makes nylon chews shaped for easy gripping, infused with flavors such as bacon or peanut. Like other nylon chews, they should be replaced when worn down.
Rubber Balls
Durable rubber balls from various brands can work for fetch, but choose a size that cannot be swallowed.
Toy Types and Their Uses
| Toy Type | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stuffable rubber toy | Enrichment and long chewing sessions | Can be frozen with food inside |
| Nylon chew | Independent chewing | Replace when worn; check firmness |
| Durable ball | Fetch | Choose a size too large to swallow |
| Tug toy | Interactive play | Use with supervision |
| Puzzle toy | Mental stimulation | See slow and puzzle feeders |
Safety Tips
- Supervise new toys until you know how your dog interacts with them.
- Inspect toys regularly for cracks, missing pieces or sharp edges.
- Replace worn toys promptly.
- Avoid toys small enough to swallow.
- Remove toys if your dog starts breaking off pieces.
- Be cautious with very hard chews and ask your veterinarian.
- Avoid cooked bones, which can splinter.
Making Toys Last Longer
- Rotate toys so your dog does not get bored.
- Stuff toys with food to make them more engaging.
- Freeze stuffed toys for longer sessions.
- Store toys away when not in use to keep them novel.
Chewing and Enrichment
Heavy chewers often benefit from more exercise and mental stimulation. Consider:
- Longer walks or sniff walks. See our guide to choosing a dog leash.
- Food puzzles and slow feeders.
- Training sessions using treats.
- Play sessions with you.
If destructive chewing continues despite enrichment, a qualified trainer or veterinarian may help rule out stress, anxiety or medical causes.
Protecting Beds and Crates
Power chewers may also chew beds and crate pads. Consider chew-resistant bedding. See dog beds for big dogs and best dog crates.
Puppies and Teething
Puppies chew a lot while their adult teeth come in. Many brands make softer puppy versions of their toys, since adult power-chewer toys may be too hard for young mouths. Freezing a damp washcloth or a stuffed rubber toy is a common way to give teething puppies something cool to chew, with supervision. Ask your veterinarian about appropriate options as your puppy grows. See our puppy shopping checklist for more starter supplies.
Building a Toy Rotation
A simple rotation can keep a heavy chewer interested without buying new toys every week:
- Keep three to five toys out at a time, mixing chew toys, a ball and a stuffable toy.
- Store the rest in a closed bin out of reach.
- Swap toys every few days so old favorites feel new again.
- Inspect each toy as you rotate it in and out, discarding any with cracks or missing chunks.
Knowing Your Dog’s Chewing Style
Watch how your dog chews. Some dogs gnaw slowly and steadily, while others try to rip toys apart or swallow pieces. Gnawers often do well with firm rubber and nylon chews, while shredders may need toys designed without seams or squeakers. Dogs that swallow pieces need especially close supervision and larger, sturdier toys.
Storing and Cleaning Chew Toys
Rubber and nylon toys collect saliva and food residue. Wash stuffable toys after each use with warm water and a bottle brush, and check whether they are dishwasher safe. Let toys dry fully before storing them, and keep them in a ventilated bin rather than a sealed bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there truly indestructible dog toys?
No. Some toys are very durable, but any toy can be damaged by a determined chewer. Supervise and inspect toys regularly.
Are nylon chews safe?
Many dogs use them safely, but some may be too hard for certain dogs. Replace worn chews and ask your veterinarian about firmness.
What should I stuff a KONG with?
Common options include your dog’s regular food, soaked kibble or dog-safe treats. Avoid foods that are toxic to dogs, and ask your veterinarian about suitable choices.
Are rope toys good for heavy chewers?
Rope toys can be fun for tug, but power chewers may shred and swallow fibers. Supervise use.
How often should I replace chew toys?
Replace toys when they show significant wear, cracks or missing pieces.
The Bottom Line
The best toys for heavy chewers are made from durable rubber or nylon, sized so they cannot be swallowed and appropriately firm. Popular choices include KONG Extreme, West Paw Zogoflex and Goughnuts. Supervise new toys, inspect them regularly and pair chewing with plenty of exercise and enrichment for a happier, less destructive dog.
Editorial note: Woof Wisely is independent and reader-supported. This guide is based on research into manufacturer documentation, published specifications and widely accepted best practices; we have not been paid to mention any product. If we add affiliate links in the future, they will be clearly disclosed per our Affiliate Disclosure.