The Best Tough Dog Toys
Dogs that are aggressive chewers can be hard to manage. From chewing things they shouldn't, like furniture or shoes, to ripping through toys in just a few minutes, these pups tend to make a mess of things and don't often stay entertained for long. Amidst all this destruction, you may find yourself at your wit's end, but don't give up: instead, opt for toys that are more indestructible.
What to Look For
When searching for tough dog toys, we look for three main elements: durability, material, and size. We love the Benebone for its long-lasting design that will hold up for a long time while keeping your pup happy and occupied. The GoDog plush dino is another one of our favorites thanks to its entertaining squeaker and soft, cozy exterior. Explore these picks and our other favorites to find the best toys for your four-legged friend.
Benebone Real Bacon Dog Chew
Keep your canine content
Instead of giving you pup toys they chew through in seconds, opt for this long-lasting alternative. Designed to be tougher than real bones, this chew will last for weeks of daily play. Made using 100% real bacon for flavor, the bone has a curved grip that makes it easier for your four-legged friend to maneuver, and the curved ends simulate real bones for a more authentic experience for your dog. Choose from several different sizes to find the exact right chew for your pup.
Pros:
- If your dog isn’t into bacon, the chew comes in a few other flavors, too. That way, you can tailor the toy to their preferences for something they’ll love.
- Even though the bone is bacon-flavored, it doesn’t seem to have a strong bacon odor. It’ll keep your house scent-free, all while keeping your pup happy.
Cons:
- You should monitor your dog while they chew on this bone to ensure they don’t swallow any large pieces.
Chuckit! Ultra Ball
Exercise that's exciting
This heavy-duty ball is made from tough, textured rubber, so it’s the ideal toy for mild and aggressive chewers alike. The bright ball is extra bouncy thanks to its lightweight construction, and it even floats in water so you can use it in any environment. Bond with your dog through regular games of fetch, and never worry that this ball won’t hold up. Use it alone or pair it with the Chuckit ball launcher for even more range.
Pros:
- The balls come in four different sizes, from small to extra-large, so you can find the ideal dimensions for your dog.
- Because the balls are bright orange, they are easy to spot in most terrain like grass or sand. As a result, you don’t have to worry about losing your ball and replacing it often.
Cons:
- Eventually, the ball may start to tear at the seam with frequent, aggressive play.
Sharlovy Large Dog Chew Toys
Designed for medium- to large-sized breeds, these chew toys will withstand the toughest play. Made from heavy-duty, chemical-free cotton, the rope is wear-resistant and tightly woven for maximum durability. Added knots help add texture to make play more fun for your dog, while the soft texture of the rope helps to protect their teeth and gums. Use them to play fetch or tug-of-war, or let your dog play on their own for endless hours of entertainment.
Pros:
- The rope helps to keep your dog’s dental health in check. The fibers of the rope will gently floss between their teeth for a deeper clean.
- With nine rope toys included with your purchase, it’s a very affordable and economical set. Even if one toy rips or breaks, you have many more at your disposal for a cost-effective option.
Cons:
- The ropes are less than one foot long, so may not be well-suited for very large dogs.
Nougat Dog Toy for Aggressive Chewers
This chew is more than just a toy. Designed to clean your dog’s teeth, reduce their anxiety, and alleviate boredom and barking, it’s a multipurpose toy both you and your pet will love. Made with non-toxic, natural rubber, it has a textured design that features multiple bristles to help clean your pup’s teeth and promote strong jaws. Give this toy to your medium- or large-sized dog for an indestructible addition to their toy collection that they’ll instantly love.
Pros:
- The squeaker is as durable as the rest of the toy. Unlike many toys, the squeaker won’t give out easily, leaving your dog uninterested.
- To more effectively clean your dog’s teeth, you can add toothpaste to the bristles. That way, they get to play and improve their dental hygiene at the same time.
Cons:
- Though not common, some dogs can chew up the toy in just a few hours.
GoDog Dino Triceratops with Chew Guard Technology
This soft and cozy plush toy gives your pup the best of both worlds. While it looks like a normal plush, it’s lined with a special, super-tough chew guard on the interior to help prevent rips and tears. That way, the toy will withstand even the most aggressive chewing to stand the test of time. The tail is even lined with a crinkly material to give your dog different ways to play.
Pros:
- The toy is super soft and plush, so it won’t make loud noises when thrown or dropped. It’s ideal for apartments that have downstairs neighbors to help minimize noise.
- Even for teething puppies or aggressive chewers, this toy will last. After hours and hours of chewing and playtime, it shows few signs of wear and tear.
Cons:
- The squeaker is very high-pitched, which can be annoying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I let my dog chew on toys?
Yes. Chewing helps to alleviate stress and is especially important for puppies when they are teething. Offering your dog chew toys will also help to prevent destructive chewing of other items like shoes and furniture.
Are dog chew toys safe?
Make sure that the toys you are giving your dog are appropriate for their size. If the toy is too small, it can pose a choking hazard. Be sure to always supervise your dog when they are playing with chew toys to be sure they don’t swallow bits of the toy, which can be dangerous.
What is the healthiest dog chew?
Some chews, like natural bones and rawhide, can pose choking and blockage risks for your dog. Instead, give them rawhide alternatives like dental chews, peanut butter sticks, or plant-based treats like sweet potato chews.
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