11 Tough Toys for Power Chewers
Veterinary behaviourist Dr Valli Parthasarathy recommends the most durable dog toys for destructive players
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Imagine it’s Christmas morning. You’ve just given your child a new bike, Xbox or iPhone (whatever kids are into these days). Then moments after opening it, they grab the (very expensive) gift, throw it at the wall and stomp it on the ground until it is rendered useless. This is essentially what I go through whenever I buy my dog a toy.
It is, unfortunately, not an uncommon experience for dog parents. We’ll buy our pups new toys only to see them destroyed in minutes. And forget plush options – all too often they result in a cotton and stuffing murder scene. We asked veterinary behaviourist Dr Valli Parthasarathyopens in a new tab why dogs destroy toys and how to discourage destructive chewing.
Why do dogs destroy toys?
Are power chewers made or born? “Dogs chew on items for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is for self-entertainment and exploration. Dogs explore their environment with their mouths and chewing is an extension of this normal and natural behaviour,” says Dr Parthasarathy. It’s why this habit is especially prevalent in puppies, as they explore their surroundings and form their permanent teeth. But some dogs, like mine, never grow out of this phase. They continue to rip through toys well past their adolescence. For them, there are a few reasons for their behaviour.
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According to Dr Parthasarathy, “some reasons are based on their personality (they just like to chew hard), other times it can be related to anxiety. I have several patients that have exhibited decreased chewing intensity as their anxiety is reduced.” Other reasons include stress from separation anxiety, territorial behaviour like resource guarding or medical conditions that cause increased appetite or nausea.
How to curb dog toy destruction
There are a few tactics to help discourage destructive chewing (or chewing items they shouldn’t for their own safety). Dr Parthasarathy explains that one helpful trick is to encourage them to play with toys in ways other than chewing, such as licking. But supervision is crucial. Watch your dog as they play to ensure they’re not ingesting any pieces.
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Of course, some would argue the simplest way to handle the situation is to buy proper toys that can handle the wear. Dr Parthasarathy agrees: “If a dog is chewing for self-stimulation or exploration, provide appropriate toys that are strong and are difficult to destroy,” she recommends. Here, we round up the best options that meet that criteria.
The best durable dog toys
Btw, our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission. (We’ve got a lot of toys to buy over here, you know?)
In addition to its durability, the Pacific Loop works as a motivator and reward for dogs in training.
If any product line can give Kong a run for the title of most reliably indestructible toys, it’s West Paw. Plus, this option is made with zero-waste and recyclable material.
As a plastic soda can, this may be one of the safer choices for power chewers. According to Dr Parthasarathy, “I recommend toys that you can indent with your fingernail, or can bend and squeeze a bit.”
This triangle rope toy is made of natural rubber with a reinforced core, but more than anything, it’s oh-so Instagrammable.
It might not look like much, but this ball is made of Planet Dog’s Orbee-Tuff material, which is as bouncy and durable as they come.
Goughnuts understands that one truly indestructible toy is a myth. So it has added a red safety indicator that lets pet parents know it is time to toss the toy – though, with its multiple layers to reinforce durability, it will certainly take a while to get there.
Just as the fruit that inspired its name is a certified superfood, Zee.Dog’s Super Banana packs a lot of benefits. In addition to its strength, the toy can be filled with treats for mental stimulation and helps clean teeth to promote healthy gums.
The Pup Tug is specifically designed for dogs who like to keep themselves entertained. Its strong resistance can help dogs release their pent-up energy.
Bulletproof Pet Products says if your dog can destroy an Indestructibone in less than 90 days, they’ll give you your money back.
Similar to Planet Dog’s Orbee Squeak, the Lil’ Snoop is malleable, durable and promises to hold up over time.
The OG indestructible dog toy. This update on the classic design is strengthened for the toughest of chewers by featuring the most durable Kongopens in a new tab rubber.
Sean Zucker
Sean Zucker is a writer whose work has been featured in Points In Case, The Daily Drunk, Posty, and WellWell. He has an adopted Pit Bull named Banshee whose work has been featured on the kitchen floor and whose behavioral issues rival his own.
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