Gear
How to choose safe chew toys
Chewing is normal and healthy for dogs. The goal is to give them something better to chew than your shoes, and to make sure it's safe.
Pick the right size
A chew should be too big to fit fully inside your dog's mouth or be swallowed whole. When in doubt, size up.
Check the material
- Durable rubber: a good everyday choice for most dogs, especially toys you can stuff with food.
- Nylon chews: long-lasting, but choose a firmness that suits your dog. If you can't dent it with a fingernail, it may be too hard for teeth.
- Rope toys: fine for supervised tug; take them away when they start to fray.
- Plush toys: for gentle chewers only, and always under supervision.
Ask your vet about bones, antlers and very hard chews. Many vets advise against them because of the risk of broken teeth.
When to throw a toy away
- Pieces are coming off
- It now fits fully in your dog's mouth
- It has cracks or sharp edges
Make chewing a habit, not a problem
Rotate three or four toys so they stay interesting, and hand one over at the times your dog usually gets into trouble, such as when you leave the house or in the evening.
General information, not veterinary advice. If your dog's behavior changes suddenly, talk to your vet.
