Things to Look for in a Dog Toy for Aggressive Chewers
When you’re searching for the best dog toys for aggressive chewers, consider the following factors:
Durable Materials
You need the toy to be made from very durable materials, so it stands up to your aggressive chewer and lasts longer. In general, toys made from strong rubber, durable nylon, or thick rope tend to be the most durable.
Plush toys and those made from vinyl or latex tend to be less durable and are often unsuitable for power chewers. However, if you’re looking for the best plush dog toys for aggressive chewers, stick to toys with reinforced seams and little to no stuffing for safety.
High-Quality Materials
High-quality materials generally tend to be more durable and longer lasting, as well as safer for your precious pooch.
Type of Toy
There are a wide range of types of toys available for tough chewers, such as chew toys, treat dispensers, balls, tug toys, puzzle toys, and more. Take your time to consider what will suit your dog’s preferences and style of play best. With so much choice, you’re bound to find something perfect for your pup.
Correct Size for Your Dog
A big part of ensuring the toy is strong enough for your dog is choosing a toy that is the correct size. You want the toy to be big enough to stand up to their chewing, yet not so big and heavy that they can’t fit in their mouth or play with it comfortably.
Look at the description as well as reviews to find the right size for your dog. In general, it’s always a good idea to go 1 size up for power chewers so that the toy lasts longer.
Safety
If your dog is a power chewer, safety becomes even more important during play since the toy could potentially be destroyed. It’s crucial the toy you choose has safe materials: look for signs such as an FDA-approved label as this is a good indicator. It’s also a good idea to avoid toys with small removable parts, anything that could pose a choking hazard, and materials that could potentially cause internal damage if they were destroyed.
Physical and Mental Stimulation
Finally, playtime should be fun! Choose a toy that gets your dog moving and engages their mind. This will give them all the health benefits of play and ensure they have a great time with their new toy.
Why Some Dogs Are Aggressive Chewers
Chewing is a normal, natural behavior for all dogs, but why do some dogs end up chewing aggressively? Well, excessive, destructive chewing can have many causes. Some breeds are more prone to aggressive chewing than others. Dogs who are bigger and stronger will naturally have a stronger bite than small breeds, so their chewing may be interpreted as aggressive.
Puppies chew excessively when they’re teething to soothe their sore mouth. Anxious dogs, such as those with separation anxiety, may chew as an outlet for their anxiety. When dogs are stressed, frustrated, or bored they may turn to destructive chewing.
Some dogs may chew aggressively because they’re hungry and aren’t being fed enough, or due to a health condition causing excessive hunger. Others may not be getting enough exercise or mental stimulation, so turn to chewing to try to entertain themselves.
Tips for Dealing With Destructive Chewing
Whatever the cause, destructive chewing is unsafe and frustrating so it’s important to deal with it proactively. If your dog is suddenly chewing aggressively and it’s out of character for them, it’s always best to get them checked by your vet to rule out any health-related causes.
Other ways to deal with destructive chewing include:
- Provide your dog with durable, strong toys like the 1’s we’re discussing, to give them a healthy outlet for their chewing
- Give your dog edible, long-lasting chews to keep them busy
- Ensure your dog is eating enough and having mealtimes on a regular schedule so they aren’t hungry
- Provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation for your dog
- Put personal and valuable items out of reach until you get the chewing under control
- Crate or pen train your dog to keep them (and your home) safe when they’re left alone
- Use lots of positive reinforcement and redirection to teach your dog what they can and can’t chew
If you’re in doubt, there are lots of great guides and videos online to help you train your dog. Don’t be afraid to seek the help of a professional dog trainer or attend training classes with your dog.
Dog Toy for Aggressive Chewers Safety Advice
Always choose a toy made from safe materials that is the right size and chew strength for your dog. If your dog is prone to destroying toys, it’s always best to supervise them during playing to prevent choking or blockage hazards. Take the toy away if it becomes broken for your dog’s safety.
Dog Toy for Aggressive Chewers FAQ
Should you let your dog destroy toys?
No, you should try to discourage your dog from destroying their toys. Allowing them to destroy toys promotes bad behavior and can be a safety hazard.
Is there a truly indestructible dog toy?
While there are toys that are durable and more likely to stand up to aggressive chewing, no toy can be completely indestructible especially if your dog is very strong and determined. That’s why choosing a strong toy and supervised play are crucial.
Conclusion
While aggressive chewing can be frustrating for both dog and owner, with training and a suitable toy, your dog can enjoy playtime to the fullest!
