Exercise and play
How do I choose toys for a heavy chewer?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
For a heavy chewer, look for toys specifically labeled for aggressive or power chewers, made from solid rubber rather than thin plastic, and sized so the dog cannot fit the whole toy in its mouth. Regularly inspecting toys for cracks or missing chunks and replacing them promptly prevents a chew toy from becoming a hazard.
Material matters most
Solid, dense rubber designed for aggressive chewers holds up far longer than softer rubber, plush, or thin plastic, which a determined chewer can destroy within minutes and potentially swallow pieces of in the process.
Sizing for safety
A toy large enough that the dog cannot close its jaw fully around it reduces the risk of it becoming lodged, while a toy that is too small for the dog's mouth size carries a higher swallowing risk regardless of how tough the material is.
Ongoing checks
Running a hand over a chew toy every few days to feel for cracks, gouges, or thinning spots, and retiring anything showing significant wear, prevents a previously safe toy from breaking apart unexpectedly during use.
Key takeaways
- Solid, dense rubber designed for power chewers holds up far better than soft rubber or plastic.
- A toy sized so the dog cannot close its jaw fully around it reduces the risk of it lodging.
- Regular checks for cracks or wear catch a failing toy before it becomes a hazard.