Do you also have toys that are indestructible?

August 08 2023
3 min reading time

You probably get this question regularly from dog owners. The answer is simple: No. All toys can break, but that doesn't mean there are no suitable toys for wreckers. Read this blog to find out how to choose the right toy for every dog.

Dog Toys: The Right Choice for Every Chewer

Dogs play in a variety of ways, including tug-of-war, puzzle solving, retrieving, and chewing. Play preferences vary from dog to dog: some enjoy rough play, others gentle play, and some prefer to play alone while others prefer to play together. It is important to choose the right toys for the situation and to provide a chew toy that meets your dog’s chewing needs—regardless of size.

For example, a Chihuahua may have a strong urge to chew and destroy things, while a Rottweiler may be gentle with toys without destroying them. Although some breeds naturally have powerful jaws, this does not automatically mean that they will destroy everything.

Chewing: an essential need

Most dogs have a strong urge to chew. This natural behavior contributes to their well-being and produces endorphins, which provide a feeling of relaxation and satisfaction. Chewing also helps to reduce stress and can relieve pain in puppies during the change of teeth. For older dogs, chewing helps to maintain chewing power.

From the pet shop it is important to advise customers well about the right chew toys. Three factors play a role in this: character, chewing need & chewing strength, and activity.

Character

Dogs have different play and chewing preferences. Some dogs destroy almost all of their toys, while others are selective in which materials they destroy. For example, there are dogs that immediately destroy plush toys, but spare toys made of rubber or plastic. The opposite also occurs: dogs that try to destroy hard materials, but leave their favorite cuddly toy intact. This behavior can be an important guideline in advising suitable toys.

Chewing Needs & Chewing Strength

The reasons why a dog chews vary from stress relief to maintaining chewing strength. For puppies, chew toys that are firm but somewhat flexible are recommended. A toy that is too hard can cause additional pain during the teething process, which can make the puppy seek alternatives such as furniture or shoes.

In addition, there are dogs that chew intensively on a toy while playing, for example by biting a ball repeatedly along the way. Although these dogs do not necessarily have the goal of destroying the toy, a powerful jaw can still destroy the toy. That is why it is important to find the right balance between firmness and flexibility.

Activity

A strong chewer does not always need the strongest toys. The activity for which the toy is used also plays an important role. During interactive play, such as playing together, less sturdy toys can sometimes be offered. However, it is advisable to put these toys away after the game to prevent them from being chewed to pieces. For moments of independent play, durable and sturdy chew toys are a better choice.

Super strong and durable chew toy

No toy is indestructible, but there is a big difference in strength and durability between different types of toys. West Paw chew toys, such as the Hurley, Jive, and Rumpus , are specifically designed for very powerful chewers. These toys are highly recommended, even for dogs that have destroyed other strong chew toys. In addition, West Paw offers the Love It Guarantee , which provides a one-time refund if a toy is not suitable.

In addition to chew toys, West Paw also offers a wide range of toys for interactive play and puzzles. Using the chart below, the most suitable toys can easily be selected based on activity and chewing strength.

Play Style Chart 5x7-August2024.pdf

By providing customers with good advice on the right toys based on these factors, a pet store can contribute to the fun and well-being of dogs, while minimizing the chance of rapid wear or unsuitable toys.

This blog was created with input from Rita Viel, export manager of West Paw Inc. With over 35 years of experience as a dog trainer and behavior specialist, Rita is the expert in dog education. In 2004, she founded Hondenschool Kwispel, where she and her team work on improving behavior in puppies and adult dogs through positive reinforcement and play.