What Are the Safest Chew Toys for Your Pet?

If you’re a pet owner, you know that one of the most important things you can do to keep your furry friend happy and healthy is to provide them with plenty of appropriate toys. But when it comes to chew toys, which are designed to be gnawed on and chewed up, it’s important to be careful about what you choose. Some chew toys are made with materials that can be harmful to your pet if ingested, while others are designed in a way that can be dangerous if swallowed. So, what are the safest chew toys for your pet? In this article, we’ll explore some options that are both fun and safe for your furry friend to enjoy.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Chew Toys

Safety

When it comes to choosing chew toys for your pet, safety should be your top priority. Here are some factors to consider:

• Materials: The materials used to make the chew toy can affect your pet’s safety. Look for toys made from natural rubber, silicone, or nylon, as these materials are non-toxic and durable. Avoid toys made from harmful chemicals, such as PVC or phthalates, which can be toxic if ingested.
• Size: The size of the chew toy is also important for your pet’s safety. Choose toys that are the appropriate size for your pet’s mouth and teeth. If the toy is too small, your pet may be able to swallow it whole, which can be dangerous. If the toy is too large, your pet may have difficulty chewing it and may choke on it.
• Design: The design of the chew toy can also affect your pet’s safety. Look for toys that have no small parts that can be easily detached, as these can be swallowed and cause choking or blockages. Also, avoid toys with sharp edges or points, as these can cause injury to your pet’s mouth or digestive system.

By considering these safety factors when choosing chew toys for your pet, you can help ensure their safety and prevent any potential harm.

Durability

When selecting chew toys for your pet, durability is a crucial factor to consider. The chew toy should be able to withstand the wear and tear of your pet’s chewing and playing. Here are some factors to consider when evaluating the durability of chew toys:

Construction

The construction of the chew toy is the first thing to consider. The toy should be made of high-quality materials that can withstand the pressure and force of your pet’s teeth and jaws. Some chew toys are made of a single piece of material, while others are made of multiple pieces that are held together with strong stitching or glue. Look for chew toys that are constructed with strong, durable materials that can withstand the pressure of your pet’s play.

Material thickness

The thickness of the material used in the chew toy is also an important factor to consider. The thicker the material, the more durable the chew toy will be. Some chew toys are made of a single layer of material, while others are made of multiple layers that provide more durability. When choosing a chew toy, look for one with a thick layer of material that can withstand the pressure of your pet’s chewing.

Resistance to wear and tear

The chew toy should be able to withstand the wear and tear of your pet’s chewing and playing. Some chew toys are designed to be indestructible, while others may break or wear down quickly. Look for chew toys that are made of materials that are resistant to wear and tear, such as nylon or rubber. These materials are durable and can withstand the pressure of your pet’s chewing without breaking or wearing down quickly.

In conclusion, when choosing chew toys for your pet, durability is a crucial factor to consider. Look for chew toys that are constructed with strong, durable materials, have a thick layer of material, and are resistant to wear and tear. A durable chew toy will provide your pet with hours of fun and entertainment while also ensuring their safety.

Functionality

When selecting chew toys for your pet, functionality should be a top consideration. The toy should serve a specific purpose, such as providing oral care, mental stimulation, or addressing specific health needs.

Scent

Some pets may benefit from chew toys that have a scent, such as peanut butter or bacon-flavored toys. These scents can provide additional incentive for pets to chew and may help with picky eaters. However, it’s important to note that some pets may be sensitive to certain scents, so it’s best to start with a small piece and monitor your pet’s reaction.

Texture

Texture is another important factor to consider when choosing a chew toy. Some pets prefer softer textures, while others prefer harder textures. It’s important to choose a toy with a texture that is appropriate for your pet’s size and chewing strength. Harder textures may be more appropriate for larger dogs, while softer textures may be better for smaller dogs or puppies.

Design for specific needs

Chew toys can also be designed to meet specific needs, such as oral care or mental stimulation. Oral care chew toys may have ridges or grooves that help remove plaque and tartar from your pet’s teeth, while mental stimulation chew toys may have hidden compartments or puzzles that challenge your pet to figure out how to get the treat inside. When choosing a chew toy, consider your pet’s specific needs and choose a toy that will provide them with the appropriate level of stimulation.

Brand Reputation

When choosing chew toys for your pet, it’s important to consider the brand reputation. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Researching the brand: Do some research on the brand to see if they have a good reputation for producing safe and durable chew toys. Look for information about the company’s history, production processes, and quality control measures.
• Checking for recalls: Check the FDA or CPSC websites for any recalls on the brand or specific products. This can help you avoid purchasing chew toys that may be unsafe for your pet.
• Reading customer reviews: Read customer reviews on websites such as Amazon or Chewy to see what other pet owners have experienced with the brand and specific products. Look for patterns in the reviews, such as common issues or praise for durability.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing chew toys for your pet.

Types of Safe Chew Toys

Nylon Chew Toys

Advantages

• Durable and long-lasting
• Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
• Comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures to suit different chewing styles and preferences
• Non-toxic and safe for pets to chew on
• Can help satisfy your pet’s natural instinct to chew and prevent destructive chewing behaviors

Disadvantages

• Some pets may be able to easily rip or tear nylon chew toys, which can create small pieces that can be swallowed and cause blockages
• Nylon chew toys may not be as interesting or engaging for pets as other types of chew toys, such as rope or rubber toys

Recommended Brands

• Nylabone
• Chuckit
• Benebone
• West Paw
• Ethical Pet

When choosing nylon chew toys for your pet, it’s important to select ones that are designed for their specific size and chewing strength. It’s also a good idea to supervise your pet when they are chewing on a nylon chew toy and to replace the toy if it becomes damaged or worn.

Rope Chew Toys

Rope chew toys are a popular choice among pet owners as they are made from natural materials and are safe for pets to chew on. They are usually made from rope or twine, and come in a variety of sizes and shapes.

One of the main advantages of rope chew toys is that they are durable and can withstand a lot of chewing. They are also easy to clean and can be washed in water. Rope chew toys are also a good option for pets who like to chew on hard objects, as they are soft and flexible, but still provide some resistance.

One potential disadvantage of rope chew toys is that they can be easily swallowed if a pet chews them into small pieces. It is important to monitor your pet when they are chewing on a rope toy and to remove it if they start to chew it into small pieces.

Some recommended brands of rope chew toys include:

• Mammoth

These brands offer a variety of sizes and shapes of rope chew toys, and all use high-quality materials that are safe for pets to chew on.

Rubber Chew Toys

Rubber chew toys are a popular choice among pet owners due to their durability and safety. These toys are made from natural or synthetic rubber and are designed to be chewed without breaking apart into small pieces. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of rubber chew toys, as well as recommended brands.

Advantages

• Durable: Rubber chew toys can withstand a lot of chewing and last a long time.
• Non-toxic: Unlike some other materials, rubber is non-toxic and safe for pets to chew on.
• Easy to clean: Rubber chew toys can be easily cleaned with soap and water.

Disadvantages

• Noisy: Some pets may make a lot of noise when chewing on rubber toys, which can be annoying for neighbors or other pets.
• May cause stomach upset: Some pets may experience stomach upset after chewing on rubber toys, especially if they eat large pieces at once.

Recommended Brands

• Benebone: Benebone offers a variety of rubber chew toys for dogs, including their popular “Real Flavor” brand.
• Gummi Pet: Gummi Pet offers a range of rubber chew toys for cats and dogs, including their “Squishy Fish” and “Tuggo Ring” toys.
• Hartz: Hartz is a well-known brand that offers a variety of rubber chew toys for dogs, including their “Just for Dogs” and “Smart Rewards” lines.

Plush Chew Toys

Plush chew toys are a popular choice among pet owners as they are soft and cuddly, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. These toys are made from a variety of materials, including polyester, nylon, and cotton, and are designed to be gentle on your pet’s teeth and gums.

One of the main advantages of plush chew toys is that they are gentle on your pet’s teeth and gums. Unlike hard rubber or plastic toys, plush chew toys are soft and flexible, which means they are less likely to cause damage to your pet’s teeth and gums. Additionally, plush chew toys are a great way to keep your pet entertained and happy, and can help reduce stress and anxiety.

One potential disadvantage of plush chew toys is that they can be easily destroyed by your pet. Unlike other types of chew toys, plush chew toys are not designed to be indestructible, and can be easily torn apart or destroyed by your pet. Additionally, some plush chew toys may contain small parts, such as buttons or beads, which can be a choking hazard for your pet.

Some recommended brands of plush chew toys include:

• Kong
• Chuckit!

It’s important to note that while these brands are known for their high-quality plush chew toys, it’s always important to supervise your pet when they are playing with any type of chew toy.

Wooden Chew Toys

• Natural and eco-friendly
• Can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup

• Provides mental stimulation

• Can splinter or break into small pieces

• Some wooden toys may be treated with chemicals

• Can be expensive

• Hartz

• Pet Safe

Wooden chew toys are a popular choice among pet owners as they are natural, eco-friendly, and can provide hours of entertainment for their pets. They are also durable and long-lasting, making them a great investment for pet owners who want to provide their pets with a safe and engaging chew toy.

One of the biggest advantages of wooden chew toys is that they are natural and eco-friendly. Unlike plastic or rubber toys, wooden toys are made from renewable resources and are biodegradable. This makes them a great choice for pet owners who are environmentally conscious and want to reduce their carbon footprint.

Another advantage of wooden chew toys is that they can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup in pets. Chewing on wood can help scrape away plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems. Additionally, wooden chew toys can provide mental stimulation for pets, helping to keep them engaged and prevent boredom.

However, there are some disadvantages to wooden chew toys as well. One of the biggest concerns is that wooden toys can splinter or break into small pieces, which can be dangerous for pets if ingested. Some wooden toys may also be treated with chemicals, such as preservatives or dyes, which can be harmful to pets. Additionally, wooden chew toys can be expensive compared to other types of chew toys.

When choosing a wooden chew toy for your pet, it’s important to choose a reputable brand that uses high-quality materials and has a proven track record of safety. Some recommended brands include Hartz, Benebone, West Paw, Nylabone, and Pet Safe. These brands offer a variety of wooden chew toys in different sizes and shapes, making it easy to find one that will appeal to your pet.

Tips for Keeping Your Pet Safe with Chew Toys

Supervision

One of the most important things you can do to keep your pet safe while they’re chewing on a toy is to supervise them. This means keeping a close eye on your pet as they play with their toy, and being ready to intervene if necessary.

Some things to keep in mind when supervising your pet with a chew toy include:

• Watching for signs of aggression or over-excitement, and stepping in to separate your pet if necessary
• Paying attention to your pet’s body language and behavior, and taking the toy away if your pet seems uncomfortable or distressed
• Being aware of any potential hazards in your pet’s environment, such as small objects that could be swallowed if the toy breaks apart

Rotation

Another important tip for keeping your pet safe with chew toys is to rotate their toys regularly. This means switching out old toys for new ones on a regular basis, to prevent your pet from becoming bored with their toys and becoming more interested in chewing on other things, like your shoes or furniture.

By rotating your pet’s toys, you can also help prevent the spread of bacteria and other germs that can build up on chew toys over time.

Proper Storage

Proper storage of your pet’s chew toys is also important for keeping them safe. This means storing the toys in a safe, secure place where your pet can’t access them when you’re not around to supervise.

Some good storage options for chew toys include:

• A designated “toy box” or bin, with a lid that can be closed to keep the toys contained
• A high shelf or cupboard, where your pet can’t reach the toys
• A durable, enclosed toy holder or dispenser, that can be filled with a variety of chew toys for your pet to enjoy

Watching for Signs of Distress

Finally, it’s important to watch for signs of distress in your pet while they’re chewing on a toy. If your pet seems uncomfortable, in pain, or is showing other signs of distress, it’s important to take the toy away and provide your pet with a different, safer option.

Some signs of distress in pets while chewing on toys include:

• Drooling or excessive salivation
• Panting or rapid breathing
• Whining or crying out in pain
• Shaking or trembling
• Difficulty swallowing or coughing

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take action to keep your pet safe and comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my pet chew on a toy made for humans?

It is common for pet owners to wonder if they can give their pets toys that are made for humans. The answer to this question depends on the type of toy and its materials. In general, it is safe for pets to chew on toys made from rubber, plastic, or nylon, as long as they are designed for pets and not for human babies or toddlers. However, it is important to avoid giving pets toys that contain small parts, such as those with removable parts or small pieces that can be easily swallowed. Additionally, pet owners should be careful to avoid giving their pets toys that contain toxic materials, such as lead or cadmium.

What if my pet already has a favorite chew toy that isn’t safe?

If your pet already has a favorite chew toy that isn’t safe, it’s important to find a suitable replacement as soon as possible. Here are some tips to help you make the transition:

1. Gradual Replacement: Phase out the old chew toy gradually by introducing the new one slowly. This will give your pet time to get used to the new toy and reduce the chances of them becoming attached to the old one.
2. Similar Texture: Choose a new chew toy that has a similar texture to the old one. This will help your pet feel more comfortable with the new toy and reduce the chances of them rejecting it.
3. Supervision: Supervise your pet when they are chewing on the new toy to ensure they are not swallowing any small pieces.
4. Reward: Reward your pet with treats or praise when they are chewing on the new toy to reinforce positive behavior.
5. Patience: Be patient with your pet during the transition process. It may take some time for them to get used to the new chew toy, but with time and patience, they will eventually adapt.

Can I freeze a chew toy for my pet?

If you’re wondering whether you can freeze a chew toy for your pet, the answer is yes. Freezing a chew toy can be a great way to keep it fresh and extend its lifespan. Here are some tips for freezing chew toys safely:

1. Choose the right type of chew toy: Not all chew toys are suitable for freezing. Look for chew toys made from materials that are safe for freezing, such as rubber or nylon. Avoid chew toys made from materials like rope or twine, which can become brittle and break when frozen.
2. Wash the chew toy before freezing: Before freezing the chew toy, make sure to wash it thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. This will help prevent any contamination or bacterial growth that could be harmful to your pet.
3. Place the chew toy in a sealed bag: To prevent freezer burn and extend the lifespan of the chew toy, place it in a sealed bag before freezing. Make sure to squeeze out all the air from the bag to prevent moisture buildup.
4. Label the chew toy: To keep track of how long the chew toy has been in the freezer, label it with the date and a description of the toy. This will help you keep track of how long it has been in the freezer and ensure that you don’t accidentally give it to your pet after the recommended timeframe.
5. Thaw the chew toy gradually: When you’re ready to give the chew toy to your pet, thaw it gradually by leaving it out of the freezer for a few hours. This will help prevent the toy from becoming too hard or brittle, which could be harmful to your pet’s teeth and mouth.

Overall, freezing a chew toy can be a great way to keep it fresh and extend its lifespan. Just make sure to choose the right type of chew toy, wash it thoroughly, and follow these tips for safe freezing and thawing.

How do I choose the right size chew toy for my pet?

When it comes to choosing the right size chew toy for your pet, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll want to make sure that the chew toy is large enough for your pet to hold and chew on comfortably. However, it’s also important to make sure that the chew toy is not so large that your pet can swallow it whole.

One way to ensure that you’re choosing the right size chew toy for your pet is to measure the size of the toy against the size of your pet’s mouth. For example, if you have a small dog, you’ll want to choose a chew toy that is smaller than the size of your dog’s mouth. On the other hand, if you have a larger dog, you’ll want to choose a chew toy that is larger than the size of your dog’s mouth.

Another thing to consider when choosing the right size chew toy for your pet is the material the toy is made of. Some materials, such as rubber, are more durable and can withstand the chewing of larger dogs. Other materials, such as rope, may be more suitable for smaller dogs.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right size chew toy for your pet is to consult with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can help you determine the appropriate size and type of chew toy for your pet based on their age, size, and chewing habits.

What are some homemade chew toys I can make for my pet?

Ideas for Homemade Chew Toys

1. Frozen Fruit Treats: Fill a small container with water and freeze it. Once frozen, add some fruit like pineapple, watermelon, or banana. The fruit will slowly thaw and become a chewy, messy treat for your pet.
2. Paper Towel Rolls: Cut up old paper towel rolls into small pieces. These can be a fun, easy-to-chew option for pets who love to shred their toys.
3. Snowballs: If you live in an area with snow, try freezing snowballs for your pets to chew on. Just make sure they’re not eating any snow or ice that might be mixed in.
4. Squeaky Toys Stuffed with Treats: Stuff a squeaky toy with small pieces of treats, like bits of cheese or cooked chicken. The toy will keep your pet entertained and the treats will keep them engaged.
5. Cotton Rope Balls: Take cotton rope and twist it into a ball shape. This can be a fun, satisfying chew toy for pets who like to gnaw on ropes or fabrics.

Remember, when making homemade chew toys, it’s important to use safe materials and to monitor your pet while they chew. Always supervise your pet and remove any toys that become damaged or show signs of wear.

FAQs

1. What makes a chew toy safe for my pet?

A chew toy is considered safe for your pet if it is made from durable, non-toxic materials that are safe for them to chew on. Look for chew toys made from rubber, nylon, or other tough materials that can withstand the chewing habits of your pet. Avoid chew toys that have small parts, such as plastic bolts or metal hardware, as these can be easily swallowed and cause harm to your pet.

2. How do I choose the right chew toy for my pet?

Choosing the right chew toy for your pet depends on their size, chewing habits, and preferences. If your pet is a heavy chewer, look for chew toys that are made from tough materials, such as rubber or nylon. If your pet is a light chewer, look for chew toys that are softer and more pliable, such as rope toys. Consider your pet’s size and mouth size when choosing a chew toy, as some chew toys may be too large or small for their mouth.

3. Can my pet choke on a chew toy?

Yes, some chew toys can be a choking hazard for pets, especially if they are small or have small parts. Make sure to choose chew toys that are appropriate for your pet’s size and chewing habits. Supervise your pet when they are chewing on a new toy, and monitor them for any signs of difficulty breathing or choking.

4. Can my pet digest the materials in a chew toy?

In general, most chew toys are safe for pets to chew on and digest. However, some chew toys may contain small amounts of materials that are not digestible, such as plastic or metal hardware. Make sure to choose chew toys that are made from materials that are safe for your pet to chew on and digest. If you are unsure about a particular chew toy, consult with your veterinarian.

5. How long can my pet use the same chew toy?

The lifespan of a chew toy depends on your pet’s chewing habits and the durability of the toy. Some pets may wear out a chew toy in a matter of days, while others may be able to use the same chew toy for several months. Look for chew toys that are made from durable materials and can withstand the chewing habits of your pet. If the chew toy becomes damaged or worn, replace it with a new one to ensure that it remains safe and enjoyable for your pet.

I rank the best chew “toys” for your dog.