The Best Dog Toys for the Avid Chewer
As pet owners, we all want our four-legged friends to be happy and entertained, especially when we can’t give them our undivided attention. Thankfully, we have chew toys! And what better way to keep them occupied than with a toy that will entertain them for hours? Not only do these toys cure your pet’s boredom, but some also keep your pet’s teeth clean and healthy. A win/win!
However, with so many great options on the market, it can be hard to determine the best dog toys for your pet and their unique needs. Here, we’ll highlight the different types of chew toys available as well as some of the best chew toys for dogs, puppies, and various behaviors.
Best Dog Toys for Chewing and Entertainment
There are many different types of dog toys. The best chew toys for puppies may differ slightly from the best chew toys for dogs. And it is always important to monitor your pups with a new toy until you know how they will behave with it. Let’s look at some of our options:
Soft Chew Toys
Soft chew toys are the best chew toys for puppies and senior dogs. They’re usually made from plush materials, making them gentle on your pet’s gums and teeth. Soft chew toys are especially great for pets who are experiencing dental problems or are in the teething phase. These are not ideal for aggressive chewers as they can be easily torn apart and ingested.
Rubber Chew Toys
Rubber toys are some of the best chew toys for dogs who love to chomp on harder objects. They come in various sizes and shapes and are often made from durable materials. Rubber toys can often be filled with treats, keeping your pet entertained for hours.
Treat-Filled Chew Toys
Treat-filled toys are excellent for dogs and puppies alike who love to chew while enjoying a tasty snack. These toys are typically made from rubber and have a hollow center. Treat-filled toys are interactive, meaning they keep pets entertained for hours. They’re also mentally stimulating as they sometimes require your pet to solve a puzzle to get a treat or another toy out. They also promote good dental health by scraping away any tartar or plaque as they chew.
Dental Cleaning Chew Toys
Toys dedicated specifically to dental health are some of the best chew toys for puppies and adult dogs alike. Establishing healthy oral hygiene habits when your pet is young is a good idea to avoid issues in their adult years. Dental chews clean teeth and gums by removing the buildup of plaque and tartar, helping to prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and icky breath. The act of chewing also stimulates the production of saliva, which allows the neutralization of harmful bacteria in the mouth and promotes overall dental health.
Different Behaviors Chew Toys Can Help With
Chew toys aren’t just great for entertainment, but they also help with different behaviors. For example, if your pet’s a heavy chewer, providing them with a durable chew toy will likely help redirect their chewing habits away from furniture, shoes, or other items. They can also help alleviate boredom and anxiety in pets, which often lead to destructive behavior if not addressed.
Which Types of Toys Are Best for Which Size of Dog?
The size of your dog plays a significant role in determining the best dog toys to invest in. The best chew toys for puppies will often look like softer, smaller toys that are easier to handle. The best chew toys for dogs that are bigger or older will be more durable and able to withstand more powerful jaws. Selecting a toy appropriate for your pet’s age and size is important to prevent choking and other hazards.
Providing your pet with chew toys is a great way to keep them entertained and promote good dental health. By choosing the appropriate type of toy for your pet’s needs and behavior, you are helping to keep them healthy and happy, which is always our goal as pet parents!
If you’re unsure if a particular toy or treat is right for your pet, reach out to AZPetVet today. We’re happy to help!