It looks like a fresh cotton-ball snowfall in your living room — your dog decimated another toy… again!
You want dog toys for your tough chewer, but the wrong type of dog toys won’t last a single hour. Even worse, when tough dogs chew through some dog toys, they risk seriously harming themselves.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to find dog toys built specifically with tough chewers in mind, plus we’ll share our top picks when it comes to rough and tough dog toys.
Quick Picks: Best Indestructible Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers
- Goughnuts Black MAXX Pro 50 Ring [Best Ring-Shaped Toy for Aggressive Chewers]: The toughest type of toy in the Goughnut’s lineup, this rubber chew ring is backed by Goughnuts’ lifetime warranty.
- KONG Extreme Chew Toy [Best Stuffable Dog Toy for Aggressive Chewers]: The ultra-tough version of the Classic KONG chew toy has brough smiles to the faces of thousands of dogs, trainers, and pet parents over the years, thanks to its combination of dog-friendly shape and super durable materials.
- KONG Flyer [Best Disc-Style Dog Toy for Aggressive Chewers]: Flexible enough that it’s easy for dogs to pick up yet tough enough to withstand your dog’s chompers, this is a great disc toy for power chewers.
- Outward Hound Invincibles Stuffingless Snake [Best Soft Toy for Aggressive Chewers]: Though it’s pretty cute and cuddly, this stuffing-free soft toy is designed to hold up to aggressive chewers and features double-stitched seams and Dura-Tuff lining.
Continue reading for more in-depth reviews
We tested these toys for toughness with our staff members’ roughest and toughest canines (mostly pitties).
We wanted to include a few different styles of toys — instead of just listing a dozen rubber chews, we tried to choose the toughest toys across a variety of types (from flying disks to floss ropes).
We also made sure to evaluate not just how long a toy lasted, but how much enjoyment out dogs got out of it. Some toys were partially destroyed but still offered our dogs ongoing fun. We took into account lifetime warranties too (which yes, some dog toys do offer)!
14 Best “Indestructible” Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers
Just as owners of chew-happy dogs often need to purchase chew-proof dog beds, those of us with aggressive chewers need chew-proof toys as well!
Here are our choice picks when it comes to the best dog toys for tough chewers. While no dog toy is 100% guaranteed to be indestructible, these dog toys come as close as it gets.
1. Goughnuts Black MAXX Pro 50 Ring
A heavy-duty ring-style chew toy made from Goughnuts' toughest rubber.
About: If you’re done screwing around and want the toughest chew toy money can buy, you definitely need to checkout the Goughnuts Black MAXX Pro 50 Ring. This toy is not only tougher than nails, and is backed by Goughnuts’ lifetime warranty.
A family- and woman-owned company based in Modesto, California, Goughnuts claims to offer the safest dog toys on the market. All of their toys are made from specially formulated rubber and designed by a chemist with more than 30 years of chew toy experience.
Goughnuts offers a variety of different toys, ranging from sticks to balls to rings to tugs, making it easy to pick the one that’ll suit your specific dog best. And each toy is guaranteed for life, which is obviously a benefit for owners of aggressive chewers. Most of the toys also come in multiple colors, sizes, and durability levels.
Their MAXX Pro 50 Ring is tough as heck, but that impressive durability comes with a hefty price tag that some might find a bit excessive for a dog toy. But, if you’re sick of cleaning stuffing fluff off your floor, it could be just the thing for you!
Core features:
- Backed by the manufacturer’s lifetime guarantee. If your dog exposes the red coloration, simply send it back to Goughnuts for a free replacement.
- Made in the USA. All Goughnuts toys are made right here in America.
- Designed for unsupervised, solo chewing. We still think pet parents should always supervise dogs while enjoying a chew toy, but Goughnuts characterizes this toy as suitable for unattended dogs.
Pros
- Super impressive durability, even with heavy-duty chewers
- Gentler on teeth than bones and other mega-hard chews
- The lifetime guarantee means worry-free purchase
Cons
- Some owners find the smell to be too strong after unpackaging
- More expensive than other chew toys
- While Goughnuts toys float, they don’t remain on top of the water
As an APBT owner, you already know that your pooch could probably chew his way out of a bank vault, given enough time.
But fortunately, several owners reported that the Goughnuts Black MAXX Pro 50 Ring was one of the most indestructible dog toys for pit bulls they’d ever encountered.
2. KONG Tires
Cute tire-shaped chew toys that are made in the USA and part of KONG's "extreme" toy product line.
About: KONG Tires are adorable little chew toys that are as tough as they look like they are. These US-made chews are made from the same “extreme” black rubber KONG uses for all of their super durable chews, which means they should hold up well for most dogs.
Additionally, these tires have a hollow slot around the inside, which you can fill with treats, dog-safe peanut butter, or other spreads.
- Super durable. Made from KONG’s extreme black rubber, these chews should hold up well for power chewers.
- Internal slot for adding tasty spreads. This can increase the appeal of the tire and provide additional enrichment.
- Made in the USA. Like most other KONG products, these tires are made in the USA.
- Available in small and medium/large. The larger size is suitable for dogs weighing up to 65 pounds.
Pros
- They’re made from a very durable material
- We love that you can add spreads to the inside
- KONG is a respected name in the dog supply world
- These are made in the USA
Cons
- They’re not suitable for really big dogs
- They’re not quite as durable as some other KONG “Extreme” toys
3. Goughnuts HD MAXX Stick
A US-made, stick-style dog toy that's tough enough for power chewers and is backed by a lifetime guarantee.
About: The Goughnuts HD MAXX Stick is specifically designed to be fun and satisfying for dogs to chew, while simultaneously being one of the safest chew toys on the market.
The HD MAXX Stick is made from a chomptastic rubber that will keep your dog occupied while remaining gentle on his teeth. Additionally, like most of the brand’s other toys, the HD MAXX Stick is backed by the brand’s lifetime warranty
- The HD MAXX Stick is available in several sizes and durability ratings. This gives you the chance to get the perfect chew toy for your specific pet (please refer to Goughnuts’ size chart before ordering to ensure maximum fun and safety).
- Durable rubber material won’t harm your dog’s teeth. The HD MAXX Stick may be supremely durable, but its made from a rubber that most pooches enjoy chewing.
- This toy is used by police K9 departments around the world. Professional K9 handlers don’t gamble with their dog’s safety by using inferior toys, so you can buy the HD MAXX Stick with confidence.
- Made in the USA. US-made toys are typically safer and often more durable than those made overseas.
Pros
- Durable toy that stands up to most chewers
- Great for chewing and fetch – even in water
- We love that it’s backed by Goughnuts lifetime warranty
Cons
- On the pricier side
- Large size can be a problem for smaller dogs
4. West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Tough Dog Bone
A durable, bone-shaped chew toy that's made from West Paw Design's special Zogoflex material.
About: The West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Tough Dog Bone is a rough and tough dog toy for heavy chewers – a bone-a-fide win (haha, get it?). Simply put, this is one of the best dog chew bones around for solo chomping, and it is also great for playing fetch.
West Paw Design is another dog toy brand that does a really fantastic job at creating great dog toys for tough chewers. All their toys are made in the USA (Bozeman, Montana to be specific), safe, and 100% tough chewer guaranteed (which means you can send back any destroyed toy and get a new one for free). All their toys are also FDA-compliant and recyclable too!
Our favorite features about this toy:
- It floats. This dog bone can float in water, making it great for playing fetch at the beach or pool.
- 100% damage free guarantee. If your dog destroys the Hurley bone, get a new one sent to you ASAP!
- Made in the USA. Manufactured in Bozeman, Montana, like all West Paw toys.
- Easy to clean. This toy can just be thrown in the dishwasher to be cleaned.
- Super safe. This toy is BPA-and-Phthalate-free, non-toxic, and FDA compliant.
- Color options. These toys are available in your choice of three fun colors.
Pros
- Great for fetch or chewing
- Tough yet gentle enough to not harm your doggo’s teeth like real bones
- Awesome customer service
Cons
- May not withstand extreme chewing
- On the pricier side of dog toys
I’m a total West Paw convert these days, and tend to use them just as often at KONGs for creating frozen food-stuffed goodies. The Hurley is a real testament to how tough West Paw’s toys can be — Remy was pretty determined to break this thing apart when I first handed it over, but it didn’t budge an inch!
5. Benebone Real Flavor Wishbone
A wishbone-shaped nylon chew toy that's infused with pup-pleasing flavors
About: The Benebone Wishbone is a wishbone-shaped chew toy made from a very hard nylon material that most dogs enjoy chewing. Nylabone specialized in dental dog chews that help promote good canine hygiene. With chews and toys in a variety of sizes and designs, Nylabone is a favorite of veterinarians.
This toy is not designed to be edible, but the nylon is infused with delicious flavors that will provide additional enjoyment for your pooch.
- Benebone’s Wishbone is made in a dog-friendly shape. To help ensure it is easy for your dog to hold, chew, and play with the Benebone Wishbone features grooves and a unique shape that is ergonomically designed to be perfect for canines.
- Everything about the Benebone Wishbone is made in New York, USA. This not only includes the chew toy itself, but the packaging, tooling, and ingredient sourcing too.
- 100% real food ingredients are used to provide the flavor. This includes things like real bacon, peanuts, and chicken.
- Benebone donates a portion of their proceeds to dog welfare organizations. If you’re going to buy a chew toy for your pooch, you may as well do business with a company that gives back to canines in need.
Pros
- Tough material stands up to repeat gnawing, even by strong chewers
- Most dogs adore the flavor
- Affordably priced for such a long-lasting chew
Cons
- May be too hard for some dogs
- Small particles can be gnawed off, which can create a mess
Remy (Meg’s dog) is a huge fan of Benebone! He’s had the same one for years now, and it’s been a life-saver for those times when Remy is all juiced up and needs help calming down. A few minutes chewing and chomping on this thing always gets him settled. Meg notes though that Remy doesn’t usually engage with it on his own — she had to hold it in front of her for him to show any interest.
6. KONG Extreme
The most durable version of KONG's classic "wobbler" toy, you can stuff this chew with all sorts of tasty things.
About: The Classic KONG is likely the most highly recommended chew by trainers and canine behaviorists, due to the fact that it is so versatile — it’s great for chewing and fetch, and once stuffed with delicious treats, it can serve as a great canine enrichment tool.
But unfortunately, the Classic KONG isn’t quite strong enough for true power chewers. That’s OK, because the KONG Extreme certainly is! Made from KONG’s most durable rubber material, this chew will allow your canine to chomp-chomp-chomp to his heart’s content.
- “Wobbler” shape is fun for dogs. Not only is it great for holding and chewing, but it bounces in unpredictable ways making it good for fetch too.
- Made in the USA. Pet parents love being confident that their dog’s toy is safe and well-built.
- Provides the perfect combination of texture and durability. The KONG Extreme is soft enough to prevent dental damage, yet tough enough for power-chewing pooches.
- Available in 5 sizes. Try to select the largest size your dog can comfortably use to help make the toy last as long as possible.
Pros
- KONGs have established a long and positive track record among owners, trainers, and vets
- These toys are also great dog-management tools, and they can keep bored dogs busy
- These are likely the toughest stuffable toys on the market
Cons
- While supremely durable, the chompiest power chewers will likely be able to destroy it (eventually)
- KONG Extreme toys are made from a pretty heavy rubber, which increases the weight of the toy
7. West Paw Tux Stuffable Tough Treat Toy
A durable puzzle toy that can be stuffed with your pet's favorite treats, kibble, or dog-safe spread.
About: The West Paw Tux Stuffable Treat Toy, designed for powerful chewers, adds in the option to insert treats and goodies, which are dispensed as your dog plays.
- Hollow space for treat dispensing. You can stuff the Tux toy with treats, encouraging your dog to play and engage with the toy, keeping him stimulated.
- Floats, bounces, and flies. This dog toy can serve as a one-stop shop for your canine fun – it can float, bounce, and be used for fetch!
- Easy to clean. As with the Hurley bone, the Tux can also be tossed in the dishwasher for a quick and easy cleaning.
- Ultra-tough. The Tux is made from durable rubber material and designed specifically for dogs who love to gnaw.
- Color options. Like many other West Paw toys, the Tux is available in several fun colors.
Pros
- Most pawrents report this toy stands up to heavy-duty chewers
- Comes with a 100% aggressive chewer guarantee
- Versatile enough for varied play, including fetching on land and in water
Cons
- Can be tricky to find treats that stay in place
- In rare cases, extreme chewers have destroyed the toy
The Tux is another one of my favorite West Paw toys — a perfect size that’s easy to clean and can be filled with all kinds of wet treats. My Tux has held up remarkably well under Remy’s determined jaws, so I bet it’ll be plenty tough enough for your pup too!
8. RUFFWEAR Gnawt-a-Rock
A super-durable rock-shaped chew toy that you can cram full of treats or your dog's kibble.
About: The RUFFWEAR Gnawt-a-Rock is a different kind of stuffable chew toy.
Designed to look like a rock, this durable dog chew features an internal compartment. You can give it to your dog empty, but it’s much more fun (and stimulating for your pet) to add some treats or kibble to the inside.
Additionally, the Gnawt-a-Rock is fun for fetch games, as it is light enough to throw and bounces in fun and unusual ways to keep your dog guessing.
- Hollow design means you can stuff this toy with tasty tidbits. Throw some kibble pieces or training treats inside to keep your dog interested for hours.
- Durable yet lightweight. Unlike some other toys for aggressive chewers, this one is easy for you to throw and your dog to tote.
- Gum-massaging surface is great for teething pups. Young pups can become chewing terrors while teething, but this toy will help soothe and massage gums.
- Made from natural rubber. Pet parents love knowing that this chew is made from good ‘ol fashioned latex rubber.
Pros
- Most pet parents found it durable enough for heavy chewing
- We like that it is different-looking and available in an assortment of colors
- The toy’s versatility makes it a great value
Cons
- Some pet parents felt that kibble falls out too easily for smart puppers
- May be slightly tricky to clean the interior
9. Mammoth Flossy 3-Knot Tug Rope
An all-natural, cotton-fiber rope toy that's available in several links and with varying numbers of knots.
About: The Mammoth Flossy 3-Knot Tug Rope is a durable rope toy with double benefits — it cleans your dog’s teeth while he plays!
- Several sizes. Comes in 5 different sizes and lengths depending on your dog.
- Promotes healthy dog teeth. The rope fibers will floss your dog’s teeth as he chews and tugs!
- Cotton-blend of colors. Made with three different colors woven together for a fun design.
Pros
- Thick construction lets your super chewer enjoy it longer
- Multiple knots make finding a grip during tug a breeze
- Gentler on teeth than other chew toys
Cons
- While stronger than other ropes, it’s still shreddable
- Made in Mexico, which isn’t every pup parents preference
10. Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Squeak Ball
A durable and dishwasher-safe dog ball that floats and contains an internal squeaker for extra fun.
About: Planet Dog’s Orbee-Tuff Squeak Ball is a durable ball toy your dog can chase, catch, and chomp to his heart’s content, as it’s made specifically for aggressive chewers.
- This ball is made in the USA. This means you can rest assured it was manufactured under strict safety and quality-control standards.
- Rated a 5 out of 5 on the manufacturer’s durability scale. Made from Planet Dog’s special Orbee-Tuff material, this is one of the most durable dog balls on the market.
- Better than a tennis ball. With a 3-inch diameter, this ball is less likely to pose a choking hazard than tennis balls, and it won’t abrade your dog’s teeth the way tennis ball felt can over time.
- Contains no glues or adhesives. Dogs end up swallowing parts of the toys they destroy, but you needn’t worry about your dog getting sick from the adhesives used in this ball because there aren’t any!
- Available in your choice of two bright colors. The Orbee-Tuff Squeak Ball comes in blue or orange.
Pros
- Durability gets a thumb’s up from most owners
- Excellent choice for chewers who love to fetch
- Less of a choking hazard than traditional tennis balls
Cons
- Squeaker can be difficult for some dogs to activate
- Some say the newer updated design doesn’t hold up to super aggressive chewers
11. KONG Flyer
A durable yet flexible flying dog disc that's made in the USA from KONG's classic red rubber material.
About: The KONG Flyer is a great durable dog toy from the KONG collection, fit for throwing with your furry friend. Made from KONG’s classic rubber, it’s not only fun to fling, it’s also tough enough for many chomptastic canines.
- Tough and durable. The Flyer is made out of the classic and trusted KONG natural rubber that’s also non-toxic.
- Ideal for fetch. This toy is perfect for playing fetch with your tough chewer.
- Super safe. Since the KONG Flyer is made of rubber, it’s softer on your dog’s teeth and gums than classic plastic frisbees.
- Available in several sizes. Comes in small and large size.
- Made in the USA. KONG toys are manufactured in the USA
Pros
- Strong enough for dogs who wear down traditional Frisbees quickly
- Easy to clean between play sessions
- Reasonably priced for such a quality dog toy
Cons
- Not every dog is a fan of the texture or material
- Some owners feel it doesn’t fly as smoothly as other Frisbees
Hey there, pet parents! Ben here.
I use the KONG Flyer with my Rottie quite a bit — she loves to play fetch. Overall, I really like tossin’ this toy around with her. It’s safer than a tennis ball, it’s easy for me to see when she inevitably gets distracted and leaves it on the ground, and it’s not hard for her to pick up the way rigid dog Frisbees are.
She’s not exactly a power-chewer, but it certainly seems like it’d hold up as well as other Classic KONG series toys (the red ones). We’ve had it for about a year now, and it pretty much looks brand new.
I don’t think it is quite as easy to throw well as a rigid disc is, but it gets the job done and I’m getting better at it.
12. Tuffy Mega Boomerang
A soft, fun, and flexible boomerang-shaped dog toy that's made from a combination of polyester and fleece.
About: The Tuffy Mega Boomerang is one of the few dog toys for aggressive chewers made of fabric that can withstand those tough teeth!
- Available in several colors. Available in tiger, brick, or chain link design pattern.
- Floats. This is another tough chewer dog toy that floats!
- Machine washable. Just toss it in the machine to get it clean.
- Frisbee or tug. This toy can be used as a frisbee fetch toy or a tug-of-war toy.
- Tons of layered stitching and material. This Tuffy dog toy features several layers of luggage-grade material with several layers of cross stitching for additional safety and protection.
Pros
- One of the few truly tough soft toys for chewers
- Versatile enough to be used as a chew or fetch item, even in water
- Multiple squeakers keep your pup engaged
Cons
- More expensive than other soft toys, though it’s durable
- Aggressive chewers may eventually tear into the toy
13. Outward Hound Invincibles Stuffingless Snake
A cuddly yet durable stuffing-free plush with double-stitched seams and Dura-Tuff lining.
About: Outward Hound Invincibles Snake is an animal-themed chew toy that is made without any stuffing material. This means your dog won’t be at risk of choking or eating toy stuffing (or causing a mess in your home), if he manages to rip it open.
While this toy isn’t exactly indestructible — it’s fairly easy to tear — we consider it a good value item because even once one pocket is torn apart, this toy boasts a dozen other pockets and squeakers, giving it a long lifespan.
- Each toy comes with internal Invincible Squeakers. These super-durable squeakers are designed to stand up to your dog’s teeth and ensure the squeaky fun lasts.
- These toys feature Outward Hound’s Chew Shield Technology, which helps them endure anything your dog can throw at ‘em! Invincibles Snakes also feature super strong Dura-Tuff Seams to help provide even greater durability.
- Available in three sizes. The large version comes with three internal squeakers, the extra-large comes with six, and the extra-extra-large version includes 12 internal squeakers.
- You can get an Invincibles Snake in three different color schemes: Blue/Green, Green/Yellow, and Orange/Blue.
Pros
- Floppy shape and shakeability please most pups
- Multiple squeakers provide plenty of stimulation and fun
- Most owners pleased with the durability
Cons
- A bit pricier than similar options
- Can be ripped open, but offers ongoing use even after a pocket has been torn
- Not ideal for dogs who might eat squeakers
Howdy, canine campers. Kelsey, here.
I tried the Outward Hound Invincibles Snake with my pittie mix Maya. Unfortunately, while I’m sure this toy would work really well for some doggos, it didn’t work fantastically for us.
It only kept her interest for about a half hour, and she was able to dissect the snake and dig out the squeaker pretty easily.
That said, the toy’s double stitching and internal canvas layer would likely hold up well for many dogs — my little wagger is just more determined than most. Additionally, it is important to point out that this toy still lasted a lot longer than many other ones on the market, so while it wasn’t a homerun, it wasn’t exactly a strikeout either.
14. ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz No Stuffing Plush Toy
A set of 3 durable and adorable, animal-themed, stuffing-free plush toys, with 2 squeakers in each.
About: The ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz Dog Toy is a durable plaything that is perfect for aggressive chewers who like plush toys.
Sold in packs of three, these stuffing-free toys will give your dog a fun cuddle mate that won’t make a mess if and when your dog tears it open.
This is another toy option that isn’t incredibly durable, but circumvents the issues that many normal toys have — in short, this toy doesn’t make a mess and doesn’t pose any choking hazard dangers when your dog inevitably opens it up.
- Available in two sizes. Skinny Peltz are available in small (11 inches long) and large (18 inches long) versions to suit your pooch.
- Adorable woodland creature designs. With each pack of three, you get a raccoon, a fox, and a squirrel.
- Internal squeakers included. Squeakers help keep your dog’s interest and take playtime to another level. Each Skinny Peltz comes with two internal squeakers.
Pros
- Great option for moderate chewers
- Affordably priced for a set
- No mess or hazard if your dog rips it open
Cons
- Won’t last against true power chewers
- Made in China
Which Type of Indestructible Dog Chew Toy Is Best for Your Pup?
The first thing you’ll want to consider is the type of chew toy that’ll suit your dog best.
There are a lot of toy shapes and options on the market, and they each work best in different situations. But generally speaking, tough dog chew toys fall into one of several basic categories.
Ring-Shaped Toys
Easy for dogs to tote around and interesting enough to keep their attention, circular chew toys like these are also pretty safe, as they’re hard for dogs to swallow (most are simply too large).
Dogs also have difficulty getting a lot of leverage on them, which means they’ll usually last quite a while longer than toys of other shapes.
Rings can also be fun for fetch, and large ones may even work for low-intensity tug-of-war sessions. There is a small chance that your dog could get his lower jaw through the opening in some ring-shaped toys, but most of the best ones have pretty small holes that would prevent this from happening.
Bone and Stick-Style Toys
Bone-shaped chew toys are usually best-suited for dogs who like gnawing on things for long periods of time.
They offer your pet two or more different shapes (the thinner middle section and the bulbous ends) to enjoy, and they’re usually easy for dogs to hold and manipulate.
On the other hand, bone-shaped chew toys are not always very good for interactive play with your pet.
They’re often too heavy to work as throwing toys, and they don’t work very well for tugging games either. Nevertheless, there’s a reason the classic bone shape is so popular (aside from the cuteness factor), and the best dog chew bones often make great heavy-duty dog toys for power-chewing pups.
Stuffable Toys
If you have a brainy, easily bored canine, you may want to consider dog toys that hide his favorite treats inside.
These types of toys will usually keep your pet busy for long periods of time, as he’ll have to work diligently to obtain the tasty prize.
These types of toys don’t work well for fetch or tug of war, but they’re great for giving your dog an outlet for his chewing and incorporating interactive games into your routine.
Plus, yummy treats are always a good thing!
Tug & Rope Toys
A lot of super-resilient dog toys are designed for playing tugging games with your pet.
These toys come in a variety of styles, including figure-8s and “S” shapes, as well as knotted ropes. They usually have some type of “handle” for you and your dog to grab, and they’re built from materials that have a high tensile strength (which simply means that they won’t break easily if you yank on each end).
Some will work for fetch or solo-chewing time too, it just depends on their materials and design.
At any rate, many power-chewing dogs love to play tug of war with their peeps, so these are often the best indestructible dog toys for pit bulls, Rottweilers, and other pups that like to pull.
Ball Toys
Ball-shaped chew toys are best suited for dogs who want to play fetch or chase toys that bounce in unpredictable ways.
They will not only hold up to wear and tear better than most alternatives (such as traditional Frisbees), they’re safer than tennis balls, and many will work with ball-launching devices.
Solid rubber dog balls are ideal, but some indestructible dog balls are hollow inside. As long as the materials used in the construction are resilient enough for your dog’s teeth, either style will work fine.
However, ball-shaped chew toys are utterly useless for tugging games, and they aren’t great for solo chewing sessions either.
Flying Discs
Disc-style toys are essentially Frisbees for dogs, although many feature interesting design elements that make them perfect for pooch use.
For example, many dog discs are made from flexible materials. This makes them much easier for your dog to grab when they’re laying flat on the ground (anyone who’s seen a dog scoot a rigid disc around the ground while growing more and more frustrated will understand the value this provides).
Others are made with holes in the middle or other things that make them well-suited for woofers.
Do note that the basic disc shape makes it easy for doggos to get their mouths around them and use quite a bit of leverage. So, while some are pretty darn resilient, they’re rarely as tough as other kinds of toys made from similar materials.
They can still work well for power chewers, but they’re generally better-suited for fetch games than general chompin’ and chewin’.
Soft Plush Toys
We’ll admit that the notion of a soft “indestructible” dog toy seems like a bit of an oxymoron. But there are soft, plush-style dog toys that are designed to be really durable.
These types of toys are great for power-chewing dogs who like to cuddle with their toys or just carry them around everywhere. They’re also pretty darn cute in most cases.
Some of these toys are flingable enough to work for light games of fetch, and you can use some of them for relatively gentle tug sessions too. But they’ll rarely hold up quite as well as more rigid toys, so definitely think carefully before opting for this type of toy.
If you do think a soft chew toy is right for your pooch, look for one of the most durable ones you can find — preferably one that is made from multiple layers of fabric.
Indestructible Dog Toy Materials: What Holds Up Best?
When it comes to heavy-duty dog toys for extreme chewers, you need to select one made of suitably tough materials. Below, you’ll find a few of the materials that you want to seek out, as well as a few materials you want to make sure to avoid.
Ideal Materials For Tough Dog Toys
The following materials are some of the very best options, which should stand up well to your dog’s dental daggers. You’ll still want to use caution at the outset (no material is truly indestructible), but these materials are usually very durable.
Rubber. The vast majority of dog toys created specifically with aggressive chewers in mind are made of rubber. Rubber is durable and virtually indestructible, so this material should be your first pick in a dog toy.
Just look for rubber toys with soft, malleable edges that are smooth and not sharp. Also, note that solid rubber is generally more durable than rubber toys with internal cavities. Soft rubber toys are also great for puppies who are teething!
Thick rope material. Rope toys are another popular dog toy for tough chewers. Rope toys are durable, easy to clean (just throw them in the wash), and relatively safe.
Even better, most rope toys can double as tug-of-war toys, providing fun for canines and their owners!
Just be sure to monitor your dog so that he doesn’t end up eating significant quantities of string. But if you don’t mind doing that, rope toys can make a great choice for chewers.
Rope also makes a great leash material for tough dogs that might bust or chew through traditional leads.
Materials to Avoid for Tough Dog Toys
Chew toys made with the following materials or items are almost never strong enough for power-chewing pups. Generally speaking, you’ll want to avoid them entirely.
Latex or vinyl toys. Again, these toys are often cute and fun, but they just aren’t durable enough for the strong teeth of super-chewin’ dogs.
When dogs bite through toys like these, they can also create sharp edges that will destroy your dog’s mouth and cause extreme discomfort (as well as potentially lead to an infection).
Squeaker toys. Squeakers aren’t really “materials,” but you’ll still want to avoid them if you have a power-chewing pupper. Squeaker toys are tons of fun for dogs, but the risks are just too high for tough chewers.
Rough dogs can easily tear through most “indestructible” squeaky dog toys on their mission to find the noise-making device inside. Once they find that squeaker, they often eat it, and that’s no good.
Squeaky toys may be acceptable for interactive use if you watch your dog closely, but they should never be given to dogs for solo play.
Hit-or-Miss Materials That May or May Not Work for Power Chewers
Many materials used to make indestructible dog chew toys fit neatly into one of the two categories discussed above, but others aren’t so easy to characterize.
They may work for some dogs, yet be completely inadequate for others. So, just be sure that you supervise closely (especially during the first few play sessions) if you select a toy made from one of the materials below.
Kevlar. Kevlar is a fabric used in the manufacture of bullet-proof vests, sails, drum heads, and other items which must stand up to a considerable amount of wear and tear. And over the last few years, many manufacturers have begun making Kevlar dog toys.
Kevlar has become more popular as a material for durable dog toys because since it has a tensile strength five times greater than steel! Part of the reason it stops bullets, knives, and (theoretically) your dog’s teeth is that the fibers of Kevlar are extremely tight. This makes it difficult for things to punch through the material.
But in practice, Kevlar doesn’t always work well for chew toys. It does appear capable of standing up to some dogs (even power chewers), but it seems to fall apart pretty readily when others get their chompers on it.
Firehose Material. A few manufacturers make their toys from fire hoses. Firehose material is built to withstand incredible internal pressures as well as the wear and tear firehoses experience during use, so it is certainly a material worthy of consideration.
But unfortunately, it isn’t quite as awesome as dog owners may hope. While firehose dog toys do appear to hold up well for some dog owners, they have failed spectacularly for others. At least one family found themselves spending thousands of dollars to save their dog after she choked on part of the toy.
When Buying Chew-Proof Dog Toys, Get the Right Size
When it comes to getting the right dog toys for your aggressive chewer, it’s important to keep size in mind.
Toys that are too small can easily cause large dogs to choke. Use the same discretion with dog toys as you would use with a baby – if it could potentially cause a choking hazard, avoid it at all costs.
Make sure your dog toys are always too large to swallow!
Also, generally speaking, the larger the toy, the better it will stand up to your dog’s teeth and jaws. As long as the toy is small enough that your dog can play with it and gnaw on it, it’s generally a good idea to opt for the largest toys possible.
Chew toys aren’t something you want to skimp on – especially if your pup is prone to destructive chewing.
Simply put, cheap chew toys may endanger your dog.
Your dog may tear them up and then choke on the pieces or suffer an obstruction. Or, he may damage his teeth chewing on something that’s too hard.
Cheap chew toys also don’t save you any money in the long run as you’ll just end up replacing them more quickly and spending more money over time.
Just go ahead and pick up a few of the best chew-proof dog toys you can find!
Durable Chew Toy Safety Tips!
Some chew toys are definitely safer and more durable than others, but no toy is truly indestructible. Chew toys are an important dog-care tool, but you must be sure to keep your dog’s safety at the forefront of your mind.
So, be sure that you always employ the following safety tips:
- Don’t allow your dog to chew on his new toy unsupervised for a week or so. This will give you some time to verify that the toy is capable of holding up to your pup’s chompers.
- Inspect the toy after each play session. Look for any serious damage and proceed accordingly. If your dog puts a few tooth marks in a hard-rubber toy, it may still be safe to use. But, if your pooch has managed to peel or rip off any pieces, you should discard it or return it to the manufacturer.
- Keep your pet’s toy clean. A lot of owners forget to clean their pet’s chew toys on a regular basis. Your dog’s toys certainly don’t need to be sterile, but you don’t want them to become coated in saliva, bacteria, and dirt from the kitchen floor. This is especially important for dog toys that work in conjunction with treats.
- Use care when playing with tug-style toys. Many dogs love playing tug-of-war, and there are a number of great toys designed for doing so. Just be sure you don’t jerk the toy while it’s in your dog’s mouth and always ensure he gets a good grip with his teeth. Failing to do so could lead to very painful (and expensive) dental problems.
- Be careful with toys if you have multiple canines. Some dogs become very possessive of their toys, which can lead to fighting, intimidation, and other types of social strife among your pups.
Tough Dog Toy FAQs
The entire subject of chew toys – especially those designed for aggressive chewers – sparks a number of questions in the minds of owners. We’ll try to address a few of the most common below (but don’t hesitate to post your own questions in the comments section!)
Are “indestructible” plush dog toys really tough enough for power chewers?
Plush dog toys are certainly cute, but they’re rarely strong enough to withstand serious chewers. Even dogs who can’t or don’t chew right through the plush material will likely pull the seams apart, eventually opening up the toy like a pistachio nut. But we’re always interested in reviewing new and innovative products, so let us know if you’ve found a plush dog toy that is tough enough for your toothy terrier!
Are indestructible dog toys really worth the additional cost?
Many owners just decide to give their dog the cheapest chew toy they can find, with the understanding that they’ll simply buy a new one once necessary. But let’s be clear: This is a terrible idea. Not only will you spend more on cheap chew toys over time, cheap chew toys put your dog’s very life in danger. As we explained above, it doesn’t make sense to save a few bucks, only to find yourself writing a big check to your vet at a later date.
Can you make homemade dog chew toys for aggressive chewers?
We are big fans of DIY solutions, but making homemade chew toys for power chewers is generally a bad idea. The potential dangers involved with doing so simply outweigh the benefits of making your own toys. Plus, chew toys aren’t really that expensive, so you wouldn’t end up saving that much money anyway. Accordingly, this is one of those things that falls under the “leave it to professionals” heading. But, you can always scratch your DIY itch by making a cool interactive dog toy for your pet.
Are there any indestructible squeaky dog toys?
We aren’t aware of any squeaky dog toys on the market that would qualify as “indestructible.” Most squeaky toys are plush animals that contain a small plastic squeaker. Plush toys usually aren’t tough enough for power chewers, and squeaker can cause serious health problems if swallowed. You may, however, be able to safely use a squeaker toy for tugging games, fetch or other types of interactive play. Just be sure to keep a close eye on your pooch while doing so.
How much chewing is normal for a dog?
There are no hard-and-fast rules regarding the “appropriate” amount of chewing. Suffice to say, some dogs chew a lot — potentially spending hours each day nomming on toys (or whatever else they can find laying around).
Chewing is a completely natural canine behavior, so as long as your dog isn’t chewing on himself and his chewing frequency doesn’t suddenly change, there’s likely nothing to worry about (though it’s never a bad idea to mention it to your vet if you are concerned).
In most cases, it’s more important to focus on what your dog is chewing, rather than how much time he spends doing so.
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So there you have it — the best, most durable dog toys for aggressive chewers! Do you have more toys to add to the list? Any toy shapes we missed? Share your favorite rough and tough dog toys in the comments below!
Got a super chomper on your hands? Make sure to also check out our articles on chew-proof dog harnesses, heavy duty dog leashes, and heavy-duty escape-proof dog crates too for those rough and tough canines!
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