Heavy Chewer Toy Guide: Choose the Right Strength, Size & Shape for Your Dog
If you’ve got a dog that loves to chew with gusto, you’ve probably gone through your fair share of toys labelled "tough" — only to find pieces scattered across the lounge in record time. That’s where the right chew toy makes all the difference. Whether your pup is a powerful gnawer or simply loves a good challenge, this guide helps you choose the best shape, size and chew strength for their needs. At Petdirect, we get pet, and we’re here to help you find long-lasting, safe fun for any canine chomper.
Why Dogs Love To Chew
Chewing is a completely natural behaviour for dogs. It helps clean teeth, relieves boredom, eases anxiety and even supports healthy jaw development — especially in puppies. For some dogs, like Labradors, Border Collies or American Staffies, chewing is more than a pastime — it’s a passion!
But not all dogs chew equally. Factors like breed, age, temperament and tooth condition can influence how intensely and frequently a dog chews. That’s why matching your dog with the right chew toy strength is essential for safety and satisfaction.
Choosing The Right Chew Strength
Chew toy strength typically ranges from soft to extreme. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you pair your dog with the perfect match:
- Soft chewers: Ideal for smaller dogs or older pups with sensitive teeth. Look for plush toys or soft rubber options. Supervised only, of course!
- Moderate chewers: Need toys that provide some resistance, like durable rubber or reinforced canvas.
- Heavy chewers: These power chompers need ultra-tough toys designed to resist tearing. Go for dog chew toys made from materials like nylon, reinforced rubber or fabrics rated for durability.
Brands like KONG and Benebone specialise in chew-tested toys for dogs that don’t hold back.
Finding The Right Size Chew Toy
When it comes to dog toys, size isn't just a preference — it’s a safety essential. A toy that’s too small can pose a choking hazard, especially for larger breeds, while oversized toys may frustrate smaller pups.
As a general rule:
- Choose a toy larger than your dog’s mouth
- Avoid anything they could fit entirely between their back molars
- For puppies, size up as they grow — even faster for large breeds like Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds
Shop our dog chew toy collection and use filters by size or breed to help you choose easily.
Which Shape Suits Your Dog’s Chewing Style?
Chew toy shape isn't just about fun — it also affects how your dog interacts with and benefits from the toy. Here are some top shapes to consider:
- Bone shapes: Classic for a reason. Loved by most dogs and easy to grip.
- Ring or donut: Great for tug and solo gnawing. Ideal for large breed puppies learning how to play.
- Textured or ridged toys: Perfect for teething pups or dental support. Look for textures that help massage gums and clean teeth.
- Stuffable toys: Fill with treats or food toppers and spreads to extend playtime and reduce boredom.
If your dog is crate trained or needs solo time at home, interactive chew toys are a brilliant way to keep them engaged in your absence.
Chew Toy Safety Tips
Even the toughest chew toy can wear down over time. To keep playtime safe and fun, follow these simple tips:
- Inspect toys regularly for wear and tear
- Discard damaged toys before they become dangerous
- Rotate toys weekly to keep things fresh
- Always supervise new chew toys for the first few uses
For extra peace of mind, choose toys from trusted brands like Nylabone or Tasty Bone, known for their durability standards.
Is your dog also an anxious chewer? You might consider pairing tougher toys with calming supplements or treats to reduce unwanted chewing or stress-driven gnawing.
Power Up Playtime For Heavy Chewers
Whether you’ve got a gentle nibbler or a determined destroyer, the right chew toy makes all the difference when it comes to safety, enrichment and keeping your home free of shredded shoes. By choosing the right strength, size and shape for your dog’s chewing style, you’re setting them up for tail-wagging success.
Paws ready to upgrade your chew toy stash? Explore the best from our chew toy collection. And don’t forget to earn rewards through our Pet Perks loyalty programme or collect Airpoints on every fetch-worthy order. We get pet, and we can’t wait to help you and your dog enjoy happier, chew-filled days.