Dog Chew Toys

Most people don’t give much thought to the types of dog chew toys that are available for purchase. Dog chew toys come in many shapes, sizes and colors and are made from a variety of different materials. The sole focus of your dog's chewing should be directed toward items you select.

Dogs chew on whatever they can find for any number of reasons. They may have too much energy, may be teething, may be suffering from separation anxiety or may simply be bored. Dog chew toys were created mainly to prevent destructive chewing habits, but have a number of other uses as well.

Dog chew toys benefit high-energy dogs by helping them to exert all that excess energy. High-energy dogs and large breed dogs especially enjoy rope dog toys, balls and hard rubber toys such as the Kong dog toy.

Puppies that are teething may prefer Nylabones. Nylabones are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, come in a range of different flavors, and are long lasting and non-toxic. Nylabones are designed to satisfy a dog’s chewing instinct, and are safer than rawhides because they do not break off in chunks or splinter. Nylabones that are made for puppies should never be given to an adult dog.

Dog chew toys are a necessity to dogs suffering from separation anxiety and help to provide a form of therapy. Dogs suffering from this affliction tend to exhibit such bad behaviors such as soiling the house, excessive barking and destroying household items. A Kong dog toy is an excellent choice for a dog with separation anxiety. The Kong, filled with goodies, will keep the dog happy for hours. When the dog is crated for long periods of time (when you are at work for example) the Kong keeps him content by encouraging him to get the food reward.

Any type of dog chew toy will help to keep a dog from becoming bored. Tug dog toys, balls, rope dog toys, Kongs, and stuffed dolls provide entertainment and entice the dog to play more and help a sedentary dog become more active. Having several different kinds of chew toys available and switching them around once in awhile will give your dog a bit of variety.

Chewing is perfectly normal and natural canine behavior. Kongs, Biscuit Balls and sterilized dog bones are the best to satisfy your dog’s need for chewing stimulation. No matter what dog chew toy you select, it is your responsibility to supervise and monitor your dog’s chewing habits and discard any toy that poses a threat to your dog’s health.

Next article: Dog Toss and Retrieving Toys