Dog Chew Toys

The Importance of Dog Chew Toys

Providing your dog with items that he is allowed to chew will keep him entertained and out of trouble. Chewing is a normal dog behavior, and most dogs need to chew at least during puppyhood. Many dogs will chew things when they are bored or do not get enough exercise, while others will gnaw on things to relieve stress.

Providing your dog with a variety of things he is allowed to chew will keep him healthy and mentally stimulated. Encourage and praise your dog for using his own chewables, and offer toys as an option when you correct him for chewing things he shouldn't.

Effective Use of Chew Toys

In a dog's estimation, if something is not a friend, food, water, or in general is useless, it is a chew toy. This may include shoes, sofas, remote controls, eye glasses and, in extreme cases, walls. The best way to keep your dog from chewing on things that you do not wish to have destroyed is to be sure that he has a variety of tasty and amusing items to keep him busy when you are not supervising him.

One of the best ways to keep your dog's chew toy collection novel and interesting is to change the toys you leave out for him every couple of days. You should have 10-15 chewable toys; leave out five before you leave the house. The next day, pick up the toys from the previous day and put out five new ones. This will encourage your dog chew the things he is allowed to chew, thereby avoiding more expensive items such as furniture.

Toys Dogs Love to Chew

Find a toy that your dog will enjoy playing with and gnawing on is really easy in today's dog toy market. Manufacturers are aware of the modern dog's need to address primal urges in a highly civilized environment. Here are some toy suggestions you can use to divert your dog from destructive behavior.

Edible Dog Chew Toys

• Everlasting Treat Ball: This all-in-one ball and long lasting dog treat is made by Triple Crown. It comes in three sizes and a variety of flavors. The special domed treat disks are inserted into the side of a rubber ring to create a tasty ball that is fun to play with and has a dog pleasing flavor.

• Nylabone Healthy Edibles: Digestible dog chews are shaped like bones and come in a variety of flavors from peanut butter to bacon. It is safe for your dog to chew and swallow this chewable dog toy, as there are no plastic parts or ingredients. This is a good alternative to rawhide.

Interactive and Fun to Chew

• Kong: This company offers a large variety of durable dog toys that can be laced with tasty treats, or may be used exclusively as a way to feed your dog his meals. This is particularly useful if your dog is a very dedicated chewer.

• Twist 'n' Treat: This toy looks like a flying saucer, and dogs will find it almost as interesting as a UFO. This interactive toy is part of Premier's Busy Buddy line of dog toys. These durable toys were created with the active dog in mind.

Just Plain Durable

• West Paw Design: West Paw offers durable dog toys such as the Hurley, Huck and Tux, all made from a material known as Zogoflex. Not only are these dog toys tough, but they are environmentally friendly.

• Ultra Tough Dog Toys: Big Time Dog Toys offers an ultra tough category for a variety of dog toys. These toys are virtually indestructible and can stand up to powerful chewers.

Safety Measures

Always introduce new dog toys under supervision. No toy is completely indestructible. Watch your dog play with the toy, and remove it if he is able to chew it into smaller pieces. Check your dog's toys for damage, and throw away toys that are starting to come apart.