Toys for power chewers:
how to choose safely
Strong chewers break toys and, sometimes, teeth. Here’s what the AKC and ASPCA say to look for. We haven’t lab-tested any toy, so the examples below are a starting point, not a verdict.
We read the sources listed at the bottom and turned their guidance into a checklist. We didn’t test any product, we don’t rank them, and we don’t publish ratings or prices: check those on the official sites. Last checked October 4, 2026.
The checklist.
- 1
Some give beats rock-hard
Many chew toys or treats can fracture teeth. The AKC says chew toys with some flexibility are generally recommended, and to ask your vet which toy suits your dog.
Source: AKC ↗ - 2
Size it to the dog
The ASPCA recommends choosing products designed for your pet’s size and chewing habits; chews that are too small can be swallowed whole.
Source: ASPCA ↗ - 3
Watch, then toss when worn
The ASPCA advises watching your dog while they chew, throwing out durable chews before they wear thin, and calling a vet if your dog swallows a chunk.
Source: ASPCA ↗ - 4
No cooked bones
Cooked bones, like leftover T-bones or chicken wings, can splinter and seriously injure your dog.
Source: ASPCA ↗ - 5
Rotate to beat boredom
Offering a variety of toys and rotating them every couple of days helps keep chewing on the right things.
Source: ASPCA ↗
Where to start.
Examples only, not ranked or tested by us. Claims in quotes come from the maker’s own page. Always supervise and follow the maker’s sizing.
- KONG Extreme
Maker says its black rubber formula is “specifically designed for power chewers” and that power chewers may need to size up.
- West Paw Zogoflex toys
Maker lists a “Love It Guarantee”; read the terms on its site.
- Goughnuts
Maker lists a guarantee page; read the terms on its site.
Dog Care Checklist & Grooming Log
A monthly routine sheet with daily, weekly and monthly tasks, plus a grooming log.
Where this comes from.
- AKC: Damaging chews ↗
- ASPCA: Position statement on dog chews/treats ↗
- ASPCA: Destructive chewing ↗
- KONG Extreme (official site) ↗
- West Paw Zogoflex toys (official site) ↗
- Goughnuts (official site) ↗
Sources checked October 4, 2026. Dept. of Dogs is not affiliated with any organization cited. General info for dog owners, not veterinary advice: ask your vet about your own dog.
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