Anyone who has been a dog parent would understand that these canines need something to chew on constantly. Specifically, these “chewies” release endorphins or feel-good hormones and facilitate mental stimulation. These days, a variety of chewy toys and other toys are available for dogs. However, dog parents need to ensure that these toys are not toxic. So, here’s a guide to buying the best safe chews and non-toxic toys for dogs:

Check the toy material
The first step when choosing a chewy toy or other toy for one’s dog is to ensure that the metal it is made of isn’t toxic or harmful. For example, if the product has lead or mercury as one of its ingredients, it is a strict no-no, as these metals are harmful to the brain and body. Rope, rubber, and nylon toys are safe bets, but these should not be too tiny because the dog may accidentally swallow the toy and choke on it. If the toys are smaller in size, the owners should always be around to supervise their furry friends during their playtimes.

Consider the dog’s age
The dog’s age plays a role in the appropriate size of the toy, especially when it comes to chew toys. Puppies usually have only 28 baby teeth, while a grown dog has a minimum of 42. Also, puppies tend to mouth the objects around them more, as their teeth are still developing. They might need toys made of soft rubber instead of hard rubber or nylon. For such reasons, age is a major factor when buying chewy dog toys.

Understand the pros and cons of rawhides
Rawhides are quite popular among dogs and dog parents because they help keep the former’s teeth strong, ensure fresh breath, and help get rid of plaque and tartar. However, they may also lead to choking if the dog swallows the rawhide or a part of it, so these should be given to dogs only under close supervision. Also, one should consult a vet about what rawhides are safe and well-suited for dogs. It is best to understand the pros and cons of rawhides for dogs before buying them so one is well prepared.

Beware of stuffed or soft toys
Stuffed or soft toys may seem like the right options for one’s furry friends, as they are visually appealing, do not have any sharp edges, and are seemingly harmless. But soft toys can be ripped apart by dogs easily, which might expose them to the stuffing. If the dog swallows the stuffing, it might lead to choking and exposure to hazardous substances. So, it is best to avoid buying soft or stuffed toys.

Pick durable and resilient toys
Fragile toys and chew toys aren’t the right ones for dogs. If the toy breaks, dogs may gnaw on its tiny components, which can be hazardous and might cause choking. For this reason, it is best to go for toys that are not easily breakable and are resilient. For example, toys made of good-quality rubber or nylon are relatively safe, as they are durable.

Avoid toys that resemble common household items
Pet parents often make the mistake of buying toys that resemble regular household items, such as remotes and footwear. It’s best to avoid giving dogs toys that resemble household items, as they may develop a habit of chewing on them. They might nibble not only on the toy but also on the household item it looks like, which can cause damage at home and increase the risk of choking.

Watch out for signs of compulsive chewing
Sometimes, dogs might pick up on the “feel-good” aspect of chewing and compulsively chew on the objects they find around them. Pet parents should be attuned to such behavioral changes and find ways to curb the habit, albeit gently. So, if a dog develops an unhealthy chewing habit, it is best to keep it distracted with mentally stimulating toys like puzzles or toys that dispense treats. Also, one should use a verbal command to stop the dog from chewing excessively, and when the dog obeys, it should be given a chewy treat. This way, one can ensure the dog is mentally stimulated while being safe and healthy.

Buy only dog-proof toys
Toys attached to strings or ribbons (such as yo-yos) or those with sharp parts can pose risks to dogs if they chew on them. So, pet owners should ideally avoid buying such toys, but if they do, they should make the toys dog-proof before handing them out to their furry friends. As mentioned earlier, one should always check the product labels to verify that they do not have any dangerous components. Also, any sharp or dangerous components should be taken off the toy so that it is safe for the dog to play around with.

In addition to taking care when buying chew toys for dogs, dog parents should be attuned to any changes in the dog’s chewing habits and other unusual behaviors. In severe cases, dog parents must visit as soon as possible if they suspect choking or bacterial infections due to exposure to a toy.