What to Do When Your Dog Is a Heavy Toy Chewer (Without Losing Your Mind or Wallet)

Let’s face it—some dogs just love to chew. Not the casual nibble, but the full-blown, jaw-crushing, shred-it-to-bits kind of chewing. If you’re the proud pet parent of a heavy chewer, you know the drill: you buy a cute plush toy, and within minutes… it’s fluffageddon.
But don’t worry! Having a dog with a powerful bite doesn’t mean you have to give up on toys altogether—or replace them every week. There are actually quite a few options out there made specifically for tough chewers. And with a little guidance, you can channel that chewing energy into something productive (and less destructive to your furniture).
Here’s what to do when your dog is a serious chewer—and a list of awesome, durable toys that can keep up with those jaws of steel.
🐶 Step One: Embrace the Chewer Within
Your dog chews for a reason: boredom, teething, anxiety, or simply because it’s fun. Rather than scold them for doing what comes naturally, help them find toys they can destroy—or at least try to. Durable chew toys keep your pup entertained, reduce stress, and even promote dental health.
🦴 Step Two: Choose the Right Type of Toy
Heavy chewers need materials that fight back, like:
- Rubber (tough, flexible, safe)
- Nylon (long-lasting and satisfying to gnaw)
- Rope (great for tug and flossing teeth)
- Reinforced plush (for dogs who still love a little softness)
🧸 Step Three: Invest in Tried-and-True Tough Toys
Here are 12 of the best chew-proof toys you can buy today—with direct links so you can stock up and save your shoes.
💥 Top Toy Picks for Heavy Chewers
- KONG Extreme Dog Toy
The OG of indestructible toys. Fill it with treats or peanut butter.
Buy on Amazon - Goughnuts Maxx Chew Stick
Built like a tire, practically indestructible. Lifetime guarantee!
Buy on Amazon - Benebone Wishbone Durable Chew Toy
Nylon with bacon, peanut butter, or chicken flavor. A hit with aggressive chewers.
Buy on Amazon - West Paw Zogoflex Tux Treat Toy
A strong chew toy that also holds treats. Dishwasher safe!
Buy on Amazon - Nylabone Power Chew Textured Ring
Designed for serious chewers. Comes in multiple sizes and flavors.
Buy on Amazon - Tuffy Mega Ring
One of the toughest plush toys out there, with multiple layers of fabric and stitching.
Buy on Amazon - Outward Hound Invincibles Snake
Plush but squeaky and built to last—even after the squeakers get punctured.
Buy on Amazon - Jolly Pets Romp-n-Roll Ball
Heavy-duty ball with a rope—perfect for tug and toss.
Buy on Amazon - Monster K9 Ultra-Durable Chew Ring
Industrial-strength rubber and a favorite for bully breeds.
Buy on Amazon - Arm & Hammer Super Treadz Gorilla Chew Toy
Dental-safe rubber and baking soda-infused to freshen breath.
Buy on Amazon - Ruff Dawg Indestructible Dawg-Nut
Floatable, chewable, bouncy, and brightly colored.
Buy on Amazon - Chuckit! Ultra Ball (2-pack)
Virtually indestructible tennis ball alternative. Great for fetch!
Buy on Amazon
🧼 Bonus Tips for Chewer Parents
- Rotate toys to keep interest high and avoid boredom.
- Supervise new toys at first to make sure they hold up.
- Clean toys regularly—especially if they’re filled with treats.
- Use distraction tactics, like puzzle feeders, for mental stimulation.
🐾 Final Thoughts
Living with a heavy chewer doesn’t have to be a battle. With the right toys and a bit of patience, your dog can satisfy their chewing instincts in a safe, fun, and furniture-friendly way. Go ahead—let your pup chew to their heart’s content (on something that isn’t your remote).
Happy chewing! 🐕💥