The Hidden Danger of Hard Plastic and Bones for Heavy Chewers: Protecting Your Dog’s Teeth
If you’re the proud owner of a heavy chewer like me, you know the struggle of finding toys that can withstand their powerful jaws. While it might seem like hard plastic toys or bones are the perfect solution, they can pose a serious risk to your dog’s dental health. As a responsible dog owner, it’s crucial to understand the dangers of these materials and how to choose safer alternatives for your aggressive chewer.
The Problem with Hard Plastic and Bones
Dogs who are aggressive chewers have an incredible amount of jaw strength. While this might seem impressive, it can lead to serious dental issues if they’re given the wrong toys. Hard plastic toys, antlers, nylon bones, and even traditional hard bones can cause:
1. Cracked or Broken Teeth: The force of an aggressive chewer’s bite can cause teeth to crack or break when they gnaw on hard materials. This is especially common in large breeds or dogs with strong jaws, like Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, or Rottweilers.
2. Dental Pain and Infections: A cracked tooth might not be immediately noticeable, but it can lead to pain, infections, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Dogs are experts at hiding discomfort, so you might not realize there’s a problem until it’s severe. Look for a reduction in appetite, not wanting to take a crunchy biscuit, and even an increase in bad breath - all of these may be indications that a vet visit is needed.
3. Choking and Blockage Hazards: Hard toys and bones can splinter or break into sharp pieces, which can cause choking or internal injuries if swallowed.
Why Rubber Toys Are the Safer Choice
For heavy chewers, strong rubber toys are the best option. High-quality rubber toys are designed to withstand intense chewing while being gentle on your dog’s teeth. Look for brands like Kong, GoughNuts, ChuckIt or West Paw, which are specifically made for aggressive chewers. These toys are durable, flexible, and less likely to cause dental damage.
However, even the toughest rubber toys aren’t indestructible. As soon as your dog manages to tear off a chunk or significantly damage the toy, it’s time to take it away and replace it. This is just part of the responsibility of owning a heavy chewer—regularly inspecting toys and replacing them when necessary is essential for your dog’s safety.
Tips for Managing an Aggressive Chewer
1. Choose the Right Toys: Stick to toys made from durable rubber or other soft-but-tough materials. Avoid anything too hard, like antlers, bones, or hard plastic.
2. Supervise Playtime: Always keep an eye on your dog when they’re chewing. If you notice them gnawing too aggressively or starting to destroy a toy, intervene immediately.
3. Rotate Toys: Regularly rotate your dog’s toys to keep them interested and prevent boredom. This can also help extend the life of their toys.
4. Provide Mental Stimulation: Sometimes, aggressive chewing is a sign of boredom or anxiety. Incorporate puzzle toys, training sessions, or interactive games to keep your dog mentally engaged. I great game and affordable one involves boxes, dog treats and your home or backyard. Simply put the treats in the box (often when starting I would flip the box over and cover the treats to help them understand the game). Hide the boxes all over your house. Then show your dog the first one and let their nose do the rest of the work. 2-3 rounds of this and your dog will likley pick up the game really quickly and be pooped out from the brain and nose work.
5. Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular vet visits to monitor your dog’s dental health. Your vet can spot early signs of damage or decay that you might miss.
The Burden of Owning an Aggressive Chewer
Let’s be honest—owning a heavy chewer can be expensive and time-consuming. You’ll go through toys faster, and you’ll need to be vigilant about inspecting and replacing them. But this is a small price to pay for keeping your dog safe and healthy. The last thing you want is to deal with a painful dental emergency or a costly vet bill because of a broken tooth. (Trust me I now first hand!)
Final Thoughts
As dog owners, we want to give our furry friends the best, but sometimes what seems like a fun toy or treat can actually be harmful. For heavy chewers, hard plastic and bones are a no-go. Instead, invest in high-quality rubber toys designed for aggressive chewers, and always monitor your dog during playtime. By taking these precautions, you can protect your dog’s teeth and ensure they stay happy and healthy for years to come.
Remember, the burden of owning an aggressive chewer comes with the territory—but it’s worth it for the love and joy they bring to your life. Stay proactive, stay informed, and keep those tails wagging!
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How Do I Know? Personal Story Time.
If you have a miniature bull terrier (or any strong chewer), you probably know how much they love to chew—on everything. Sprinkler heads, rope toys, socks, tissue… you name it. My two are no exception.
A while back, another MBT owner recommended Benebones to me. Now, let me be clear—this isn't about bashing a brand. But after what happened to my dog, I personally will never use them again.
My female, who will be four in 2025, chewed so aggressively on a Benebone that she broke her back teeth. Not just a little chip—full-on fractures that required extractions, costing me $3,000–$4,000. As if that wasn’t bad enough, her breath started smelling awful, and she lost interest in crunchy treats, preferring only soft foods. A trip to the vet confirmed the damage: broken back teeth.
If you're anything like me, your dogs are family, and their health and happiness are a top priority. That’s why I now stick to durable rubber chew toys for my heavy chewers. They get the satisfaction of chewing, and I get peace of mind knowing their teeth (and my wallet) are safe.
Just something to consider if you have a power chewer at home! 💕🐶
