Dog toy safety checklist

Dog toys should be fun — not a vet visit. Use this quick checklist before you buy.

1) Size matters

• Too small = choking risk.
• For strong chewers, go bigger than you think.

2) Match the chewing style

Some dogs gently nibble, others destroy. For “power chewers,” look for reinforced seams, thicker rubber, and fewer weak points.

3) Watch the weak parts

• Squeakers, stuffing, rope frays, hard plastic pieces.
• Discard toys that are breaking into chunks.

4) Materials & smell

A strong chemical smell is a red flag. Prefer reputable brands with clear material descriptions.

5) Supervision

No toy is indestructible. Supervise, especially with new toys, and rotate toys to reduce boredom.

Related: Indestructible dog toys (guide).