If you’ve ever brought home a new toy only to find it shredded within 10 minutes, you’re not alone. Big dogs with strong jaws can turn a plush toy into confetti before you’ve even taken the tag off.
At Big Dog Things, we’ve been through it all with Mack, our German Shepherd, who’s a certified power chewer. After testing heaps of toys (and sweeping up the remains), I’ve learned what to look for—and what to avoid—when shopping for tough dog toys.
Why Regular Toys Don’t Cut It?
Most toys just aren’t made with big dogs in mind. Soft seams, thin plastic, and squeakers in weak spots mean a heavy chewer will destroy them faster than you can say “waste of money.”
That’s why it’s worth investing in toys made for strength, not just looks.
What to Look for in a Durable Dog Toy?
1. Material Matters -
Look for toys made from:
- Rubber: Especially natural rubber—it’s flexible but tough.
- Rope: Thick, tightly woven rope is great for tug and chew.
- Ballistic nylon or reinforced fabric: For soft toys with extra durability.
Avoid: Vinyl, thin plastic, or toys labeled "plush" unless they’re reinforced for heavy chewers.
2. Solid Construction - Double stitching, reinforced seams, and hidden squeakers are a must. Loose fabric or glued parts are a recipe for disaster with big jaws.
Pro tip: If you can bend or twist a toy and it creases easily, it probably won’t last long.
3. Size Matters - Bigger dogs need bigger toys. A toy that’s too small becomes a choking hazard, while one that’s too light will get ignored. Choose toys designed specifically for large breeds—the ones we stock at Big Dog Things are all tested on big dogs first.
Mack has NEVER chewed his giggle ball. Why? Because it’s too big!
4. Tug & Chew Tested - If you plan to use a toy for tug as well as chewing, make sure it’s got a strong grip point for you and a safe, durable section for your dog to bite. Mack’s favourites are the ones that double as both tug toys and chew toys—we always keep a few in rotation.
⚠️ Play Safe – Supervise Toy Time:
It’s important to remember that even the toughest toys aren’t made for solo chewing marathons. These toys are designed for interactive play—tug, fetch, and training rewards—not for being gnawed on for hours unsupervised.
If your dog needs something to satisfy that chewing urge when you’re not around, you’re better off with a natural chew like an antler or long-lasting chew treat. They're safer, designed for extended chewing, and can help protect your dog's teeth from wear.
Always supervise your dog during playtime, especially with rope or rubber toys, and check regularly for signs of wear.
Our Top Durable Picks at Big Dog Things:
- Hard Red Ball on a Rope – solid rubber with a thick rope for tug and toss
- Tug Toy – Black – tightly stitched and built for play, not plush
- Hard Ball for Large Dogs - Ultra tough, solid rubber ball perfect for fetch or solo chew sessions (with supervision).
Final Thoughts from Mack:
Durable toys aren’t just a nice-to-have for big dogs—they’re essential. They keep your dog safe, stimulated, and satisfied, without you constantly replacing chewed-up bits of plastic. Every toy we stock at Big Dog Things is one Mack and I have tested ourselves, so you know it’s worth your time (and your money).
👉 Check out our full range of toys for tough chewers here - https://bigdogthings.com.au/collections/all
You might also like:
- Top Puzzle Toys to Keep Large Breeds Mentally Stimulated - https://bigdogthings.com.au/blogs/ourexperiences/top-puzzle-toys-to-keep-large-breeds-mentally-stimulated
- Best Tug Toys for Large Dogs That Love to Play Rough - https://bigdogthings.com.au/blogs/ourexperiences/best-tug-toys-for-large-dogs-that-love-to-play-rough
- Tips for Training Your Dog on Long Lines - https://bigdogthings.com.au/blogs/ourexperiences/tips-for-training-your-dog-on-long-lines