When choosing dog toys, people often consider appearance, price, or popularity. However, the material a toy is made of is just as important. Not only for the toy's longevity, but especially for your dog's safety and well-being.
In this guide, we explain the risks associated with dog toys, what you should pay attention to as an owner, and how different materials interact with each other.
Want a complete overview of how to choose responsible dog toys? Then read our complete guide to safe dog toys .
The biggest safety risks with dog toys
1. Toys that are too hard and cause dental damage
A common risk with dog toys is that they're simply too hard. Extremely hard materials can lead to dental problems, such as chipped or damaged teeth. Veterinarians therefore recommend testing toys for hardness.
A practical guideline is the so-called “thumbnail test” : if you cannot make a slight impression in the material with your nail, then it is too hard for many dogs.
2. Loose pieces and choking hazard
When toys tear, fray, or fall apart, there's a risk that a dog could swallow parts. This can lead to choking or gastrointestinal problems. The risk here lies not in the material itself, but in the shape and wear of the toy.
Regular checking and timely replacement is therefore essential, regardless of the type of toy.
3. Chemical composition of some plastics
Inexpensive soft plastics (such as certain vinyl or PVC varieties) can be plasticizers used to make the material flexible. Within the European Union, some of these substances are restricted or banned in children's toys due to long-term oral exposure.
Dog toys are not always subject to the same regulations, but because dogs frequently take toys in their mouths, caution is not an unnecessary luxury with soft plastic.
Material comparison: what does this mean in practice?
Natural rubber and rubber-like materials
Rubber is widely used in dog toys because of its resilience and flexibility. Good rubber can flex during chewing, which reduces the risk of tooth damage compared to extremely hard materials.
This type of material is often used for chew and retrieving toys, such as a natural rubber toy . It's important that the toy is suitable for your dog's chewing strength and that it's regularly checked for wear and tear.
TPR (thermoplastic rubber)
TPR is a composite material that combines the properties of rubber and plastic. It's often used for puppy toys and toys that need to be a little softer for teeth and gums. Quality can vary significantly between manufacturers, so supervision and inspection remain crucial.
Soft plastic and vinyl
Soft plastics are often inexpensive and flexible, but require extra attention due to potential chemical additives and a tendency to tear or crumble more easily. These materials are generally less suitable for dogs that chew intensively.
Extremely hard materials (such as nylon or hard chewing objects)
Although these materials are durable, veterinarians often advise against prolonged chewing due to the increased risk of dental damage. "Harder" doesn't automatically mean "safer."
Rope and hemp fibers
Rope toys, including those made from hemp fiber , are particularly suitable for interactive play such as tugging and playing together. Hemp is a natural, strong fiber and is often chosen for its durability.
It's important to know that rope toys are not intended as long-term chew toys . If fibers become loose or the toy frays, it should be replaced to prevent swallowing.
What does “sustainable” mean when it comes to dog toys?
Sustainability isn't just about the material, but also about longevity and responsible use. A toy that's a bit more expensive but lasts longer needs to be replaced less often and ultimately creates less waste.
In addition, controlled wear plays a role: materials that wear slowly and visibly make it easier to intervene in time.
How we select toys at Pet Party
We select toys based on material safety, construction, and intended use—not on claims like "unbreakable." No dog toy is. By being honest about what a toy can and cannot do, we help owners make informed choices and allow dogs to play safely.
For mental challenges, many owners choose sniffing and food toys, such as a snack and sniff ball , which combines chewing behavior with brain work.
Which material is safest for dog toys?
There's no "safest" material for every dog. Safety depends on the hardness, construction, size, and your dog's play habits.
Is natural rubber better than plastic?
Rubber, due to its flexibility, may be more suitable than hard plastic, provided the toy is suitable for the dog's chewing strength and is properly maintained.
Is hemp rope safe for dogs?
Hemp rope is suitable for interactive play like tug-of-war, but not for prolonged chewing. Replace the toy as soon as it begins to fray.
Why do you say that nothing is unbreakable?
Chewing strength, age, and behavior vary from dog to dog. By being honest about this, we prevent unrealistic expectations and increase safety.
Sources and references
- American Kennel Club — Chewing Behavior in Dogs
- VCA Animal Hospitals — Normal & Destructive Chewing
- RSPCA UK — Dog Toys and Enrichment
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) — Phthalates
- ASPCA — Foreign Body Ingestion in Dogs