Best chew toys for strong chewers in Australia: what to look for
Updated 2026-10-16. General information, not veterinary advice.
Ask your vet or a qualified trainer. This guide is general information, not veterinary advice.
This guide is for adult and strong-chewing dogs. For teething puppies, see best chew toys for puppies and teething and safe chews. Here we look at dogs that go through ordinary toys in minutes.
What to look for
- Toy matched to chewing style. Makers often label toys for average or strong chewers. Check their guidance.
- Right size. A toy small enough to swallow is a risk. Use the maker’s weight guide.
- Solid construction. Look for toys without thin sections or loose parts.
- Not rock hard. Ask your vet before giving very hard items.
- Stuffable options. Licking and working at food is satisfying and can tire a dog out. Use part of the daily food.
Habits that matter more than the toy
- Check wear every time. Cracks or missing chunks mean replace it.
- Supervise. Take toys away if pieces come off.
- Rotate. A small selection that is swapped keeps toys interesting.
- Exercise and enrichment. A bored dog chews. See exercise for puppies and young dogs and the Staffy hub.
- Look at the cause. Chewing when left alone can be stress. See separation anxiety.
What to avoid
- Cooked bones, which can splinter.
- Anything your dog breaks into swallowable pieces.
- Old toys that have worn down.
If you suspect your dog has swallowed something, call your vet straight away.
In our listings
Browse chew toys and enrichment and play. Not tested by us and not endorsements.
How we pick
We have not tested these products. Listings are based on public specifications and retailer or manufacturer pages. See our editorial policy and disclosure. Commission, if we ever earn it, does not change what we say.
Related reading: See also slow feeders and food puzzles and puppy-proofing your home.
Product types worth comparing
Disclosure: these are plain-text suggestions. We do not currently earn commission from anything on this page. If that changes we will say so here. See our disclosure.
- KONG Extreme: Black rubber version described as made for the toughest chewers. Pick the size for your dog's weight.
- KONG Classic: For average chewers. A step down for dogs that are gentler.
- Ruffwear Gnawt-a-Rock: Treat-dispensing toy made with natural latex rubber per Ruffwear. Not for unsupervised chewing.
- Food puzzle or stuffable feeder: Gives chewing and licking a job. Use part of the daily food.
Check current price, size guides and availability with Australian pet retailers such as Petbarn, Pet Circle or Petstock.
FAQs
What makes a dog a power chewer?
A dog that destroys standard toys quickly, tears off pieces or chews hard for long periods. Breed is only a guide, since many Staffies chew hard but individuals vary.
Is the hardest toy the safest?
No. Very hard items can damage teeth. Ask your vet about what suits your dog.
How often should I check the toy?
Every time you give it. Take it away if it is cracked or pieces are coming off.
Should I leave a strong chewer alone with a toy?
Supervise at first. If your dog breaks pieces off, take it away and ask your vet or trainer.