The Health Benefits of Chew Toys for Dogs
Apr 30, 2025
Every dog owner should have a pet toy box full of plushies, ropes, and balls in their home. Hand your restless pup a squeaky, crunchy toy to bite on when they need stimulation! Learn more about the health benefits of chew toys for dogs to keep them entertained while they’re at home.
Improves Dental Health
Chew toys maintain your dog’s oral hygiene by scraping away plaque and tartar as they gnaw. For example, dental chews can reduce the risk of gum disease and bad breath. Also, some toys come with added textured surfaces designed specifically to massage gums, which keeps your pup’s mouth healthy and strong.
Supports Mental Stimulation
Chew toys challenge your dog’s problem-solving skills, especially toys designed with puzzles or hidden treats. They encourage dogs to focus, explore, and improve their mental agility in the process. Keeping your dog stimulated with a durable nylon ball or a stuffed treat toy reduces boredom-related behaviors, such as pacing, digging, and excessive barking.
Reduces Anxiety and Stress
Dogs often chew to relieve stress or calm themselves when they feel anxious. Rather than leaving your shoes or furniture legs vulnerable to their gnawing, give your pup a chew toy. These items act as a safe outlet for releasing nervous energy during thunderstorms, fireworks, or when your doggo is home alone. A durable toy can bring comfort and help your fur baby feel much more secure.
Promotes Physical Activity
Chew toys encourage dogs to stay active and keep their jaws, neck, and shoulders working. They also motivate dogs to engage in interactive playtime with their human companions. These toys keep your dog engaged and active to provide an easy way to meet their exercise needs, even when they can’t head outside on a rainy day.
Encourages Healthy Chewing Habits
You teach your dog what’s acceptable to chew and what’s off-limits by offering chew toys. Starting this habit young can encourage your pups to grow into independent adult dogs who stick to their designated chewing toys. Hand your dogs a chew toy to benefit their health when they look restless or need something engaging.
Now that you know the health benefits of chew toys for dogs, you can set up a toy box for them in a common area, such as the bedroom or living room. Providing your pup with their own toy box allows them to pick and choose which toy they want to play with, either alone or with loved ones around the house. There will never be a dull day in your dog’s life with an easily accessible storage container and plenty of toys to choose from!
Disclaimer: healthcareforpets.com and its team of veterinarians and clinicians do not endorse any products, services, or recommended advice. All advice presented by our veterinarians, clinicians, tools, resources, etc is not meant to replace a regular physical exam and consultation with your primary veterinarian or other clinicians. We always encourage you to seek medical advice from your regular veterinarian.
