How to Choose the Right Chew Toy for Your Dog

Start with Your Dog’s Chewing Style

The first step in choosing a chew toy is understanding how your dog chews. Light chewers may prefer soft rubber or plush toys, but power chewers need something tougher. For heavy-duty dogs, a durable nylon chew like the Nylabone Power Chew Basted Blast is built to withstand aggressive gnawing. Its textured surface also helps reduce plaque and tartar, adding dental benefits to long-lasting fun.

If your dog is more of a gentle chewer or you want a healthy, edible option, freeze-dried treats like West Paw Freeze-Dried Raw Duck Treats offer a nutritious alternative. These treats are made with duck, sweet potatoes, carrots, blueberries, kale, and probiotic goat milk—no artificial ingredients. They are intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding, so they work best as a reward or occasional snack.

Match the Toy to Your Dog’s Size

Size matters for both safety and enjoyment. A toy that is too small can be a choking hazard, while one that is too large may be hard to grip. The Nylabone Power Chew Basted Blast comes in multiple sizes: Wolf for dogs up to 35 lbs, Giant for dogs up to 50 lbs, and Souper for dogs 50 lbs and over. Always choose the size that matches your dog’s weight to ensure a comfortable and safe chew experience.

For treats, portion control is also important. West Paw Freeze-Dried Raw Duck Treats provide about 15 kcal per serving (roughly 1 tablespoon or 6–8 pieces). This makes it easy to incorporate into your dog’s daily diet without overfeeding.

Product Evidence

• Nylabone Power Chew Basted: Nylabone Power Chew Basted Blast offers two flavors: bacon on the outside and steak on the inside. It is made of durable nylon and is veterinarian-recommended. This dual-flavor design keeps dogs engaged longer, and the nylon construction is ideal for power chewers who need a tough, long-lasting toy.

  

  Nylabone Power Chew Basted

• West Paw Freeze Dried Raw Duck Treats: West Paw Freeze-Dried Raw Duck Treats are made with duck, sweet potatoes, carrots, blueberries, kale, and probiotic goat milk. They are gluten and grain free, and sourced in the U.S.A. For owners who prefer a healthy, single-ingredient-style treat, these freeze-dried bites provide functional nutrition without fillers or artificial additives.

  

  West Paw Freeze Dried Raw Duck Treats

Consider Flavor and Engagement

A chew toy that tastes good can make a big difference in how often your dog uses it. The Nylabone Power Chew Basted Blast uses a bacon-flavored outer layer that grabs attention, and as your dog chews, a steak-flavored inner core is revealed. This layered flavor keeps dogs interested for longer sessions, which is especially helpful for boredom-prone pups.

On the treat side, West Paw’s duck recipe offers a savory protein source that most dogs find irresistible. The freeze-drying process locks in natural flavors and nutrients, making it a high-value reward for training or enrichment.

Safety and Supervision Tips

No chew toy is completely indestructible. Always supervise your dog with new toys, especially if they are a power chewer. Check the toy regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks or small pieces that could be swallowed. The Nylabone Power Chew is designed for safe chewing, but no nylon toy is immune to damage over time.

For treats, follow the feeding guidelines. West Paw Freeze-Dried Raw Duck Treats are intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only. They should not replace a balanced diet. Store them in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.