Best Chew Toys for Small & Large Dogs — Tested by Bolt (Yorkie) & Ivy (Great Pyrenees)

If you have dogs of different sizes, it can be tricky finding toys that last — especially with a tiny Yorkie like Bolt and a strong Great Pyrenees like Ivy.

Over time, we’ve discovered chew toys that are:

-Durable

-Breed-appropriate

-Great for play & dental health

-Worth linking to (Amazon affiliates!)

Below are our top picks organized by size — with honest insights from both ends of the canine spectrum.

Best Chew Toys for Small and Large Dogs — Tested by Bolt (Yorkie) and Ivy (Great Pyrenees)

If you have dogs of different sizes, it can be challenging to find chew toys that are safe, durable, and enjoyable for both. Living with Bolt, my small Yorkie, and Ivy, my strong Great Pyrenees, has given me plenty of opportunities to experiment with toys that either pass the test or fall apart quickly.

Below are the chew toys that consistently perform well and keep both dogs happy — organized by size for clarity.

Best Chew Toys for Small Dogs (Bolt Approved)

Small dogs need toys that are gentle on their teeth but still engaging and fun.

1. Soft Plush Chew Toys

Lightweight plush toys with squeakers are Bolt’s favorites. They are easy for him to pick up, carry, and shake around.

Why they work:

    •    Gentle on small teeth

    •    Lightweight and easy to carry

    •    Satisfying squeaker for engagement

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2. Small Treat-Dispensing Chew Toys

These toys provide mental stimulation and keep Bolt occupied while he works to get the treats out.

Why they work:

    •    Encourages problem-solving

    •    Slows down treat consumption

    •    Perfect size for small dogs

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3. Dental Chew Toys for Small Dogs

Dental chew toys help reduce tartar buildup and give Bolt something satisfying to gnaw on.

Why they work:

    •    Supports dental health

    •    Soft enough for small jaws

    •    Long-lasting for light chewers

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Best Chew Toys for Large Dogs (Ivy Approved)

Big dogs, especially strong chewers like Ivy, need toys that can withstand pressure and active play.

1. Heavy-Duty Rubber Chew Toys

These dense rubber toys are some of the only ones that last with Ivy. They are durable, safe, and engaging.

Why they work:

    •    Very durable for strong chewers

    •    Safe, dense rubber material

    •    Fun bounce for interactive play

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2. Large Rope Chew Toys

Rope toys are great for tug-of-war and independent chewing. Ivy enjoys both styles of play.

Why they work:

    •    Tough braided fibers

    •    Good for teeth and gum health

    •    Perfect for interactive play sessions

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3. Large Treat-Dispensing Balls

Treat balls keep Ivy mentally stimulated and physically active as she works to get the snacks out.

Why they work:

    •    Provides mental enrichment

    •    Suitable for solo play

    •    Durable build for large breeds

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Tips for Choosing the Right Chew Toy

Choose toys based on size.

Small toys can be a choking hazard for large dogs, while oversized toys frustrate small breeds.

Match the toy to the chew strength.

Soft toys are suitable for gentle chewers. Tough rubber or rope toys are better for strong chewers.

Rotate toys regularly.

Switching out toys keeps both dogs interested and prolongs the life of each toy.

Final Thoughts

Bolt and Ivy may be drastically different in size, but with the right toys, they both stay engaged, safe, and satisfied. The options above are the toys that have consistently performed well in our home. I will continue to update this list as we test new products and discover additional favorites.

Response

  1. Megan Clarke Avatar

    My dogs DESTROY all the toys haha I have a Great Dane and a Daniff 🥰

    Like

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