Non-Toxic Dog Toys: What to Look for & Why Materials Matter
Your dog’s favorite toy spends most of the day in their mouth. You scrutinize what goes into their food bowl, but have you ever stopped to consider what your dog’s toys are made from?
Unlike children’s toys and other types of consumer products, dog toys aren’t regulated for safety. Too many toys on the market are made with low-quality synthetic materials that fall apart quickly, posing choking and intestinal obstruction risks. Even worse, some are made with harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates which are linked to allergies, hormone disruption, cancer, and more in humans and dogs alike.
By choosing non-toxic dog toys, you can help keep your dog safer. However, that label isn’t as straightforward as it sounds – “non-toxic” isn’t a standardized term for dog toys. If you’re looking to make more thoughtful choices for your dog’s toys, here’s what you should know.
What Does “Non-Toxic” Mean for Dog Toys?
There’s no universal certification that guarantees a dog toy is non-toxic. So how can pet parents tell which toys are actually safer? The answer lies in understanding what a toy is made from and how it’s manufactured.
Look for dog toys made from natural or organic fibers such as cotton, wool, or hemp or toys made from FDA-compliant food-safe materials like nylon that is certified BPA- and phthalate-free. You can also shop for toys made with OEKO-TEX® certified materials which are independently tested for harmful substances like heavy metals, pesticides, phthalates, and synthetic dyes. Some manufacturers may also provide details on dyes, finishes, and adhesives. Toys made with AZO-free dyes are often considered a safer alternative, as certain conventional synthetic dyes are linked to skin irritation and allergies.
While dog toys aren’t regulated, some manufacturers adhere to government-mandated consumer product safety standards set for products for human use. Examples of this include the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) or the European Union’s REACH regulations which regulate harmful substances in consumer products. By meeting these safety standards, manufacturers demonstrate these dog toys have been evaluated against established safety requirements, providing pet parents reassurance about the materials used.
Ultimately, choosing a non-toxic dog toy isn’t about a single certification or label – it’s about knowing how the toy is made. While no toy is guaranteed risk-free, pet parents can make more informed choices for their dog’s toys by prioritizing transparent materials and manufacturing as well as safety-testing.
Why Dog Toy Materials Matter
Your dog loves to chew, lick, tug, and carry their toys everywhere. Over time, the friction and pressure from chewing and mouthing lead to even the toughest toys breaking down.
Research shows that dog toys leach harmful chemicals that accumulate in their body. Testing has detected substances including phthalates, BPA, lead and other heavy metals, formaldehyde, and more in dog toys and chews. These chemicals have been linked to allergies, hormone disruption, organ damage, cancer, and more. As toys come apart with repeated use, the potential for chemical exposure becomes greater.
Even worse, the Center for Pet Safety reports pet toys are the leading cause of injury and death of companion animals reported to the organization, with the primary risk related to indigestible materials that lead to choking and intestinal obstruction. Ultimately, choosing non-toxic dog toys isn’t just avoiding potentially harmful chemicals. It’s also about selecting materials and construction that can withstand your dog’s playstyle and bite force.
Materials to Look for in Dog Toys
When shopping for safer dog toys, look for the following:
· Natural or organic materials: Dog toys made from conventional or organic cotton, wool, hemp, leather, and natural rubber are a good alternative to conventional synthetic plastics and fabrics. Keep in mind that natural or organic doesn’t mean digestible, and dogs should still be monitored during play.
· Food-safe materials: Certain types of nylon, silicone, and rubber meet established food-contact safety requirements, meaning they can come into contact with food without releasing harmful amounts of chemicals. Because saliva and prolonged chewing can cause chemicals to migrate out of dog toys, documented food-contact compliance offers pet parents an additional benchmark for safety. Look for manufacturers that document compliance with food-safe label requirements and keep in mind that food-safe doesn’t mean edible or digestible.
· Food-based materials: Chew toys can be made with food-derived ingredients as an alternative to conventional nylon or plastic chews. For example, BetterBone offers a line of chews made from natural, plant-derived ingredients like cellulose and vegetable oils. These chews are designed to flake and are safe to ingest in small pieces, providing a safer alternative to other chews that splinter in larger pieces and can cause serious obstructions. While this design may reduce certain risks associated with toy chewing, food-derived isn’t necessarily digestible, and larger pieces can still be dangerous if swallowed.
· Safety-certified or independently tested materials: Some manufacturers also design dog toys to meet established consumer product safety requirements like the U.S. CPSIA and EU’s REACH. Although dog toys aren’t subject to the same safety standards as human consumer products like children’s toys, manufacturers can voluntarily meet these requirements to demonstrate safety and responsible manufacturing. You can also look for toys made with OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified materials, which are tested for harmful substances.
Regardless of the material, always consider your dog’s size, playstyle, and chewing strength when selecting a toy. Even toys made with thoughtfully selected materials can become hazardous when damaged or used improperly.
What Materials Should You Avoid in Dog Toys?
When shopping for dog toys, be cautious of products that lack transparency around materials and manufacturing. Try to avoid undisclosed plastics or other synthetic materials when possible. Certain plastics contain harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates used to strengthen or improve flexibility, while synthetic paints, pigments, and coatings may contain heavy metals like lead and cadmium.
Many animal-based chews also go through extensive chemical processing which may surprise many pet parents looking for natural alternatives. Rawhide chews are traditionally treated with degreasers, detergents, and bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide to remove hair, kill pathogens, clean the hide, and improve its appearance.
Beyond chemical exposure, avoid toys made from low-quality materials, as they can easily splinter, tear, or unravel. Loose threads, stuffing, squeakers, and detachable components can become choking hazards or cause intestinal obstruction. Always supervise your pet during play and keep in mind that even toys made with natural or safety-tested materials can become dangerous if damaged. Regularly inspect your dog’s toys for signs of wear and tear and replace them as necessary.
How to Choose the Right Non-Toxic Dog Toy for Your Dog
When choosing your dog’s new toy, consider size, age, playstyle, and bite force in addition to how the toy is made. A soft, cotton plush might be perfect for a gentler chewer, while a more aggressive chewer may shred it quickly. A toy that is too small for your pet can also become a choking hazard, regardless of how well it’s designed.
For dogs that enjoy chewing, prioritize durable toys crafted to withstand chewing and pressure. For gentler play, natural fiber plush toys may be the most appropriate option. Dogs that tend to swallow their toys or chews may benefit from switching to food-based chews that are safe to be ingested in small pieces.
Ultimately, the best choice is a toy that is made from thoughtfully selected materials that’s appropriate for your dog’s unique needs. Always follow the manufacturer’s sizing and use recommendations, supervise play, and replace toys that show signs of damage.
Shop Non-Toxic Dog Toys at The Hearty Paw
Your dog's toys should bring them joy and tail wags, not unnecessary risks. While no dog toy is completely risk-free, understanding a toy’s materials, manufacturing, and relevant safety testing can help you make a more informed choice for your pup.
At The Hearty Paw, we believe healthier dog essentials start with thoughtful materials and production. Explore our collection of safer dog toys, including organic and natural fiber, safety-tested, food-based, and sustainable options.
Disclaimer: There is no certification or standardized definition of “non-toxic” for dog toys. No material or production method is entirely without limitations or potential risks. While better materials, safer designs, and safety-testing can provide additional reassurance, they do not guarantee that a toy is completely free of harmful substances or safe for every dog. Always consider your dog's individual needs and supervise play.
Sources & Further Reading
Research and sources referenced in this article include scientific and veterinary studies published through the National Library of Medicine, as well as resources from the Ecology Center, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), OEKO-TEX®, Today’s Veterinary Practice, and the Center for Pet Safety. Additional references include safety requirements established under the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) and the European Union’s REACH regulations.