Can Chew Toys Fracture my Dog’s Teeth?
Pet Safety
Yes, chew toys can fracture teeth — especially if they’re too hard, or your dog is an aggressive chewer. The goal is to match the hardness of the toy to your dog’s chewing style and to watch for warning signs.
Dog teeth, especially canines and premolars, are strong, but they’re not indestructible. Chewing puts mechanical stress on the enamel and the pulp inside the tooth. Some situations increase the risk of fractures:
Hardness of the toy
Real bones (especially cooked bones) are extremely hard.
Antlers and hooves are often too tough for many dogs.
Hard nylon or hard plastic toys can cause cracks if your dog bites forcefully.
The dog’s chewing style
Heavy chewers or dogs that “crusher bite” (apply extreme pressure with molars) are more likely to break teeth.
Puppies and adolescent dogs can also bite harder than expected while teething.
Size and shape of the toy
A toy that is too small may get lodged between teeth or be swallowed.
Uneven or jagged toys can cause sharp pressure points that fracture teeth.
Types of Fractures
Craze lines: Small cracks in the enamel; usually painless but can worsen over time.
Chipped teeth: Part of the enamel or dentin is missing; it may expose the pulp.
Fractured teeth: Deep break that exposes nerves, causing pain and risk of infection.
Pulp exposure is especially concerning — it can lead to abscesses and severe oral pain.
Preventing Tooth Fractures
Choose the right toy for your dog’s size and chewing strength:
Soft rubber toys for heavy chewers
Dental chews are designed to clean teeth without being overly hard
Avoid very hard bones, antlers, hooves, or hard nylon if your dog is a strong chewer
Supervise chewing during the first few sessions to see if your dog can handle the toy safely.
Rotate toys so your dog isn’t constantly chewing the hardest ones.
Inspect toys regularly for cracks, sharp edges, or chunks that could break teeth.
Veterinary checkups: Regular dental exams can catch fractures early before pain or infection develops.
