Table of Contents
- What are Nylabone dog toys?
- Are Nylabones Safe for Dogs & Puppies? What you must know about Nylabones
- At the Tail End: Are Nylabones Safe for Dogs?
- How to Keep Your Dog Safe
- Alternatives to Nylabones
- Are Nylabones Safe For Dogs: Before You Go…
Getting a chew toy for your dog is a great way to occupy him, prevent destructive behavior and anxiety, and keep your pet's teeth cleaner and stronger.
But be aware that not all chew toys are perfectly safe for dogs.
What about the most popular brand – are Nylabones safe for dogs and puppies?
What are Nylabone dog toys?
Nylabones are some of the most often bought chew toys that come in various shapes and sizes.
They are made of rubber, plastic, or nylon, and they are not edible.
Ingesting them can cause serious digestive problems for your canine.
There are, however, edible Nylabone treats and edible dental chews, but more on this later in the article.
Nylabone toys for dogs also come in different flavors, and you can choose the one that your dog likes the best.
Some dogs can be allergic to specific ingredients, and if your dog has a sensitive stomach, you should consider opting for unflavored toys.
With that out of the way, let's take a closer look – are Nylabones safe for dogs and puppies, or are toys from Nylabone bad for dogs?
Are Nylabones Safe for Dogs & Puppies? What you must know about Nylabones
Nylabone dog toys are available for dogs of any size, and it's vital to pick the right size based on your dog's age and breed.
If you have a puppy, teaching him good chewing habits is possible with Nylabone Puppy Chews.
There are also moderate chews, strong chews, and a wide selection of power chewers.
Are Nylabones Good for Dogs?
Dog chew toys are some of the most popular supplies owners buy, and there's a reason for that.
So are Nylabones just as good for dogs as other chew toys?
Yes, they are.
There are many benefits of chew toys for dogs:
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- Dog chew toys relieve boredom and anxiety
- Helps dogs with destructive behavior
- Chewing on these bones/toys has dental benefits
- These toys satisfy the dog's urge to chew
- Chew toys help with teething in puppies
- They provide some mental stimulation for the dog
- Helps with weight management and for dogs on a restricted diet
These are just some of the well-known benefits, which is why vets often recommend buying your dog chew toys and agree that, for the most part, they're safe and beneficial to dogs.
Nylabones is arguably the most popular brand, and their chew toys are currently some of the best on the market.
Are Nylabones Safe for Dogs?
The benefits of Nylabones, just as with other chew toys, are plentiful. But are Nylabones safe for dogs? The real answer here is it depends. Generally, Nylabone toys are unsafe, especially if you don’t follow instructions.
The way to ensure the safety of Nylabones is to (1) buy the right type of chew toy for your pooch and (2) supervise and/or keep checking on the toys and how your dog destroys them.
How to buy safe Nylabones
- Pick a chew toy that matches your dog's chewing habits
- Choose the right size chew toy (it must be too big to swallow)
- Consider the texture and hardness of the chew toy (how easy it is to destroy)
How to pick the right size chew toy
The size of the dog chew toy is key to how safe Nylabones will be.
It must be appropriate for your dog's age, breed, health condition, weight, and chewing style.
A large toy is always better, and this encourages your dog to chew from the side of the toy instead of chewing it at the top or bottom.
In a multi-pet household, all toys must be picked based on the strongest chewer.
Here's a chart for picking the right Nylabones:
The problem with large chew toys
While large chew dog toys are safer, some pets are picky and will not touch them.
The trick will be to try a few different large chew toys and see which one he picks.
Also, to entice your pet with a large chew toy, pick a flavor that he enjoys the most, too.
Many Nylabones and other dog chew toys are flavored with bacon or other enticing smells.
Are Nylabones Safe for Puppies?
Even if chew toys are generally safe when you pick the perfect size, are Nylabones safe for puppies as well?
The same rules apply here, too.
If you have a puppy, then pick a smaller toy but big enough for him not to swallow.
Use the above-mentioned guidelines on how to choose Nylabones that are safe for dogs.
In addition, the company also has specifically formulated toys for puppies to make it easier.
Always check the “Chew Meter” when buying Nylabones for puppies:
Can Dogs Eat Nylabones?
Dogs will definitely chew these toys hard enough to try and break them, but can dogs eat Nylabones?
It must be clarified that Nylabones can be both edible and inedible.
If you're buying inedible Nylabone chew toys, then dogs cannot eat those, and consuming pieces of inedible chew toys is highly dangerous and can even be fatal.
Dogs can consume Nylabone healthy edibles as they are generally more like a dog treat that provides some chewing entertainment for the dog.
Do Nylabones Cause Seizures in Dogs?
A year ago, one Facebook user started spreading a message about Nylabones potentially causing seizures in dogs.
This has since caught on as a myth among some pet owners.
However, there is no proof of any cases of that, and as far as we know, Nylabones do not cause seizures in dogs.
A popular fact-checking website, Snopes, investigated this further and also confirmed that these claims are unproven, and it doesn't seem there's any evidence that Nylabones cause seizures or are otherwise harmful to dogs.
The company has also come out to its own defense to clear the waters with further details in a statement on its website.
Where Are Nylabones Made?
The company clearly states that most of their chew toys are made in the USA, in their factory in New Jersey. These chews will have an American flag on the package.
However, some of their chews are made in China, and those will be without the American flag on the package.
While the company ensures all the safety protocols are followed for the manufacturing of these toys, these options may be the ones you'd want to avoid.
From the company's website, regarding China-made dog chews:
“Our quality-control team visits these plants on a regular basis to ensure policies and procedures are in full compliance with our rigorous regulations. We have a regular ongoing testing program in place to further ensure the quality and safety of our products. For added assurance, we use independent third-party testing facilities. The confidence of the consumers who use our products is of paramount importance to us.” – Nylabone.com
What Is Nylabone Made Of?
As mentioned above, Nylabone makes both inedible and edible chews, better known as “Nylabone healthy edibles.”
But what is Nylabone made of, both edible and inedible, and are these ingredients safe for dogs?
Inedible chew toys: Nylabones are made of plastic, nylon, or rubber, which are all dangerous things to be ingested.
The company is clear about that on its website and warns that these things are not intended for consumption.
For chewing and not ingesting, and when picking the right size, Nylabones are safe.
Nylabone healthy edibles: They have many different varieties, and all the ingredients will differ.
Generally, they are similar to what you often see in other dog treats – different proteins, starches, and flavorings.
Every package will have ingredients and guaranteed analysis printed on it, so make sure to check it.
While they are generally safe, they're not the healthiest dog treats you can buy, and better options are available.
Nylabone Recall Overview
Considering the Nylabone recall ratio, it is important to understand if Nylabones are safe for dogs and how good the company's track record is.
So far, there has been only one Nylabone recall back in April 2015.
The FDA recalled the Puppy Starter Kit from Nylabone due to possible Salmonella contamination.
Since then, there have been no other Nylabone recall updates, and the company maintains a pretty great manufacturing standard that we know of.
At the Tail End: Are Nylabones Safe for Dogs?
In conclusion, are Nylabones safe for dogs and puppies? Technically, they are not completely safe since there are always risks. That said, if you pick the right chew toy that's the perfect size and formulation for your pet and make sure to check on him and his toy periodically, then there's no reason to avoid them.
Keep in mind that no chew toys for dogs are 100% indestructible and risk-free.
This is why checking your dog's chew toys is important.
Even though your dog should not be able to break off larger pieces of these toys, you should regularly inspect the condition of Nylabones.
Chances are that your dog will be able to swallow a larger piece of Nylabone toy, which grows with time and usage, so be careful and periodically check whether there are some missing pieces.
If you suspect that your dog has swallowed a larger piece, you should contact your vet immediately.
On the other hand, there will be small pieces that are no bigger than a grain of rice that can break off from Nylabone dog toys, but they are not harmful and will be safe to ingest and pass through on their own (not that this should be encouraged).
RELATED: Top 10 Best Dog Chews for Dogs That Are Tough Chewers
How to Keep Your Dog Safe
If you want to get a Nylabone toy for your dog, there are a few things you should do to stay on the safe side.
The first thing you need to do if you want to make sure that your dog can use Nylabone toys without major risks is to choose the right toy for him.
There are different toys, and based on your dog’s size and breed, you need to make a proper selection.
You should also know your dog’s chewing habits when you choose a toy for him.
For example, some dogs are less enthusiastic about chewing, and you should give them moderate chewing toys in that case.
Also, these dogs are almost in no danger of ingesting pieces of Nylabone dog toys since they won’t really chew hard enough to break larger pieces.
For dogs who like to chew a lot and have a stronger chew, you should go with either Nylabone Strong Chews or Power Chews.
They will keep your dog busy and will last longer since they are made to be tougher.
Your dog will also have difficulty breaking larger pieces of these toys, especially if you regularly inspect them.
One thing to keep in mind is that you should never give a puppy chew to an adult dog. Make sure that the Nylabone toy that you chose is not for puppies, or you will risk your dog’s health otherwise.
You can also consult your vet when you choose a Nylabone toy for your dog.
Regularly inspecting Nylabone toys is imperative.
You should not allow your dog to chew on a toy that is starting to lose its texture and composure.
The risk that your canine will be able to break larger pieces and swallow them is much greater if the toy that he is chewing is not strong enough anymore.
You need to replace your dog’s Nylabone toy when the knuckle ends are worn down or if the toy has become too small to chew safely.
If you think that your dog could swallow the entire Nylabone toy, it is definitely time to throw it out.
Also, when you inspect these toys, if you notice that any part is missing, you should call your vet immediately.
In some cases, even if a piece of the toy is missing, it doesn’t mean that your dog has ingested it, but you want to stay on the safe side.
You should also keep an eye on any unusual symptoms, like lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, gagging, excessive drooling, etc.
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet.
Even if that is not due to ingesting a piece of Nylabone toy, it can still be something serious, and you should check it out as soon as possible.
RECOMMENDED VIDEO GUIDE: How To Choose the Right Size Dog Toys
Alternatives to Nylabones
So, are Nylabones safe for dogs and puppies?
Yes, they can be, as long as you pick the right ones.
However, if you're looking for something different, then there are many alternatives out there, and some of them may carry less risk than Nylabone dog toys but will not provide enough chewing stimulation or last as long.
Additionally, there are plenty of natural alternatives in the form of healthy treats, whether you are looking for a chewing toy or an edible chewing treat.
1. Carrots
You might be surprised to see carrots on this list, but make no mistake; they are a perfect natural alternative to chew toys and treats.
They are good for your dog’s teeth, and dogs actually like them a lot.
Just make sure to give him full-sized carrots.
Otherwise, he will eat them too fast and could possibly even choke on them if he doesn’t chew properly.
Also, if your dog is diabetic, you should consult with your vet about the amount you can give to him since carrots contain sugar.
2. Bully Sticks
These chewing treats are no delight to smell, and they can also be pretty expensive.
However, dog bully sticks are a much safer option than other chewing treats or toys because they are completely natural.
They are fully digestible and high in protein, and they are extremely durable as well.
Your canine will have a lot on his plate with these chewing treats, and since they are free of any chemicals, he will be able to enjoy them safely.
3. Raw Bones
Dogs eat bones; it’s that simple.
Give your dog a raw bone if you want him to have much chewing fun, and he will go at it with gusto.
However, you need to be aware that cooked bones are often the reason for choking accidents, as well as intestinal blockage and cuts, since they can splinter and hurt your pooch.
Raw bones, on the other hand, are completely safe and natural.
Just keep the bones out of your yard, or you might attract some wild animals.
Remember that bones get harder over time, so try not to wait too long before you give them to your dog.
4. Deer Antlers
Deer and elk shed their antlers every spring, and these antlers are a great alternative to chewing toys.
Instead of giving your dog rubber, plastic or nylon, give him these natural, durable antlers made for dogs.
Of course, antlers are cleaned and cut after being collected before they are sold, and you can find them in different sizes.
Just keep in mind that antlers can damage the back teeth of some breeds, so you better consult with your vet before you use them.
5. Jones Natural Chews
If you are looking for great, natural chews that will also satisfy your dog’s refined taste, then Jones Natural Chews are a great choice for you.
These come in different flavors, like sausage, beef, and chicken, to name just a few.
They are only made from two natural ingredients and baked in the oven.
They are perfectly safe for your canine, and one pack has 20 pieces, which is enough for at least 2 weeks, or even more if you pace your dog.
6. Himalayan Dog Chews
Made with a traditional Himalayan recipe, these dog chews are basically hardened cheese from yak or cow milk or a combination of the two. Himalayan dog chews are bound to last a long time since they are really durable.
They are completely safe because they are made without preservatives and are completely edible.
You might be surprised by the fact that dogs love cheese, but that is true, at least in this form.
Your canine will certainly enjoy the taste of these chews.
Are Nylabones Safe For Dogs: Before You Go…
Are Nylabones safe for dogs? Absolutely!
They can be helpful for dogs and puppies as long as you watch over your pet and offer him a chew toy that is suitable for his size and chewing capacity.
The likelihood that your dog could hurt himself also decreases with proper care for their Nylabone.
The best and safest sanitizing method is to hand-wash it with a brush and a gentle, non-toxic detergent before washing it with warm water.
Remember that the optimum time to dispose of a Nylabone is when the knuckle ends wear out or when the parts get so little that they can break off.
