Best Chew Toys for Yorkies: Top Picks for Tiny Teeth
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies as they’re affectionately known, are undeniably charming with their long, flowing hair and playful personalities. However, their small size and powerful jaws can sometimes lead to destructive chewing habits. Finding the right chew toy for your Yorkie is crucial for their safety and well-being. It needs to be durable enough to withstand their vigorous chewing, yet soft enough to prevent damage to their delicate teeth.
This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of chew toys specifically designed for Yorkies. We’ll cover everything from the best materials and shapes to the top-rated toys on the market. Let’s delve into the frequently asked questions Yorkie owners have about choosing the perfect chew toy.
What are the best chew toys for Yorkies?
Choosing the right chew toy for your Yorkie depends on their age, chewing habits, and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of some popular and highly-rated options:
1. Rope Toys
Rope toys are a classic choice for dogs, and Yorkies are no exception. They provide a satisfying chew experience and are generally durable. Look for rope toys made from natural fibers like cotton or hemp, as these are less likely to cause choking hazards. Avoid rope toys with loose or frayed ends, which can be a potential choking hazard.
Here are some popular rope toy options for Yorkies:
- Kong Rope Squeaky Toys: Durable, multi-textured rope toys with a built-in squeaker to keep your Yorkie entertained.
- Benebones Wishbone: A classic chew toy made from durable nylon with a satisfying chew experience. Comes in various sizes to suit your Yorkie’s size.
2. Rubber Toys
Rubber toys are great for Yorkies who enjoy a good chew. They are typically soft and flexible, reducing the risk of dental damage. Some rubber toys also feature embedded nubs or textures for added stimulation.
Here are some popular rubber toy options for Yorkies:
- Nylabones Dura Chew: These toys are made from durable nylon and come in various shapes and sizes. They are designed to withstand even the most aggressive chewers.
- West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl: These toys are made from a durable, non-toxic material that is both soft and flexible. They are dishwasher-safe and come in a variety of colors.
3. Plush Toys
Plush toys can be a great choice for Yorkies who like to cuddle. Look for toys made with high-quality, durable fabric that can withstand vigorous chewing. Avoid toys with loose eyes, buttons, or other small parts that could pose a choking hazard.
Here are some popular plush toy options for Yorkies:
- Kong Classic: A durable, rubber toy with a hollow center that can be filled with treats or peanut butter to keep your Yorkie entertained.
- GoDog Squeaky Plush Toys: A variety of squeaky plush toys made with durable fabric and reinforced seams.
4. Treat Dispensing Toys
Treat dispensing toys can be a great way to keep your Yorkie mentally stimulated and entertained while they chew. These toys require your Yorkie to work for their treats, which can help to reduce boredom and prevent destructive chewing.
Here are some popular treat dispensing toy options for Yorkies:
- Kong Classic: A versatile toy that can be filled with treats, peanut butter, or even frozen yogurt. The rubber construction is durable and can withstand vigorous chewing.
- West Paw Qwizl: A unique, interactive toy that dispenses treats as your Yorkie chews and plays with it.
What are the signs of a Yorkie that’s teething?
Teething is a normal part of a Yorkie’s growth and development. It typically occurs between the ages of 3 and 8 months, though it can start as early as 2 months.
Here are some common signs of teething in Yorkies:
- Excessive chewing: Your Yorkie may chew on everything in sight, including furniture, shoes, and even your hands.
- Drooling: Teething can cause increased drooling, which is a natural response to the discomfort in their gums.
- Gnawing: Your Yorkie may gnaw on their paws or other body parts to relieve the pressure in their gums.
- Red or swollen gums: The gums may become red or swollen as the new teeth emerge.
- Lethargy: Teething can make your Yorkie feel tired and lethargic.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to provide your Yorkie with plenty of chew toys to help them relieve the discomfort. You can also try freezing a wet washcloth or a chew toy to help numb their gums.
What are the best chew toys for teething Yorkies?
Teething Yorkies need chew toys that are both durable and soft to help them relieve gum pain and prevent damage to their developing teeth.
Here are some of the best chew toys for teething Yorkies:
1. Nylabones Dura Chew
These toys are made from durable nylon and come in various shapes and sizes. They are designed to withstand even the most aggressive chewers.
2. Kong Classic
The Kong Classic is a versatile toy that can be filled with treats, peanut butter, or even frozen yogurt to keep your Yorkie entertained.
3. West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl
These toys are made from a durable, non-toxic material that is both soft and flexible. They are dishwasher-safe and come in a variety of colors.
What are the best chew toys for Yorkies that are heavy chewers?
Some Yorkies are simply born to chew. If you have a heavy chewer, you’ll need to choose toys that can stand up to their relentless chewing. Avoid toys made from soft materials that are easily destroyed. Look for durable toys made from materials like nylon, rubber, or rubberized rope.
Here are some of the best chew toys for heavy-chewing Yorkies:
1. Nylabones Dura Chew
These toys are made from durable nylon and come in various shapes and sizes. They are designed to withstand even the most aggressive chewers.
2. Benebones Wishbone
A classic chew toy made from durable nylon with a satisfying chew experience. Comes in various sizes to suit your Yorkie’s size.
3. West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl
These toys are made from a durable, non-toxic material that is both soft and flexible. They are dishwasher-safe and come in a variety of colors.
What are the best chew toys for Yorkies that are small chewers?
If your Yorkie is a light chewer, you have a wider range of options available to you. You can choose from toys made from softer materials like rubber or plush.
Here are some of the best chew toys for small-chewing Yorkies:
1. Kong Classic
The Kong Classic is a versatile toy that can be filled with treats, peanut butter, or even frozen yogurt to keep your Yorkie entertained.
2. GoDog Squeaky Plush Toys
A variety of squeaky plush toys made with durable fabric and reinforced seams.
3. West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl
These toys are made from a durable, non-toxic material that is both soft and flexible. They are dishwasher-safe and come in a variety of colors.
What are the best chew toys for Yorkies that are prone to allergies?
If your Yorkie has allergies, it’s important to choose toys that are made from hypoallergenic materials. Avoid toys made from rubber or latex, as these materials can trigger allergic reactions in some dogs.
Here are some of the best chew toys for Yorkies that are prone to allergies:
1. Kong Classic
The Kong Classic is made from durable rubber that is generally hypoallergenic. It can be filled with treats, peanut butter, or even frozen yogurt to keep your Yorkie entertained.
2. West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl
These toys are made from a durable, non-toxic material that is both soft and flexible and hypoallergenic.
3. Benebones Wishbone
A classic chew toy made from durable nylon with a satisfying chew experience. Comes in various sizes to suit your Yorkie’s size.
What are the best chew toys for Yorkies that are aggressive chewers?
Aggressive chewers require toys that are extremely durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Choose toys made from materials like nylon, rubberized rope, or heavy-duty rubber.
Here are some of the best chew toys for aggressive-chewing Yorkies:
1. Nylabones Dura Chew
These toys are made from durable nylon and come in various shapes and sizes. They are designed to withstand even the most aggressive chewers.
2. Benebones Wishbone
A classic chew toy made from durable nylon with a satisfying chew experience. Comes in various sizes to suit your Yorkie’s size.
3. West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl
These toys are made from a durable, non-toxic material that is both soft and flexible and are very durable.
How do I choose the right size chew toy for my Yorkie?
Choosing the right size chew toy for your Yorkie is important for safety and comfort. If the toy is too small, your Yorkie could choke on it. If it’s too large, it may be difficult for them to chew.
Here are some tips for choosing the right size chew toy:
- Consider your Yorkie’s size: Choose a toy that is proportional to your Yorkie’s mouth and jaw size.
- Look for size recommendations: Most chew toys come with size recommendations based on the dog’s weight or breed.
- Check the toy’s dimensions: If you’re not sure, measure your Yorkie’s mouth and compare it to the toy’s dimensions.
What are the best chew toys for Yorkies that are small?
If you have a small Yorkie, you’ll need to choose toys that are specifically designed for small breeds. These toys are usually smaller and more lightweight, making them easier for your Yorkie to chew and play with.
Here are some of the best chew toys for small Yorkies:
1. Kong Classic
The Kong Classic comes in a variety of sizes, including a small size that is perfect for small Yorkies.
2. GoDog Squeaky Plush Toys
GoDog Squeaky Plush Toys come in a variety of sizes, including small sizes that are perfect for small Yorkies.
3. West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl
These toys come in a variety of sizes, including a small size that is perfect for small Yorkies.
What are the best chew toys for Yorkies that are large?
If you have a large Yorkie, you’ll need to choose toys that are durable enough to withstand their powerful chewing. Choose toys made from materials like nylon, rubberized rope, or heavy-duty rubber.
Here are some of the best chew toys for large Yorkies:
1. Nylabones Dura Chew
These toys are made from durable nylon and come in various shapes and sizes. They are designed to withstand even the most aggressive chewers.
2. Benebones Wishbone
A classic chew toy made from durable nylon with a satisfying chew experience. Comes in various sizes to suit your Yorkie’s size.
3. West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl
These toys are made from a durable, non-toxic material that is both soft and flexible and are very durable.
How do I prevent my Yorkie from chewing on my furniture?
Preventing your Yorkie from chewing on furniture can be a challenge, but with patience and consistency, you can teach them to leave your belongings alone.
Here are some tips to prevent your Yorkie from chewing on your furniture:
- Provide plenty of chew toys: Make sure your Yorkie has a variety of chew toys available to them. Rotate the toys regularly to keep them interested.
- Redirect their chewing: When you catch your Yorkie chewing on furniture, immediately redirect their attention to a chew toy. Offer praise and treats when they chew on the toy instead.
- Use bitter apple spray: Bitter apple spray is a safe and effective deterrent for chewing. Spray it on furniture to make it taste unpleasant to your Yorkie.
- Cover furniture: Consider covering your furniture with protective materials like blankets or slipcovers to prevent chewing damage.
- Keep your Yorkie busy: A bored Yorkie is more likely to chew on furniture. Make sure your Yorkie gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
How often should I replace my Yorkie’s chew toys?
Chew toys should be replaced regularly, especially if they show signs of wear and tear. If the toy is cracked, chipped, or has loose pieces, it’s time to replace it. This will help to prevent your Yorkie from swallowing small pieces that could pose a choking hazard.
Here are some general guidelines for replacing chew toys:
- Rubber toys: Replace rubber toys every 3-6 months, or sooner if they show signs of wear and tear.
- Rope toys: Replace rope toys when they become frayed or have loose ends.
- Plush toys: Replace plush toys when they show signs of wear and tear, especially if the seams are coming apart or there are loose pieces.
What should I do if my Yorkie swallows a piece of a chew toy?
If your Yorkie swallows a piece of a chew toy, it’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately. They can advise you on the best course of action, which may include inducing vomiting or performing surgery to remove the object.
Table Summary
| Type of Chew Toy | Best for |
|---|---|
| Rope Toys | Yorkies of all ages and chewing styles |
| Rubber Toys | Yorkies who enjoy chewing and need added stimulation |
| Plush Toys | Yorkies who prefer cuddling and light chewing |
| Treat Dispensing Toys | Yorkies who need mental stimulation and are prone to boredom |
| Nylabones Dura Chew | Heavy chewers, teething Yorkies |
| Kong Classic | Teething Yorkies, light chewers, Yorkies with allergies |
| West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl | Yorkies of all ages and chewing styles, hypoallergenic |
| Benebones Wishbone | Heavy chewers |
| GoDog Squeaky Plush Toys | Light chewers, small Yorkies |
FAQ
What are the best chew toys for Yorkies that are prone to dental problems?
If your Yorkie is prone to dental problems, it’s important to choose chew toys that are gentle on their teeth. Avoid toys that are hard or have sharp edges. Choose toys made from soft materials like rubber or plush, or toys that are specifically designed for dental health.
Can I give my Yorkie a bone to chew on?
It’s generally not recommended to give your Yorkie bones to chew on. Bones can splinter and pose a choking hazard, and they can also damage your Yorkie’s teeth. If you do choose to give your Yorkie a bone, make sure it is a raw, meaty bone, and supervise them carefully.
What are the best chew toys for Yorkies that are destructive chewers?
Destructive chewers require toys that are extremely durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Choose toys made from materials like nylon, rubberized rope, or heavy-duty rubber. You may also want to consider a Kong Classic, which can be filled with treats or peanut butter to keep your Yorkie entertained and prevent them from chewing on your belongings.
What are some homemade chew toys for Yorkies?
Here are a few ideas for homemade chew toys for Yorkies:
- Frozen treats: Freeze a mixture of peanut butter, yogurt, and kibble in a Kong Classic or a silicone mold to create a long-lasting, refreshing treat. You can also freeze fruits like bananas or apples.
- Rope toys: Braid together strips of old t-shirts or towels to create a durable rope toy.
- Stuffed toys: Sew together old socks or pieces of fabric to create a stuffed toy that your Yorkie can chew on.
What are the best chew toys for Yorkies that are puppies?
Puppies need chew toys that are soft and durable, and can help them to relieve gum pain during teething. Some good options include Kong Classic, Nylabones Dura Chew, and West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl. Make sure to supervise your puppy closely when they are chewing on any toy, and replace toys regularly as they show signs of wear and tear.
What are the best chew toys for Yorkies that are seniors?
Senior Yorkies may have sensitive teeth and gums, so it’s important to choose chew toys that are gentle on their mouths. Avoid toys that are hard or have sharp edges. Choose toys made from soft materials like rubber or plush, or toys that are specifically designed for senior dogs.
