The Kong product line is popular for its durability and versatility. It is often my first choice to redirect innate chewing behaviors because it is virtually indestructible by most dogs. However, like any dog toy, there are exceptionally strong chewers who can annihilate even the Extreme Black Kong (considered the strongest). If your dog has destroyed every toy you have purchased (including the Extreme Kong) you can try the Kong Rubber Ball, Premier Galileo Bone or Boomer Ball toys. Keep close watch on your dog the first few times you allow chewing from any new toy, even small dogs. Some of the strongest mouths I have seen were in little bodies.
The Kong Company has many toy varieties to choose from, including: squeaky tennis balls, durable plush toys and many more. If your goal is to play fetch, tug and hide ‘n’ seek games. you can choose from any of Kong’s toy categories. However, for chewing purposes, I would recommend one of the Rubber Toys. The Classic and Extreme Kongs are popular choices because the stuffing options are limitless); they can entertain some dogs for hours and their solid design is very durable for strong chewers. The Goodie Bone is another excellent toy to teach good mouthing skills. If you fill one end of the toy with treats while holding the other end, you can prevent nipping while working on good handling exercises.
The Dental Stick and Stuff-A-Ball are also great toys to keep your baseboards, pant legs and shoes chomp free.
Some dogs play with their Kongs by rolling them around, tossing them in the air or simply licking out the good stuff. When introducing your dog to a Kong Rubber Toy for the first time, rinse it off very well. You can entice your dog by filling it with peanut butter, cheese or cream cheese so he or she understands its purpose is to engage their mouth. You and your dog can enjoy years of entertainment with the same Kong, clean it out regularly with
warm soapy water and always give the Kong in response to good behavior.
The above picture is compliments of Sarah Eng, we can’t wait to feature more of her beautiful photos!
