Are Nylabones Safe for Dogs? Everything You Need to Know

If you're a pet parent, chances are you've asked yourself this question more than once: “Are Nylabones safe for dogs?”. It’s no secret that dogs are die-hard fans of chew toys. Nylabone tops the list in terms of tough dog toys. You can literally find them in nearly every pet store. This is because they promise hours of chewing fun. 

But are they truly a secure purchase for your little munchkin? Read on to learn more.

What Exactly Are Nylabone Dog Toys for Dogs?

Nylabones are a fine category of tough dog toys. They are usually made of durable nylon, rubber, or plastic. You can find a lot of options for all dogs. However, their synthetic nature is a concern for many dog owners as it affects the safety and long-term use of the product. More about it later.

Main types of Nylabones:

• Puppy Nylabone dog toys for dogs
• Power Chew Nylabones such as Nylabone Power Chew Wishbone adult dog toy
• Flexi Chew Nylabones
• Nylabone Moderate Chew Dog Toy

How Are Nylabones Safe for Dogs?

Nylabones chews can be perfectly safe, even beneficial. However, you must know the right way to use these toys. Here's why many pet parents love to have them for their furballs:

1. Promote Healthy Chewing Habits

Chewing is a favorite activity of all dogs. Nylabones give them a safe and satisfying outlet for that instinct. So, now your shoes and furniture remain safe.

2. Support Dental Health

Certain Nylabones have ridges and textures. So, they help in lessening tartar buildup. Also, Nylabone toys keep whites in top-notch condition.

3. Durable & Value for Money

The best part about these toys is that they offer excellent value for the price. Their durability means you won’t need to keep buying cheap dog toys every few weeks

4. Variety to Suit Different Needs

There's likely a Nylabone formulated for each and every category of dogs. So, grab the one that you feel will best suit your furbaby.

Why Are Nylabones Bad for Dogs?

This question is often searched by pet parents who've had a negative experience or heard concerning stories. Here's what could go wrong:

1. Too Hard for Some Dogs

Some dogs, especially aggressive chewers, may chew so intensely that they crack their teeth on harder Nylabones.

2. Can Break Into Small Pieces

Parts of Nylabone may wear down or snap off with time. Swallowing those parts could be really dangerous for your pet.

3. Not Edible

Nylablones are not edible toys. Therefore, consuming them can be potentially dangerous. Swallowed chunks may not be digested and cause other gut issues.

4. Plastic-Like Smell or Taste Reactions

Some sensitive dogs may hate playing with the toy due to its smell. Forceful playing may lead to chewing aversion or upset stomachs.

Nylabone Safety Concerns: What to Know

Here are common Nylabone dangers for dogs and what you should do to avoid them.

What to Do If Your Dog Swallows a Nylabone Piece?

Uh-oh! If your dog gulps a piece of Nylabone, here’s how you can save your little furbaby:

Step-by-step Guide:

1. Don’t Stress Out – Panicking will only lead to more chaos. It won’t help you get out of the problem. Instead, try to be calm so that you can assess the situation properly.
   
2. Administer the Size of the Piece – Small fragments may pass naturally. However, if your pet gulped a large piece,  it might be a problem.
   
3. Monitor Behavior – Look out for vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, or any other symptoms.
   
4. Dial Your Vet’s Number Immediately – Have a quick chat with them to get a solution as soon as possible.
   

5 Safer Natural Alternatives to Nylabones

If you’re worried about Nylabone safety concerns, don’t worry. These natural and safe chew alternatives are great options.

1. Ethical Pet Bam-Bones – Sustainable & Dog-Safe Chew

Overview:
BetterBone is a rising star in the natural chew world. Made from sustainable bamboo fibers and nylon, this chew is tough dog toy, and safer than traditional nylon toys. Also, Ethical Pet Bam-Bones are available in fun shapes like wishbones and bones

Why it’s better:

• Built out of renewable, non-toxic ingredients
  
• Softer texture
  
• Breaks down more safely if ingested
  

BetterBone vs Nylabone

2. Himalayan Yak Chews – Edible, Long-Lasting & Natural

Himalayan Yak Chews are made using traditional recipes with yak milk, cow milk, salt, and lime juice. They're fully digestible and become a chewy treat when softened with saliva. 

Why it’s safer:

• 100% edible
  
• All-natural ingredients with 0% additives
  
• Long-lasting but breaks down gradually with chewing
  

Yak Chew vs Nylabone

3. Carrots or Sweet Potatoes – Healthy Veggie Chews

Simple, affordable, and straight from the produce aisle — carrots and sweet potatoes are excellent chew alternatives, especially for light chewers and puppies. You can fill their food bowl with raw carrots for a satisfying crunch. Also, you can slice and dehydrate sweet potatoes into chewy treats. 

Why it’s safer:

• No additives or chemicals
  
• Fully edible and naturally digestible
  
• Gentle on teeth and gums
  

Carrots/Sweet Potatoes vs Nylabone

4. Antlers (Split Antlers Recommended) – Tough & Natural

Antlers, especially split ones, are a superb natural chew option for aggressive chewers. They’re rich in calcium and minerals. Also, their tough texture makes them long-lasting. However, antlers can be too hard for some dogs. So, always keep an eye and choose split varieties for easier chewing.

Why it’s safer (when used properly):

• Zero amount of chemicals
  
• Lasts longer
  
• Split versions reduce tooth fracture risk
  

Antlers vs Nylabone

5. Rubber Chew Toys – Gentle and Refillable

Natural rubber chew toys (like KONG toys) are a favorite among vets. These toys are soft, durable, and considered a very good option for dogs. The best part is that they can also be filled with treats or peanut butter. 

Why it’s safer:

• Softer on teeth and gums
  
• Easy to clean and reuse
  
• Lessens the risk of swallowing sharp pieces
  

Rubber Toys vs Nylabone

Nylabone Safety Tips for Dog Owners

Here are the top safety tips for using Nylabones the right way:

1. Purchase the Right Size

Go for a toy that your dog cannot put inside their mouth easily. Too small can easily go into a dog’s jaw, which could lead to choking issues.

2. Choose the Right Type

Not all toys are recommended for every dog. You must purchase a toy that matches your dog’s requirements

• Puppy chews for teething
  
• Flexi chews for light chewers
  
• Power chews for aggressive chewers
  

3. Inspect Frequently

Administer for wear, splinters, and sharp edges from time to time. Purchase a new one at the first sign of damage.

4. Supervise Chewing

Don’t let your dog play alone with a new chew toy. Keep an eye on them until you’re sure they can use it safely.

5. Stick to Reputable Brands

Get your toys from trusted pet retailers like Kwik Pets to avoid getting any duplicate products

Conclusion

That’s the lowdown on Nylabone Toys and other safe options for your little furball. So, are Nylabones safe for dogs? Yes, only if used correctly and chosen wisely.

Nylabones can work amazingly for some dogs, but they come with some risks that you should not ignore. Some of the advantages of these toys are: 

• Dental health
• Chewing satisfaction
• Boredom relief

But for dogs that are super chewers or need an all-natural option, you’re better off exploring safer alternatives.