Sustainable Dog Toys and Chews: A Greener Choice for Your Pup

“Sustainability, ensuring the future of life on earth, is an infinite game, the endless expression of generosity on behalf of all.” – Paul Hawken

I often laugh as I go to my treat cupboard in the kitchen. Open the right side, treats for me. Open the left side, treats for pup.

Yes, indeed … he has as much variety as I do, and they’re each served up at different times.

Yes, indeed … he knows exactly what times those are. And which treat he’s getting.

As dog parents, we love spoiling our furry companions with fun toys and tasty chews. But this eco-friendly journey brings about the consideration of the environmental impact of these items. Looking around the living room strewn with pup’s toys, I painfully realize some will be around much longer than pup and me.

Like many things in this world, commercial dog toys are often made from plastic, synthetic fabrics, and materials that contribute to pollution and landfill waste. Time to find some better options! Luckily, eco-conscious dog owners do have several sustainable alternatives to choose from.

On to exploring how to make greener choices when it comes to dog toys and chews—keeping pup happy while protecting the planet…

Why Choose Sustainable Dog Toys?

The harsh reality can be cringe-worthy. Conventional dog toys often contain:

• Plastic and Synthetic Materials: These can break down into harmful microplastics, known to have detrimental impacts on health, fertility and the environment.

• Chemical Additives: Some toys are treated with artificial dyes or chemicals that can be harmful if ingested. Scientific research has found some dog toys to contain toxic chemicals (e.g., phthalates, BPA, lead) at levels that would be illegal if found in children’s toys.

• Non-Biodegradable Waste: Many synthetic materials take years to decompose in landfills. Polyester – often used in the soft toys – can take anywhere from 20 to 200 years to decompose.

  
  

Nothing you or I want for our pups.

By opting for sustainable toys, we’re choosing items that are:

• Made from natural, renewable materials

• Free of toxic chemicals and dyes

• Designed to be biodegradable or recyclable

  
  

Things to keep an eye out for in your search for new sustainable toys and chews:

• Look for certified organic or sustainably sourced materials

• Choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging

• Prioritize durability to reduce frequent replacements and waste

Top Sustainable Dog Toy Materials

Up for a little fetch or tug with pup? Or just something for them to carry around as a prize possession? Here are some materials to look for:

1. Organic Cotton & Hemp

• Soft yet durable, these materials are gentle on your dog’s teeth.

• Look for toys with organic certification to ensure they’re free from pesticides.

• Hemp is naturally antibacterial and resistant to mold, making it an excellent choice for tug toys or chew ropes.

• Where to shop: The Kind Pet, Only Natural Pet, Etsy

2. Natural Rubber & Latex

• Harvested from rubber trees, natural rubber is a biodegradable alternative to synthetic rubber or plastic.

• Ideal for tough chewers, these toys are durable and non-toxic.

• Where to shop: Only Natural Pet, Wildfang Pet, Pet Shop by Fringe Studio

3. Recycled Fabrics & Textiles

• Upcycled materials from clothing or other textiles are given a new life as eco-friendly dog toys.

• These toys help reduce textile waste while keeping your pup entertained.

• Where to shop: Pets of the Earth, Etsy, Simple Ecology

4. Wool & Felted Wool

• Wool is a natural, biodegradable material that can be shaped into engaging toys for non- or soft chewers.

• It’s also an excellent choice for stuffing in plush toys.

• Where to shop: The Kind Pet, Sonoma Wool Company, Natural Pet Warehouse

Sustainable Chew Options for Your Dog

Nope. Rawhide dog chews are generally not considered eco-friendly. While they are made from dried animal skins, which one may think would make them biodegradable and eco-friendly, the long curation and processing with harsh chemicals nixes that for many rawhide options on the market.

But chewing is good for dogs, fighting boredom and keeping teeth and gums healthy. So, what to look for as an alternative?

1. Antlers and Horns

• Naturally shed antlers from deer or elk are a durable, long-lasting chew.

• They’re free from artificial additives and rich in essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

• Where to shop: Mountain Valley Antlers, Farm to Pet, Nature Gnaws

2. Olive Wood Chews

• Made from sustainably harvested olive trees, these chews are hard and splinter-free.

• The wood is stated to “fray” when chewed, making them a great alternative to traditional wooden sticks, which can be dangerous if ingested.

• Where to shop: Wildfang Pet, WoodChew, Taffy & Lilly

3. Coffee Wood Chews

• A byproduct of coffee production, these chews are sustainably sourced and naturally durable. And they are caffeine free!

• They’re perfect for heavy chewers who need a tough, long-lasting option.

• Where to shop: Canophera, Only Natural Pet, Wildfang Pet

4. Yak Milk Chews

• Sourced from the Himalayas, these chews are made from hardened yak and cow milk.

• They’re high in protein, all-natural, and easily digestible. They are noted to be high in calories, and can be hard for soft teeth, so caution should be exercised in the number of treats given and to which pups.

• Where to shop: The Safe Dog Chew Company, Amazon, Chewy, Himalayan Pet Supply Store Locator 

DIY Eco-Friendly Dog Toy Ideas

And, for the creative types, or those with some pieces of apparel looking to be repurposed, consider making your own dog toys from upcycled materials:

• T-Shirt Rope Toy: Braid old t-shirts into a tug toy.

• Sock Ball: Fill an old sock with stuffing or another sock for a quick, fun ball.

• Denim Chew Toy: Cut strips from an old pair of jeans and knot them for a durable chew toy.

Final Thoughts: A Greener Playtime for Your Pup

Switching to sustainable dog toys and chews is a small change that can have a big impact. By making conscious choices, you’re not only ensuring your dog’s enjoyment, but also contributing to a cleaner, healthier planet. So, the next time you treat your furry friend, go for something that’s both fun and eco-friendly!

Ready to make the switch? Your pup—and the planet—will thank you!