We’ve all been there, seeing our beloved pooch chewing and playing tug of war with a rope. Yeah, they are such big fans of rope toys. The question is: Are rope toys safe for dogs? Dog parents, if you’re also wondering about this, keep reading to ensure your dog’s safety while keeping them happy with their favorite toys!
Why do Dogs Love Rope Toys so Much?
According to the ASPCA, dogs of all ages are natural chewers, so we can expect them to chew on everything. Still, the texture of rope toys is more appealing to them, comforting their gums and teeth while gnawing. As ropes are more durable than other materials like plastic, our chewer can play with them for longer.
Additionally, rope toys are commonly used for playing tug of war, which is most pooches’ favorite. This game involves back-and-forth pulling and gnawing, simulating their hunting nature. Therefore, chewing rope toys is not only part of their play but also taps into their innate drive and helps them relieve pent-up energy and stress.
Dogs tend to love rope toys. Image source: Wikimedia Commons
Are Rope Toys Safe for Dogs?
Rope toys are safe for dogs if you choose the right type. The biggest concern that we, dog parents, have is the rope might fray, causing a choking hazard or intestinal blockage. However, many rope toys these days, such as hemp rope dog toys, are made of sturdy materials, minimizing fraying.
Even if your pooch is an aggressive chewer, the strands of hemp rope are free of toxic chemicals, so allergies or other intestinal problems are the last thing you have to worry about. That said, to prevent the risk of choking, it’s best to check for signs of fraying on rope toys and replace them frequently.
Benefits of Rope Toys
Good for Dental Health
Canines love ropes for a good reason, as the rough texture helps them scrape away the tartar and plaque on their teeth. Think of the fiber strings like dental floss; they can brush off deposits in hard-to-reach spots between teeth. For puppies, chewing rope toys even hits the right spot to alleviate the discomfort and pain on their gums.
Cleaner teeth and gums are less prone to dental problems like tooth decay and gum diseases. A study by the University of New England reported that daily chewing helps reduce dental deposits, which is linked to the prevention of periodontal disease.
Not to mention, chewing encourages saliva production, freshening the dog’s breath and naturally cleaning his teeth.
Fulfill Their Chewing Drive
Canines are natural chewers. Image Sources: Freerange Stock
As mentioned, chewing comes naturally to dogs as an instinct. So, instead of letting them bite your shoes or furniture, why not give them a rope toy?
Don’t think that your four-legged friends will get bored with a rope soon. Rope toys come in various forms, including rope balls, hemp rope toys, tug toys, etc. Incorporate these rope toys into their daily playing routine, and they’ll be happy with that.
Relax & Stimulate Mental Health
Just like us humans, dogs have their own ways of self-soothing, and chewing is one of them. Gnawing promotes the release of endorphins, such as serotonin and dopamine, alleviating stress and encouraging a calming, relaxing effect.
Additionally, canines rely on chewing to escape boredom. Repetitive behavior like this helps dogs, especially high-energy breeds, burn excess energy.
A Fun Exercise
Our dogs need about 1-2 hours of exercise each day, but not all can afford that. If you’re too busy to take your furry companion out for a walk, letting them play with a rope toy is not a bad idea. Chewing strengthens their mouth and jaw muscles while also improving coordination.
If they can find a partner to play tug of war with, this activity can also tone their legs, neck muscles, and chest muscles.
A Great Way for Bonding
A simple rope toy can make a big difference in the bonding time with your chewer. Throw some games like tug of war, fetch, you name it, and keep your dogs content all the time. The shared playtime fuels the trust and affection between you and your pooch, helping them feel loved, safe, and stress-free.
Rope Toys for Dogs
There are many types of rope toys for dogs. Image Source: Flickr
You can find many rope toys on the market, including rope balls, tug toys, rope bones, and more.
- Rope balls: Ropes can be woven into a ball or tied with a rubber ball for extra elements. These balls are perfect for playing fetch or double as chew toys.
- Tug toys: These are straight ropes with several knots on them; the longer, the more knots. The knots help dogs hold the ropes more tightly when playing tug of war.
- Rope bones: These are simply ropes woven in the shape of bones, which are more appealing to our naughty chewers.
- Tug toys with added elements: There are also rope toys with added elements like squeakers, chew logs, or plush animals. The presence of an extra item, like a coffee wood log, triggers our chewer curiosity and keeps them engaged for an extended time.
Types of Rope Toys for Dogs
Nylon or Synthetic Ropes
While nylon and synthetic ropes can withstand heavy use from aggressive chewers, they are not always safe for our four-legged friends. First, the hard material might hurt their gums and teeth, especially for teething puppies. Worse yet, these synthetic ropes come with toxic chemicals, like dyes, plasticizers, coatings, etc., which are harmful to dogs if accidentally ingested.
Pros
- Durable material, enduring heavy chewing
- Widely available
Cons
- Hard texture that can hurt dogs’ gums and teeth
- Contain toxic chemicals
Cotton Rope Toys
Unlike nylon ropes, cotton ropes are much softer and gentler on dogs’ teeth. High-quality cotton rope toys are also free of harmful chemicals, but cheap or blended cotton ones are still made with toxins. Additionally, this material is easier to fray than nylon, posing a choking hazard for our beloved pets.
Pros
- Softer and gentler
- Less toxic than nylon ropes
Cons
- Easier to fray
- Might have harmful materials in cheap products
Hemp Toys for Dogs
Hemp ropes are safe for pooches. Image Source: Fivive Pet Supply
Organic hemp ropes are 100% plant-based (hemp plants), so they are both dog-friendly and eco-friendly. Besides, these ropes are hypoallergenic and antibacterial, minimizing the risk of allergies or other digestive problems.
These hemp strands are tightly twisted to create stronger and thicker ropes, withstanding aggressive chewing. Their antibacterial property also makes them low-maintenance; you don’t have to wash them often, thereby enhancing their durability.
Pros
- 100% non-toxic, safe for dogs
- Strong, durable fibers
- Low-maintenance
Cons
- None
Coconut Husk Rope Toys
Coconut husk rope toys are gaining popularity in Vietnam and other countries thanks to their chemical-free and biodegradable nature. Their abrasive texture is also something that your pooches will adore. Though they are not as long-lasting as hemp ropes, they are durable enough to withstand daily chewing.
Since coconut husk is highly fibrous, there’s a chance that our dogs can swallow frayed strands. Don’t worry! These natural fibers can break down and find their way through the gastrointestinal tract easily without blockage.
Pros
- Chemical-free, non-toxic
- Eco-friendly option
- Minimal risk of choking and intestinal blockage
Cons
- Not for too aggressive chewers
Q&A About Rope Toys
What Dog Breeds Can Play With Rope Toys?
All dog breeds can chew on rope toys as long as you keep an eye on them. Supervise them while they’re playing to prevent any choking hazards.
Is It Safe for Dogs to Play with Rope Toys on Their Own?
It’s not recommended to let your dogs play with rope toys on their own. Even non-toxic ropes like coconut husk and hemp still pose a risk of choking, so you’d better stick around while they’re playing.
Can Dogs Swallow Rope Toys When Playing?
Yes, if the rope is torn or frayed, your pooches can swallow the strands.
Do Rope Toys Make Dogs’ Teeth Cleaner?
Absolutely. The rough texture of rope toys naturally cleans dogs’ teeth as they chew.
What Types of Rope Toys are Best for Dogs?
Go for rope toys with organic, natural materials like hemp, coconut husk, or cotton ropes. They are free of toxins and chemicals, ensuring your dogs’ safety.
