Are Plastic Dog Toys Safe? (Why Nylon May Not Be the Best Choice)

Updated April 27, 2026

Dogs love to chew. It keeps them engaged, keep their teeth strong, provides mental stimulation, and helps them cope with anxiety. But many pet parents start to question what their dog is actually chewing on.

If you’ve ever wondered “are plastic dog toys safe?”, you’re not alone.

While plastic and nylon toys are common, more pet owners are taking a closer look at the materials behind them and exploring safer, non-toxic alternatives.

If you’re already looking for safer options, you can explore our collection of plastic-free, sustainable dog toys.

What Are Plastic Dog Toys Made Of?

Plastic dog toys are typically made from materials like nylon, rubber blends, or synthetic polymers. These materials are often chosen for durability, especially for dogs that are big chewers.

Nylon toys (like Nylabones or Benebones) are some of the most common examples. They’re designed to last, but that durability comes from hard, synthetic materials.

This is where many pet parents begin asking:

• Are nylon dog toys safe?
• What happens when pieces break off?
• Are plastic dog toys harmful over time?

Who This Matters For Most

Not every dog interacts with toys the same way.

This question matters most if your dog:

• is an aggressive chewer or destroys toys quickly
• swallows small pieces of toys
• has sensitivities to certain materials
• gnaws on toys daily

For these dogs especially, material choice becomes more important.

What to Consider When Choosing Dog Toys

When comparing synthetic dog toys vs natural alternatives, here are a few things to think about:

Are Plastic Dog Toys Harmful?

Plastic dog toys aren’t automatically unsafe, but they’re not risk-free either.

Here are a few things to consider:

• Hard materials may contribute to dental wear over time
• Small pieces can break off and be swallowed
• Synthetic materials aren’t digestible
• Microplastics can form as toys wear down

For many pet parents, the concern isn’t about one-time use, it’s about daily exposure over time.

This is why more people are shifting toward dog toys without plastic, especially for regular chewing.

Best Options: Non-Toxic Dog Toys

If you’re looking for safer materials for dog toys, natural options can offer a more balanced approach. You can browse our full range of dog toys without plastic here.

Natural Dog Toys (Best Overall Alternative)

For dogs that are regular chewers, there are options made from more natural materials and designed for everyday use without relying on plastic-based components.

For many pet parents, switching away from nylon bones is less about eliminating chewing and more about choosing safer materials.

1) BetterBone Dog Toy

BetterBone is made from only two food-grade ingredients: cellulose and vegetable oil. They come in different densities for different chewing intensities. Durable and free from allergens and microplastics, BetterBones are an excellent alternative to your dog's nylon bone and bully stick.

• BetterBone Hard: For aggressive chewers who may or may not have a destructive chewing style.
• BetterBone Medium: For more moderate chewers.
• BetterBone Soft: Made for puppies and seniors who need something softer.

2) Boba & Vespa's Organic Cotton Dog Rope Toy

This 100% organic cotton rope toy for dogs is perfect for days of tug of war, tossing, fetching, or flossing, and is available in multiple sizes. The natural fibers of the rope are beneficial for your dog's teeth and support dental health as they floss your pup's teeth while stimulating their gums. Plus, plastic-free construction is better for our planet.

3) Distinctly Himalayan's Wool Dog Stick or Ring Toy

This adorable wool stick toy is made to look like a stick, but is made with 100% humanely raised New Zealand sheep wool. Wool is great for dogs' teeth and soothing gums. We love that this toy is not only zero-waste and non-toxic but naturally anti-bacterial and odor-resistant.