The Best Chew Proof Crate Pad

Having a dog that chews is problematic not only for your home and furniture, but also for your dog. And while chewing is a natural behavior in many breeds, it can be dangerous if your dog gets a hold of something he shouldn’t be gnawing on.

Crate training is an excellent way to go about keeping your mouthy dog safe while you are preoccupied or away, but even then it’s important to make sure that the items inside your dog’s crate are safe.

That’s where a chew proof crate pad come in. Join us today as we talk about the best products to put in your dog’s crate to keep him cozy and healthy, and learn why not all chew proof crate pads are created equal.

But before we begin, let’s take a quick look at why dogs chew in the first place. Keep reading.

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Why Do Some Dogs Chew More Than Others?

Pic 1 a puppy chewing
Dogs explore the world with their mouths. Puppies are especially prone to chewing during their teething phase.

As we mentioned briefly above, chewing is a normal and often natural behavior for dogs. Like toddlers, dogs explore the world with their mouths. However, some dogs chew more than others, and some excessive chewing can be a sign of a bigger issue in your furry friend.

Is your dog chewing more than he should? Let’s take a look at the most common reasons for chewing in dogs.

Puppy Teething

Puppy teething is one of the most common causes of chewing in dogs between three weeks and six months of age. During this time, a puppy’s teeth are erupting and their gums and jaws can be sore and tingly.

For puppies, chewing is a great way to alleviate the pain of developing new teeth, although this is also one of the most destructive periods in a dog’s life.

Along with crate training your new puppy and investing in a chew proof crate pad, experts recommend purchasing teething toys specifically designed for young puppies. This will help protect your furniture and belongings, and redirect puppies so they can chew on things that are not only appropriate to chew on, but also safe.

Boredom

Excessive teething in a dog older than six months can be a sign of boredom. Certain breeds who are especially intelligent or athletic and who are not having their needs met may be more prone to destructive behaviors than others, especially if they are left to their own devices for too long during the day.

Dogs who chew out of boredom often chew on furniture, shoes and toys. They sometimes even destroy bedding like blankets and pillows.

To alleviate chewing related to boredom in your dog, we suggest ensuring your dog is properly exercised throughout the day. You might also consider investing in interactive toys to help keep your dog busy and engaged.

Anxiety

Anxiety is a huge cause of chewing in adult dogs, and can be the most problematic. This is because it often occurs in otherwise well behaved dogs who are not destructive unless they are stressed.

There are different types of anxiety in dogs that can result in chewing, but one of the most common is separation anxiety. You’ll be able to tell if your dog has separation anxiety if he does not normally chew when you are together.

If your dog is well behaved and relaxed until you leave, and you often return home to chewed furniture, blinds, bedding or toys, it’s likely you have a dog who is suffering from separation anxiety.

Chewing not only helps alleviate anxiety for some dogs, but it can also be an attempt for them to “escape” to come find you. When this occurs, chewing is often most commonly found near windows or doors.

It’s important not to scold a dog for separation anxiety-based chewing. Instead, your best bet is to work with your anxious dog and crate train him, then invest in a chew proof crate pad to help keep him safe while you are gone.

But what is a chew proof crate pad? Keep reading to find out.

What Is A Chew Proof Crate Pad And How Can It Help?

Pic 2 a dog laying on a crate pad
A crate pad not only serves as comfy bedding in your dog’s crate, but it can also help reduce messes and potential health risks for your dog.

Dogs who are properly crate trained will see their crate as a safe and comfortable place they can go when their owners are away. Crate training should help to alleviate anxiety, not increase it, so refrain from making your dog’s crate a place where he is punished. This means that you should avoid sending your dog to his crate when he misbehaves.

Instead, leave his crate door open at all times (except when you are leaving or need to keep him isolated, of course), and make his crate a comfortable, relaxing place he enjoys being.

One of the ways you can make your dog’s crate cozy is to keep it padded with comfortable bedding. Unfortunately, for dogs who are heavy chewers, putting bedding in your dog’s crate can be dangerous and destructive.

This is where a chew proof crate pad comes in. Chew proof crate pads are exactly what they sound like. They are durable and chew-proof padding or bedding designed to go in your dog’s crate that are made with dog-safe materials.

When investing in a chew proof crate pad, it’s important to keep in mind that not all of them are created equal.

Depending on your dog, the durability and material of a chew proof crate pad may not be enough to keep him from chewing or destroying it. Before investing in a chew proof crate pad, make sure you do plenty of research and understand your dog’s personality and chewing habits.

Remember that some breeds and dogs with stronger, larger jaws, are more prone to destroying even very tough material. For this reason, it’s also important to keep in mind that not all dogs are good candidates for a crate pad at all. But we will cover this further down.

For now, let’s take a look at what to look for in the best chew proof crate pad.

What To Look For In The Best Chew Proof Crate Pad For Your Dog

Pic 3 a pug in a crate
Look for crate pads that are specifically designed for heavy chewers and that are made with dog-safe material.

When looking for the best chew proof crate pad, look for materials that are designed specifically for dogs. Avoid putting bedding or pillows in your dog’s crate that are not specifically made for dogs, especially if you have a dog that chews.

Chew proof crate pads should be designed with dog-safe material that will not be harmful if they are chewed or ingested. This includes materials that are free of dyes, chemicals, or materials that can cause obstructions or damage if swallowed like zippers, magnets, velcro or buttons.

You should also consider the bedding when it comes to a chew proof crate pad. Some chew proof crate pad products are in the shape of beds that can help alleviate anxiety. The image above shows an example of this.

While these types of chew proof crate pads are comfortable for anxious dogs, they are not ideal for extremely aggressive chewers. Lifted walls and softer siding can be more tempting for dogs to chew, especially if they are bored or anxious while in their crate.

For heavy chewers, invest in falter pads made of materials that, while padded, are not plush or soft. This will help reduce the temptation to chew.

If you’re not sure where to look for the best chew proof crate pad options, we have listed several below that we think work best.

K9 Ballistics Tough Dog Crate Pad

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First on our list of chew proof crate pad products is a pad by K9 Ballistics. If the name doesn’t cue you in, you can rest assured this is a tough crate pad for heavy chewers. It comes in a number of different sizes from small to XXL and different colors including tan, black, red and green.

Most importantly, this pad is made of durable material that is both waterproof and washable. It is ideal for dogs who scratch, dig, and chew.

It is made specifically for crates and is made with dog safe materials, meaning it is free of zippers, velcro, buttons, or other materials that can be swallowed or cause stomach obstructions. This chew proof crate pad even comes with a “chew proof promise”, and you are encouraged to return it if your dog destroyed it within the first 120 days.

K9 Ballistics Orthopedic Crate Pad

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Another chew proof crate pad by K9 Ballistics is the above orthopedic crate pad. This is an ideal crate pad for very large or senior dogs who are prone to chewing. Again, like the other chew proof crate pad, this pad is designed and fitted specifically to go inside crates. It is made with durable material and is free of any zippers, buttons or velcro that can be potentially swallowed.

The crate pad is also tear-free, and comes in different sizes and colors. It includes a ripstop cover that is scratch, dig and chew proof. It is also waterproof and machine washable.

Again, if your dog is able to chew through or rip this chew proof crate pad in under 120 days, you can return it risk free.

Sealy Quilted Memory Foam Crate Pad

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If you have a teething puppy who is prone to chewing but who will likely grow out of this behavior, then you might consider the above chew proof crate pad by Sealy Dog Bed. This chew proof pad and dog bed is durable and tough, but made of memory foam material ideal for growing puppies.

It is also designed with particularly durable siding to help withstand puppy scratching and chewing, especially during their teething phase. That said, it is not ideal for heavy chewers or dogs who are prone to heavy destruction.

You can order this chew proof crate pad in XS to XL, though it only comes in grey and black. The design is made specifically for a dog crate, and it can also help alleviate anxiety for puppies who are new to crate training.

Slumber Pet Heavy Duty Crate Pad

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The above chew proof crate pad is designed specifically for heavier chewers and dogs who are prone to digging and scratching. The bed is made of chew proof material that is both safe and durable, and can help reduce chewing activity while dogs are crated.

It is available in all sizes and is designed to fit into most dog crates. The material is double stitched and easy to clean, and free of any dangerous or unsafe materials like zippers, velcro or buttons.

K9 Ballistics Armored Indestructible Dog Cot

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One of the best chew proof crate pad options for extremely heavy chewers is going to be the above dog cot by K9 Ballistics. This cot is an alternative to traditional chew proof crate pad options that are made of plush materials some dogs are more tempted to chew.

It comes in sizes small to XXL and is waterproof, chew-resistant, and surrounded by an aluminum frame. This chew proof crate pad is designed specifically for heavy chewers and is designed to be used inside your dog’s crate, though you can also use it outside of his crate as well. The cot-like design offers comfort to your dog without providing him with materials to chew through while you are away.

Maxx Dog Bed and Crate Pad

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For light chewers or teething puppies, we recommend the rugged Maxx chew proof crate pad. It is a chew resistant pad that is made of durable polyester material. This material is both safe for chewing dogs and waterproof, making it easy to keep clean. Best of all, this chew proof crate pad is machine washable and safe for the dryer.

It comes in several different sizes and four different colors, and is free of any dangerous materials like velcro, buttons or zippers. The raised sides can help alleviate anxiety and the no-slip bottom grip helps keep this chew proof crate pad in place. You can use this pad inside and outside of the crate and for puppies as well as adult dogs.

Other Products You May Need For Heavy Chewer

Pic 4 a dog with a KONG
Leaving a KONG or another chew toy in your dog’s crate can help keep him chewing on appropriate things as opposed to bedding.

Helping to alleviate chewing for dogs in their crate can go beyond just investing in a chew proof crate pad. Remember, your dog may still chew, even if the crate pad is chew proof. For this reason, it can help to put special chew toys in the crate with your dog to redirect his chewing behaviors and to keep him busy.

The best kinds of chews are going to be chews that are not easily destroyed, like thick rubber KONGS, teething toys for dogs, and other types of durable toys that will not easily break apart.

Another option is to leave chew treats in your dog’s crate with him along with his chew proof crate pad, although this is not always the best idea for young puppies. Chew toys like bones and bully sticks can sometimes break apart, and younger dogs may be inclined to try and swallow these chews. This can lead to choking or obstruction. We also suggest refraining from leaving rope toys, plush stuffed toys, or other toys that can be easily destroyed in crates with heavy chewers.

The best types of chews to leave in your dog’s crate along with a chew proof crate pad are going to be the ones listed below.

KONG Chew Toy

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The classic KONG chew toy is safe for both adults and puppies. It is a must have for anyone with a dog who is a heavy chewer, and especially for dogs who are crated during the day. The KONG doubles as an interactive puzzle toy when stuffed with treats, but it can also act as a chew toy when frozen or when given to puppies who are teething.

You can order the KONG in different sizes and even durability levels. For example, if you have a puppy you may consider getting a softer KONG.

Hipat Dog Chew Toy For Aggressive Chewers

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Another chew toy we recommend for aggressive chewers is the above durable toy by Hipat. This is a large chew toy made of durable material that has ridges, so it can help not only alleviate chewing habits but also clean your dog’s teeth.

The chew toy can be used as a tug of war toy for both you and your dog to play with, or you can leave it in your dog’s crate along with his chew proof crate pad while you are away to help redirect chewing.

Benebone Zaggler Rolling Chew Toy

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A flavored chew toy that is specifically designed for heavy chewers can be a great addition to any chew proof crate pad, and can help redirect destructive behaviors while your dog is crated.

The above chew toy comes in four sizes and is flavored with real bacon, so it is safe and enticing to help keep your heavy chewer engaged. The material is durable and designed to keep dogs busy. For best results, we suggest only giving this chew toy to your dog during times when he is crated during the day.

Nylabone Teething Toy For Puppies

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Last we have a teething toy by Nylabone. This chew toy is specifically designed for puppies and is flavored to help keep your teething puppy interested. You can freeze this toy or give it to your puppy as is while he is in his crate to help soothe sore gums.

The toy also comes with nubs that help massage the gums as your puppy chews, and the durable material is ideal for puppies who are heavier chewers.

That said, do not give this toy to adult dogs who are heavy chewers, as they may be able to chew it into small pieces.

What To Do If A Chew Proof Crate Pad Doesn’t Work

Pic 5 a french bulldog sleeping
Some dogs are heavier chewers than others and can chew through even the best chew-proof crate pads.

Unfortunately, not all dogs are candidates for a chew proof crate pad. Some very heavy chewers may still be able to destroy even the best chew proof crate pad, and regardless of the material, can put themselves in danger. Not only this, but going through chew proof crate pads can be expensive.

If your dog is a heavy chewer, consider speaking with your veterinarian or a trained behaviorist on ways to remedy this chewing behavior while you are away.

Sometimes, dogs are just natural chewers. If this is the case, and if your dog is constantly destroying his chew proof crate pad, he may not be a candidate for a crate pad at all. It may be best to leave your dog in his crate without anything to help ensure he is safe and healthy while you are away.

To make your dog more comfortable in his crate while you are away, consider not only leaving specified chew toys in the crate, but ensuring the crate is away from any open windows that could increase anxiety, and making sure your dog’s crate is in a warm, comfortable space in the home.

You can also play classical music for your dog, which has been proven to help decrease stress and anxiety, or leave the television or a fan on for background noise.

Other Ways You Can Help Reduce Chewing While Your Dog Is In His Crate

Pic 6 a dog in. acrate
Some dogs chew in their crate because they are bored or anxious. Training your dog to properly wait in his crate can help reduce chewing.

There is a stigma that comes with crate training a dog, although in reality and when done properly, crate training can help reduce anxiety and fear in dogs. If you help your dog learn to love his crate, he will soon see it as a place of safety and security and he won’t mind being crated while you are away.

Furthermore, crating your dog can help keep him safe, especially if he is a heavy chewer. Along with investing in a quality chew proof crate pad to keep your furry best friend safe and comfortable during the day or night, there are other ways you can go about reducing chewing.

Make Sure Your Dog Is Properly Exercised Before Going In His Crate

First and foremost, all dogs require a certain amount of exercise each and every day to stay happy and healthy. This is especially true for dogs who are crated during the night or during the day while you are away at work.

It’s very important for dogs to get outside and go for walks, sniff, explore and play. This type of activity will also help ensure your dog burns through excess energy before going in his crate so he feels relaxed and less anxious.

Have A Schedule

Along with keeping up with routine exercise and mental stimuialtion when your dog is not crated, and along with making your dog’s crate comfortable and safe for him by investing in a chew proof crate pad, having a routine will keep your dog calm and happy.

Dogs do best when they have a routine. When crating your dog, try and do so during the same time or times each day and night. This way your dog will know when it’s “bed time” or when it’s “nap time”, which may be when you leave for work.

This will help build trust and help your dog to predict when he will be out of his crate and when he will be inside of it.

Do Not Leave Your Dog In His Crate For Too Long

Crating your dog is not cruel and, as we’ve established, can even help alleviate anxiety and stress. However, it is cruel to leave your dog in a crate for too long. Puppies should not be crated for longer than three to four hours at a time, and adult dogs should not be in their crate for longer than seven hours.

If you have long work days, consider hiring a professional dog walker or asking a trusted neighbor to stop by and let your dog out of his crate for a walk, playtime, and water break. This can help reduce chewing by ensuring your dog is getting the mental and physical stimulation he needs throughout the day.

Consider Investing In Quality Chew Toys, Including Teething Toys For Puppies

Remember, teething puppies can’t help but chew, and they will chew whatever is around them if they are not provided with the appropriate toys. Adult dogs can also chew out of boredom. If you provide your dog with something that is fun and safe to chew, they are more likely to chew those items as opposed to chewing furniture, bedding, or their crate pad.

Of course, do plenty of research before leaving your heavy chewer alone with toys or chews, especially if your dog is prone to chewing and swallowing materials.

Speak With Your Veterinarian Regarding Anxiety-Related Chewing

Last but not least, if your dog is a heavy chewer and you are concerned his chewing is due to anxiety or stress, you might consider speaking with your veterinarian regarding other ways to help ease your dog’s anxiety.

Supplements, essential oils, and even calming accessories like thunder vests can help reduce anxiety and help your dog get through his day without excessive chewing.

We hope this has been a helpful guide on the best chew proof crate pad for your heavy chewer. So what do you think about investing in a chew proof crate pad? Leave us your opinions in the comment section below.

Thanks for reading!

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