For dogs with powerful jaws and relentless chewing instincts, finding toys that can withstand their enthusiasm is a constant challenge. Every dog owner knows the familiar scenario: you buy what appears to be a sturdy toy, only to find it reduced to pieces within minutes. This constant cycle of toy replacement not only drains your wallet but also poses potential safety hazards to your furry companion when they inevitably ingest fragments of destroyed toys.
The quest for nearly indestructible dog toys has led to remarkable innovations in pet product manufacturing, with specialty companies developing increasingly resilient playthings designed specifically for power chewers. This comprehensive guide will explore the essential factors to consider when selecting durable toys that can stand up to even the most aggressive chewers, ensuring both safety and extended enjoyment for your canine companion.
Top 10 Dog Toys Rough And Tough
Detailed Product Reviews
1. SIHRMIU 2 Pack Dog Chew Toys for Aggressive Chewers,Boredom and Stimulating Best Dog Toys for Medium/Large Breed,Tough Almost Indestructible Dog Bones for Teeth Cleaning and Training
Overview: The SIHRMIU 2 Pack Dog Chew Toys consists of two durable nylon chew toys designed for medium to large aggressive chewers. Available in bacon-scented brown and woody-scented beige, these tree fork-shaped toys promote dental health by satisfying dogs’ natural chewing instincts while protecting furniture and shoes from damage.
What Makes It Stand Out: These toys stand out with their unique scented appeal and specialized design for serious chewers. The bacon and wood infusions make them irresistible, while the tree fork shape provides excellent grip for dogs. They’ve been rigorously tested to withstand powerful chewers including Pitbulls, German Shepherds, and Rottweilers.
Value for Money: At $9.99 for a two-pack ($5.00 per toy), this offers excellent value for durable chew toys. Most comparable single toys in this durability range cost $10-15, making this a cost-effective solution that can save money by lasting longer than softer alternatives.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include exceptional durability for power chewers, appealing scents, and paw-friendly design. They promote dental health and are reasonably priced. However, they’re unsafe for older dogs or those with sensitive teeth, and the hard nylon material may not appeal to all dogs. The size might be too large for smaller breeds.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for owners of medium to large dogs with strong chewing instincts. The appealing scents and reasonable price make it a value-oriented option for promoting positive chewing habits. Just be mindful of your dog’s age and dental sensitivity.
2. Outward Hound Tough Skinz Durable Squeaky Dog Toy with Two Tough Layers, Watermelon, Red, Medium
Overview: The Outward Hound Tough Skinz is a durable squeaky dog toy shaped like a watermelon, designed with enhanced durability. It combines a plush exterior that dogs love with a construction sturdy enough to withstand rough play, making it suitable for a wide range of dog breeds.
What Makes It Stand Out: What distinguishes this toy is its dual-layer construction: a strong fused chew-resistant lining plus a thick molded layer that provides exceptional durability. It maintains the soft feel dogs enjoy while incorporating the strength needed for persistent chewers. The triple-stitched covered seams further enhance its longevity, and it’s stuffing-free for less mess.
Value for Money: At $9.99, this toy strikes a good balance between affordability and durability. While more expensive than basic plush toys, its construction quality justifies the price for owners tired of constantly replacing destroyed toys. The stuffing-free design adds value by eliminating the mess associated with torn plush toys.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the dual-layer making it more durable than standard plush toys, the engaging squeaker, the stuffing-free design, and its appealing watermelon shape. However, it may still not withstand the most aggressive chewers long-term, and some dogs might quickly locate and destroy the squeaker component.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent middle-ground option for dog owners wanting a plush toy experience with enhanced durability. Ideal for moderate chewers who enjoy squeaky toys but tend to destroy standard options, it offers better longevity than typical plush toys at a reasonable price point, though supervision is still recommended.
3. WOWBALA Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers : Tough Interactive Tug of War Dog Toys-Squeaky Chew Toys for Small,Medium,Large Breed
Overview: The WOWBALA Dog Toys feature an extra-large crocodile-shaped plush design that stretches from 24 to 31 inches, making it suitable for interactive play with various breeds. This toy combines squeaker technology with a stretchable middle section for engaging play sessions between dogs and their owners.
What Makes It Stand Out: This toy stands out with its impressive size accommodating various play styles, the unique stretchable section adding interactive possibilities, and the embedded squeaker that captures dogs’ attention. Its machine-washable design makes maintenance convenient, while the whimsical crocodile shape appeals to both dogs and their owners.
Value for Money: At $9.99, this oversized interactive toy offers substantial entertainment value. The large size and dual functionality (as both chew and tug toy) provide more utility than typical dog toys in this price range. Its durability for non-aggressive chewers makes it a practical investment for interactive play.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the substantial size allowing for various play styles, the stretchable design adding interactive potential, machine-washable construction, and engaging squeaker. However, it may not withstand very aggressive chewers who might tear through the plush material, and dogs might lose interest after the squeaker is damaged.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for interactive play between dogs and owners, especially for those who engage in tug-of-war games. While not suitable for the most destructive chewers, its versatility, size, and affordable price point make it a great value for most dogs who enjoy plush toys with interactive elements.
4. PETSTA Indestructible Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers, Extreme Tough Toys for Large Dogs, Real Beef Flavored, Dog Bone for Medium/Large Dogs Breed, Gifts for Dogs
Overview: The PETSTA Indestructible Dog Toys are designed specifically for aggressive chewers among medium and large breeds. Made from food-grade nylon with real beef flavoring, these toys promise exceptional durability and longevity, aiming to replace frequent toy purchases with a lasting chew solution that promotes dental health.
What Makes It Stand Out: The most distinctive feature is the combination of food-grade nylon construction with real beef flavoring, creating an irresistible chewing experience that lasts for “several months” according to the manufacturer. The heavy-duty construction targets the most destructive chewers, while the beef flavor engages dogs’ natural chewing instincts.
Value for Money: At $11.69, this toy is competitively priced compared to other “indestructible” options. When amortized over several months of use, the cost per day becomes very economical, potentially saving owners money on replacing destroyed toys more frequently than with less durable options.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include exceptional durability for aggressive chewers, the appealing real beef flavor, food-grade safety, and dental health benefits. However, the hard nylon material might be too challenging for some dogs, it lacks flexibility for interactive play, and very aggressive chewing could potentially cause excessive wear on teeth.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent investment for owners of powerful chewers who frequently destroy softer toys. While the upfront cost is higher than basic toys, its durability and beef flavor create value by potentially lasting months. It’s particularly recommended for dogs needing to satisfy strong chewing urges while maintaining dental health.
5. Fluff & Tuff – Walter Wabbit Plush Dog Toy
Overview: The Fluff & Tuff Walter Wabbit is a premium plush dog toy designed for moderate play rather than aggressive chewing. Measuring 12 inches in length, it features an ultra-plush outer fabric with a durable Tuffweb mesh liner, concealed double-stitched seams, and embroidered eyes for safety.
What Makes It Stand Out: The Walter Wabbit distinguishes itself through exceptional construction quality and materials. The Fluff & Tuff brand’s unique ultra-plush fabric combined with the Tuffweb mesh liner creates a plush toy with significantly more durability than standard options. The attention to detail in construction demonstrates commitment to both quality and safety.
Value for Money: At $23.00, this toy is positioned as a premium product. While more expensive than most dog toys, its construction quality and materials justify the cost for owners seeking durable plush toys that can withstand regular play. The longevity may offset the higher initial investment compared to cheaper alternatives.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include superior construction with double-stitched concealed seams, durable Tuffweb mesh liner, embroidered safety features, and high-quality materials. However, the price point is significant, and the company explicitly states it’s not suitable for aggressive chewers. The plush construction means it won’t withstand heavy chewing.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for pet owners prioritizing construction quality and willing to invest in a premium toy designed for moderate play. Ideal for dogs who enjoy plush toys but aren’t destructive chewers, it offers superior durability for appropriate play styles despite its higher price point.
6. LOYEE Dog Squeaky Toys Interactive Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers Tough Rubber Chew Toys for Medium/Large Breed, Indestructible Puppy Chew Toys for Teething (Yellow)
Overview: The LOYEE Dog Squeaky Toy is a versatile chew stick designed for dogs of all sizes, featuring a durable 11.5-inch construction with textured surfaces for dental health. This vibrant yellow toy combines entertainment with functionality through its squeaker mechanism that engages pets during playtime.
What Makes It Stand Out: The multi-purpose design stands out with its focus on both dental health and engagement. Unlike simple chew toys, the LOYEE features a textured surface that cleans teeth and massages gums while the built-in squeaker maintains your dog’s interest. Its durable construction ensures longevity even with aggressive chewers.
Value for Money: At $5.99, this toy represents exceptional value, especially considering its durability and multifunctionality. Most single-function chew toys at this price point lack the dental benefits and engagement features that LOYEE offers, making it a cost-effective solution for pet owners.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include its affordable price point, dental health benefits, safe materials, and versatility across dog breeds. However, while marketed as indestructible, very powerful chewers may still damage it over time, and the squeaker could potentially be removed by determined dogs.
Bottom Line: The LOYEE Dog Squeaky Toy is an excellent investment for pet owners seeking an affordable, multifunctional chew toy that promotes dental health while keeping dogs entertained. It’s particularly suitable for budget-conscious owners with medium to large breeds, though extremely aggressive chewers may need supervision.
7. Frienhund Tough Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers 3 Pack, Indestructible Dog Toy for Large Dogs, Bacon Flavored, Keeps Dogs Busy
Overview: Frienhund’s Tough Dog Toys 3-Pack offers three bacon-flavored bone-shaped toys crafted specifically for aggressive chewers, each made from durable nylon designed to withstand powerful jaws. The multi-pack provides variety while addressing the chewing needs of large dogs.
What Makes It Stand Out: The value proposition is exceptional with three toys for $16.99—effectively $5.66 each. The bacon flavor infusion creates immediate attraction, while the bone shape offers both visual appeal and ergonomic grip. The toys are specially designed for directed chewing sessions when combined with treats like peanut butter.
Value for Money: At approximately $5.66 per toy, these represent premium value for heavy-duty chew toys compared to competitors selling single toys at similar prices. The quality of nylon material justifies the cost as it withstands prolonged chewing better than rubber alternatives.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include exceptional durability, flavor appeal, multi-pack savings, and dental benefits. However, the product is not recommended for smaller dogs, limiting its versatility. While long-lasting, the hard nylon surface may cause tooth wear if used excessively, and some dogs may ignore the toy without additional treat application.
Bottom Line: The Frienhund 3-Pack is ideal for large-bred aggressive chewers looking for durable, flavor-infused toys at an excellent price point. The recommended supervised 10-minute chewing sessions combined with treat application make this a thoughtful solution for pet owners concerned about appropriate chewing habits.
8. Outward Hound Durablez Stuffing-Free Squeaky Interactive Dog Toy, Tough Plush, Gecko, Green, Large
Overview: Outward Hound’s Durablez Stuffing-Free Squeaky Gecko offers a unique combination of plush softness and durability, featuring a K-9 TUFF GUARD interior layer that resists tearing. This green toy provides the satisfying squeak dogs love without the mess of traditional stuffing-filled toys.
What Makes It Stand Out: The stuffing-free design eliminates the common problem of scattered stuffing that accompanies plush toy destruction. The heavy-duty binding and reinforced construction create a plush toy that can withstand more play than traditional alternatives, while the large squeakers maintain engagement during extended play sessions.
Value for Money: At $7.33, this toy falls in the mid-range for plush alternatives but offers superior longevity. While potentially more expensive than basic toys, its durability prevents the need for frequent replacements, resulting in better long-term value.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the mess-free design, squeaker engagement, plush comfort for dogs, and durable construction. However, aggressive chewers may still manage to damage it over time, and the toy lacks the structural hardness needed for the most determined chewers. The sizing options are excellent, but the fabric may collect dirt and require frequent cleaning.
Bottom Line: The Outward Hound Durablez Gecko is an excellent compromise between plush comfort and durability, perfect for dogs that enjoy squeaky toys but tend to destroy standard plush options. It represents good value for pet owners seeking a safer alternative to stuffing-filled toys that last longer than typical plush toys.
9. Dog Toys for Aggresive Chewers – Tough,Indestructible Dog Toys for Large, Medium,Small Breed to Keep Them Busy
Overview: This dog toy for aggressive chewers features a distinctive alligator design designed to withstand the rigorous chewing of large, medium, and small breeds. Priced at $9.99, the toy combines durability with milk flavoring to attract pets and encourage longer, healthier chewing sessions.
What Makes It Stand Out: The alligator shape includes raised ridges that function as natural dental cleaners, helping to prevent calculus formation while providing an engaging chewing experience. The milk flavor adds an irresistible scent that maintains your dog’s interest during play, reducing boredom and destructive behavior.
Value for Money: At $9.99, this toy represents solid value for its dual functionality as both a chew toy and dental aid. Its testing on powerful breeds like German Shepherds and Pit Bulls demonstrates its durability, potentially saving money on replacements compared to less durable alternatives.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the effective dental cleaning design, milk flavor attractant, proven durability with aggressive chewers, and ease of cleaning. However, the size may be too large for small dogs, and while marketed as indestructible, extremely powerful chewers may still damage it over extended periods. The bright color helps visibility but may not appeal to all dogs.
Bottom Line: This alligator-shaped chew toy is an excellent investment for pet owners with medium to large dogs, offering dental benefits alongside satisfying chewing. The milk flavor and proven durability make it particularly suitable for powerful chewers, though supervision is still recommended for extended play sessions.
10. goDog Bubble Plush Dragons Squeaky Dog Toy, Chew Guard Technology – Coral, Large
Overview: The goDog Bubble Plush Dragons Squeaky Toy combines playful dragon design with brand technology to create a plush toy that offers more durability than standard alternatives. Available in coral and suitable for both small and large breeds, this toy merges engaging squeakers with Chew Guard Technology for enhanced longevity.
What Makes It Stand Out: The dragon design offers unique visual appeal compared to traditional bone or animal shapes, while the Bubble Plush construction provides a distinctive texture that many dogs find satisfying. The Chew Guard Technology represents an exclusive manufacturing process that reinforces seams and materials for extended play.
Value for Money: At $15.99, this toy is positioned at the premium end of plush toys, justifying its price through enhanced durability and novel design. While more expensive than basic options, the improved construction quality may reduce the frequency of replacement.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the engaging dragon shape, size options for various breeds, squeaker functionality, and enhanced durability through Chew Guard Technology. However, the price point may be prohibitive for some pet owners, and like all plush toys, it remains vulnerable to determined chewers despite technological enhancements. Limited color options (coral only) may not appeal to all dogs.
Bottom Line: The goDog Bubble Plush Dragon represents a mid-to-premium option in the plush toy category, best suited for dogs moderate in chewing intensity. Its unique design and enhanced durability make it worthwhile for pet owners seeking to engage their dogs with novel toys while minimizing the toy destruction common with plush alternatives.
Understanding Tough Chewers
Why Dogs Chew
Chewing is a natural and essential behavior for dogs, serving various purposes throughout their lives. Puppies chew to relieve teething discomfort and explore their environment with their mouths. Adult dogs chew to maintain dental health, alleviate boredom, reduce anxiety, and satisfy their innate instincts. Understanding these motivations helps select appropriate toys that fulfill your dog’s specific needs.
Different Chewer Types
Not all dogs chew with the same intensity. Light chewers might gently mouth toys without causing damage, while moderate chewers show persistent interest but tend to destroy toys gradually. Power chewers, however, possess exceptional jaw strength and determination, capable of reducing seemingly indestructible items to confetti within minutes. Matching toys to your dog’s chewer category is crucial for toy longevity and safety.
Chewer Assessment
To select appropriate toys, honestly assess your dog’s chewing tendencies and strength. Consider their breed characteristics, age, and chewing history. Breeds known for powerful jaws like Pit Bulls, Mastiffs, and Rottweilers typically require more durable toys. Even smaller breeds with tenacious chewing habits can go through toys quickly. An accurate assessment forms the foundation of smart toy selection.
Risks of Inappropriate Toys
Using toys not suited to your dog’s chewing strength can lead to multiple dangers. The most immediate risk is choking from small detachable pieces. Ingested fragments can cause intestinal blockages requiring emergency surgery. Furthermore, destroyed toys may contain harmful chemicals from their materials, exposing your dog to toxins. Matching toys to your dog’s chewing strength prevents these potential health hazards.
Key Features of Durable Dog Toys
Material Considerations
The foundation of any durable dog toy lies in its materials. Premium manufacturers employ specialized rubbers and polymers engineered to withstand significant pressure. Non-toxic, food-grade materials ensure safety even if pieces are accidentally ingested. Look for materials without harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and latex. Natural materials like thick, untreated rubber, dense nylon, and hard-wearing canvas offer durability while providing satisfying textures for chewing.
Size and Shape Factors
Appropriate sizing is critical for both safety and durability. Toys should be large enough to prevent accidental swallowing but sized appropriately for your dog’s mouth and breed. Irregular shapes can provide interest and challenge, but smoothness in edges prevents unnecessary wear. Weight distribution affects how toys withstand chewing forces, with well-balanced designs typically lasting longer than top-heavy constructions.
Construction Quality
Beyond materials, construction quality significantly impacts durability. Reinforced stitching creates stronger seams for fabric toys. Multi-layer designs distribute forces across a wider surface area. Solid, one-piece construction eliminates weak points where separation typically begins. Quality manufacturers employ specialized techniques like rotational molding and vulcanization to create seamless, exceptionally strong toys that resist breakdown.
Safety Features
The most durable toys incorporate multiple safety elements. Smooth finishes prevent irritation to gums and mouths. Non-toxic dyes and materials ensure no harmful chemicals are ingested during chewing. Rounded edges eliminate sharp points that could injure your dog’s mouth. Some advanced designs include safety features like air flow patterns to prevent suction and choking hazards, demonstrating a manufacturer’s commitment to both durability and safety.
Toy Categories for Heavy Chewers
Chew Toys
Dedicated chew toys represent the first line of defense against destructive chewing. These specialized items focus on providing long-lasting satisfaction through substantial materials and engaging textures. The best chew toys offer varying resistance levels to match your dog’s strength, with some featuring hollow centers for treat insertion to add mental stimulation. Their primary purpose is withstanding prolonged, focused chewing while providing dental benefits by cleaning teeth as dogs gnaw.
Puzzle Toys
Durable puzzle toys combine toughness with mental engagement, challenging your dog’s problem-solving skills while withstanding their physical power. These toys typically feature treat compartments or mechanisms that require manipulation to release rewards. For power chewers, seek puzzle toys made from ultra-durable materials with simple, intuitive designs that resist forced entry. The combination of mental exercise and satisfying chewing makes these toys excellent for highly intelligent, determined chewers.
Fetch Toys
Active dogs need toys that can withstand enthusiastic retrieval and repeated impact with hard surfaces. Durable fetch toys prioritize both durability in materials and appropriate aerodynamics for consistent flight patterns. Look for toys made from tough, bite-resistant materials that can handle impact against pavement, concrete, or other hard surfaces without cracking or breaking. Some incorporate specialized designs like raised edges for easy gripping by dogs of various mouth sizes.
Tug Toys
Tug of war is an excellent bonding activity and energy outlet, but it requires toys specifically designed to handle significant tensile forces. Quality tug toys feature reinforced cores and multiple layers of durable materials that resist fraying and separation. Safe designs include comfortable handles for human hands and textures that provide secure grip for dogs. These toys should be sufficiently lengthy to maintain safe distance during play while distributed across multiple “ropes” or layers to prevent stress concentration at any single point.
Interactive Toys
For dogs that engage in complex play patterns or enjoy group activities, durable interactive toys offer extended entertainment value. These designs typically incorporate multiple playing elements that withstand various types of interaction—from gentle manipulation to intense chewing. High-quality interactive toys feature modular construction where damaged components can be replaced rather than replacing the entire toy, extending its life while maintaining the overall play experience.
Toy Maintenance and Longevity
Cleaning Practices
Regular cleaning extends toy life while ensuring your dog’s health. Non-porous materials like hard rubber and nylon can typically be sanitized using dish soap and hot water or diluted bleach solutions. Fabric toys may require machine washing or specialized pet-safe cleaners. Some durable toys are even dishwasher-safe – check manufacturer recommendations. Establishing a cleaning schedule prevents bacterial buildup that could lead to health issues while maintaining the structural integrity of the toy over time.
Rotation Strategies
Toy rotation prevents overuse of any single item while maintaining your dog’s interest. Rather than providing access to all toys simultaneously, establish a rotating schedule where only a subset is available at any given time. This approach naturally extends toy lifespan as each item receives limited use. Additionally, periodical reintroduction of long-absent toys creates renewed interest, providing mental stimulation while reducing the rate of wear on any single item.
Monitoring Wear and Tear
Regular inspection of your dog’s toys helps identify damage before it becomes dangerous. Check for cracks, tears, or loose pieces that could detach and become choking hazards. Pay special attention to areas of concentrated stress like seams, knots, and connection points. Documenting the condition of toys on a consistent schedule helps identify patterns of wear specific to your dog’s chewing style, enabling more informed purchasing decisions in the future.
When to Replace Toys
Determining when a toy has reached the end of its useful life requires careful observation. Replace toys when pieces are small enough to be swallowed, when materials show significant degradation, or when the structure has been compromised beyond repair. Even seemingly minor damage can rapidly worsen during intense chewing sessions. Establishing replacement guidelines based on visible wear patterns rather than complete destruction ensures your dog remains safe while enjoying appropriate play objects.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How can I determine if a toy is appropriate for my strong chewer?
Evaluate materials and construction quality while considering your dog’s chewing history and breed characteristics. Look for toys specifically marketed for power chewers and monitor your dog’s interaction with any new toy closely for signs of rapid wear. -
Are durable chew toys safe for puppies?
While durable toys are generally safe, puppies require appropriately sized toys that accommodate their smaller mouths and developing teeth. Look for puppy-specific durable toys that offer appropriate resistance without being too hard on their growing teeth and jaws. -
How long should a durable toy last under normal use?
While expected lifespan varies by materials and chewer intensity, a quality toy designed for heavy chewers should last several months to years with regular rotation and proper care. Significant deterioration within days or even weeks typically indicates an inappropriate selection for your dog’s chewing strength. -
Can durable toys help with dental health?
Many durable chew toys are designed to provide dental benefits by gently massaging gums and cleaning teeth as dogs gnaw. Look for textures with raised nubs or grooves that help remove plaque and tartar while your dog chews, though they should not replace regular dental care. -
Are there any toxic materials I should avoid in dog toys?
Avoid toys containing BPA, phthalates, latex, and toxic dyes. Food-grade materials and those labeled as non-toxic generally provide safer options. Natural materials like untreated rubber, natural rubber, and food-grade nylon typically offer better safety profiles than synthetics. -
Can I leave my dog unsupervised with durable toys?
Even durable toys should be used under supervision initially, especially with dogs known to destroy toys quickly. Once you’ve determined how a specific toy responds to your dog’s chewing style, supervised periods can gradually extend. However, regular checks remain important to ensure developing damage is addressed promptly. -
How do I know when a toy needs to be discarded?
Toys should be discarded when they show signs of significant damage including cracks, tears, loose pieces, or structural compromise. If any part can be easily broken off or swallowed, the toy presents a choking hazard and should be replaced immediately. -
Are expensive toys worth the investment?
Higher price points often reflect better materials, manufacturing quality, and design specifically targeting heavy chewers. While affordable alternatives may seem appealing, they typically require more frequent replacement and pose greater safety risks. Investing in quality durable toys often proves more economical over time. -
Can I modify or repair damaged toys instead of replacing them?
Minor damage might be temporarily addressable with non-toxic adhesives, but structural compromise often compromises safety. Repaired toys may fail unexpectedly during chewing, potentially creating choking hazards or intestinal blockages if pieces break off. When in doubt, replacement is the safer option. -
What should I do if my dog swallows part of a damaged toy?
If you observe your dog swallowing toy fragments, contact your veterinarian immediately. Even if your dog appears fine, internal injuries or blockages may not be immediately apparent. Keep a sample of the consumed material if possible to help your veterinarian determine the best course of action.