Best Crate Pads for Dogs That Chew

Best Crate Pads for Dogs That Chew

If you’ve ever bought your dog a new bed or crate pad only to find it shredded within hours, you’re not alone. Many dogs—especially puppies, anxious dogs, and power chewers—tend to chew, scratch, and destroy bedding. While it can be frustrating, the real issue is safety: poor-quality crate pads can be swallowed, torn into choking hazards, or leave your dog without comfortable support.

That’s why choosing one of the best crate pads for dogs that chew is essential. A durable, chew-resistant crate pad not only keeps your dog comfortable but also prevents dangerous accidents, saves money, and makes crate training smoother.

This comprehensive guide will help you understand why dogs chew crate pads, what materials are safest, the features you should look for, and how to select the perfect pad for your heavy chewer.

Why Dogs Chew Their Crate Pads

Before investing in a chew-resistant crate pad, it’s important to understand why your dog chews in the first place. Chewing is a natural canine behavior, but excessive chewing usually has a reason.

1. Teething (Puppies)

Puppies between 2–6 months chew to relieve gum discomfort. A soft, fluffy crate pad is often irresistible to a teething puppy.

2. Boredom or Lack of Stimulation

Dogs who spend long crate hours without mental enrichment may chew out of boredom.

A durable pad can help, but they also need toys, exercise, and interaction.

3. Separation Anxiety

Nervous or anxious dogs often chew bedding as a stress response.
Signs include:

  • whining in the crate

  • pawing and pacing

  • trembling

  • drooling

4. Excess Energy

Energetic breeds like Huskies, Labs, Shepherds, and Pit Bulls may chew simply because they have energy to burn.

5. Habit or Learned Behavior

Some dogs develop a chewing habit after destroying their first few beds—especially if the old pads were soft and shreddable.

What Makes a Crate Pad Chew-Resistant?

Chew-proof pads aren’t magic—they’re the result of specific materials, design choices, and smart construction. When choosing the best crate pads for dogs that chew, keep your eye on these essential features:

1. Tough, Rip-Stop Materials

Look for durable fabrics designed to withstand scratching and chewing.

Top materials include:

  • ballistic nylon

  • ripstop polyester

  • reinforced canvas

  • military-grade fabric

These materials resist tearing even when subjected to sharp teeth.

2. Hidden or Reinforced Zippers

Exposed zippers are an invitation for dogs to chew.
The best crate pads feature:

  • hidden zipper pockets

  • inverted zippers

  • heavy-duty closures

  • zipper-free designs

3. Double-Stitched or Triple-Stitched Seams

Weak stitching is often the first thing to give way.
Look for reinforced seams that can handle rough use.

4. Chew-Proof Covers

Some crate pads include removable covers made of chew-resistant material.
This is perfect because you can replace the cover without replacing the entire pad.

5. Dense Foam or Fill

High-density foam is harder to tear apart compared to loose polyfill stuffing.

Common foam types:

  • orthopedic memory foam

  • dense support foam

  • dual-layer foam

6. Non-Slip Bottoms

A pad that slides around encourages playful digging and chewing.
A non-slip base keeps the pad secure and reduces destructive behavior.

Types of Crate Pads for Dogs That Chew

Different dogs need different pad styles. Here are the main categories to choose from:

1. Chew-Proof Crate Pads

These are specifically engineered for dogs that destroy everything.

Best for:

  • power chewers

  • anxious dogs

  • large breeds

They typically feature ballistic nylon, strong seams, and tough edges.

2. Orthopedic Chew-Resistant Pads

These provide joint support along with durability.

Best for:

  • senior dogs

  • dogs with hip or joint issues

  • large breeds needing extra support

3. Waterproof Chew-Resistant Crate Pads

Ideal for dogs prone to accidents, drooling, or outdoor kennel use.

Best for:

  • puppies

  • dogs with incontinence

  • dogs who love water

4. Elevated or Cot-Style Chew-Proof Beds

Not exactly crate pads, but many crates can fit small cot-style beds.

Benefits:

  • no stuffing to chew

  • chew-proof mesh surface

  • good airflow

  • easy to clean

These are excellent for hardcore chewers.

How to Pick the Best Crate Pad for Your Dog

Choosing the right pad means considering your dog’s size, behavior, and needs. Here’s what to look for:

1. Match Your Dog’s Chewing Strength

Different dogs chew differently.

Light chewers

Might only need reinforced stitching and washable covers.

Moderate chewers

Need rip-stop fabrics and hidden zippers.

Power chewers

Require ballistic nylon or heavy-duty construction.

2. Choose the Right Size Crate Pad

A properly sized pad prevents bunching, slipping, and chewing opportunities.

To size it correctly:

  • Measure the bottom of your dog’s crate

  • Match dimensions exactly

  • Avoid oversized pads that curl up

3. Consider Your Dog’s Comfort Needs

If your dog has joint issues, choose orthopedic foam.
If they get hot easily, choose cooling fabrics.
If they’re messy, choose waterproof covers.

4. Look for Easy Cleaning Features

Chew-proof doesn’t mean dirt-proof.
Choose pads that are:

  • machine washable

  • waterproof or water-resistant

  • odor-resistant

  • removable cover compatible

5. Safety First

Avoid crate pads with:

  • loose strings

  • cheap zippers

  • toxic foam

  • stuffing that can be swallowed

Durability and safety go hand in hand.

Training Tips to Reduce Chewing in the Crate

A durable crate pad helps—but training is just as important.

1. Provide Chew-Appropriate Toys

Give your dog something better to chew.
Safe chew toys include:

  • rubber KONGs

  • tough nylon bones

  • rope toys (supervised only)

  • treat-dispensing toys

2. Increase Exercise and Stimulation

A tired dog is less likely to chew destructively.
Aim for daily walks, play, and mental enrichment.

3. Reduce Anxiety with Positive Crate Training

Make the crate a positive space with:

  • treats

  • praise

  • puzzle feeders

  • calm music

Never use the crate as punishment.

4. Avoid Long Unsupervised Crate Sessions

Too much time in the crate leads to boredom chewing.
Keep crate time reasonable unless used for nighttime sleep.

Benefits of Chew-Resistant Crate Pads

Investing in one of the best crate pads for dogs that chew offers a variety of benefits for both you and your dog.

1. Saves Money in the Long Run

Replacing flimsy bedding weekly is costly.
A durable pad lasts months—or years.

2. Creates a Safe Sleeping Environment

Chew-proof materials prevent ingestion of fabric or foam.

3. Supports Crate Training Success

A dog who is comfortable sleeps better and settles faster.

4. Reduces Stress for Owners

No more constant worry that your dog will destroy their pad while you’re away.

5. Long-Lasting Comfort for Dogs

High-quality padding supports joints and muscle recovery.

Maintenance Tips for Crate Pads

To extend the lifespan of your pad:

  • Wash regularly

  • Inspect seams weekly

  • Replace if foam becomes exposed

  • Rotate pads to reduce wear

  • Air dry to protect the material

Quality pads are durable, but proper care keeps them safe.

Conclusion: The Best Crate Pads for Dogs That Chew Offer Safety, Comfort, and Peace of Mind

If your dog is a determined chewer, you don’t have to give up on crate comfort. With the right materials, construction, and design, you can choose one of the best crate pads for dogs that chew—a durable, safe, and long-lasting option that withstands even the toughest teeth.

Whether your dog is a power chewer, a teething puppy, or an anxious pup struggling with crate training, the right pad will give them the comfort they deserve while saving you money and stress.