The Best Dog Toys: Make Playtime the Best Time

Best overall dog toy

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Dura-tuff
• Includes stuffing: No
• Includes squeakers: 12Tough?: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

• Lots of squeakers
• Durable material
• No stuffing for less mess

REASONS TO AVOID

• Expensive
• No match for destructive dogs

This toy has several desirable characteristics for a dog toy. It has multiple squeakers, is durable, and also looks fantastic. It is evidenced by the lack of stuffing, which means there will be less mess to clean up should your dog tear it apart.

Additionally, it has double-layered seams, so it should be able to endure a considerable amount of gnawing. Pet owners still report that their dogs have managed to pull it apart, so if your dog has a history of destruction, you may want to observe them as they play with this toy constantly.

However, the risk is relatively modest in comparison to other toys. There are 12 squeakers in the XXL version, which should keep even the most muscular dogs entertained for a considerable amount of time. The maker asserts that the squeakers will continue to squeak after being punctured. Again, we believe this will depend on how destructive your dog is, but this is good news for those whose canines aren’t prone to reckless destruction.

There are three sizes, with the largest suited for large dogs or those with a low boredom threshold eager to find all the squeakers. Depending on the size, several colors are available.

The primary disadvantage is the high retail price; other cheaper toys are available elsewhere. Nonetheless, if this one lasts as long as the manufacturer claims it can, you will have received value for your money.

Best for chewers

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Rope/Plush
• Includes stuffing: Yes, but minimal
• Includes squeakers: Yes
• Tough?: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

• Good for chewers
• Very cute
• Durable

REASONS TO AVOID

• A little expensive

If you’re searching for a robust dog toy, go no further than Kong.

We adore the Wild Knots bear toy because it successfully combines charm and resilience. The inside “skeleton” of the bear is constructed from the rope, which most canines will find extremely gratifying to chew on. The outside plush is made to be firm and durable, so if you have a dog that enjoys gnawing, it should last at least a little time.

Suppose a dog manages to chew through the exterior. In that case, the interior contains very little stuffing, so there shouldn’t be too much of a problem with cleaning up. There is also an inside squeaker that many dogs will find irresistible. Suppose the bear design is not to your liking. In that case, there are additional animal possibilities, including a fox, lion, dragon, and flamingo.

The bear is available in various sizes, allowing you to match it to the size of your dog precisely. The larger one is perfect for tug-of-war or two dogs playing together.

Along with other Kong toys, the price is one of the negative aspects of this item. Considering the toy’s high-quality craftsmanship, we believe the price is reasonable.

Best frisbee dog toy

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Nylon
• Includes stuffing: Yes
• Includes squeaker: No
• Tough: No

REASONS TO BUY

• Great for use on land or in the water
• Designed for long-distance flight
• Gentle on your dog’s mouth

REASONS TO AVOID

• Not very durable

This frisbee from ChuckIt! will provide hours of fun and excitement for your dog if they are a hyperactive terrier. She enjoys zipping all over the place.

The 10-inch frisbee is intended for long-distance flight and floats wonderfully on water, making it the ideal toy for use on land and in a pool or lake.

The frisbee has a layered nylon inner with soft rubber edges that are friendly to a dog’s mouth. It descends gradually, making it simple for your dog to jump up and catch it mid-flight.

Available in small and big sizes, this toy is suitable for all dog breeds. The vivid blue and orange colors make it easy for pets (and their owners!) to locate the frisbee in long grass and water.

Best for boredom

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Food-safe material
• Includes stuffing: No
• Includes squeakers: No
• Tough?: No

REASONS TO BUY

• Great for training your dog
• A fun way to give treats
• Easy to clean

REASONS TO AVOID

• Some dogs may find it frustrating
• High price

Depending on your dog’s breed, you may discover that classic dog toys quickly bore your pet. Toys like the Interactive Brain Game Toy offer to alleviate your dog’s boredom by posing a challenge.

The cerebral stimulation provided by the game is a beautiful diversion for your dog, allowing you to reduce undesirable behaviors such as destruction and separation anxiety.

Nina Ottoson has over 25 years of experience creating puzzle toys for dogs, so she has a wealth of knowledge regarding what makes a dog’s head tick. This particular toy has sliding blocks and swiveling flippers that conceal goodie pockets. You might place your dog’s kibble inside the container to encourage fast eaters to eat slowly. It is recommended that you utilize goodies that are incredibly smelly to dogs, such as cheese or peanut butter, to attract their interest.

There are numerous secret compartments, but none of the components are removable, giving you peace of mind while your dog plays. However, dogs should be supervised while playing with this toy, particularly if they have a history of destructive behavior.

Given that this dog toy is used to conceal food, you must clean it frequently; fortunately, it is designed to be simple. Tips and tricks are offered in the packaging to help you get the most out of the toy.

A disadvantage of this toy is its high price compared to ordinary, less expensive dog toys. However, if it provides your dog with hours of entertainment, it might be considered a good deal.

Best dog ball alternative

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Felt
• Includes stuffing: No
• Includes squeakers: Yes
• Tough?: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

• Durable
• Gentle on dog’s teeth
• Variety of sizes

REASONS TO AVOID

• Not suitable for destructive dogs

The Kong brand is well-known among animal enthusiasts for its robust and well-constructed items. There are other goods with squeakers, but we appreciate this dumbbell’s innovative take on the typical ball toy. If your dog has grown tired of the usual tennis ball, you should try this one.

In addition to being more enjoyable to play with, it is constructed with a non-abrasive feel that is gentler on your dog’s teeth than a standard tennis ball.

There are three sizes available (small, medium, and big), so it will be easy to choose one that fits your dog. We enjoy how the toy bounces in unusual and entertaining ways. The unpredictable nature will keep your dog far more entertained than the average tennis ball when it hits a hard surface.

If your dog enjoys toys with squeakers, this will also provide hours of entertainment, with the rough exterior making it difficult for the dog to access the squeaker. Some customers have observed that the toy is less durable. If you have a particularly destructive dog; therefore, it is essential to be vigilant, especially while allowing your dog to play with the toy for the first time.

If your dog like AirDog-style toys, Kong manufactures a range of additional forms and patterns, such as a donut, football, and fetch a stick.

Best indestructible squeaky toy

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Rubber
• Includes stuffing: No
• Includes squeakers: Yes
• Tough?: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

• Durable
• Easy to clean/maintain
• Non-toxic rubber
• Easily portable

REASONS TO AVOID

• Slightly pricey

This bowling pin set from JW is an excellent choice if you’re searching for an indestructible, noisy toy that your dog can enjoy for hours.

Its classic bowling pin form makes it easier for dogs to grasp, and the natural rubber is made to be resilient. The use of squeakers within the pins enhances the amusement and excitement of the toy. The outfit is also available in three different sizes and vibrant hues (pink, yellow, orange, and blue), adding further variety for your active dog.

It is constructed from non-toxic rubber means that it will not have any long-term adverse effects on your dog’s health. The item’s durability and sturdiness indicate that it will likely last long. Additionally, it is bouncy and flexible, ideal for hurling into the air and carrying around. It is lightweight and, simple to maintain and clean, always convenient!

Perhaps the only drawback is the price, significantly higher than other toys. However, if you prioritize durability, these will save you money over time. This toy is perfect for large dogs prone to swiftly trashing their toys or teething pups who can safely chew to their hearts’ delight.

Best for gadget-lovers

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Polycarbonate
• Includes stuffing: No
• Includes squeakers: No
• Tough?: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

• High tech toy
• Durable
• Long-lasting battery life

REASONS TO AVOID

• Very expensive
• Not for tough chewers

Check out the WickedBone interactive smart pet toy if you’re looking to take your toy shopping to the next level.

You may operate the toy from your phone (“drive mode”), and it will “respond” to your pet’s actions without requiring your input (“interactive mode”). The battery has been designed to last for up to four hours in interactive mode but just 40 minutes in drive mode. The bone can respond to being chased, touched, ignored, and other stimuli.

The toy’s body is made of strong polycarbonate. So it should be able to withstand some gnawing; however, it is crucial to observe your pet as it plays with the toy, mainly when it is first used. The maker states that it is not intended for “heavy chewers,” so proceed with caution if this describes your dog.

Despite being an electronic device, it is simple to clean with detachable tires and a protective cover.

Since the toy looks to have a life of its own, it is likely to keep your pet entertained for several hours and is ideal for dogs that quickly tire of traditional toys. Some dogs may initially be afraid of the toy. Still, recommendations are provided to assist them in growing used to it, such as encouraging play with rewards.

It is a delightful gizmo that will amuse you just as much as your dog. Still, the product’s high price is a significant drawback. It is a lot of money to spend on a dog toy, but it may be a worthwhile investment if it survives for several years.

Best for comfort

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Plush
• Includes stuffing: Yes
• Includes sound: Yes
• Tough?: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

• Snuggly design
• It comes with a disposable heat pad
• Variety of colors available
• Suitable for all ages and breed sizes

REASONS TO AVOID

• Sensitive dogs may be frightened by the pulsing heartbeat feature.

Consider the SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Behavioral Aid Toy if you have an anxious dog in your household. Although it’s primarily intended for puppies with separation anxiety, it’s excellent for dogs of any age. So whether you’ve adopted a puppy or an older dog, you’re sure to find great benefit in passing this down to future generations.

Surprisingly resilient, it should retain its teddy-like appearance for most dog breeds.

The Snuggle Puppy attempts to imitate the intimacy of a dog’s mother with a real-feel pulsing heartbeat. This neat feature could be a lifesaver if your dog fails to sleep and howls all night.

The ability to add and remove the heart is a valuable feature that pet owners who want to customize their dog’s toys will appreciate. Sensitive dogs may find the sound disturbing, but pet owners who wish to cater toys to their dog’s preferences will value this function.

Best dog toy with squeaker

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Plush
• Includes stuffing: Yes
• Includes sound: Yes
• Tough?: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

• Unique and fun
• Squeaker
• Perfect size for all breeds

REASONS TO AVOID

• Not suitable for aggressive chewers

As one of the most popular toys of 2021, this dual parody pack made to resemble an adult White Claw beverage is expected to be a fan favorite once again this year because of its entertaining and unusual appearance and built-in squeaker.

These 7-inch long stuffed toys are ideal for small, medium, and large dogs and keep your pet occupied for hours. These toys are the perfect way to spoil your dog and would also make an excellent present for another pet owner.

And unlike some toys that fall apart in the washing machine, you won’t have any issues with this set; they can even withstand a tumble dry! Even if they are costly, the novelty factor alone makes them well worth it.

Best dog toy for heavy chewers

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Rubber
• Includes stuffing: No
• Includes sound: No
• Tough?: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

• Strong and durable
• Great for physical and mental health
• Fantastic fetch toy

REASONS TO AVOID

• Super aggressive chewers may still destroy this one.

If you’re seeking a toy that can be thrown, stuffed, bounced, and withstood hard biting, look no further than this KONG toy! It is one of the most popular toys on the market. For a good reason: it offers exceptional cerebral and physical stimulation.

This treat-dispensing puzzle toy helps with chewing, separation anxiety, teething, boredom, weight management, crate training, digging, and barking by encouraging healthy play and satisfying instinctive needs. Suppose you stuff your dog with peanut butter, applesauce, banana, or favorite food. In that case, it will be amused for hours.

The toy is available in various sizes to accommodate all dog breeds. Its unpredictable bounce makes playing fetch a thrilling experience. It is dishwasher-safe, so you won’t have any trouble keeping it clean. The robust and resilient rubber makes it excellent for heavy chewers.

Best dog toy for puppies

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Nylon
• Includes stuffing: No
• Includes sound: No
• Tough?: Medium

REASONS TO BUY

• Available in different sizes
• Senior dogs can use it
• Flavored with chicken

REASONS TO AVOID

• Can be messy

Finding the best dog toys for pups can be challenging. Numerous toys will be too large for them, and they may not know how to play yet. This product from Nylabone serves as a valuable introduction to dog toys. It is available in a less daunting size and is highly customizable.

The aim is to either chill the Nylabone or stuff it with dog treats before letting your dog play with it. You can fill it with peanut butter paste, so the possibilities are virtually endless.

Although it’s a terrific puppy toy, you should consider a few things before purchasing. First, it’s designed for dogs weighing less than 35 pounds. You should strictly follow this guideline if you don’t want your puppy to become overexcited and damaged.

Second, it may become messy. A puppy with a peanut butter-filled dog toy equals a possible formula for the mess.

Best indoor dog toy

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Textured chenille fabric
• Includes stuffing: Yes
• Includes sound: No
• Tough: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

• Strong enough to hold up to the light to medium chewing
• Lightweight
• Fabric is soft on pets’ mouths for comfortable catching and carrying

REASONS TO AVOID

• Quite large, so it may not be suitable for smaller breeds

With a diameter of 4.7 inches, this sturdy dog ball plush dog toy is slightly larger than a softball. Its wonderfully lightweight and soft construction will allow you to enjoy games with your dog indoors without risking the destruction of your valuable possessions.

This toy’s multilayer composition makes it strong enough to withstand light and moderate chewers. Its round shape makes it simple to roll across hardwood or tile floors in the home. It is ideal for rolling and fetching, and the vivid colors make it simple for your dog to locate.

It’s compatible with the indoor Chuckit! Ball launcher, so you won’t get dog saliva all over your hands. Despite being promoted to all breeds, smaller dogs may find it more difficult to retrieve the ball due to its greater size.

When selecting a dog toy, it is typically challenging to err significantly. When your dog is young, and you’re still getting to know its nature, it may take some time to determine which toys they prefer, but this should become evident quickly.

Some dogs prefer toys with various textures, while others are more interested in noise. Always search for toys that promise to be exceptionally robust or durable if you have a dog with a predisposition for chewing. Remember that no toy is ever indestructible and that monitoring is always advisable.

If you have a destructive dog, search for minimal or no stuffing toys to prevent messes. If you have a dog prone to boredom, seek toys that provide stimulation and a challenge or toys in which you may hide food.

It’s a good idea to provide your dog with various toys to provide variety, a challenge, and a high level of intellectual stimulation. When assessing your dog’s preferences, it’s good to look for cheap toys, but bear in mind that they don’t last as long as their more expensive counterparts.

Best Dog Toys: Materials and Safety

According to The Humane Society, when selecting any dog toy, consumers should consider safety and ethical circumstances, which mostly rely on a dog’s size, activity level, and preferences. To prevent large dogs from ingesting and choking on little components, it’s vital to get toys sized appropriately for your dog. The organization advises modifying toys by removing ribbons, strings, eyeballs, and other small elements that can be chewed off and ingested. As well as checking labels to ensure they do not contain harmful fillings such as nutshells and polystyrene beads.

Remember that most materials used to stuff dog toys, including polyester fiberfill, are not completely digestible. Dogs should always be supervised when playing with toys they can rip apart, especially squeaky toys. Because they may rip the item apart to find the noise source and then ingest it. Benjamin Bennink, a licensed dog trainer and the proprietor of Good Doggy Saratoga in New York advised avoiding toys that are too difficult for your dog’s teeth.

“According to the ‘thumbnail test,’ a toy is safe for their teeth if it yields to the pressure of your thumbnail,” he explained. Harder toys, such as the typical nylon bones that have been stiffened, should be considered “at your own risk.”

Tennis balls are a favorite toy for fetch, but depending on the size of your dog, they can restrict their airway if they become caught in the dog’s throat. Detached bits can become lodged in your dog’s digestive tract, so removing the toy from playtime is crucial if it begins to fall apart. Similarly, you should consult your veterinarian before providing bones and rawhide chews to your dog. Previously, JoAnn Morrison, DVM, director of veterinary science at Banfield Animal Hospital. Informed us that rawhide chews can break into large pieces and become choking dangers. She advised closely checking your dog when chewing on larger treats. Experts recommend rubber toys as a safer alternative to other chew toys.

What to Search for in a Dog Toy

Engagement

Even a dog that adores squeaky toys or balls is not enthralled by each one. Some toys will only capture your dog’s interest for a short period, while others will become an instant favorite. It is difficult to forecast what your dog will enjoy, but one way to prevent it from becoming bored is to rotate its toys. Put away a couple of your dog’s favorite toys, then return them to the toy box as a surprise.

Durability

No matter how much your dog enjoys a toy, it is useless if it is rapidly torn, chewed up, or damaged. That makes it unpleasant and potentially dangerous. Look for strengthened seams and sturdy material in plush toys. The Humane Society of the United States1 recommends inspecting toys and removing any strings, ribbons, eyeballs, or other pieces that could be chewed off and ingested. When toys shred or shatter, repair or discard them.

Size

Choose toys that are proportional to your dog’s size. Too-small toys can be lodged in a dog’s throat or swallowed. Oversized toys can be frustrating for pups.

Simplicity of Use

The majority of toys are easy to figure out. Dogs play with squeaky toys, chase balls, and gnaw on tough toy bones. However, some toys, such as to treat dispensers, demand your dog exert more effort. Many canines relish the challenge, while others may become frustrated. Consider your dog’s personality and interests while selecting toys.

Four Causes Why Dogs Need Toys

1. Exercise

The primary reason why many dog owners purchase toys is to encourage exercise. Throwing a ball helps your dog maintain a vigorous and enjoyable workout. Without proper physical activity, a dog might grow obese and susceptible to various diseases.

2. Cognitive Stimulation

Even though they are domesticated, dogs can easily become bored. The proverb “a tired dog is a good dog” applies to working breeds such as Border Collies.

Dogs can become destructive, unruly, and unmanageable without sufficient cerebral stimulation. Even the most hyperactive dog may calm down with exercise and mental stimulation.

3. Bonding

Playing with your dog’s favorite toys is an excellent approach to developing a bond with him. Toys also foster bonding in multiple-dog families by assisting dogs in forming relationships and understanding their place in the hierarchy of your home.

4. Dental Health

Investing in toys that clean teeth, while your dog plays is a pleasant approach to promoting dental health and reducing the need for veterinary cleanings. These toys promote chewing, which stimulates saliva production, lowers plaque, reduces its recurrence, and helps prevent tooth infections.

Choosing the Finest Materials for Unbreakable Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers

You must choose one constructed of appropriately durable materials for heavy-duty dog toys for aggressive chewers. Below is a list of materials you should seek out and materials you should avoid.

Ideal Components For Durable Dog Toys

The following materials are some of the best available and should withstand your dog’s sharp teeth. Even though no substance is indestructible, these materials tend to be quite resilient.

Rubber. Rubber constitutes most dog toys designed with aggressive chewers in mind. Rubber is resilient and nearly indestructible, making it the material of choice for dog toys.

Search for rubber toys with soft, flexible, and non-sharp edges. Soft rubber toys are also beneficial for teething puppies.

Dense cordage material Rope toys are another popular option for dogs with strong jaws. Rope toys are resilient, simple to clean (tossing them in the washing machine), and somewhat secure.

Even if your dog consumes a few strands of cotton rope, it is unlikely to require emergency care. Even better, most rope toys may also be used as tug-of-war toys, giving dogs and their humans hours of entertainment.

The rope is also an excellent leash material for dogs that may break or chew through conventional leashes.

Avoidable Materials for Durable Dog Toys

Toys comprised of the following materials or objects are usually never durable enough for powerful chewers. Generally speaking, you should avoid them at all costs.

Fleece or plush toys. Typically, plush and fleece toys are really charming. Who wouldn’t want their dog to chew on a Darth Vader doll?

Unfortunately, there are no plush dog toys that are unbreakable. Most aggressive chewers will rip through these toys like butter and devour their interiors, resulting in digestive difficulties, discomfort, and possibly even more serious medical conditions.

Vinyl or latex toys. Again, these toys are frequently adorable and entertaining but are not durable enough for difficult dogs.

When dogs chew on this kind of toy, they can develop sharp edges that can damage your dog’s mouth and cause him considerable agony (as well as potentially lead to an infection).

Toys with squeaker sounds. While squeakers are not technically “materials,” you should still avoid them if you have a dog with a powerful jaw. Toys with squeakers are incredibly entertaining for dogs, but they pose too many dangers for aggressive chewers.

Most supposedly “indestructible” squeaky dog toys can be readily destroyed by aggressive dogs in their quest to locate the noise-making mechanism inside. Once they discover the squeaker, they frequently consume it, which is undesirable.

Under constant supervision, squeaky toys may be suitable for interactive play. Still, they should never be given to dogs for solo play.

Materials That May or May Not Be Effective for Power Chewers

Many materials used to manufacture indestructible dog chew toys fall neatly into one of the two categories described above, but others are more difficult to classify.

They may be effective for some canines but inadequate for others. Therefore, if you choose a toy manufactured from one of the materials listed below, be sure to closely watch (particularly during the first few play sessions).

Kevlar. Kevlar is a material used to make bullet-proof jackets, sails, drum heads, and other products that must withstand a great deal of wear and tear. And in recent years, numerous manufacturers have begun producing Kevlar dog toys.

There are numerous reasons why Kevlar dog toys are enticing options for aggressive chewers. To begin with, its tensile strength is five times that of steel! Kevlar is partly resistant to bullets, knives, and (theoretically) your dog’s teeth because its fibers are exceedingly tight. This makes it challenging for objects to penetrate the substance.

In actuality, however, Kevlar is not always effective for chewing toys. It appears capable of withstanding some dogs (even super chewers). Still, it appears to fall apart easily when other dogs attempt to chew on it.

Firehose Material. A few toymakers create their products from fire hoses. Firehose material is designed to endure extreme internal pressures and the wear and tear experienced by firehoses during usage, making it a material worthy of consideration.

However, it’s not quite as amazing as dog lovers may hope. For some dog owners, firehose dog toys appear to be durable, but for others, they have failed horribly. At least one family spent thousands of dollars to save their dog after she suffocated on a piece of the toy.

Therefore, proceed with caution if you decide to give a firehose dog toy a try.

The Value of Dog Toys

Numerous benefits are associated with dog toys, including:

Reducing Dog Boredness

In the same way that humans become bored when they have nothing to do, so do dogs. The greatest toys give ample brain stimulation and provide limitless amusement for your pet. The downside of canine boredom is that it can cause your dog to seek its own types of entertainment, which are frequently destructive and generally undesirable. It is advisable to keep various dog toys on hand so that you always have something available to occupy your canine companion if they appear bored. Thus, your home and belongings are less likely to be destroyed, and your dog will not be a nuisance by barking.

Offering Health Advantages

There are a variety of health benefits provided by various toys. For example, balls and frisbees will encourage your dog to run outside and receive the necessary physical activity. Chew toys, on the other hand, will satisfy your dog’s instinctive drive to chew. Consequently, this strengthens their teeth and removes plaque and tartar. Some interactive toys contain treats that require your dog to work to obtain. These can restrict portions and prevent your dog from becoming overweight.

Reduction of Separation Anxiety

As you likely already know, dogs are social creatures that enjoy being as close to their owners as possible. However, most pet owners have many other duties, so staying home is not an option. However, quality dog toys can help alleviate separation anxiety, which, if not managed, can result in destructive behavior and excessive barking. Many animals chew toys we have described provide your furry pet with much-needed companionship as they wait for you to get home.

Increases the Bond Between Owner and Pet

Forming a deep bond with them is one of the most fantastic perks of dog ownership. Although most dogs adore their owners regardless, you can improve your bond with them by playing with them frequently. And if you have a variety of fantastic toys, the number of games you may play is infinite. Who wouldn’t want their dog to love them somewhat more?

Beneficial for Crate Training

Transporting your dog to the veterinarian in a crate is sometimes necessary. However, this will never be their favorite activity, which can be a significant difficulty. However, if you place a favorite toy inside the crate with your dog, they will typically feel more secure and at ease. And if you can alleviate your dog’s feelings of tension and anxiety, it is always worthwhile to do so. Learn more about the most effective dog crates.