The Best Dog Toys
Most dogs love toys. They shake, catch, roll, chew, and cuddle with them. Toys also stimulate a dog’s brain, keep them from getting bored, help burn energy, and comfort them when they’re nervous.
If you want to treat your dog with a toy it can be hard to know where to start. Firstly it’s worth considering what activity you want to do with them. Maybe they love playing fetch, or are they more into tug of war? If they have destructive tendencies at home, maybe some mental stimulation and search-type toys will keep them entertained and reduce any negative behaviours. Fortunately, we’ve done the hard work to come up with the best dog toys, no matter what breed, size or temperament you have. There are squeaky, floaty, interactive, crunchy, digging and cuddling toys and everything in between in our round-up below.
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Our Top Picks
Best Overall: West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl Dog Puzzle Treat Toy ($25)
Best Plush: Kong Cozie Marvin the Moose Plush Dog Toy ($19)
Best Big Ball: Jolly Pets Tug-n-Toss Dog Toy ($18)
Best for Fetch: Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher ($9)
Best Silent Toy: Hear Doggy Silent Squeaker ($13)
Best for Chewers: Benebone Bacon Flavor Wishbone Tough Dog Chew Toy ($20)
Best Budget: Spot Skinneeez Forest Series Fox Stuffing-Free ($12)
Best Squeaky: Outward Hound Invincibles Snake Plush Toy ($11)
Best Interactive: Outward Hound Hide a Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle Plush ($26)
Best Splurge: Fable The Game ($55)
Best Teething Toy: Nylabone Puppy Chill & Chew Puppy Teething Toy ($9)
Best Set: P.L.A.Y. Toy Collections ($37)
Best Puzzle Toy: Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Brick Puzzle Game ($12)
Best Ball: JW Pet Hol-ee Roller ($6)
IN THIS ARTICLE
Rating:
5/5
Price at Time of Publish: $25 (Large)
The versatile Qwizl offers various ways for dogs to engage with it. Dogs that enjoy movement can push it around, fetch it, and gnaw on it during play. Teething puppies find comfort in chewing on it and rolling it across the floor. This toy is exceptionally durable, making it suitable for even the most aggressive chewers. Additionally, it floats, making it ideal for beach or poolside play.
What sets the Zogoflex Qwizl apart is its design for accommodating long-lasting treats. It features a central opening with small gaps along the middle and edges, perfectly sized for bully sticks, dental chews, carrots, or biscuits. Even dogs uninterested in typical toys become engaged when the Qwizl is filled with treats.
To enhance dogs’ enjoyment and keep them entertained, a recommended method is to smear peanut butter in the nooks, insert treats or kibble, and freeze the entire thing for extended play. Cleaning up is a breeze, as the Qwizl is dishwasher-safe.
West Paw offers a variety of durable toys, and many dog owners have their favorites. The Bumi, resembling an S-shaped boomerang, is excellent for robust fetching sessions. For puppy fosters, the Toppl, a cup-like toy, is indispensable, allowing the insertion of treats or a mix of frozen kibble with yogurt or peanut butter for a prolonged snack or dinner.
What We Like:
- Works as a chew, fetch, or treat toy
- Durable
- Dishwasher safe
What We Don’t Like:
- A little heavy for fetch (watch your toes!)
Rating:
5/5
Price at the time of publish: $19
The Kong Cozie Marvin the Moose Plush Dog Toy is a delightful and durable option for dogs who love plush toys. It caters to both dedicated stuffed animal enthusiasts and those who enjoy a bit of a challenge. With remarkable sturdiness, yet a soft texture, this toy features a hardworking squeaker that adds an extra layer of fun. During testing, dogs thoroughly enjoyed the plush toy, some even carrying it around like a pacifier, while others curled up and fell asleep with it.
For dogs who love to cuddle and engage with squeaky toys, Marvin the Moose is an excellent choice. The Cozie comes in two sizes and boasts a diverse range of 10 animals and colors, making it a comforting companion for dogs of any size. Additionally, it’s easy to clean by tossing it in the washer when it gets too slobbery.
What We Like:
- Lots of designs
- Soft, yet durable
- Lasting squeaker
What We Don’t Like:
- Aggressive chewers can de-stuff
Rating:
4.5/5
Price at Time of Publish: $18 (Large)
Jolly Pets balls are designed with inspiration from toys used to entertain horses. Crafted from hollow plastic with handles, these balls offer unpredictable bouncing, floating, and rolling actions, ensuring your dog stays entertained. Dogs that enjoy chasing and carrying, particularly herding breeds like border collies and Australian shepherds, find the Tug-n-Toss ball appealing.
During testing, our ball-loving dogs engaged in herding activities, with some becoming possessive of the toys, carrying them by the handle and eagerly chasing after tossed balls. While the handle is convenient for carrying and throwing, some dogs may chew it off. Nevertheless, the ball remains functional and entertaining even without the handle.
Available in four sizes, from small to extra-large, Jolly Pets Tug-n-Toss toys are durable and resilient, never popping even when punctured by an enthusiastic and playful dog.
What We Like:
- Available in four sizes
- Handle for carrying or tossing
- Won’t pop
What We Don’t Like:
- Handle can be chewed off easily
Rating:
4.9/5
Price at Time of Publish: $9
The Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher is an essential tool for dogs that love playing fetch. With its long handle, it allows for easy ball retrieval without constant bending. The launcher enables you to throw the ball up to three times farther than a regular toss, making it a favorite among fetch enthusiasts.
The distinctive Chuckit! orange balls are made from tough, extra-thick rubber, providing excellent bounce and durability. Unlike regular tennis balls, these high-friction surface balls are favored by many pet owners for their teeth-friendly qualities.
While the Chuckit! Classic Launcher offers an exciting way to engage in fetch, it’s important to note that it requires ample space for optimal use. For pet owners with smaller yards or limited playing areas, it may be less practical. Additionally, caution is advised to prevent accidentally launching the ball into undesirable areas.
Available in various sizes, including a folding variant, the Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher is a go-to choice for an exhilarating game of fetch with your furry friend.
What We Like:
- Hands-free ball pickup
- Allows dog owners to throw farther
- Comes in several sizes
- Works with regular tennis balls
What We Don’t Like:
- Not for indoors or small spaces
Rating:
4/5
Price at the time of publish: $13
The Hear Doggy Silent Squeaker Dog Toy is a standout option for pet owners seeking a quieter playtime experience. Unlike traditional squeaky toys, this innovative design produces an ultrasonic sound that is audible to dogs but not to humans, making it an ideal choice for noise-sensitive environments.
The plush and durable construction of the toy ensures long-lasting fun for your furry companion without the noise disruption commonly associated with squeaky toys. It is available in various shapes and sizes, catering to different preferences and play styles.
With the Hear Doggy Silent Squeaker Dog Toy, you can enjoy a peaceful coexistence with your pet’s playtime, making it a top pick for those looking to minimize the typical squeaker noise while still providing entertainment and engagement for their dogs.
What We Like:
- Extremely quiet
- Reinforced seams
- Dogs seemed very interested in the sound
What We Don’t Like:
- Doesn’t look as durable as some soft toys
Rating:
4.5/5
Price at Time of Publish: $20 (Large)
The Benebone Bacon Flavor Wishbone Tough Dog Chew Toy stands out as an excellent choice for avid chewers. Crafted in a wishbone shape, this toy is designed to give your dog a satisfying chewing experience while promoting dental health.
Made from durable nylon and infused with a tempting bacon flavor, the Benebone Wishbone is not only long-lasting but also enticing for your furry friend. Its unique shape allows for easy gripping and maneuvering, providing hours of entertainment and relief for dogs with a strong chewing instinct.
Pet owners looking for a durable and flavorful chew toy that keeps their dogs engaged will appreciate the Benebone Bacon Flavor Wishbone. It effectively combines durability, flavor, and dental benefits, making it a top pick for dogs who love to chew.
What We Like:
- Three sizes
- Lasts for about a month
- Can be worn 24/7
- No smell for humans
What We Don’t Like:
- Doesn’t work for all dogs
Rating:
4.5/5
Price at Time of Publish: $12
The Spot Skinneeez Forest Series Fox Stuffing-Free toy is a fantastic budget-friendly option for dog owners. Designed with affordability in mind, this toy offers a wallet-friendly solution without compromising on entertainment value.
The stuffing-free design reduces the mess associated with traditional stuffed toys, making it a practical choice for both dogs and their owners. The realistic fox shape adds an element of fun, and the soft, plush material satisfies a dog’s natural desire to chew and cuddle.
If you’re searching for an economical yet enjoyable toy for your furry friend, the Spot Skinneeez Forest Series Fox is a great choice. Its simplicity, durability, and budget-friendly price make it an ideal option for dog owners looking to provide their pets with a satisfying play experience without breaking the bank.
What We Like:
- No stuffing
- Floppy and great for fetch
- Different animal designs available
What We Don’t Like:
- Short lifespan for determined dogs
Rating:
4.1/5
Price at Time of Publish: $11 (Extra-large)
The Outward Hound Invincibles Snake Plush Dog Toy is a top-notch choice for dogs who love squeaky toys. This plush snake is designed to be durable and resilient, even in the face of enthusiastic play and determined chewers.
What sets it apart is the Invincibles squeaker technology, which continues to squeak even if punctured. This feature adds an extra layer of entertainment, keeping your dog engaged for longer periods. The snake design adds an element of fun to playtime, and the soft yet durable material ensures it can withstand rough play.
If your furry friend is a fan of squeaky toys and you want one that stands up to tough play, the Outward Hound Invincibles Snake Plush Dog Toy is an excellent choice. Its innovative design and durability make it a favorite among dogs who love to hear that satisfying squeak during play.
What We Like:
- Lots of squeakers that keep making noise, even if popped
- Durable fabric and seams
- Colorful and cute shapes
What We Don’t Like:
- Ginormous size can be overwhelming for small dogs
- Squeakers can be loud (dogs love this!)
Rating:
4.5/5
Price at Time of Publish: $26 (Ginormous)
The Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel is an interactive and engaging toy that combines the challenge of a puzzle game with the delight of squeaky stuffed animals. This toy features a stuffed tree with holes, and to access the plush squirrels hidden inside, your dog has to pull them out. The versatile play options were evident in our test dogs’ interactions—some were focused on extracting each squirrel, while others enjoyed carrying the entire tree or gnawing on a single squirrel plush.
Although the plush squirrels may not be the most durable, the toy provides more than just a chewing experience. Many dogs found joy in the puzzle game aspect, making it a versatile and entertaining choice. The Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel is available in various sizes, each offering different play configurations to suit your dog’s preferences.
What We Like:
- Brain game plus squeakies
- Comes in four sizes
- Soft and cuddly
What We Don’t Like:
- Not durable for chewing
Rating:
4.5/5
Price at Time of Publish: $55
The Game, created by Fable, is a treat and kibble dispenser designed with a stable base that rocks back and forth as your dog interacts with it using their nose or paw. Dogs familiar with this type of toy quickly engaged with The Game, nudging and pawing it as it wobbled across the floor. The adjustable opening for treat dispensing allows you to customize the difficulty level based on the size of the food, adding an element of challenge for the dogs. This feature significantly increased the time it took for the dogs to consume their meals. Even a tester puppy new to dispensing toys quickly became captivated after a brief practice session with the Fable toy.
Featuring a hefty base for stability, The Game stands upright, but it may produce some noise on non-carpeted surfaces. It requires a bit more active supervision, as our tester dogs tended to chew on the Fable toy once it stopped dispensing food. Although this didn’t affect its functionality, it did result in some noticeable scratches on The Game’s surface.
With a capacity of up to 1.5 cups of dry food, The Game is suitable for both snacking and serving whole meals to your dog.
What We Like:
- Adjustable opening for food
- Holds more than 1.5 cups of kibble
What We Don’t Like:
- Pricey
- Heavy on hard floors
Rating:
4.5/5
Price at Time of Publish: $9
The Nylabone Puppy Chill & Chew Puppy Teething Toy is an excellent choice for teething puppies. Crafted specifically for the teething stage, this toy provides relief to your puppy’s sore gums. The multiple textures and soft, pliable material make it soothing for your puppy to chew on during this uncomfortable phase.
The design includes small nodules and a smooth, rounded surface, catering to the different preferences your puppy may have for teething relief. It’s durable enough to withstand the chewing habits of puppies, promoting good dental health by aiding in plaque and tartar removal.
The Nylabone Puppy Teething Toy also has a unique feature – it can be frozen to provide a cooling sensation for your puppy’s gums. This added element of comfort makes it a versatile and practical choice for managing teething discomfort.
As with any puppy toy, it’s essential to supervise your puppy while using the Nylabone, especially during the freezing process. Overall, it’s a reliable and effective teething toy designed to keep your puppy engaged and comfortable during the teething phase.
What We Like:
- Freezes to help soothe gums
- Changes color when it thaws
- Lamb and apple flavor
- Soft bristles
What We Don’t Like:
- Only for very gentle chewers
Rating:
4.5/5
Price at Time of Publish: $37 (American classics)
These delightful toy collections from P.L.A.Y. (Pet Lifestyle and You) are incredibly charming and entertaining. Each set follows a specific theme, such as garden vegetables, brunch, safari animals, fast food, and monsters. The toys are not only vibrant and durable but also boast unique features. With crinkles, squeakers, and diverse textures, these toys provide engaging sensory experiences. Some even offer interactive elements, like the French fries that can be taken in and out of a container.
P.L.A.Y. is renowned for its eco-friendly dog beds, utilizing filling made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. Similarly, the filler in these toys is crafted from the same sustainable materials. Additionally, these toys are easy to clean, as they are machine-washable and dryer-friendly.
What We Like:
- Lots of cute themes
- Durable
- Filled with sustainable materials
What We Don’t Like:
- Many toys are on the small side
Rating:
4.5/5
Price at Time of Publish: $12
For clever canines, these puzzle games by Nina Ottosson provide an opportunity to showcase their intelligence. By hiding treats or kibble in the various compartments or under the lids, you can engage your dog in the challenge of figuring out how to access them. Some dogs quickly demonstrate their brilliance by opening drawers and manipulating levers, while others may opt for a more straightforward approach, such as overturning the entire toy to see what falls out.
These puzzle games come in four skill levels: easy, intermediate, advanced, and expert. This level 2 toy offers sliders to maneuver and lids to lift, making it a suitable choice for a challenging yet accessible activity during mealtime or to keep your pet entertained when boredom strikes. Additionally, the toys are dishwasher safe, ensuring easy and convenient cleaning.
What We Like:
- Toys with four different skill levels
- Lots of compartments for treats or kibble
- Dishwasher safe
What We Don’t Like:
- Can be frustrating for some dogs
Rating:
4.6/5
Price at Time of Publish: $6 (Medium)
These resilient rubber balls are designed for dogs to easily chase, catch, and grasp. The rubber has a soft texture for comfortable play, yet it’s sturdy enough to withstand the enthusiastic chewing of even robust chewers. The Holl-ee roller balls are available in four sizes, ranging from 3.5 to 7.5 inches, and they come in various colors. You have the option to fill them with treats to enhance their allure, or you can use them for regular ball play.
Featuring an impressive bounce and easy tossability, these balls have multiple holes that offer your pup ample grip points. If the ball becomes too slobbery, a run through the dishwasher on the top shelf can easily clean it. The honeycomb-designed balls are a beloved choice for many energetic dogs.
What We Like:
- Four sizes and multiple colors
- Can be stuffed with treats
- Bounces, rolls, and tosses
- Honeycomb design makes it easy to grip
What We Don’t Like:
- Very tough chewers may be able to take chunks out of it
- Final Verdict
The West Paw Qwizl, our top pick for Best Overall Dog Toy, features a twisty design that promotes various forms of physical play, including rolling, bouncing, and treat engagement. It proved to be irresistible to our dog testers. If you prefer something softer and don’t mind a squeaker, the Kong Cozie is an excellent choice. It offers a balance of softness for cuddling and durability for chewing.
What to Look for in a Dog Toy
Dogs are like family members. Therefore, owners want them to be well. This includes high-quality food, comfortable resting and sleeping places, as well as dog toys because the four-legged friends want to stay engaged and stimulated.
But what should be considered when making a purchase? The following guide outlines the four most important criteria.
Dog toys - what is important?
We can not only take dogs for a walk but also play with them. To have as much fun as possible and to avoid the destruction of home furnishings or items like shoes, there is special dog toys. It is important to keep dogs adequately entertained.
During playtime, it is also possible to practice commands, thus aiding in training. Dog toys are suitable for all ages and help keep the four-legged friends fit. It promotes health, as it can prevent obesity and related diseases.
Additionally, dog toys improve the bond between humans and animals. But which is the suitable dog toy? The following criteria should be considered when making a purchase:
Selecting dog toys purposefully
Dog toys can be used for training in different areas: Chew toys, for example, help with dental hygiene, and fetching toys provide exercise. Other dogs love to play with a ball.
They should be physically and mentally stimulated. For this, intelligence toys are beneficial. The selection at Schecker is extensive and offers the right dog toys for every need.
Material
Dog toys are available in as many variations as children’s toys. Caring owners, however, want to know what it contains, just like with toys for children. Are there any hazardous ingredients? Due to its durability, plastic toys are particularly suitable for fetching.
However, it is important that it does not contain any harmful substances like softeners. Tennis balls are popular with many dog owners. However, they are unsuitable as dog toys because they harm the teeth and are processed with many chemicals. Untreated wood is also a good choice for making toys.
Dog toys should correspond to the age
Puppies and young dogs are particularly playful and active. Special puppy toys meet this demand, such as balls, plush toys, rope play rings, or mini-frisbees. They are ideal for meeting the animal’s need for movement.
Chew toys make it easier for them to change teeth. Dog toys for puppies should be robust and durable. Older dogs also enjoy playing, but the toys must match their preferences.
The size of the animal is also crucial
Large and powerful four-legged friends need different toys than smaller animals. This aspect must also be considered when making a purchase. If it is too small, the dog can swallow it and even choke on it.
It poses a life-threatening risk. At the same time, a small dog does not enjoy large toys that it cannot even carry. The same applies if the weight is too heavy.
Summary
Whether a puppy, adult, or senior, dog toys are suitable for every four-legged friend to keep them engaged, stimulated, and strengthen the human-dog bond.
It is important that it meets the needs, age, character, and size of the dog and does not contain any harmful substances. The range of dog toys is huge and offers the right fit for every pet.
FAQ
Do dog toys require cleaning?
Absolutely, according to Jessica Ek, a representative for the American Cleaning Institute. “Dogs can get sick just like the rest of us, so it’s important to clean their toys every few weeks,” Ek states. “This removes harmful bacteria and germs that thrive in moist environments, such as on drool-covered toys, and helps keep the whole family healthy.”
How should you clean dog toys?
For fabric pet toys, it’s advisable to first check for any holes or frayed seams and repair them before washing. If there’s a tag with care instructions, follow those guidelines. In the absence of a tag or if it’s illegible, Ek recommends either washing by hand or laundering in cold water on a gentle cycle. “Squeeze any excess water out before drying on low-heat or air drying (somewhere your pet can’t get it until it’s dry).”
For plastic toys, Ek suggests washing them first in soapy water. Then, prepare a solution by adding 2 teaspoons of bleach to 1 gallon of water in a plastic dish pan. Stir to mix, add the pre-washed toys to the bleach solution, let them soak for two minutes, drain, rinse well, and air dry.
Why do dogs enjoy squeaky toys?
Despite the potentially irksome repetitive noise for humans, many dogs love squeaky toys. Dog behavior experts attribute this to a combination of hunting instincts, attraction to sounds resembling alarmed prey, and the sensory stimulation it provides during chewing. The fuzzy and animal-shaped qualities of many of these toys may particularly appeal to dog breeds with strong hunting instincts, such as terriers. A squeaky toy becomes a source of stimulation for your dog as it connects the sound it produces with the satisfaction derived from playing with the toy. Always supervise your dog when using any toy and promptly repair seams or holes, as squeakers could be detached and swallowed.
Why Trust iHugDogs?
In this compilation, author Sarah Smith examined toys with her own canine companion and two of her foster puppies. To ensure a comprehensive evaluation, she also enlisted the assistance of other pet owners, allowing several dogs to test each toy. The selection process excluded numerous toys that failed to capture the interest of dogs, or those with low scores in terms of durability and value.
Sarah Smith has an extensive background in writing about pets and animals, spanning several decades. With a rescue dog as part of her family, she has dedicated her efforts to fostering over 60 dogs and puppies. Constantly exploring various products, she strives to provide entertainment, health, and safety for the dogs under her care.
