Dogs: They’re just like people. They get bored and restless just like we do, they need entertainment and mental stimulation just like we do, they have an insatiable need to chew … OK, maybe dogs aren’t just like people. Still, we do have a lot in common, like the need to make “play” a part of daily life. Dogs seriously need regular playtime if they’re going to be happy and healthy. And, as we all know, play is way better with toys.
“The type of toys that suit your dog best will depend greatly on their breed, temperament and habits,” says Dr. Jamie Richardson, head of veterinary medicine at Small Door Vet in New York. “What’s fun for one dog may not interest another; and most importantly, certain types of toys may not be safe for some dogs (such as ‘aggressive chewers’ who tend to rip apart and chew their toys to pieces).”
So even if every toy in the pet supply store looks like a good time to you, do some homework before you go shopping.
“We recommend not purchasing too many toys until you’ve learned your dog’s preferences and habits, to avoid wasting money on toys that will collect dust or be ripped apart in seconds,” says Richardson.
“Also, as soon as you notice any sort of damage on your dog’s toys, such as a ripped plush toy or a piece of rubber breaking off, you should take the toy away from your dog and dispose of it,” Richardson adds. “Any size piece can pose a choking hazard, while sharp elements and bits of rope or ribbon can be particularly dangerous when it comes to intestinal punctures or blockages.”
Bearing all that in mind, are you and your pup ready for playtime? We asked Richardson and several other dog experts to share their most highly recommended toys for dogs. Luckily, no matter what kind of personality or toy preferences your special pet has, there’s definitely a dog toy on the market that’s just right.
Best dog puzzle toys
1. Joansan Dog Puzzle
“Dog puzzles are great interactive toys that help provide your dog with a hefty amount of mental stimulation,” says Dr. Iram Sharma, veterinarian and writer with Pupvine. “Pups love to keep their mind busy by solving problems, which makes puzzle toys an excellent option for keeping them entertained and mentally challenged. A toy such as the Joansan Dog Puzzle is the best tool against boredom.”
Where to buy: Joansan Dog Puzzle ($12, Amazon)
2. Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle
“The Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Toy is a great option for dogs who love to play hide-and-seek,” says Sharma. “It comes with a tree trunk and several squeaky squirrels that can be hidden inside. Your dog will have a blast trying to find all the hidden squirrels.”
Where to buy: Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Dog Toy Puzzle ($14, Amazon)
3. AWOOF Snuffle Mat
“One of the best puzzle feeder options for dogs is called a Snuffle Mat,” says Christos Philippou, a dog trainer at Delaware K9 Academy. “It is a mental enrichment toy that provides a different way to feed your dog. Their kibble spreads evenly throughout the mat that has frills, crevasses and little sections to hide food. The goal,” says Philippou, “is to have the dog use their nose to dig through the mat to find their kibble.
Where to buy: AWOOF Snuffle Mat ($34, Amazon)
Best dog chew toys
4. Voerou Dog Chew Toy
“Dogs love to chew, and chew toys can help satisfy this natural urge,” says Sharma, adding that they are a great option for pups with aggressive chewing habits. “Look for toys that are made of durable materials, such as rubber or nylon,” she says. “These toys are typically designed to be durable and able to withstand aggressive chewing. This makes it a top choice for durability and long-lasting play. They come in all shapes and sizes, from rings, and bones, to even crocodile heads, such as the Voerou Dog Chew Toy.”
Where to buy: Voerou Dog Chew Toy ($18, Amazon)
5. West Paw Skamp Fetch Dog Toy
“West Paw offers the perfect toy for dogs who are bored at home and prone to destroy everything,” says veterinarian Sabrina Kong. “It’s a three-pronged, eggplant-looking toy that is made with recyclable materials. You can use it to play tug of war, fetch or even as a chew toy your pup can use around the house. The toy is also dishwasher friendly and easy to clean.”
Where to buy: West Paw Skamp Fetch Dog Toy ($20, Chewy)
Read more: 17 DIY dog toys you can make from items in your house
6. KONG Extreme Dog Toy
“If your dog is an aggressive chewer, then soft, stuffed toys are best avoided as the stuffing and/or squeaker can pose an obstruction risk if they swallow it and it becomes lodged in their intestines,” says Richardson. “Hard rubber or reinforced, tough nylon/fabric toys are better suited for these dogs.” Richardson recommends the Kong Extreme, which you can fill with treats before giving to your dog.
Where to buy: KONG Extreme Dog Toy ($15, Chewy)
Best interactive dog toys
7. Wobble Wag Giggle Ball
“The Wobble Wag Giggle Ball is an interactive toy that will keep your dog entertained and engaged,” says Aaron Rice, expert dog trainer at Stayyy in Chicago, Illinois. “It has a unique design that wobbles and makes a giggling sound when it’s moved, which will entice your dog to play with it. Plus, it’s made of durable materials that can withstand even the toughest chewers.”
Where to buy: Wobble Wag Giggle Ball ($15, Amazon)
8. KONG Wobbler Dog Toy
“The Kong Wobbler is another crowd favorite for mental enrichment,” says Philippou. “The dog’s kibble gets placed inside the wobbler toy, and the dog needs to nudge the toy around to dispense the food. There is a small hole that allows the food to fall out, and this will keep dogs entertained for a long time.” He adds, “This is a great option for people that work from home and need to entertain their dog during work calls or any other tasks around the home.”
Where to buy: KONG Wobbler Dog Toy ($20, Amazon)
Best playtime toys
9. ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz
“Some dogs love to chase things, so balls and frisbees are a good bet here,” says Richardson. “Dogs that love to shake and chase things will also often love these stuffing-free toys that are perfect for that ‘prey’ instinct,” she adds, recommending ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz, which have squeakers but no stuffing.
Where to buy: ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz No Stuffing Squeaky Plush Dog Toys ($12 for 3-pack, Chewy)
10. JW Pet Invincible Chains
“If your dog loves to play tug of war, consider rope toys,” suggests Richardson. “Unless your pup is a big chewer, rope toys can be fairly durable, and some types may be machine washable. However,” she warns, “if your dog likes to chew, rope toys are not recommended; your dog may ingest the rope, which can wrap around their intestines and cause serious harm. In this situation, consider a tough rubber tug toy, such as Invincible Chains.”
Where to buy: JW Pet Invincible Chains Triple Dog Toy ($13, Chewy)
11. Loobani Bungee Tug Toy
“If you cannot drain your dog’s energy every single day and are looking for a toy that can help you with that, then the Bungee Hanging Toy offered by Loobani will be your perfect ally,” says puppy trainer Zahid Adnan. “With this toy, your dog can entertain himself for hours, and the best thing is you don’t have to be around at all!”
Where to buy: Loobani Bungee Tug Toy ($30, Amazon)
12. Chuckit! Ultra Tug Dog Toy
“An extremely fun and durable tug-toy is the Chuckit! Tug Toy that every dog will love to play with,” says Philippou. “The squishiness of the ball paired with the strong durability will allow this toy to last for a long time. The handle allows you to not only play tug of war with your dog but will allow you to launch the ball to play fetch with your dog. Avoid the slobbery mess on the ball by grabbing the handle to toss it and play time will be even more fun.”
Where to buy: Chuckit! Ultra Tug Dog Toy ($6, Amazon)
