If you’re anything like us, your house has seen plenty of dog toys come and go! From plush toys to squeaky toys and the good old chew toy finding the best dog toys for your dog or puppy can be challenging when are so many types and choices available.
As a dog owner or pet owner keeping your furry friend entertained is among your top priorities. Everyone’s dog has a favourite toy, but what should you be looking for when choosing the best dog toy for your pup?
Some factors you may want to consider include your dog’s size, breed and personality. For example, if you have a large breed dog that loves to chew, they may need a tougher toy to withstand their chewing habits, while a smaller pup might enjoy a plush toy. Here’s a brief guide to choosing the best dog toys based on your dog’s personality, behaviours and routine.
The best type of dog toy for chewers is something that can’t be easily torn apart or ingested, like a bone or chew toy.
If your dog is an avid chewer, look for toys that are durable and specifically designed for chewers. These types of dog toys will usually have labels that indicate they’re good for “heavy chewers.”
Chew toys are great for dogs who need to relieve boredom or anxiety and can also help to clean their teeth.
If you have an active dog, look for toys that are designed to keep them entertained and engaged. Toys like balls, Frisbees, and chew toys that bounce are perfect for keeping dogs active and mentally stimulated. A squeaky toy is also a great choice!
While most toys can be played with by an active dog, it’s important to make sure they’re durable and won’t break if they’re accidentally stepped on or thrown too hard. They also need to be tough, so they don’t damage your dog’s mouth.
Puppies need plenty of exercise and stimulation in order to grow into well-adjusted adult dogs. Toys like balls, chew toys and interactive puzzles are perfect for puppies as they offer both mental and physical stimulation.
Puppies also need to chew more than adult dogs as they’re teething, so it’s important to have plenty of chew toys on hand. Look for Puppy-specific toys that are designed to be safe for teething puppies.
Older dogs can still enjoy playing with toys, but their needs will be different from younger dogs. Senior dogs may not be as active as they once were, but they still need mental stimulation.
Toys that are designed for interactive play, like a treat-dispensing toy or a puzzle toy, is perfect for senior dogs. These types of dog toys can help to keep their minds sharp and engaged. A plush toy and other soft toys are also good choices for senior dogs as they may have sensitive teeth and gums.
Some dogs require special toys based on their individual needs. Dogs with separation anxiety, for example, may need a toy that provides comfort, like a stuffed animal or plush toy
Dogs who are blind or have poor vision may need a rubber ball with a loud noise to help them play fetch, while dogs with hearing loss may appreciate a toy that crinkles or rattles.
There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to choosing the best dog toys, so be sure to consider your dog’s individual personality and needs when making your selection.
Hopefully, you’ve now got a good idea of the best dog toy type that you need to look for. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a helpful list of dog toys for all types of dogs in our complete list of dog toys for 2022.
This plush dog toy is all about getting your dog sniffing around and interacting with it. The toy is made to look like a warthog, and inside there are several noisy fabric balls with a low-tone squeak that your dog will love to play with.
We recommend this toy for interactive and solo play, and it’s suitable for pups all the way through to adult dogs. We’ve included it on our list because it’s one of the best dog toys for interactive play, and it’s perfect for helping to keep your pup mentally stimulated.
Pros
Cons
KONG Ogee Stick Assorted Colours – Medium
This toy is designed to get your dog up and working. It is made of a durable material to ensure its longevity and its flexibility makes it more satisfying for your dog to play with.
Your dog can play with it by itself, or you can take a role too. It provides your dog with a healthier outlet to satisfy its tugging, chewing and fetching instincts. The rounded edges are gentle on the teeth and gums too.
Pros
Cons
KONG Cozie Ali Alligator – XLarge
This toy is great for dogs that like to have their own little furry friend. The plush material makes it perfect for providing your pet with a bit of comfort. It also has an extra layer of material to ensure that it is tough enough to last. It can also be used to play fetch too.
Pros
Cons
KONG Signature Rope Mega Dual Knot – 40”
This toy is made up of a unique combination of cotton and fleece braided together to make it stretchy and gentle for your dog’s mouth but also robust enough to withstand damage.
The rope is designed to encourage your dog’s natural instinct to chew and bite without risking damage to any of your possessions. In addition, the knots on either end make it perfect for a game of tug.
Pros
Cons
KONG Cruncheez Cow – Small
This toy provides your dog with an excellent alternative to a squeaky toy. The internal mechanism acts as a rattle letting out crunching sounds. The noises provide a good level of stimulation for your dog, making the experience more rewarding.
The plush material means that it can also be a comforting toy for your dog to play with as well. However, just because it’s a plush toy doesn’t mean that it isn’t robust enough to withstand playtime.
Pros
Cons
KONG Signature Rope Double Tug – 22”
This toy is great for dogs that like to chew and play games of tug of war. It is designed to speak to your dog’s natural instinct to chew and provide an enriching experience. In addition, the double rings make the toy more interactive for both you and your dog.
The toy is made from a blend of cotton and fleece to ensure that your dog’s teeth and gums are safe. This also means that the toy is unlikely to fray or disintegrate; the materials used are durable and robust enough to ensure hours and hours of fun.
Pros
Cons
KONG Signature Rope Double Ring Tug
This toy is a slightly smaller alternative to rope toys, perhaps better suited to smaller dogs or dogs that like to play tug with smaller toys. This, like the others on the list, is made of the same blend of cotton and fleece, making it extremely durable and lasting.
Pros
Cons
KONG Signature Sticks – Large
This toy is rather unique, combining a lot of the elements from the different toys in the list above. Kong toys are designed to be as robust as possible. The exterior is rugged and perfect for playing games of tug or fetching.
The inside is full of interactive elements, so playtime produces a symphony of different noises from squeaks to honks to crinkles – all of your bases are covered.
Pros
Cons
Boomer Ball – 4”
This ball is incredibly hardwearing – it is essentially indestructible, meaning that your dog can be as rough as they want with it. It is perfect for dogs that like to chase things and play fetch. This toy is not intended for your dog to carry around.
The toy can also be used in a therapeutic capacity to enrich the environments of other animals too. When it comes to choosing a size, you want the ball to fit comfortably within your dog’s mouth and jaw without uncomfortably overstretching it.
Pros
Cons
KONG Cozie Natural Assorted Styles – Small
These soft plush toys are constructed with robust stitching and an extra layer to ensure that they are extra tough. However, the comfort and softness of the toy remain uncompromised by its durability.
These toys are perfect for dogs that like to snuggle or have a comfort toy. They can become a security blanket of sorts for your dog, or they can be used to play fetch.
Pros
Cons
KONG Cuteseas Octopus – Small
This cute little toy provides a great combination between a soft plush toy and an interactive, stimulating experience. The toy is made of corduroy, meaning that it is still soft enough to snuggle while not being as soft as a plush toy.
The toy also contains a squeaker, and the legs make a crinkly sound when played with to make the experience more interactive and fun for your dog. The shape and number of legs also produce more movement during playtime, encouraging your dog to really get into it.
Pro
Cons
Jolly Pets Teaser Ball Blue – 8”
This ball has a unique design, having a second ball inside the first. It is great for games of chase and fetch - if your dog is good at fetching. The ball is made up of a robust material to ensure that it can withstand the chewing and chasing.
The second interior ball will not come out of the first, so you don’t need to worry about it being a hazard. Instead, the second interior ball simply serves to make the game more interactive and fun.
Pros
Cons
KONG Safestix Assorted Colours – Large
This toy is great for dogs that like to chew, chase and play fetch. They are made of a durable plastic material, so they will be perfectly comfortable for your dog to chew and play with.
They are great for both indoor and outdoor use; they even float in water, meaning they can even make bath time more fun. The sticks are easily bendable and flexible, your dog can play alone, or you can join in.
Pros
Cons
Jolly Pets Romp N Roll Ball Red – 6”
This toy is the ultimate for dogs that love to play a little rough. It can be kicked about, thrown, launched and used to play a game of tug of war. The rope itself easily moves through the ball, but the ball cannot be removed from the rope.
The ball is made of jolly pets’ jolly flex material, meaning that it will not deflate, regardless of how many times it gets punctured, ensuring that your dog has hours of fun ahead of them.
Pros
Cons
Jolly Pets Jolly Soccer Ball Green Apple – 6”
A lot of dogs love to play with balls. They are fun and interactive, whether they are used in solo play or with yourself. In addition, they also feed into your dog’s basic instinct to chase and to hunt.
The ball itself is made up of jolly pets’ jolly flex material, which allows the ball to maintain its shape despite being punctured by your dog’s teeth. It works for dogs of all sizes, and it even floats for some water-based fun.
Pros
Cons
KONG Dotz Circle – Large
A lot of puppies and some older dogs love to chew, which can cause problems for some dog owners. This toy provides your dog with an outlet for their chewing tendencies – think of it like a teething ring for dogs.
The varied texture of the toy makes the experience more enriching. The nubs also help to keep your dogs’ teeth and gums clean and healthy. Perfect for younger dogs.
Pros
Cons
KONG Dragon Knots Assorted Colours – Medium/Large
This whimsical toy is a great addition to your dog’s collection. It combines a lot of the popular elements of toys that they love. Although, it’s a relatively plush toy, the wings crinkle, there is a squeaker inside the body and an internally knotted rope too.
This toy is designed to satisfy your dog, whatever its preferences. It speaks to their natural instincts. The strong stitching and minimal stuffing makes for less mess and clean up should they manage to get the toy open.
Pros
Cons
KONG Jumbler Tri Assorted Colours – Large/XLarge
This 2-in-1 toy is an excellent stimulative tool for your dog. The interior tennis balls squeak loudly to pique your dog’s interest and signal the start of playtime. Whereas the exterior handles ensure that you can get in on the fun too.
Great for both solo and interactive play. It is strong enough to withstand even tough play, and it is easily cleaned, meaning that you can use it both inside and outside.
Pros
Cons
KONG Phatz Lion – Medium
This cute little lion toy boasts a unique texture that can be extremely satisfying for your dog to chew. The squeaker inside has more of a low tone compared to other squeaky toys, which can pique your dog’s interest and curiosity.
The toy is constructed well with reinforced seams to make it more hardwearing. It provides hours of fun, and the mix of textures make the experience more varied for your dog too.
Pros
Cons
KONG Flyer – Small
It is part of a dog’s natural instinct to chase and hunt. This rubber disc plays into those instincts. The disc itself is made of a soft rubber that is gentle on your dog’s teeth, and its aerodynamic shape ensures that it will soar through the air.
Obviously, this toy relies a lot on you to deliver an enriching experience, but it is perfect for a fun game of fetch or catch.
Pros
Cons
Jolly Pets Bounce N Play Blueberry – 6”
A lot of dogs love to chase balls; it speaks to the innate instincts that they would have to display in the wild. The vivid blue shade ensures that your dog can easily find their toy no matter where it is.
Perfect for games of fetch, indoors – if you have the room – outdoors and even in water because the lightweight material ensures that this toy is buoyant too. Made from Jolly Pets’ jollyflex material, this toy will not deflate either, even if your dog manages to puncture it.
Pros
Cons
KONG AirDog Fetch Stick with Rope – Medium
This toy is a little more unusual in design, but it still serves the same functions as other toys. It is perfect for dogs that love the water because it floats and its bright colours ensure that you won’t lose it.
The toy itself is made up of a sturdy rope which provides you with the leverage that you need to throw it. The rest of the toy is made from a non-abrasive tennis ball material. It is soft on the teeth and gums while still being satisfying to chew and fetch.
Pros
Cons
KONG AirDog Squeaker Bone – Small
This innovative toy combines two of the most popular dog toys of all time: the tennis ball and the squeaker. The resulting toy is perfect for both solo and interactive play.
The toy is made from a high-quality material that is sturdy but non-abrasive, meaning that neither your dogs’ teeth nor the toy will be worn down over time.
Pros
Cons
KONG Dotz Square – Large
Most infants instinctually chew as their teeth come in, regardless of the species, and dogs are no different. A lot of puppies chew on things as they grow up without the right toys; however, this chewing behaviour can prove destructive, and some dogs never grow out of this phase.
This toy is made up of different layers and textures to entice and fulfil your dog’s need to chew. The nubs on the toy yield and bounce as needed while the encasement remains firm; this helps to keep your dogs’ teeth and gums clean, in addition to being fun.
Pros
Cons
KONG AirDog Squeaker Football – Small
This, similarly to the KONG AirDog Squeaker Bone, represents a combination of classic elements found in dog toys. It is made from a smoother, less abrasive tennis ball material and contains a high-quality, high-pitched squeaker.
Your dog can play alone, the squeaker providing all of the encouragement and stimulation they need. Or, you can choose to use the toy to play fetch or make a game that is more interactive for you and your dog.
Pros
Cons
KONG Dental Stick – Large
Dogs, like humans, sometimes suffer from dental issues. They need to keep their teeth clean too. Dental chews, while effective, also contain sugar which can make your dog act up. This toy provides an excellent alternative.
Its patented denta-ridges are designed to reduce plaque and clean the teeth and gums gently. The ridges can also be used for some enrichment exercises, and your dog can play alone, or the toy can form the base of a game of fetch.
Pros
Cons
KONG Ball – Small
This small ball is great for dogs of any size that love the thrill of the chase—ideal for either solo play or interactive play. The ball is built to last because it is incredibly hardwearing.
It is also incredibly bouncy, which does add to the fun, but this does make it more unpredictable, meaning that it is best used in outdoor spaces. Despite its durability, its small size also makes it fun for dogs that love to chew.
Pros
Cons
KONG Ball with Rope
This is another toy that combines elements of other favourite dog toys on the market. The braided and strong enough to withstand even the strongest teeth during a game of tug.
The ball makes it easier to throw about if your dog likes to fetch and chase things, too, and it is also hardwearing and durable. The rope is threaded through the ball, and as such, it won’t come loose, so you don’t have to worry.
Pros
Cons
KONG Classic – Large
The KONG brand has represented some of the best-made dog toys in the last 40 years, and this toy is no exception. Its unique design features a hollow interior making it a great tool for stimulating exercises.
The toy itself is made from a natural compound that is gentle on the teeth while still allowing your dog to display its chewing behaviours. Great for inquisitive dogs who like to explore.
Pros
Cons
KONG Squeez Ball Assorted Colours – Large
This colourful little toy also adheres to the KONG standard of durability and near-indestructibility. In addition, the recessed speaker provides the safest and funniest squeak of any dog toy on the market today.
Your dog can play alone, or you can make the experience more interactive with a game of fetch. The natural compound that this toy is made of ensures a wild and unpredictable bounce.
Pros
Cons
Jolly Pets Romp N Roll Blue – 8”
The Jolly Pets Romp N Roll Ball is a top tier toy for dogs that can get more than a little rambunctious during playtime. Despite your dogs’ best efforts, the ball cannot be removed from the rope, meaning that it is totally safe to leave this toy with your dog to play with unsupervised.
The ball itself also benefits from Jolly Pets’ jollyflex material making it hardier; it won’t deflate even if your dogs manage to puncture it with their teeth. The toy does it all, great for playing alone or with you if you decide to join in.
Pros
Cons
KONG Squeez Jels Assorted Styles – Medium
This assorted set of toys provides a new twist to the classic squeaky toy. The varied shapes provide a unique bounce pattern designed to keep your dog interested through even the longest games of fetch.
The vibrant colours make them easier to find should you decide to take the game outdoors. The rubbery material makes them satisfying to chew and play with, and the distinctive shape gives them a number of different shapes and textures to explore.
Pros
Cons
KONG Squiggles Assorted Styles – Small
These toys are fun for both the dogs and the owners. Each of the little characters is as cute as the last. Their long bodies are stretchy and floppy, and each side has its own squeaker to boot.
They are designed with a minimal amount of stuffing for the least mess possible, although the quality all but ensures that your dog won’t be able to rip them open. Your dog can shake and chew them to their heart’s desire.
Pros
Cons
KONG TenniShoes Giraffe – Large
This toy has a number of features for your dog to enjoy. The soft, plushy body and head are great for dogs that like a more comforting toy. Whereas the legs are made up of four dangling tennis balls to create more movement and unpredictability.
The toy also has squeakers for added fun—a rewarding experience for dogs that enjoy solo play. The construction of this toy is designed to speak to your dog’s natural instinct to thrash or shake their toys.
Pros
Cons
KONG Tiltz – Small
This toy is a little different; it is actually a treat dispenser. If your dog struggles with separation anxiety or has a lot of excess energy, then this is perfect. It is designed to keep your dog mentally and physically occupied in your absence.
As your dog gets to work, the internal mechanism tilts, spins and rocks. The movement then shakes loose the treats that are dispensed randomly to keep your dog engaged.
Pros
Cons
KONG Tug
This toy is designed for dogs that love nothing more than playing a game of tug with their owners. It is made from a natural rubber that provides enough stretch to make the game fun while still maintaining its shape.
The shape of the toy and the grips are designed to be comfortable both for your hands and your dog’s mouth too. It is easy to clean and can be played with indoors or outdoors.
Pros
Cons
KONG Weave Knots Moose – Medium
Kong specialises in creating cute, cuddly toys that can withstand your dog’s impulse to destroy them. This toy has a plush head and extremities for dogs that like cuddly toys.
The belly, however, is made of a knotted rope, providing you with more opportunities for engagement with your dog. The squeaker simply adds to the fun. Your dog can play alone or with you.
Pros
Cons
KONG Wiggi Alligator – Large
This little toy is chock full of character. It has a variety of textures, making it perfect for curious little pups who lose interest in toys quickly. It is designed for long-lasting play sessions.
In addition to the various textures, it also has a big squeak inside designed to speak to your dog’s playful side. This toy is ideal for either solo or interactive play too.
Pros
Cons
KONG Wubba Assorted Colours – Puppy
This toy, as the name suggests, is perfect for puppies that are starting to learn how to play and interact with the world around them. It is made of reinforced nylon to ensure its durability.
Inside the toy is a plastic squeaker to help you capture your puppy’s attention. This toy can keep your puppy engaged for hours whether you play with them or they play alone. The long tails make them more accessible for little mouths too.
Pros
Cons
Buster Activity Mat Game Envelope
Some dogs suffer from separation anxiety and therefore need to be distracted when their owner leaves. Other dogs simply have too much energy and are too clever for their own good; this is where enrichment toys come in.
This particular toy is designed to be used in conjunction with an activity mat to form a fun and engaging exercise. The dog has to open the press studs and remove the stick in order to solve the task and find their reward.
Pros
Cons
Buster Activity Mat Game Top Hat
This is another toy that is designed to get your dog’s brain working. It is meant to keep them engaged and mentally stimulated. Similarly to others on this list, it is designed to accompany an activity mat.
This element is a circular task with eight pockets; it is attached to the mat using press studs. It is up to you how you use it and what exercise you want to create for your dog.
Pros
Cons
Buster Activity Mat Game Purse 3 Pocket
Again, this toy is an accompaniment that is designed to be used in conjunction with an activity mat, not as a solo activity. The press studs allow you to adhere it to the mat.
The pockets down the length of this toy can be used to hide treats to encourage your dog to get its brain working and develop its critical thinking skills. Great for dogs that display scenting and hunting abilities.
Pros
Cons
Buster Activity Mat Game Rat Trap
Next on the list is another add on to an activity mat. It again affixes to the mat via press studs in the corners. However, this one is a little different; it is a 2-in-1 task, comprised of an oblong bag inside of which is a second smaller bag.
The only limit is your imagination. You can come up with a number of different tasks to keep your dog occupied. They are great for tiring out dogs that always seem to have an excess of energy.
Pros
Cons
Buster Activity Mat Game Rock N Roll
The final activity mat game is the rock n roll, again designed to be used with the activity mat. This task is a little more difficult. The oblong has six pockets along the length of it. It is then rolled up and enclosed with an elastic band.
If you have struggled to find toys that hold your dog’s attention, then this toy is perfect for you. Your dog really has to work hard to get its reward out of this task.
Pros
Cons
King Catnip Ball
This toy represents a little bit of a wild card, but the truth is that despite its name, catnip isn’t just for cats. In fact, it can have a number of benefits for dogs too; it can aid in digestive comfort, act as a diuretic and even have a calming effect too.
This means that it is probably better suited for older dogs or dogs that struggle with the issues mentioned above. The toy itself is handmade and contains only organic North American catnip.
Pros
Cons
KONG Puppy Teething Stick Assorted Pink Blue – Medium
Puppies chew; it is what they do. So you need to expect it. Without providing them with the right outlet, they will find other things to chew. The denta-ridges can be used to keep the teeth clean and soothe sore gums.
You can smear something like peanut butter or blueberry paste or use puppy treats inside the ridges and groves for added engagement. This toy helps to maintain your puppy’s oral health as well as being fun.
Pros
Cons
KONG Puppy Classic Assorted Pink Blue – Large
This is another toy designed with the needs of your puppy in mind. It helps to encourage your puppy’s curiosity and inquisitive nature. It also benefits from Kong’s exclusive teeth rubbing formula to maintain their oral health too.
Again, you can make the experience more engaging or provide your dog with a distraction by filling the hollow interior with small treats or paste. A lot of people use this when crate training or attempting to decrease separation anxiety.
Pros
Cons
KONG Squeakair Ball 3 Pack – Small
This is another toy that combines two old favourites. It is a tennis ball with a squeaker inside of it. The resulting toy is perfect for a game of fetch outside with your four-legged friend.
The ball itself is made from a gentler felt than is found on normal tennis balls, so your dog’s teeth and gums will be safe from damage. In addition, it is high-quality and durable, so it will last to ensure hours of fun.
Pros
Cons
KONG Hopz – Small
The last toy on the list is another treat dispenser designed to keep your dog busy. It allows your dog to indulge its natural foraging instincts. It is made from sturdy materials to ensure that your dog has to work for its rewards.
When your dog gets to work, the treat dispenser has an unusual bounce, which sparks your dog’s interest further. The squeaks and motion of the toy, in addition to the treats dispensed, ensures that your dog stays engaged.
Pros
Cons
Animally Vet Supplies is the trading name of Veterinary Meds Online Ltd.
Company No. 12665548 | VMR No. 7386568 | Copyright 2022© All rights Reserved
