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When it comes to choosing the best toys for your dog, it's essential to consider various factors such as safety, durability, and the specific needs of your pet. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the top dog toys of 2024, ensuring your furry friend stays entertained, engaged, and healthy.
Understanding Your Dog's Toy Preferences
Dogs have individual preferences when it comes to toys. Understanding these preferences will help you choose the most suitable toys. Some dogs enjoy chew toys, while others prefer interactive or plush toys. Observing your dog's play behavior is crucial in determining the best toys for them.Benefits of Dog Toys
Providing your dog with the right toys can have numerous benefits, including:- Physical Exercise: Active toys promote physical activity, helping maintain a healthy weight and reducing the risk of obesity.
- Mental Stimulation: Interactive and puzzle toys challenge your dog's mind, preventing boredom and destructive behavior.
- Dental Health: Chew toys can help clean your dog's teeth, reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
- Bonding: Playing with your dog using toys can strengthen your bond and improve communication.
Selected. Our Top Picks
How Do We Choose The Best Dog Toys
When buying dog toys Our experts recommend taking into account the following factors:- Size: Buy toys that are appropriate for your dog's size to avoid safety hazards. Usually, toys that you can't see sticking out of the mouth are too small. and may cause swallowing and choking.
- Materials: Avoid hazardous fillings such as nut shells and polystyrene beads that pose a choking hazard. And always supervise your dog when they are playing with toys that they can easily take apart. The most common material used to stuff dog toys is polyester fiber. Not fully digested For chew toys Look for softer materials, such as durable rubber, that won't hurt your teeth. Additionally, avoid chewing on rawhide if you can. Because they may break into large pieces. that your dog can choke on Always consult with your veterinarian about raw chewing leather before introducing it.
- Interactive: An interactive toy, which usually involves a game or puzzle to remove food or toys from a larger base. It gives your dog mental stimulation and mental exercise throughout the day. Additionally, these toys keep them entertained for minutes or even hours, according to our experts.
The Best Dog Toys Of 2024
Please consider the safety advice of our experts. The following dog toys come in a variety of sizes and designs to suit the size, temperament, and life stage of your dog. Some toys are recommended by our experts and others are highly rated and in line with their recommendations.1. | Best Toys For Small Dogs
Kong Wubba
Kong Wubba
What we like:
- Durable nylon material
- Chewable tassels
- Comes in multiple sizes
- May not last for harsh chewers
Our experts love Kong toys for all types of dogs. Durable and available in a variety of styles to suit your pet's playtime, the Kong Wubba is available in small, large, and extra-large sizes, ideal for solo and interactive play. Khara Schuetzner, Certified Professional Dog Trainer And according to the owners of The Doggie Spot training facility, the toys have tassels for your dog to chew on and squeaky sounds to keep them engaged. And if your pup frequently shakes or pulls on their toys, Wubba is made from durable reinforced nylon to prevent tearing, according to the brand.
Sample Buyer Review...
This toy is played with the most and last the longest. So yes it was still tore up, but I am incredibly impressed with how long it last vs all of his other toys. The reason I am buying another one is because I allowed him to use it for chew sessions against what I just read about on Amazon vs the pet store I bought it from the first time.
KONG - Wild Knots Bear
KONG - Wild Knots Bear
What we like:
- Variety of shapes and sizes
- Internal knots for chewing
- May not last for harsh chewers
The Kong Wild Knots toy has an internal knotted rope skeleton that "It helps small dogs to grip," says Schuetzner. The toy is available in extra-small, small and medium sizes, which are great for smaller puppies. According to the brand, it comes in a variety of colors and shapes of animals, such as bears, eagles or owls.
Sample Buyer Review...
I originally had purchased a medium one for one of the pups but wanted something larger. I ordered this double pack, and they're the perfect size for two large dogs (75 lbs, 45 lbs). They have become their "babies". They're durable and well-made.
Chuckit Air Fetch Ball Dog Toy
Chuckit Air Fetch Ball Dog Toy
What we like:
- Lightweight, open design
- For dogs with breathing issues
- Comes in several sizes
- Nothing to note at this time
The hollow, net-like design of Chuckit!'s Breathe Right ball. Helps air circulate to your dog's lungs while running and fetching objects. This is especially helpful for small breed dogs who have trouble breathing. According to the brand, the ball is made from lightweight natural rubber, floats on water, and can also be stuffed with treats thanks to its open design.
Sample Buyer Review...
My dog loves this ball and she can chew on it without destroying it. I like that it’s too big to get lodged in her throat, but even if it did the holes would prevent choking.
2. | Best Toys For Big Dogs
GoDog Dragon
GoDog Dragon
What we like:
- Soft material
- Chew-resistant lining
- Comes in several sizes
- May not last for harsh chewers
This chew toy is recommended by Schuetzner for large dogs. This is because it has minimal packing and a durable squeak that is difficult to remove. And because of the soft textured material and built-in squeaky toy that excites dogs and encourages them to play. It also has an anti-chew lining and reinforced seams. Makes it harder to chew and tear according to the brand. And importantly, this toy comes in a variety of animal forms, including dragons, dinosaurs, and crocodiles, and comes in many sizes. Including large and extra large for large dogs.
Sample Buyer Review...
Our dog loves to chew, and this toy has stayed in tact the entire time we have had our dragon. The toy does squeak, which can bother some people, but our dog absolutely loves the sound the squeaker makes. The durability of this toy is incredible. We have played tug-o-war for over a year, fetch, and keep away, and dragon has survived it all. The value of the product compared to the price is incredible. We reduced the amount of toys we had for our dog, because she constantly chooses this one to play with!
Chuckit Ultra Ball
Chuckit Ultra Ball
What we like:
- Dips make it easy to hold
- Very lightweight
- Durable rubber core
- Nothing to note at this time
A fun spin on your classic tennis ball. It has a durable surface and a thick rubber core that can withstand rougher play, according to the brand. Available in sizes from small to XXL, which is about 4 inches in diameter (or slightly larger than a softball), the Ultra Ball also has a lightweight design that helps it float. So you can take it to the pool or beach with your furry friend.
Sample Buyer Review...
The durable rubber material of this ball is far superior to regular tennis balls, and its high bounce brings an extra level of excitement for my pooch. The robust construction withstands my dog's enthusiastic play, yet it's gentle on his mouth, which is a big relief.
3. | Best Interactive Toys For Dogs
Woof Pupsicle
Woof Pupsicle
What we like:
- Mentally stimulating
- Dishwasher-safe
- Great for treat-motivated dogs
- More involved than other toys
Give your dog a boost with the winner of the Best for Your Pet Award: Round Rubber Treat Ball. If you want to add Simply unscrew the top and place food inside. You can add Woof's pre-made Pupsicle Pops, available in beef or chicken flavours. Or make your own treats using Pupsicle's DIY snack trays. They're also dishwasher safe and feature a spout designed to reduce mess, according to the brand.
Sample Buyer Review...
Outside of the leash, this has to be the greatest pet invention ever. I am happy to be a pet parent of a two year old Border Collie (Fidget) and five month old Golden Retriever (Biscuit) and both are VERY active.
Puzzle Plush Dog Toy
Puzzle Plush Dog Toy
What we like:
- Mentally stimulating
- Great for small dogs
- Smaller toys aren’t durable
For this toy You can fill a plush tree trunk with three squeaking squirrels and toss them. To encourage your dog's hunting instincts to kick in, my dog Bella has a squirrel and bee version of this toy. And they keep her entertained. For several minutes she tried to pick up a small toy. Each piece comes out They're perfect for when she's bored around the house. They're available in four sizes: small, medium, large, and extra large (which includes six squirrels).
Sample Buyer Review...
My dog loves the squeaker in the squirrels. Almost like a puzzle as he tries to figure out how to get the squirrel out of the log. Durable and entertaining for my little friend.
Starmark Bob-A-Lot Interactive Pet Toy
Starmark Bob-A-Lot Interactive Pet Toy
What we like:
- Adjustable opening
- Anti-slip bottom
- Very entertaining
- Heavy
- Not as durable as others
This Bob-A-Lot interactive toy has a double chamber design that dispenses treats or chews while your dog plays with it. It also has adjustable openings at the top and bottom to help accommodate most types of dog food while allowing you to adjust the level of difficulty. And the weighted non-slip bottom makes it wobble to encourage playing according to the brand. And the large model is designed for dogs under 40 pounds and holds up to three cups of food, while the small model is suitable for dogs under 20 pounds and a little more than one cup of food, according to the brand.
Sample Buyer Review...
This is an excellent toy to provide enrichment for pets. it is particularly useful for us when it is raining and our two American Mini Pigs cannot go outside to root around. I will put their meals in this toy or a snuffle/rooting mat, or other puzzles to keep them entertained.
Omega Paw Tricky Treat Ball
Omega Paw Tricky Treat Ball
What we like:
- Comes in multiple sizes
- Great for active dogs
- Food can get stuck inside
The Omega Paw Tricky Treat Ball has a soft vinyl surface. And can hold your dog's favorite treats or kibble. Food is dispensed from small holes. As your dog plays with it, according to the brand, “food gets stuck in the ball. Your dog will then need to roll over so that the food is dispensed little by little. It can provide hours of entertainment for you and your dog,” says certified dog trainer and dog trainer Robert Haussmann. Co-Founder of dog training service Dogboy NYC Balls come in sizes small, medium and large.
Sample Buyer Review...
This ball is very sturdy, and doesn't make a lot of noise on the bare floor (condo living). Our mini dachshund pup is a fast eater and when I put some kibble or treats in the ball he has a great time rolling the ball to get a reward. Before adding the kibble he already thought it was a good toy.
Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider
Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider
What we like:
- Great for fast eaters
- Mentally stimulating
- Requires advanced skill level
This toy not only serves as a challenging and mentally stimulating game for your pup. But you can also use it to feed your dog a whole meal while slowing down, says Schuetzner. Simply hide your dog's favorite food or treat in one or all of the 24 compartments and encourage pup. Search using the sliding tray. Requires advanced skill level They must reach number 3 on a scale from 1 (easy) to 4 (expert).
Sample Buyer Review...
This is the most challenging puzzle I have found and my dog loves it. She gets all her food in the puzzle and it acts as a slow-feeder. It takes her about 3 minutes to solve (and double check). It had lasted a year and is as good as new.
AWOOF Pet Snuffle Mat
AWOOF Pet Snuffle Mat
What we like:
- Slows down fast eaters
- Slows down fast eaters
- Fabric is not very durable
- Fabric is not very durable
This snuffle mat is a favorite of Haussmann's, which is recommended for dogs to use for mental stimulation. Similarly, Haussmann also recommends lick mats, which are flat silicone mats with a surface that you Can be used to cover wet food items “Food gets stuck in textured service. And your dog has to lick it for a long time to get it off,” he said.
Sample Buyer Review...
I have a very timid rescue dog who only overcomes her fear when treats are involved. This has been a great way to get her sniffing and searching for treats. The package was deceiving (it came very flat and shrinkwrapped) but ultimately took shape and has provided lots of rewarding sniffing time. Even my cats like to check it out for any treats that may have been left behind.
4. | Best Dog Toys For Puppies
Nylabone Puppy Teething Chew Toys
Nylabone Puppy Teething Chew Toys
What we like:
- Great for teething puppies
- Can be stored in freezer
- Very durable
- Nothing to note at this time
This pacifier is a durable nylon chew toy for puppies entering the teething stage. “The grooves on the pacifier and ring help massage your puppy's gums,” says Schutzner. Nylabone also has a teething ring. and dinosaur-shaped teething toys as well In the same way You can roll up a damp cloth. Freeze it and give it to your dog. This reduces biting and chewing associated with teething, says Benjamin Bennink, certified dog trainer and owner of Good Doggy Saratoga in New York.
Sample Buyer Review...
This is one of our yellow Labs favorite toys. She has played with it from 8 weeks old. She is now approaching 16 weeks. It’s durable and well worth the money. Helps her teething as she loses her baby teeth, therefore we hope she continues to use it as she has been.
Kong Gyro Interactive Treat Dispensing Dog Toy
Kong Gyro Interactive Treat Dispensing Dog Toy
What we like:
- Great for active dogs
- Can be filled with treats
- Enriches younger dogs
- May not last for harsh chewers
The Kong Gyro is great for puppies because it promotes paw-eye coordination along with a food reward, says Mark Forrest Patrick, owner of Tuxedo's K9 Training Camp, Inc. The toy has a rotating ball in the center that helps the toy roll around. freely and durable plastic outer ring It dispenses pellets and treats from a small compartment. You can buy this toy in both small and large sizes. Although toys that you can fill with food are an opportunity for daily enrichment for young puppies, Our experts recommend that owners check portion sizes to make sure they aren't eating too much.
Sample Buyer Review...
First item arrived broken. A new one arrived in a day or two and I sent the broken one back. The dog loves this!
SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy
SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy
What we like:
- Great for anxious pups
- Includes heat pack
- Includes heat pack
- More involved than other toys
If your puppy is having a difficult time dealing with the stress of everyday life, According to the brand, this toy creates the warmth and physical closeness of another body. There's a battery-powered simulated heartbeat that you can turn on and off. And there's a disposable heating pad that lasts up to 24 hours, according to Smart Pet Love. The heating pad begins warming up as soon as it's removed from the outer packaging. Therefore, there is no need for a microwave or electricity. If your puppy has separation anxiety.
Sample Buyer Review...
This is a beautifully made cuddle pet but unfortunately my dog won't have anything to do with it. It has a real sounding heart beat and is so cuddly. You never know if you dog will like it but its worth a try.
5. | Best Toys For Active Dogs
Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole
Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole
What we like:
- Great for training
- Non-slip grip
- Great to exhaust active dogs
- Nothing to note at this time
The Flirt Pole comes with a pre-installed "lure" on the end of the bungee cord that your pup can chase. There is a non-slip pole that you can move. Helps dogs run, jump and change direction according to the brand. “I like crutches. You can teach your dog to fall off it, drag with it, in addition to other obedience commands. And all of this can be done while playing with your puppy.
Sample Buyer Review...
We got this toy because our dog has a pretty high prey drive, and we really wanted to fulfill her needs. She loves it!
Mammoth Flossy Chews Color Rope Tug
Mammoth Flossy Chews Color Rope Tug
What we like:
- Great for aggressive chewers
- Comes in multiple sizes
- Tassels may come apart
If your dog likes tug of war games This knotted rope toy is made from durable cotton and polyester yarn. which can withstand harsher pulling according to the brand You can also toss it during a game of fetch or use it as a chew toy during solo play. It comes in a variety of sizes, from a small 10-inch rope for dogs under 15 pounds to an extra-large 36-inch toy for heavier dogs. Over 80 pounds.
Sample Buyer Review...
My 35lb fur child LOVES this new rope!!! Its durable and can be tossed, and chewed with practically 0 wear. Great quality, and great price!!! I reccomend this product
6. | Best Toys For Aggressive Chewers
Kong Classic Dog Toy
Kong Classic Dog Toy
What we like:
- Very durable
- Can stuff with treats
- Can be stored in freezer
- Nothing to note at this time
Kong toys are famous for being strong and durable. In fact, they were first designed in the 1970s for dogs with destructive chewing habits. According to the brand, the classic rubber Kong toy - "You can stuff things and freeze them to make problems harder for dogs to solve," says Schutzner, who recommends the classic Kong Wobblers. A larger version also said, “They [help] slow my dog down at mealtime. Build problem-solving skills and teaching dogs impulse control,” she said.
Sample Buyer Review...
The Kong Dog Toy is a game-changer for my pup! It's durable, entertaining, and keeps my dog engaged for hours on end. Whether it's chewing, fetching, or playing tug-of-war, this toy can handle it all. Plus, it's great for promoting dental health. My furry friend gives it two paws up!
Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew Toy
Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew Toy
What we like:
- Very durable
- Comes in various sizes
- Flavored
- May be too big for small dogs
These durable bones are made from nylon. Designed for heavy chewing and "durable enough for chewers who need access to the back molars," Schuetzner says, the toy has a curved wishbone shape for a comfortable grip. And it comes in three flavors: bacon, chicken, and peanut butter. Benebone recommends checking with your veterinarian to see if the bone is appropriate for your dog's teeth. and a reminder to keep an eye on wear and tear over time. The brand also provides visual instructions to let shoppers know when to replace their bones.
Sample Buyer Review...
I bought this bone for a new 2 year old pup I just adopted. She was used for breeding and I was able to rescue her at a young age. Knowing she didn’t have a childhood I wanted to get her things she could chew in. This is the best bone I’ve ever gotten.
How To Buy The Best Dog Toys
There are many toys for every type of dog. Whether it's a young puppy or a large, aggressive chewing dog. Dogs tend to have their own preferences when it comes to what they like to play with. “Take your pup to your local store and let them pick out toys — it's fun to see what your dog likes,” says Schuetzner.Choosing the right toy for your dog depends on a few factors. This includes the dog's size and their activity level. Below, experts share what to consider when choosing one.
size It's important to buy toys that are appropriate for your dog's size. For example, large dogs should avoid small toys. That can be swallowed and can cause choking. “If you get a toy that they will chew on, You want to make sure it's not a toy that they can [put] in their mouth and actually swallow,” says Patrick. “I always tell people that if a dog puts it in their mouth and it sticks out of their mouth, It will be big enough.”
Although they are popular toys for collecting, But tennis balls are not a safe option for most dogs. Experts say tennis balls can get stuck in the throat and block the airway. Depending on the size of your dog, any chewed-off pieces can become stuck in your dog's intestines, so it's important to remove the toy if it starts to fall out.
material The materials used to make dog toys can present new challenges. Always check the label to make sure the toy doesn't contain dangerous fillers like peanut shells and polystyrene pellets, even common materials, according to The Humane Society. used to stuff dog toys This includes polyester fibers. It cannot be digested at all. (This can be a problem if your dog destroys their toys and other possessions.)
- Always supervise your dog when they are playing with toys that can be easily separated. This is especially true of squeaky toys because they can tear the toy to find the source of the sound and swallow it.
- Avoid toys that are too hard for your dog's teeth. The “thumbnail test” is often used and indicates if the toy is pressing against your thumbnail. It will be safer for their teeth,” says Bennink. “Harder toys, such as regular hardened nylon bones, should be considered. 'At your own risk'”
- Ask your veterinarian before entertaining your dog with chewed bones and rawhide. Chewed rawhide can break into large pieces and present a choking hazard. Patrick recommends always keeping an eye on your dog when chewing large treats. To make chew toys safer Experts recommend toys made of hard, durable rubber instead.
- Avoid toys made from materials that are similar to items in your own home, says Patrick. You don't want to have toys with strings if you have a rug. Because that will make your dog think 'I can chew the rope on my toy. But I can also chew the rope on my carpet,'” he said.
- Be careful of the small pieces. or hanging cloth “I tend to avoid anything that has ribbons, plastic eyes, string or anything that can be chewed and swallowed,” Haussmann said. “There are a lot of toys out there that are cheaply made and designed to make people want to buy them. (They) don't. It needs to be designed to be safe for your dog to play with.”
Interaction Interactive dog toys can create fun games. They can smell and receive rewards, Schuetzner said, for example when they hunt for food. Their minds are engaged and it gives them mental exercise throughout the day, she said.
However, you should be careful about stuffing regular dog biscuits into these toys: “I advise my clients not to put treats in their toys. And use kibble soaked in warm water or add blueberries or cantaloupe,” says Haussmann. “If your pet's treat is inside and [they're] excited or stressed, They can cause those snacks to choke.”
Conclusion
Selecting the best toys for your dog is essential for their overall well-being. By understanding their preferences and considering factors such as safety and durability, you can provide toys that will keep them entertained and healthy. The toys listed in this guide are among the top choices for 2024, ensuring your canine companion remains happy and engaged.Advertisement