Puppies and Toys
Puppies are playful and will chew anything they come across. In this sense, you need the best puppy toys to keep them busy. The best toys for puppies should be durable, available in different sizes, and easy to use and maintain.
However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution regarding toys for puppies. We have used our years of experience in matters of pups to prepare this review of the best puppy toys. Keep reading for more!
What to Look for in Canine Puppy Toys
As mentioned earlier, you must consider several factors when selecting canine puppy toys. The most notable things to look for are:
Materials
Plastic, rubber, nylon, and fabric are the most popular chew toy materials. What you select depends on your pup’s situation. For example, is it teething, or how aggressively does it chew?
Suppose your pup is young and not chewing aggressively; you can use softer rubber. On the other hand, nylon and harder rubber are ideal for tough chewers.
Size
The toy you choose should be appropriate for your pup’s current size. This means you might have to keep swapping out the toys as your pup grows and its chewing style changes. A bigger toy might be too overwhelming and less fun, while something too small is a choking hazard.
Teething
Teething pups require specific types of toys for puppies. Any toy that allows freezing is ideal for teething puppies. Freezing helps to soothe the gums.
Extras
Most puppy toys are ready to chew or play with the way they are. There are also those that you can freeze or stuff with treats for more extended entertainment.
If you desire extra stimulation, consider toys having crinkly parts and squeakers. It is best if the toy is dishwasher friendly.
How We Pick and Tested
First, we used the criteria in the previous section to select the best toys for puppies in different categories. After that, we tested the toys with the puppies and dogs for some time to observe the following:
- Did the toys have any detachable parts that would be a choking hazard?
- Can the dog play with the toy unsupervised?
- Is the tough able to withstand tough chewers?
- For how long can the toy keep the pups occupied and entertained?
- Does the toy have adjustable difficulty levels?
We only picked the toys that satisfactorily met the needs of the pups. Furthermore, we used the counsel of experienced trainers and veterinarians and considered their recommendations.
Our Favorite Revealed
Our favorite puppy toy is KONG - Classic Dog Toy. We love this toy because its soft rubber makes it perfect for your teething pup. It also allows you to stuff it to make it more entertaining. Moreover, it is available in different sizes and has the approval of trainers and veterinarians around the globe.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Product Name | Best for Case |
| KONG - Classic Dog Toy | Best overall |
| Nina Ottosson Interactive Treat Puzzle Game | Best for reducing undesired behavior |
| Starmark Everlasting Treat Ball | Best durable |
| Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle Plush Dog Toy | Best for eliminating boredom |
| iFtech Interactive Ball Launchers for Dogs | Best for small dogs |
| SNiFFiz SmellyMatty Snuffle Mat for Dogs | Best dog feeding mat |
| Mighty Paw Dog Lick Pad | Best puppy feeding mat |
| Hyper Pet Doggie Tail Interactive Plush Dog Toys | Best for stimulation play |
| Pet Zone IQ Treat Ball | Best dog treat ball |
| Trixie Activity Flip Board | Best for dog training |
| TRIXIE Dog Activity | Best for mental stimulation |
| goDog Dragons Squeaker Plush Dog Toy | Best for cuddling |
| N-Bone Puppy Teething Ring | Best edible |
| Benebone Puppy Dog Chew Toy | Best for chewers |
Our Favorite Puppy Toys Reviewed
KONG - Classic Dog Toy – Best Overall
General Description
KONG Classic Dog Toy is our best toy for puppies overall. It is popular because its strong rubber makes it ideal for chewing and teething. You can make it more engaging and durable by stuffing and freezing it.
Additionally, you can get it in different sizes, meaning you can get one for puppies and adult dogs. It also has an unpredictable bounce making it more exciting. Veterinarians and trainers globally have given this dog toy a thumbs up.
Brand: KONG
Material: Rubber
Color(s): Red, blue
Shape: Cylindrical
Size/s: X-small, small, medium, large, x-large, and xx-large
Weight and other dimensions: 1.75 x 1.75 x 3 inches (4.45 x 4.45 x 7.62 centimeters); 1.76 ounces (49.90 grams)
Breed recommendation: Small breeds
Toy type: Chew toy
Recommended uses: Mental stimulation, puppy teething
Pros:
- Made of natural, durable rubber
- Soft rubber ideal for teething pups
- Dishwasher friendly
- Available in two colors and six sizes
Cons:
- Tough chewers can destroy it
Nina Ottosson Interactive Treat Puzzle Game – Best for Reducing Undesired Behavior
General Description
Is your pup exhibiting undesired behavior? This toy will help you focus your toy’s attention and energy and eventually reduce boredom and destructive behaviors. The puzzle game will also let you distract your dog from situations like thunderstorms and fireworks that might make it anxious.
It is available in four levels, meaning you can find a solution for your dog regardless of age. If you recently adopted a dog, this toy will help you bond with it faster.
Brand: Outward Hound
Material: BPA, PVC, and Phthalate-free
Color(s): Blue, pink
Shape: Rectangular
Size/s: Level 1 to 4
Weight and other dimensions: 12.75 x 9.25 x 2 inches (32.39 x 23.50 x 5.08 centimeters); 1.2 pounds (0.54 kilograms)
Breed recommendation: All dog sizes
Toy type: Puzzle
Recommended uses: To reduce undesired behaviors in dogs
Pros:
- The manufacturer used food-safe material
- It is easy to clean
- It is durable
- Available in four different levels
Cons:
- Your furry friend can only use it under supervision
Starmark Everlasting Treat Ball – Best Durable
General Description
One of the most challenging features of dog toys is destruction. The Starmark Everlasting Treat Ball lives up to its name! The manufacturer uses strong materials free of vinyl, latex, and phthalates. So, if you are looking for a durable yet entertaining toy, this is your ideal choice.
You can use it on small, medium, and large dogs. It is dishwasher-safe and comes with a vanilla scent. Moreover, you can use it to reduce anxiety and boredom behaviors in dogs.
Brand: Starmark
Material: Rubber
Color(s): Blue
Shape: Circular
Size/s: Small, medium, and large
Weight and other dimensions: 3.75 x 3.75 x 3.75 inches (9.53 x 9.53 x 9.53 centimeters); 9.88 ounces (280 grams)
Breed recommendation: Large, medium and small breeds
Toy type: Ball
Recommended uses: Mental stimulation, interactive play, treats, and rewards.
Pros:
- Dishwasher safe
- Almost indestructible
- Ideal for dental hygiene
- Offers hours of interactive chewing challenge
Cons:
- It can be too challenging for some puppies
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle Plush Dog Toy – Best for Eliminating Boredom
General Description
This toy offers the ultimate hide-and-squeak fun. It is an effortless way of ensuring your furry friend doesn’t suffer from boredom. Furthermore, the toy is gentle on your dog’s teeth, making it ideal for puppies and adult dogs.
It comes with a wide range of toys suitable for different playing styles. Please don’t leave this toy with your pup unsupervised.
Brand: Outward Hound
Material: Polyester, synthetic fabric
Color(s): Beige
Shape: Array of shapes
Size/s: Small, medium, large, and extra large
Weight and other dimensions: 15 x 7 x 6.5 inches (38.1 x 17.78 x 16.51 centimeters); 4.8 ounces (136.08 grams)
Breed recommendation: All breed sizes
Toy type: Plush
Recommended uses: Mental stimulation, exercise, and training
Pros:
- Two-in-one interactive play gives your dog double fun
- Prevents boredom
- The toys’ texture is gentle on the dog’s teeth
- Enhances a dog’s hunting instincts
Cons:
- Requires close supervision
iFtech Interactive Ball Launchers for Dogs – Best for Small Dogs
General Description
The iFetch Interactive Ball Launchers for dogs is an excellent toy for small breeds. It comes with three mini tennis balls with an automatic ball thrower.
Running and fetching help your dog learn how to initiate a fetch independently. You can use it indoors and outdoors if the ball doesn’t get too wet. Moreover, you will enjoy a one-year warranty for this product.
Brand: IFetch
Material: Plastic, fabric
Color(s): Blue, white
Shape: Circular
Size/s: Small, Large
Weight and other dimensions: 11.02 x 7.87 x7.87 inches (27.99 x 19.99 x 19.99 centimeters); 5.75 pounds (2.61 kilograms)
Breed recommendation: Small breeds
Toy type: Ball
Recommended uses: Brain stimulation, exercise, and enrichment
Pros:
- Effortless to use
- Available for all dog sizes
- The construction is top quality and durable
- It comes with an automatic ball launcher
Cons:
- Requires supervision
SNiFFiz SmellyMatty Snuffle Mat for Dogs – Best Dog Feeding mat
Amazon Choice in Dog Feeding Mats by SNiFFiz
General Description
Does your dog stay home often? Does that cause stress and anxiety? Well, SNiFFiz SmellyMatty Snuffle Mat is the toy you need. It offers a slow feeding package that reduces your furry friend’s boredom thanks to the multiple hiding spots.
It comes with adjustable difficulty levels to use the level suitable for your dog. Furthermore, it is an excellent mental stimulation puzzle toy.
Brand: Sniffiz
Material: Polyester
Color(s): Multicolored
Shape: Circular, rectangular
Size/s: 5 food puzzles, six mini treat puzzles
Weight and other dimensions: 31.5 x 31.5 x 1.18 inches (80.01 x 80.01 x 3 centimeters); 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram)
Breed recommendation: Smart dogs, puppies, and senior dogs
Toy type: Feeding mat
Recommended uses: Slow feeding, mental stimulation
Pros:
- It comes with adjustable difficulty levels
- The bottom is non-slip and fabric durable
- Easy to maintain
- Does not need supervision
Cons:
- It can be challenging to use
Mighty Paw Dog Lick Pad – Best Puppy Feeding Mat
Amazon Choice in Dog Feeding Mats by Mighty Paw
General Description
Mighty Paw makes this dog lick pad using BPA-free silicone, which is safe and healthy for your pups to lick treats from. The feeding mat comes in 4 quadrants with unique textures ideal for different occasions.
Moreover, it has strong suction cups that keep it in place firmly during use. Your pup will also clean its tongue and gums when licking the stylish mat. The mat is effortless to clean and is dishwasher safe.
Brand: Mighty Paw
Material: Silicone
Color(s): Orange, green
Shape: Rectangular
Size/s: 9 x 5 inches (22.86 x 12.7 centimeters)
Weight and other dimensions: 9.02 x 6.1 x 0.67 inches (22.91 x 15.49 x 1.70 centimeters); 5.93 ounces (168.11 grams)
Breed recommendation: Puppies
Toy type: Feeding mat
Recommended uses: Quick training, boredom buster, and slow feeding
Pros:
- Effortless to clean, dishwasher safe
- Promotes better dental health
- It comes with strong suction cups keeping it secure
- Offers a multi-use design
Cons:
- It might not be long-lasting
Hyper Pet Doggie Tail Interactive Plush Dog Toys – Best for Stimulation Play
General Description
This is one of the best puppy toys for stimulating play. It wiggles, barks, and vibrates, encouraging your pup to chase, play and exercise. The toy’s funny sounds and unpredictable movement make the toy ideal for reducing anxiety and boredom.
Doggie Tail Interactive can also work for all dog breeds. It is easy to replace the cover and batteries.
Brand: Hyper Pet
Material: Plastic and fabric
Color(s): Multicolored
Shape: Multi-shape
Size/s: Full unit, replacement cover
Weight and other dimensions: 8 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches (20.32 x 11.43 x 11.43 centimeters); 6.74 ounces (191.08 grams)
Breed recommendation: Large and medium breeds
Toy type: Plush
Recommended uses: Killing boredom and stimulating play
Pros:
- It is interactive
- Encourages fun stimulation in dogs
- Applicable to different dog breeds
- It has funny sounds to keep the dog mentally stimulated
Cons:
- Tough chewers can destroy it
Pet Zone IQ Treat Ball– Best Dog Treat Ball
General Description
If you are looking for slow-feed bowls to promote a healthy lifestyle for your pet, this IQ treat ball is an excellent option. You simply place your dog’s treats or kibble in the ball and allow them to eat what comes out.
Moreover, you can adjust the difficulty level using the ball’s adjustable interior disc. It is also effortless to clean as it twists apart into three pieces.
Brand: Pet Zone
Material: Plastic
Color(s): Multicolored
Shape: Ball
Size/s: 3 and 4 inches (7.62 and 10.16 centimeters)
Weight and other dimensions: 4 x 3.5 x 5 inches (10.16 x 8.89 x 12.6 centimeters); 2.4 ounces (68.04 grams)
Breed recommendation: Small breeds
Toy type: Puzzle
Recommended uses: Mental stimulation and physical activity
Pros:
- It is customizable
- Effortless to use and clean
- Encourages slower healthier feeding
- It is durable
Cons:
- You must supervise your pet while in use
Trixie Activity Flip Board – Best for Dog Training
Amazon’s Choice in Dog Toy Balls by Trixie
General Description
If you want to improve your pup’s problem-solving skills, Trixie Activity Flip Board is the ideal solution. The board offers three obstacles your dog must overcome to get their treats.
It is ideal for small dog breeds and easy to clean as it’s dishwasher-safe. You can also adjust the difficulty levels to suit your dog.
Brand: Trixie
Material: Plastic
Color(s): Blue, white
Shape: Circular
Size/s: Level 1, 2 & 3
Weight and other dimensions: 9 x 9 x 2 inches 22.86 x 22.86 x 5.08 centimeters); 1 pound (0.453 kilograms)
Breed recommendation: Medium breeds
Toy type: Games and Puzzles
Recommended uses: Training
Pros:
- Easy to clean
- Non-slip rubber feet ensure it is firmly in place during playtime
- You can adjust the difficulty levels
- Excellent training toy for pups
Cons:
- Needs close supervision
TRIXIE Dog Activity – Best for Mental Stimulation
General Description
Trixie Dog Activity is one of the top-rated toys for puppies to keep them busy. Your dog is playful and intelligent and needs something to channel its energy and curiosity.
This toy is ideal for the intermediate canine gamer, and each compartment offers your dog a unique challenge. For example, it will either retreat drawers, ropes, knobs, or flaps to retrieve a treat.
Brand: Trixie
Material: Plastic
Color(s): Blue, white
Shape: Multi-shaped
Size/s: Levels 1, 2, & 3
Weight and other dimensions: 12 x 12 x 3 inches (30.48 x 30.48 x 7.62 centimeters); 1.94 pounds (0.88 kilograms)
Breed recommendation: All breed sizes
Toy type: Puzzle
Recommended uses: Mental stimulation
Pros:
- It has four compartments for more fun
- Non-slip rubber feet ensure the toy remains firm during playtime
- Durable
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Works better with supervision
goDog Dragons Squeaker Plush Dog Toy – Best for Cuddling
General Description
GoDog uses soft materials which your dog will love to cuddle. It also has a built-in squeaker that encourages your pup to practice its hunting instincts.
The toy also offers auditory feedback that excites the dogs and encourages them to play. Moreover, the manufacturer uses Chew Guard Technology making it tough and chew-resistant.
Brand: GoDog
Material: Plush
Color(s): Pink, green
Shape: Multiple shapes
Size/s: Small, large, and extra large
Weight and other dimensions: 10 x 6 x 4.5 inches (25.4 x 15.24 x 11.43 centimeters); 5.29 ounces (149.97 grams)
Breed recommendation: Large
Toy type: Plush
Recommended uses: Cuddling and play
Pros:
- Soft and long-lasting
- It comes with a built-in squeaker for more excitement
- Soft material ideal for cuddling
Cons:
- Heavy chewers can destroy it
N-Bone Puppy Teething Ring – Best Edible
General Description
All pups must go through the process of growing teeth. The teething process usually gives your dogs a strong urge to chew. In such a case, N-Bone Puppy Teething Ring helps deter destructive chewing behaviors.
Furthermore, it has a unique shape and malleable texture, enabling it to massage gums as the pup enjoys the treat. They are also gentle, safe, and safe to digest.
Brand: N-Bone
Materials: Rice flour and other ingredients
Flavor (s): Chicken, pumpkin, peanut butter
Shape: Rings
Size/s: 7.2 ounces (204.12 grams)(pack of 1)
Weight and other dimensions: 9.75 x 3.25 x 6.75 inches 24.77 x 8.26 x 17.15 centimeters); 7.2 ounces (204.12 grams)
Breed recommendation: Small and medium breeds
Toy type: Edible
Recommended uses: Teeth, behavior
Pros:
- Uses natural ingredients
- It contains calcium for strong bones and teeth
- Has DHA Omega 3 for healthy brain development
Cons:
- It can be sticky and messy
Benebone Puppy Dog Chew Toy – Best for Chewers
General Description
Is your dog a determined chewer? The Benebone Puppy Dog Chew Toy is one of the best chew toys for puppies. Benebone uses 100% authentic bacon flavor for your pup to enjoy more.
It is easy to pick and chew, thanks to its paw-friendly shapes. Please ensure you monitor the toy’s wear and tear. These chew toys come in a two-pack and are excellent for pups under 15 pounds. You should select the right size for your puppy because if they are too large, they are unwieldy.
Brand: Benebone
Material: Nylon with real bacon flavoring
Color(s): Natural
Shape: Multiple shapes
Size/s: Small-maple stick, small-wishbone, and medium
Weight and other dimensions: 2.76 x 0.39 x 4.33 inches (7.01 x 0.99 x 11 centimeters); 4.8 ounces (136.08 grams)
Breed recommendation: Medium
Toy type: Chew toy
Recommended uses: Dental chew
Pros:
- Long-lasting
- Available in different flavors, shapes, and sizes
- Softer than other chews
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- It can be too tough for some pups
FAQs on Puppy Toys
Are Hard Chew Toys Suitable for My Puppy?
Hard chew toys might not be ideal for your pup as it might end up with a broken tooth or sore gums. Please go for softer toys of the right size to help your pup with its chewing needs.
How Long Do Puppies Teeth?
Puppies have around 28 baby teeth, and their adult teeth usually start to push out the baby teeth when they are three to four months old. Your pup will have all the adult teeth by the time it is six months old. The teething process is usually achy, so your pup needs something to gnaw.
Are Knotted Rope Chew Toys Okay for Teething Puppies?
Some dog toys for puppies have knotted ropes. The ropes have numerous tiny strands that can unravel when your pup chews them. This puts them in danger of swallowing the strands, resulting in an intestinal blockage that can be life-threatening. Therefore, avoid rope toys for any dogs, more so pups.
Why Trust Us?
Our team of experienced veterinary product reviewers puts together this review. The team has tested many puppy teething and chew toys in the years of reviewing pet products.
Their experience enables them to know the suitable toys for different dog types. Therefore, the details we share here are trustworthy and can help improve your puppy’s life making it better.
The End
The days of your pup struggling with teething issues, boredom, and destructive behaviors are long gone! After reading this comprehensive review on the best toys for puppies, you know what to do, right?
One of the best dog toys Amazon offers is KONG - Classic Dog Toy. It is also our best overall puppy toy because it is durable, safe to use, easy to clean, and available in different sizes. What are you waiting for? It’s time to have fun with your furry friend!
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