It’s a sad truth that there are a whole lot of dogs in shelters and rescues across the US and beyond, all waiting for their forever homes.

While nobody can wave a magic wand to make them all find a home, one dog chew toy company is celebrating its 70th birthday by giving them a helping hand along the way with some of the best durable dog toys.

Beginning yesterday, February 14th, Nylabone’s CHEWS for Good campaign sees it team up with Best Friends Animal Society, a non-profit with offices all across the country, to donate up to 25,000 chew toys to shelters and rescues.

Until December 31st 2025, for every Nylabone product purchased, the company will donate an equal number of Nylabone toys to dogs in Best Friends Animal Society-affiliated shelters and rescues, up to a total of 25,000. Best Friends runs the largest no-kill animal sanctuary in the country, and works with a network of over 5,000 animal welfare organizations and shelters.

There are plenty of benefits to safe chew toys, and the hope is that these toys will promote healthy chewing habits, reduce anxiety, and in turn increase a dog’s chances of being adopted.

Glen S. Axelrod, the president and CEO of Nylabone Products, explained, “As we celebrate 70 years of making a difference for dogs and their families, we’re proud to continue our mission of improving the lives of homeless dogs.

“According to Best Friends Animal Society, 2.5 million dogs entered US shelters in 2023, and 457,000 dogs were surrendered. A 2021 analysis revealed that roughly 11% of dogs surrendered were due to either personality or minor behavior issues, such as destructive chewing. By providing chew toys that reduce anxiety and encourage calm, adoptable behavior, we are helping more dogs find and stay in loving homes.”

Kim Cassar, senior vice president of marketing at Nylabone, added, “We’re proud to partner with Best Friends Animal Society to help improve the lives of shelter dogs. By reducing stress and promoting calm behavior, our chew toys help these dogs put their best paw forward, increasing their chances for adoption.

To get involved, all you need to do is buy a Nylabone product and upload your receipt to Nylabone Cares or send your entry by mail. Not only will you be helping rescue dogs, but you’ll be in with the chance of winning a range of exciting prizes, from gift cards to the grand prize.

Meanwhile, Nylabone is also releasing a collection of limited-edition birthday chew toys from April. The toys will feature Nylabone’s signature orange color as well as some of the company’s most popular shapes, flavors, and textures.

Thinking of going one step further and adopting a rescue dog yourself? Here are 32 reasons to adopt a dog, while here are eight things you need to know before getting a rescue dog.

Valentine’s Day is coming on Friday, and you might have plans with your partner or some friends. But we love our dogs too, right?

While we associate Valentine’s Day with romantic love, it’s a great day to show all of our loved ones how much they mean to us, and our furry friends are no exception. But how can we show our pets just how much we love them – of course, we can always offer some of the best dog treats, but what else?

Well, natural dog food company Green Pantry has teamed up with Philip Legood, a dog psychologist and trainer, to offer five top tips. Legood explains that cuddling and hugging our dogs may not always be appreciated, and can sometimes feel overwhelming and threatening, so here are some great alternatives.

1. Let your dog explore somewhere new

“Changing up their routine and taking them somewhere different for a walk is a great sensory experience for them,” says Legood. “Try not to use the same route every day.”

Dogs have a great sense of smell, and adding new locations – particularly outdoors – can introduce them to all sorts of different smells to help stimulate them mentally and make walks more interesting.

2. Provide affection on their terms

While most dogs love affection from their humans, it’s best to allow them to choose how and when they receive it. It’s a great way to build trust, too.

“Your pup might like to be in physical contact with you while they sleep, expose their tummy for a gentle belly rub, or even snuggle in close to your face,” says Legood. “However they choose to show their affection, just embrace the moment and, if you can, spend a few moments appreciating their comfort.”

3. Engage their brain

Lots of play and training will help you build a stronger bond with your dog, and working breeds in particular enjoy training activities. As for play, Legood recommends classic games like fetch and tug, but also sniffing games, puzzle toys, and agility training.

4. Offer a healthy, tasty diet:

“A healthy dog is a happy dog and you shouldn’t underestimate the importance of a good and balanced diet,” says Legood, who recommends nutritious food for your pup’s mood and energy levels.

Of course, treats are great, too – but be sure to keep them in moderation! For something different, why not try one of these delicious dog treat recipes for Valentine’s Day?

5. Respect their boundaries

Sometimes, dogs want time to themselves, just like humans.

“Your dog will appreciate you respecting their boundaries, especially when they’re asleep or eating,” says Legood. “Giving them space when they need it will help to strengthen your relationship. Sometimes our pups need time to rest and recharge, without us interfering!”

For more ways to treat your four-legged friend this week, how about taking a look at these great Valentine’s Day gifts for dogs? Or if your partner is likely to buy you flowers, let them know which popular Valentine’s Day flowers are toxic to pets

As anyone who’s ever had a high-energy dog can attest to, it can feel almost impossible to tire them out.

You can make them work for some of the best dog treats, take them on a nice long walk, and play plenty of tug of war, but then when you try to sit down for five minutes they’re still bounding around the room.

However, there’s one toy you may not have thought of. According to Jamie Huggett, or Jamie the Dog Trainer, of Southern Cross K9, this handy toy is a must-have if your dog seems to have an almost limitless supply of energy. And he’s explained why in a recent Instagram post.

In the caption, Huggett explains that the toy is called a flirt pole, and that they’re great for “genetic fulfillment, building strong stimulus control in training and burning off excess energy.”

“You can buy these online,” he explains, “It’s effectively just a leather rag on the end of a pole, and it’s great for giving your dog an outlet if they’ve got high prey drive.”

He goes on to say that you can also use flirt poles in training, to improve stimulus control – the ability of a dog to respond to cues in their environment – and for obedience. 

You can make the dog chase the rag, and then when they get it encourage them to hold onto it. Pull away gently so that the dog needs a strong grip to hold onto it. 

Another activity Huggett uses the flirt pole for is moving his hand up the pole so it gets closer to the dog’s mouth and nose. When the dog releases the pole, he gives the dog a treat. You can throw the treat away from the dog, so that when they return they get to chase the flirt pole again. 

“In summary,” Huggett finishes, “A flirt pole is a great way to build a bond with your dog, because you’re having fun. It’s also a great way to get genetic fulfillment out of your dog, and burn off some energy.”

Flirt poles aren’t too expensive, but they’re also one of the four easy DIY dog toys you can make at home! All you need is a PVC pole or wooden stick, a bungee rope, and an old toy – and a pair of scissors. 

But whether you’ve already got one lying around, you’re buying one, or you’re making one a home, your high-energy dog is sure to love their flirt pole!

First invented in the 1970s, the humble Kong is a staple dog toy for many owners across the world. Whether it’s given to your dog as a chew toy, stuffed with a meal and frozen, or used as a treat dispenser, the Kong toy is incredibly versatile. However, there’s even more to a Kong than meets the eye. 

When I was attending dog training classes with APDT-certified dog trainer and UK Sniffer Dogs Instructor Lara Sorisi, she explained that a Kong is also perfect for introducing your dog to scentwork. 

“It’s been scientifically proven that red Kong toys have their own unique scent compared to other toys. This means that they’re a great starter base for scentwork, as dogs are able to easily differentiate them from other objects with just their nose. One of the main reasons I like using Kongs for scentwork is that their scent dissipates from the area they were placed within 10 seconds of removal. This makes them great for adult dogs but also one of the best puppy toys.

“The reason this is important is that it really streamlines the scentwork training process. Most scentwork training is done with cloves or catnip, as these have really strong scents. However, once they’ve been placed somewhere, the area needs to be thoroughly cleaned. A lot of dogs that are really clever will go back to where the previous scent was, so if there’s any residue then this will confuse them. However, as a red Kong’s scent dissipates so quickly, you don’t need to worry about cleaning the area afterward.” 

Scentwork is a fantastic activity for any dog. Not only does it enable them to use their strongest sense to interact with the world, but it’s also incredibly taxing on their brain too. Plus, if you have a senior dog or one recovering from an injury or illness, it’s a really inclusive activity that doesn’t require any physical exertion. 

Lara says that “Scentwork is a fantastic form of mental enrichment and stimulation. While dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years, finding a good outlet for them to fulfil their predatory sequences is a really rewarding form of enrichment and training. It’s also a great way to connect with dogs that have anxiety or reactivity, as the act of sniffing is calming for dogs. To be honest, I’ve never met a dog that doesn’t love scentwork.” 

As the owner of a high drive border collie, I spend a lot of time trying to figure out new and interesting activities to keep her engaged and stop her from getting bored. Fenwick can find being around other dogs very stressful at times, so it’s been necessary to try a wide variety of different activities to tire her out on the days when she’s particularly reactive. Scentwork is perfect for Fenwick on many fronts – it gives her something specific to focus on, it really works her brain and the act of sniffing itself helps to calm her down as well. 

How to teach your dog scentwork with a Kong 

So, how can you teach your dog this Kong scentwork hack? I’ve broken down everything you need to know below.

1. Do some prep work

Before you begin your scentwork training, make sure that you’ve prepared some yummy treats to reward your dog with. You’ll also want to choose what phrase you want to use – I personally use ‘Seek’, but you might like to try ‘Find Kong’ or whatever works best for you. 

2. Introduce the Kong to your dog

When you first introduce this scentwork game to your dog, you want to keep it as simple as possible. This should be a case of ‘errorless learning’, where your dog can only succeed and they don’t have the opportunity to get anything wrong. 

Crouch down to the same level as your dog with your hands behind your back, with some treats in one hand and the Kong in the other. Present the hand with the Kong to your dog and say your command phrase (we’ll use ‘Seek’ for the purpose of this article). When your dog touches its nose to the Kong, mark the behavior with a ‘Yes’, ‘Good’ or whatever your marker cue is. At the same time, use your hand with the treats to hold a treat on the Kong for your dog to eat. By feeding the dog a treat so close to the Kong, it’s helping to reinforce that Kong means good, tasty things to your dog. 

Repeat this step for as many times as it takes until you feel that your dog is confidently performing the behavior and really understands what you’re asking for. 

3. Start moving the Kong away from you

Now you’ll start placing the Kong on the floor next to you rather than keeping it in your hand. This will help teach your dog that it’s the Kong that’s important, not your hand itself. Ask your dog to ‘Wait’, so that they don’t immediately follow the Kong. Once they’re settled and looking at you, say ‘Seek’ to release them to go to the Kong. Keep everything else the same for the best results, with both hands starting behind your back and feeding your dog their treat on top of the Kong. 

If your dog is happy and confident with the Kong placed close to you, you can start moving it further away incrementally. Again, make sure not to rush this process, as each individual dog will learn new activities at their own pace. If your dog is struggling to understand what you want from it, simply reset and go back a step to make it easier. Make sure that you don’t react negatively if your dog gets something wrong, as you want this to be a fun and positive experience for both of you. 

4. Start hiding the Kong

Once you feel that your dog fully understands this activity, you can try hiding the Kong for them to find it. When your dog has reached this point, you want to make sure that they’re not seeing you hide the Kong. The best way to do this is to simply put them in another room and ask them to ‘Wait’ (or close the door if you know that they’ll likely come through without your command). 

When hiding the Kong, make sure to start off as easy as possible again. Perhaps try hiding it around the corner of your couch, or under a loose flap of blanket. As your dog gets used to scentwork, you’ll be able to challenge them more, but you’ll want to avoid frustrating them by making it too hard at this early stage. 

Again, if your dog struggles to figure out what you want, simply take your training back a step (although make sure you’ve given them enough time to try and figure it out themselves first). 

5. Get creative with your hiding spots

Fenwick is now at the stage where I have to think really hard about my hiding spot to properly challenge her. I’ve discovered that placing the Kong above her head height makes it more difficult, so placing it on table tops or nestled among couch cushions makes her work a little harder. If you have some leftover cardboard boxes, you could try hiding your Kong amongst them too. There are a wealth of possibilities when it comes to scentwork! 

If you find that your dog really enjoys scentwork, I’d recommend finding a certified scentwork instructor to help you take them to the next level. Alternatively, if there’s no one available in your area, UK Sniffer Dogs has some fantastic online courses as well. 

Looking for more training advice? Here’s how to stop a dog jumping up.

Buying the best puppy toys is an investment worth making. Dogs are smart animals, and, as puppies, sometimes they can be challenging as well as bags of fun and love. Pups need mental and physical stimulation daily to prevent problems due to stress, boredom, or discomfort from situations such as teething or separation anxiety.

Toys for puppies can also help as a second pair of hands if you are busy (which, let's face it, most of us are) and can’t give your full attention or in circumstances when you are learning how to crate train a dog for example.

Toys burn off energy helping your puppy to settle physically and mentally, and they're also super handy when your dog is teething so that you redirect them onto a toy instead of nipping your hands. The journal Applied Animal Behavior Science, adds that play develops a dog’s motor skills and assists with social cohesion so there is a lot more to it than just fun.

As pet owners, we've spent more than enough time (and money) finding out what makes great puppy toys worth it. We tested several products from cuddly companions for helping our pups sleep to fetch toys and chewy options to sink their teeth into. Assisted by vet and pet behavior consultant, Joanna Woodnutt MRCVS, we've rounded up nine options we'd buy time and time again and we've highlighted the benefits of each choice too.

“Puppy toys provide mental stimulation, learning through play, and an outlet for their chewing instinct,” Dr Woodnutt affirms, so here are our favorites.

The best puppy toys 2026

How we tested the best puppy toys

Hands on testing

We couldn't bring you a guide to the best puppy toys without putting each product through its paces with the experts...puppies! Each and every one of the products in this guide has been tested by real puppies and used for several weeks (and much longer in many cases as you'll see above) to see how well it fared.

Durability and safety

We took into account things such as the durability of each toy and whether it was safe for a little pup with razor sharp teeth to play with because the last thing any pet parent needs is potential choking hazards for their pooch.

Since puppies can have a tendency to tear things up, especially when they're teething, we considered how long lasting these toys were and whether they were also easy to clean to keep them hygienic.

Squeaks and fun elements

During testing, we made note of any fun elements that made the toys even more appealing to our puppies. Squeakers are great fun for dogs but not all owners will be keen on listening to them so we've taken this into account. Some of the food-related toys we tried also needing testing for how difficult they were for the pups to figure out as anything that's too challenging can be incredibly frustrating for the dog, rather than engaging.

Should my puppy always have toys?

Your puppy needs toys to prevent them from becoming bored, but whether or not a puppy should have toys all of the time is another question entirely. In general, it's never a good idea to have too many toys out at once and to only bring out playthings when you feel a puppy will benefit from them. It will stop a pooch from becoming overwhelmed while keeping their interest high.

“It’s generally a good idea to give your puppy free access to at least one toy, especially when they’re going through a chewing phase,” says veterinarian Dr Joanne Woodnutt MRCVS. “However, keeping most toys hidden away and rotating them stops them from becoming boring.”

It's also a good idea to remove toys during mealtimes so that a puppy's focus is on food rather than play. Unless the toys are robust, you should also try and supervise play sessions rather than always leave puppies to their own devices.

How to choose the best puppy toy

It can be tempting to just stock up on the cutest, brightest, and perhaps cheapest puppy toys when buying for your new dog but it pays to do some research before committing to buy.

Cheap toys probably won’t last very long and those which are non-durable toys can leave a lot of mess behind – even presenting a choking hazard for very young dogs. It's a good idea to invest a little more money and look out for toys that claim to be durable. Check the type of material used: rubber tends to be a good option for most puppies because of their sharp teeth.

It's a good idea to buy toys with little to no stuffing, especially for destructive puppies. Stuffing can be easily ripped out and spread around your home, while those that feature other materials, such as rope, tend to last a lot longer.

Toys with flavorings, such as vanilla, mint or meat flavorings can help keep your puppy’s attention for longer, giving them extra motivation to chew. And look for toys that feature squeakers if your dog likes sound stimulation – although be aware that many puppies will try their hardest to rip out and destroy squeakers.

What toys should you not give to a puppy?

All of the toys we have listed here can be freely given to a puppy to play with but you should be aware that not all toys are suitable. Shy away from cheaply-made squeaker toys because there's a chance they could break apart and end up being swallowed. Also, avoid giving puppies toys with loose parts including batteries: you don't want to risk your dog swallowing such items.

Don't give puppies toys made for human children either – they're not robust enough to last enthusiastic chewing. Finally, if you are looking to give a puppy a food-related toy, avoid rawhide chews which can get lodged in a puppy's intestine.

“Avoid anything that isn’t made for puppies or seems to be poorly made.” says veterinarian Dr Joanne Woodnutt MRCVS. “Those teeth can get through many toys easily and you don’t want your pup to need surgery to remove a broken toy from his stomach!”

How many puppy toys should a dog have at once?

It can be tempting to open up the toy box and have many playthings available to your fur baby at any given time. But experts suggest rotating your puppy toys weekly so they have only access to four or five, each offering a variety of uses. These can include their favorite comfort toy, a rolling toy that will keep them busy, a chew toy to gnaw on and a puzzle toy to keep their mind active.

Should puppies have toys in their crate?

Adding toys into the crate can be a great way to associate that space with fun and interesting things for your pup to do. It’s worth making sure you rotate the toys so that they are still fresh and interesting to your dog, rather than leaving them in there for long periods of time.

What is the best toy for a puppy to chew on?

Dogs and puppies are usually very willing to give most toys a try, particularly where chewing is concerned. Toys made of harder rubbers tend to be good and safe contenders for chewing which also last. They are generally made in various shapes and sizes to cater to different mouths and puppy teething stages. Thick knotted rope toys are another good option especially if they like tug-of-war games as well as chewing and gnawing. Balls are a further option to consider however the popular tennis ball is not a great one to offer, while it is good for fetch games they don’t hold up to chewing.

Check with your vet if you are thinking about offering a rawhide chew product as these present a potential choking hazard plus many rawhides are by-products of the fur trade.

Do eight week old puppies need toys?

Toys should be classed as a necessity not a luxury for any dog and puppy due to their benefits. It is recommended that toys are offered to puppies between the ages of two and 10 months old as during this period they are experiencing rapid development. The toys given to your young furry friend need to be age appropriate but their breed and personal preference will also likely play a role in their favorite choices.

How many toys should a puppy have? This feature has the answer. If you’re not sure where to get started with these toys, here are some fun games to play with dogs.

The Black Friday dog toy deals are well and truly rolling in now, with some of the most popular playthings on sale at Chewy and Amazon showing savings of up to 65% off the usual retail price!

Investing in a few of the best dog toys is well worth it if you're looking for fun and interesting ways to provide your canine companion with the physical and mental stimulation they need to thrive.

Wonderful for banishing boredom and easing separation anxiety, dog toys an affordable way to add some enrichment into your pup's day. And with so many fantastic options to choose from, you really are spoiled for choice this year. 

Whether you're after a challenging puzzle to give your pup's brain a good workout or you're looking for a tough and durable toy for an aggressive chewer, you'll find that our roundup below of the best Black Friday dog toys has something to suit everyone. 

• Amazon US: Save on Chuckit!, Cheerble, and other big name brands
• Amazon UK: Jump on these limited-time dog toy deals
• Chewy: Buy 2 get a 3rd free on a selection of mix and match dog toys

Black Friday dog toy deals

Dog toys are one of those must-have pet accessories, providing our fur friends with the mental and physical stimulation they need to thrive - but let's face it, they don't always come cheap. Thankfully, Amazon and Chewy's Black Friday dog toy deals have revealed massive savings of up to 65%, making it a great time to stock up on those popular playthings that may previously have been too expensive to justify. 

Want more bargains or haven't yet found what you're looking for? Be sure to check out PetsRadar's live blog of the Black Friday pet deals, or our guide to the best Black Friday dog bed deals.

The best dog puzzle toys are a great way to keep your canine entertained and engaged, while also helping build their cognitive abilities through problem-solving. Dogs love playing games, and while a classic game of fetch will give them plenty of physical exercise, when you want to keep their minds sharp you should turn to these fiendish (but fun) puzzles.

Arguably, the best dog puzzle toys are especially important for the smartest dog breeds, as these clever canines require lots of mental stimulation. If you can’t keep their brain busy, they may divert their attention to other, less desirable behaviors including chewing and barking.

Dog puzzle toys come in various shapes, sizes, styles, and difficulty levels, but almost all of them share one common feature. Hiding the best dog treats inside compartments will ensure that your clever canine is motivated to solve the puzzle and acquire their tasty reward.

The best dog puzzle toys

How to choose the best dog puzzle toy

Dogs need mental stimulation as much as they need physical exercise. Keeping your pet pooch from getting bored will stop them from destroying property, improve their mental health, and keep them entertained.

When on the lookout for a dog puzzle toy, you need to think about what level your dog is at. If you have never tried your dog with a puzzle toy before it’s best to start off with a level 1 game. The Hide-A-Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle Plush Dog Toy keeps the challenge low, but is high on entertainment value, and is a definite boredom-buster for a dog who loves a game of fetch.

For dogs who have already dabbled with puzzle toys, level 2 toys are a better choice. The Outward Hound Puppy Hide n’ Slide comes with 14 compartments to help stimulate your dog, and is the ideal option for your first foray into intermediate games.

For a different challenge, the Outward Hound Dog Brick, Treat Dispenser for Dogs Training Funny Feeding, and Trixie Dog Activity Flip Board will give your fur friend plenty of stimulation and a reason to use both their nose, paws, and jaw to get their favorite tasty treat.

How we tested dog puzzle toys

Whenever possible, we perform hands-on tests for the products that we recommend in our guides. That should be paws-on in this case, as our line-up of excellent writers let their furry partners-in-crime put the toys through their paces for the review process.

To save you from wasting your money, we selected the best dog puzzle toys out there and put them to the test with real dog owners. We took into consideration the following factors:

• Value for money: We evaluate dog puzzle toys on both what they offer and the price that you have to pay for them to help you get the best bang for your buck. We’ve included budget, mid-tier, and premium options to help make shopping for dog puzzle toys more accessible and easy.
• Difficulty: Dog puzzle toys come in a variety of difficulty levels and it’s important to match the toy to the dog. That’s why we’ve tried to evaluate how tough each puzzle is to let you know whether it’s suitable for beginner, intermediate, or advanced canine puzzle solvers.
• Durability: Dogs are a lot of things, but they’re rarely delicate and dainty when it comes to their playthings. As a result, the best dog puzzle toys need to be durable enough to stand up to some ruff and tumble. We’ve also tested some extra tough options to suit aggressive chewers.
• Ease of cleaning: Dogs tend to explore everything head-on, and that includes their toys. That means a lot of sniffing and a lot of doggy slobber getting on the toys, so it’s important to note how easy each toy is to clean. Many of them have containers and pockets for treats, and we want to ensure that you can clean these between play sessions to avoid unwanted bacteria build-up.
• Fit for purpose: While all the other factors are important, at the end of the day the biggest test of a dog puzzle toy is whether your furry friend actually enjoys playing with it. While no two dogs are the same, we know that testing these toys with our own pets is the best way to evaluate them, and that’s exactly what we do.

When we haven’t managed to get hands-on with a dog toy but still feel it needs a spot on our list, we thoroughly research the product descriptions and videos of the toy in use, as well as look at professional and user reviews to give you as much information as possible. Rest assured, it’s always our plan to test everything hands-on eventually.

Other puzzle toys we considered

Since this guide was last updated, we’ve continued testing the included products. After reviewing them, we decided to replace the following items, as we were able to physically test similar options available.

• HIPPIH Interactive Dog Ball
• Qyrrvxy Dog Puzzle Toy
• Funny Feeding Treat Dispenser

Types of dog puzzle toy

When you’re first looking for a dog puzzle toy, you might be overwhelmed by the sheer variety of options out there. There are loads of different types of puzzles to suit different dog breeds, sizes, and intelligence levels.

Treat dispensers:

Treat dispensers are probably the simplest type of dog puzzle toy. They’re small objects, usually around the size of a tennis ball, with one or more openings inside that can be filled with treats. The treats won’t just fall out of the hole without some encouragement, which encourages your dog to play with the toy and figure out how to access the delicious treats inside.

They can be made from a variety of materials including hard plastics and fabric, but they’re most commonly made from rubber, which is flexible and safe on your dog’s teeth.

Snuffle mats:

The best snuffle mats are fabric mats that are designed to encourage your dog's natural foraging behaviors. They come in lots of styles, shapes, and sizes, but all share a common design philosophy, with lots and lots of fabric strips attached to the mat, creating pockets and folds for you to hide dog treats inside.

Some look like shagpile rugs, while others like the Routesun Snuffle Mat in our lineup have more defined pockets and flaps for hiding treats. They can also double up as slow feeders, as your pooch will have to work to extract the delicious snacks that you hide inside.

Spinning and sliding puzzles:

Spinning and sliding puzzles are toys that have hidden compartments that can only be accessed by moving sliding doors, lifting platforms, or rotating sections.

Much like snuffle mats, they encourage your dog’s natural foraging behaviors while also providing a bit more of a cognitive challenge for them, as they need to figure out how the mechanism works to access their treats.

Spinning and sliding puzzles can come in a variety of different challenge levels designed to suit dogs at all intelligence levels. It’s often recommended that you start with a relatively simple puzzle toy and move up in difficulty as they master their current ones.

Slow feeders:

Not all slow feeders are puzzle toys, but some puzzle toys can double up as slow feeders. The purpose of a slow feeder is, as the name suggests, to slow down the rate at which your canine devours their food.

Some animals can’t help themselves and wolf down their food, which can cause them to be sick, so anything you can do to slow their roll will be good for their digestive health and help you avoid some nasty cleanup.

Are puzzle toys good for dogs?

There are plenty of reasons to use a feeding puzzle toy. These toys are great for giving your dog a physical workout, but they also need to exercise their brains too, and that’s where puzzle toys come in.

As vet Rebecca MacMillan puts it, “Puzzle toys can be more engaging than a straightforward chew or rope toy, helping to exercise their brain differently. We often focus heavily on physical pursuits in dogs, and while this is important, so are other kinds of stimulation.”

Every type of dog can benefit from puzzles too, not just the traditionally more intelligent breeds. MacMilan says they’re especially great for “dogs that are resting after surgery or are on a restricted exercise regime, suffer from anxiety or boredom, and dogs that are very active or high energy.”

Do puzzle toys make dogs smarter?

While it’s great to keep their minds sharp, don’t go expecting them to turn into puppy Einstein after a few puzzles.

“There is no hard evidence that puzzle toys will improve your dog’s IQ, but we do know that they can help with their mental well-being overall and may reduce destructive behaviors”, explains MacMillan.

Likewise, don’t start them off with anything too taxing.

“Start with simple ones, to begin with, and work your way up. This allows you to gauge your dog’s level and stops them from becoming overly frustrated by the toy if they can’t work it out.” says MacMillan. Also don’t be alarmed if your dog prefers simpler toys – every pooch is different and some just prefer chasing a ball around the garden.

Read next: I taught my dog to communicate using the viral Amazon talking pet buttons – here's what happened

Edited by Georgia Guerin.

Playing with your furry friend is a great way to bond and spend time together, and with our picks for the best dog toys, you can ensure your pooch is happy, healthy, and stimulated. Having an array of options your dog can play with ensures they always have something to do that isn't destructive. The right toys also have a variety of other benefits for your pets as well, from offering mental stimulation to promoting dental hygiene.

We've got you covered with a number of options for dogs at all activity levels, and stages of life. If you already know your dog is tough on toys be sure to check out the toughest dog toys for chewers, or our best rope toys guide. In this round up, we've collected our favorite choices for dogs, looking at durability, suitability for different types of dog personalities, and even whether the toy makes noise or contains stuffing.

We also took a peek at the best dog puzzle toys, and teething toys, as well as whether a toy might help with separation anxiety. Our best puppy toys round up is also available if you've just brought home a new furry friend!

Dr Nick Horniman MRCVS, veterinary surgeon and founder of the online pet pharmacy mypetsvet says, “Dog toys provide mental stimulation, enhancing your dog’s cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities. Toys also foster a stronger bond between you and your pet through interactive play sessions. Additionally, certain toys promote dental hygiene by helping to clean teeth and gums. Finally, they offer an outlet for physical exercise, keeping your dog active and preventing destructive chewing behavior. In essence, dog toys are more than just playthings; they contribute to a happier, healthier life for your pet.”

For now - let’s have a look at some of the best dog toys, available at a range of price points to suit your budget.

The best dog toys 2026

How to choose the best dog toy

When picking a dog toy, there are a few things to consider:

Engagement

Every dog is different, but if you’ve got a particularly inquisitive dog, you could consider toys that offer lots of ways to interact. Perhaps through squeakers, different textures, or even intelligent interactive toys.

Size

It’s a good idea to pick a toy that matches well with the size of your dog. A toy which is too large can be overwhelming for small dogs, while larger dogs may find small toys don’t offer the right kind of stimulation.

Ease of Use

If a dog toy requires some kind of complex set-up or tricky management to use, chances are it’ll end up in a box and barely touched. Look for those that are simple and easy to play with and chew straightaway.

Durability

If you’ve got a dog that likes to destroy their toys, look for more durable ones that will hopefully last a bit longer. Although they can be more expensive, if you keep hold of them for a while, they can be better value for money. If your pooch is gentler, then you’ve got scope to go for cheaper and less durable options.

Hazards

Be careful of toys that might have small detachable solid parts that could potentially choke your dog - especially if they’re quite destructive. It’s always wise to supervise your dog when playing with toys, especially if it’s the first time they’ve used them.

Why do dogs destroy toys?

There are a variety of reasons your dog may destroy their toys. High prey drive breeds are more likely to tear apart soft toys, and many dogs like to remove the squeakers from toys if they can find them. Playing with your dog, or wearing them out can alleviate this, as mentally and physically stimulated dogs are less like to destroy their toys.

Keep in mind that wear and tear are a normal effect of a dog playing with toys. Chewing, throwing, and whipping toys around are going to cause damage. Depending on your canine breed, their behavior may be an instinctual behavior and need tougher toys.

When dealing with puppies and younger dogs, remember that puppies teethe and that may be while they've been more destructive. Younger dogs in general also tend to be high energy, and if the toys you purchase are not durable they may not last long at all.

Some dogs will destroy toys when dealing with separation anxiety, stress, boredom or frustration. It can also be a behavior to try and get your attention.

If a dog is undernourished, or hungry, they can also be harder on their toys. To ensure this isn't an issue make sure your pooch is getting enough to eat with nutritious dog food.

Do I need to clean my dog's toys?

It’s a good idea to give your dog’s toys a good clean every once in a while. Although you don’t need to be overly fastidious about it, dog toys are a bit of a breeding ground for things like bacteria, mold and mildew so it’s worth keeping an eye on them.

Hard toys made from plastic, silicone and similar materials are very easy to clean. Brush off any major dirt from them before soaking them in warm soapy water, giving them a good rinse and drying them off before giving back to your dog.

Soft toys, such as those made from fabric, rope or other similar textiles are a bit harder to clean. You can spot clean using a sponge for any obvious dirt, but for a deeper clean, they can usually be placed in the dishwasher (top rack) or washing machine on a hot cycle. Be careful if your soft toys have been damaged, as they might get misshapen - it’s worth checking the label to make sure it’s safe to machine wash them too. Allow toys to dry fully before giving them back to your dog - avoid using a tumble drier as this can also damage the toys.

Why do dog’s toys squeak?

Not all dog’s toys squeak but those that do are tailored for a specific doggy instinct: to catch prey. The squeak is intended to mimic the sound of a small animal and this is why dogs tend to love playing with them. The high-pitched sound gets dogs very excited so if you have a pet who appears to be disinterested, a squeaker toy may prove to be the answer.

How to pick the best dog toy

There are thousands of toys built for dogs on the market, and finding the right one requires knowing your dog. You want an option that fits your canine companion's personality, activity level, and destructive tendencies so you don't end up buying items that just collect dust in a corner somewhere.

If your dog is a tough chewer, you'll want an option that can hold up to them even when they're excited or bored. This means avoiding soft or fluffy toys, and opting instead for durable options built to hold up to dogs on a mission.

For dogs that need a little extra stimulation, puzzle toys can be just the ticket. These toys often feature little mechanisms that hide treats, and make the dogs work for their reward. The extra stimulation is excellent for dogs bored by normal toys, or for distracting dogs with separation anxiety when you leave the house. These toys can provide hours of stimulation, even for high energy dogs.

For high energy breeds, or toys for outside, you want an option that is durable, and easy to see in the bushes at the park. Balls are always great for fetch, but be careful to choose an option that isn't too big, or too small, for your breed. Frisbees can also be a ton of fun, and come in different shapes, sizes, and materials.

When bringing home new toys, it's worth keeping an eye on your dog when they first play with it to ensure there aren't any hazards. Of course, the most important part of bringing home dog toys, is finding one your furry friend will love, whether for a few days, or their whole life.

If you’re looking for play inspiration, here are eight exciting games to play with dogs.

Finding the best puppy teething toys has two benefits: you’ll find you have a much happier and more content pet on your hands, plus you also distract attention away from your furniture and clothes. After all, a teething puppy needs to find an outlet to relieve pain and discomfort during this natural part of growing up and it’s better to provide something safe, appealing and robust.

In this guide, we take a look at some of the best teething toys for puppies including toys that have a delicious flavor and those that can contain treats. We flag up products that can mentally stimulate puppies and toys that will also maintain good dental hygiene. As such, you should easily find something suitable here but it’s important that you consider more than one.

“Make sure you are providing your puppy with plenty of chew toys,” advises expert vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan. “Give him a variety of textures. Some pups like something firm to bite down on, and others want something softer or more textured.”

The best puppy teething toys 2026

How we chose the best puppy teething toys

The best puppy teething toys are specifically designed to be chewed and gnawed on by your teething puppy so our primary concern was safety and resilience. To that end, we looked at the materials being used – we found they were typically made from rubber – and examined whether or not they would stand up to your young canine’s fearsome bite. It’s important that a toy offers enough give to avoid hurting them or damaging their new teeth.

Why are puppy teething toys important?

When you find a puppy teething you’ll notice their behavior changes. They may bite more, become more aggressive, eat more slowly or cry more often. They may also start to chew on your furniture. A teething toy provides a safe outlet for a puppy’s discomfort at this time, in much the same way that the best dog chew toys will prove to be a welcome distraction.

Different teething toys for puppies relieve the problem in different ways. A chew toy will simply allow a puppy to enjoy something firm to bite on while a frozen toy will soothe gums. 

What age do puppies need teething toys?

Teething starts at different times depending on the breed but puppies usually get their baby teeth through in the first four to six weeks. They typically start losing their baby teeth a few months later.

"Puppies start to lose their deciduous (milk) teeth at around four to five months of age," explains Dr Rebecca MacMillan. "The process usually starts with the small incisors at the front of the mouth, with the larger teeth following later on."

Different teething toys for different stages?

At eight to 12 weeks, you’ll be looking for products which massage a puppy’s gums or those that can be filled with soothing frozen treats. When they are reaching the end of the teething period introduce the best chew toys for dogs including rope toys, fetch toys and more hard-wearing ones.

“By six months of age or older your dog will have lost all of his deciduous teeth and will have all 42 permanent ones,” says Dr MacMillan. Here’s some more info about how long puppy teething lasts.

Teething toys to avoid

You should avoid natural chew toys, such as bones, antlers and hooves, as these can be too hard on your young pup's mouth or even too large for them in the first instance. Always look for a product that's been professionally devised to help with your puppy's teething phase. 

Can puppy teething toys damage teeth?

Where tiny teeth are involved, it goes without saying that you'll want teething toys that are highly durable so that smaller parts don't come off and pose a hazard to your pup. But it’s also important to look for high quality, tough rubber that's firm enough to stand up to chewing but that's soft enough for developing teeth. You'll find many puppy teething products use softer material than their adult counterpart for this reason. 

If you’re in the midst of teething, check out these puppy teething tips to help you out, plus we’ve got more advice on how to stop a puppy chewing, too.

It’s no secret that dogs love to chew things, and if you don’t provide them with the best dog chew toys then you may find your shoes, your kid’s toys, and everything else in your home on the menu.

While it can be destructive to your precious belongings, chewing is a natural and healthy behavior for dogs, so it’s important to give them a suitable outlet. We don’t want to stop them chewing, we just need to make sure they’re chewing the right things, whether that’s something edible like the best long-lasting dog chews, or the most durable dog toys that they can play with for months.

The best dog chew toys aren’t just for your dog’s amusement; they also have some real health benefits, too. Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety, and chew toys have been shown to reduce stress and even improve cognition and memory in anxious dogs. See our guide on how to reduce separation anxiety in dogs for more advice here.

There are lots of different types of chew toys out there, with options made from softer materials like fabric, rubber, and rope, as well as tougher options like Nylabones and even natural bones and antlers.

Our expert vet generally recommends you stick in the former camp, but we’ve reviewed toys of all types here to give you the best chance of finding a toy your dog loves. If you have a younger pup, check out our guide to the best teething toys for puppies.

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PetsRadar's pick of the best dog chew toys 2026

Best overall dog chew toy

Are you even a dog owner if you don’t have at least one classic Kong lying around your home? Kong is pretty much the go-to brand when it comes to tough dog toys and they have built up a well-earned reputation for being a high-quality brand.

If you’ve got a dog that absolutely loves to chew, then the Extreme version of the “Classic” Kong toy is the one to get. It’s been specifically designed with ultra-chewers in mind with a black rubber formula that can withstand even the most powerful jaws.

Just like the other Kong toys, you can fill the Kong with treats, or even with special Kong Stuffing treats. It will keep your dog interested in the toy for longer – especially if you pop it in the freezer first.

If you’ve got a dog with separation anxiety, a frozen Kong stuffed with peanut butter can help take their mind off the fact that you’ve left them alone. The excellent news is that Kongs are dishwasher safe, so you don’t need to worry about cleaning it after your dog’s done with it for the day.

There are plenty of Kong-like imitations on the market, so if perhaps your dog isn’t a super-chewer, you might be tempted to go for a cheaper version (just don’t expect the same level of quality). The variety of sizes available in the Kong Extreme is great news if you have a very large dog, but be aware that the super large model is highly priced.

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Best value dog chew toy

Is this not the cutest thing you've ever seen? Okay, maybe it's just us but this adorable donkey toy has a sweet look and a low price that makes us want to rush out and buy one right now!

Super affordable and full of fun, this toy features a built-in squeaker to add a touch of unpredictability and the rope legs mean that it also doubles up as a great tug-of-war toy.

Made from plush cotton, it's lightweight and durable enough to hold up to moderate chewing. It has a waterproof layer inside too which prevents it from getting soaked through with dog slobber. We love that's it's machine washable as well, so it's a breeze to freshen it up.

The toy has a soft and comfortable feel which is great for soothing anxiety, stress, loneliness or boredom, and if you give this to a young pup, you can use it as a way to teach appropriate chewing behavior.

Not keen on the donkey design? No problems, this toy also comes as a cute lion, or at this affordable price, why not get both?

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Best dog chew toy for aggressive chewers

If your pooch is a lean, mean, chew toy-destroying machine then you’ll need something super durable, and this Earth Rated Dog Enrichment Toy is up to the challenge thanks to its thick, natural rubber construction.

The toy has a ribbed, ergonomic design to help your canine get a proper grip, either holding it in their mouth or front paws. This increased control helps to prevent frustration and keeps them interested for longer. There are also slots inside that you can fill with wet treats or snacks to boost your dog’s engagement and reward them for their tenacity.

The all-rubber design means that it’s dishwasher safe, so you can easily clean the slobber-covered toy when your pooch has finished retrieving their snacks. It’s freezer-safe too, so you can give your best friend an ice-cold snack dispenser when the hot weather rolls in.

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Best dog chew toy for large dogs

Instead of adding to the mountain of plastic and rubber toys, you could go down the natural route as an alternative.

Antler chews are exactly what they say on the tin – chews which are made from deer antlers. This brand in particular uses antlers from red deer and fallow deer, much of which is from Scottish highland herds. The antlers are cleaned (without chemicals) and cut to various sizes.

You can buy Antos in a number of different sizes depending on the size of your dog, encompassing small, medium and large.

The idea is that over time, your dog will naturally grind the antler bone down until it has completely disappeared. Depending on what kind of chewer your dog is, you might find very little mess left behind – but some users reported that bits can break off from time to time.

As the toy is made from natural materials, no two bones are the same. They can be a variety of colours and lots of different shapes and sizes – this should also help keep your dog interested since each one should be slightly different from the last.

Designed for extreme chewers, many find that antler toys last much longer than other toys which are designed for chewing, while also holding your dog’s attention more. Since they are natural, you’ll also be less worried about your dog ingesting small parts of the toy and causing a potential problem – it’s still worth supervising your dog while they are chewing a toy like this, especially for the first time.

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Best dog chew toy for small dogs

ChuckIt is another go-to brand when it comes to reliable and dependable dog balls. If you’ve got a dog that has chewed up no end of ordinary (cheaper) dog balls, then ChuckIt is worthy of your attention.

The balls come in a variety of sizes, making them suitable for pretty much every breed. If you’ve got a small dog that might otherwise struggle or be overwhelmed by standard tennis ball sized dog balls, then the small is the one to go for. Equally, if you’ve got a very large dog, you can match them to an XL Chuckit.

Being made from a lightweight rubber material, these balls can float in water and also bounce erratically and highly, making them ideal as chase and fetch toys. When your dog catches it, you can feel confident that even if they spend the next hour chewing it, they’re unlikely to do too much damage to the ball.

We also like the bright orange colour of the ball, not only is it fun to look at – they’re easy to spot among grass, on the beach and in water, or even among our dog’s other toys. If you don’t fancy touching the ChuckIt when it’s covered in dog slobber, further good news is that it’s compatible with a ChuckIt launcher.

The only major downside of ChuckIt balls is their high price compared to standard dog balls. However, if you’ve got a dog that loves to chew, we can’t recommend these highly enough. There’s no squeakers in the Ultra Ball, so if you’ve got a squeaker lover, look out for the ChuckIt Ultra Squeaker Ball instead.

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Best dog chew toy for puppies

An inexpensive dog chew toy that not only let's your furry friend worry at something which isn't precious to you but cools them down on hot days as well? What's not to like? Designed to be filled with water and popped in the freezer, these strong plastic rings will provide welcome relief for your pooch on those scorching summer days. It's also perfect for teething puppies, providing both something to gnaw on and to help soothe the pain this can cause.

The plastic rings also float, even when frozen, and are easy to throw so they're great for water play. This means you can use them to encourage your pooch to plunge into the pool or river as an alternative way to help them cool off.

The x-shaped holes around the 5-inch diameter ring allow you to slot in dog chew treats so your happy hound can have some variety in what they gnaw, and help to keep their attention on it for longer. These boredom-busting rings will also help clean their teeth, particularly if combined with dental chews.

Although it's strong enough to play tug of war with, and it has a new thicker ring design to make it more durable, be warned this chew toy still isn't for aggressive chewers. As it's made of plastic some users have reported that as it cools less-passive dogs will start to destroy it, so it's best to keep an eye on them when they are gnawing on it for long periods. However, you can buy them in packs of two on Amazon, so you can swap the ring with a more sturdy frozen one when it looks like it is starting to lose its rigidity.

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Best dog chew toy for teeth

If you're looking for a toy that's going to keep your pup occupied for hours while also removing plaque and tartar buildup and freshening the breath, this great little gizmo from Arm & Hammer will tick both those boxes nicely.

We love the ergonomic shape of this toy plus all the scrubbing grooves, which means this toy does a brilliant job of acting like a toothbrush. It's flavored with peanut butter, which means your pup will likely go nuts for it (pun intended!) and the nubs in the center get right up into the gum line for optimal cleaning.

Made of super tough nylon, this dog toy is intended for use by the most powerful chewers, although we do recommend as with any plastic toy that you supervise your canine companion while they're using it.

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Best dog chew toy for anxiety

This is a wonderful addition to your dog's toy box if you're looking for something that will hold up well to heavy chewing and can be used alone or interactively in a game of tug of war.

We love the double ring design, which thanks to one being made of rubber and one of nylon, provide two different textural chewing surfaces for your pup to sink their teeth into. The rubber is also non-toxic and the nylon food-grade, so you don't have to worry about your dog coming to any harm.

Because this toy has a lot of grooves and little smooth surface, it does a wonderful job of cleaning your canine companions teeth as they chew, sweeping away plaque and tartar to ensure their pearly whites stay in tip-top condition.

Highly durable and super strong, pet parents rate this toy highly when it comes to longevity. But, it is on the hard side and this, plus its size, means it's best suited to medium to large breeds as opposed to toy or small breeds with tiny teeth.

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Best dog chew toy for taste

Anxious puppers can often be aggressive chewers, treating the destructive behavior as a way to calm their nerves. While it’s not the cure for the problem — see our guide to anxiety in dogs for advice there — a robust chew toy can help keep your dog occupied and your shoes safe.

It comes in a range of sizes ranging from extra small to extra large, so you should find a Nylabone Power Chew to suit your dog no matter what their breed is. Thanks to the multiple paw grips and durable nylon construction, it offers them a robust and interesting toy to contend with. There are a variety of textures on the chewing ends to reduce plaque and tartar build-up as they chew, and the built-in bacon flavor will ensure that they’re satisfied with their chewy plaything. That bacon flavor is infused into the material, so it doesn’t get licked off no matter how long they chew on it.

The only downside is that there is nowhere to put snacks inside the toy, so your pooch will have to settle for the simulated taste alone. Nylabone makes lots of different sizes and shapes of toys if you don’t think this one will suit your breed, so check out their full range.

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Best wooden dog chew toy

If you're looking for something a little bit different that mimics what your dog would play with in the wild, then this wooden stick from Dogwood might be just the ticket. Pups love playing with sticks and this one is made from a blend of natural wood fiber and safe synthetic materials that mimic the taste and texture of the real wood your dog loves.

Available in a range of sizes from a petite 4' H x 0.75" W up to a large 8" H x 1.5" W, this wooden stick is ideal for all ages and stages from teething pups all the way through to senior dogs. It also changes color as it wears down, so you'll know when it needs replacing.

Unlike the real deal that can easily splinter and cause oral and intestinal damage, the blend of materials in this toy prevent splintering to keep your dog safe. That being said, no chew toy is indestructible, so we still recommend supervising your pup when they're playing with this.

A great toy for indoor and outdoor play, it's far messier than a real piece of wood so your dog gets all of the fun without you having to do any of the usual cleaning up!

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Best durable dog chew toy

Built for tough chewers, this West Paw classic rubber bone toy is a great safe alternative to wood sticks and is ideal for dogs who love to gnaw and play fetch. It's made from durable, bouncy and floatable Zogoflex material, which makes it perfect for use on both water and land.

We love the bright colors this toy comes in, which makes it really easy to spot, and it's available in a range of sizes, so there's one to suit every breed. Non-toxic and recyclable, it's also dishwasher safe, which makes it a breeze to keep clean.

This is a great toy for any dog who loves to chew, but we'd recommend opting for the KONG Extreme toy if you have a super aggressive chewer on your hands as although it's strong and durable, it won't quite standup to that level of teeth action!

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Best alternative dog chew for teeth

This bone-shaped chew is designed to look after your pooch's teeth by ensuring that every bite will sooth your pup while keeping their gnashers clean. It has been made by Nylabone, a company that has been producing chew toys since 1955. By rating their toys according to how well they cope with different chewing styles and strength, you will know exactly what to expect from the moment you make your purchase. In this instance, you're getting a power chew for the most extreme gnawing.

Created out of durable nylon and thermoplastic rubber, the centre section is where most of the magic happens. The toy provides lots of ridges that slip between the teeth, preventing plaque and tartar build-up. There are also little nubs that also scrape away debris while massaging gums. This helps to keep bad doggy breath at bay as well.

To ensure a dog keeps coming back, the toy also has a delicious bacon flavor throughout. It means you could use the chew as a treat during training, for instance, without fear that you'll be helping your dog pack on the pounds. But do be sure to buy the correct chew size. There are three in total and the maker clearly shows the best one to buy according to your dog's weight so it's hard to go wrong.

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How to choose the best dog chew toy

There’s a wide variety of different chew toys on the market, all designed to meet slightly different needs. It’s hard to go too far wrong when picking up a chew toy, but it’s worth paying attention to exactly how destructive your dog is to help you choose the right toy.

If you have a dog that likes to chew but isn’t overly destructive, you can probably get away with the cheaper options, or those which haven’t been labelled as tough. If you have an extreme chewer that really likes to go to town on a toy, look out for those which have been marked as durable or designed for extreme chewing.

You might also want to look out for chew toys which have a flavouring, whether that’s something that humans are likely to find appealing – such as mint or vanilla, or something which is more in line with your dog’s tastes, like bacon.

Look for chew toys which include a variety of textures to keep your dog from getting bored. Rope, raised surfaces, rubber, soft and hard surfaces can all be stimulating for your dog, especially highly intelligent ones that tend to get easily fed up.

Lastly, be wary of very cheap chew toys. It might seem prudent to stock up on low-cost toys, but if your dog chews them up in just a few minutes, they won’t seem like such good value for money after all.

What is the best thing for dogs to chew on?

There’s nothing more iconic than the image of a dog with a bone, but in the modern day are they actually good for your dog, or is a dog chew toy better? We chatted to vet Rebecca MacMillan about the benefits of chew toys.

“Chewing is a natural behavior in dogs and gives them a sense of well-being, but we want to make sure that what they chew on is appropriate.” explains MacMillan, “If you don’t want your personal belongings destroyed, then it is worth providing your dog with some items of his own!”

When choosing a dog chew toy, Dr MacMillan recommends a product with some give and flex to it – something made of rubber, rope, or a tough fabric like cotton is a good idea. As a rule of thumb, MacMillan says that “you should be able to bend them slightly or indent them with a fingernail. If it is too hard there is a serious risk of causing dental injuries, such as painful tooth fractures.”

She goes on to say that you should consider avoiding “Nylabones, deer antlers, hooves, or bones” as they’re likely to cause injury due to the tough material and potential for sharp edges.

Rawhide treats and chews are another option, but they aren’t all created equal as some can be a choking hazard, so look for something that has been approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).

How often should my dog be using a chew toy?

Too much of a good thing can often be detrimental, but fortunately, that’s not the case with dog chew toys. We asked our expert vet Dr MacMillan and her response was reassuringly that “There is no limit as to how long or often your dog should be chewing on a chew toy.”

“Chewing is a natural behavior, and many dogs find it relaxing. It is perfectly safe for your dog to chew on their toy for hours on end, but only if the toy is not showing any signs of wear and tear,” explains Dr MacMillan. So, as long as your dog’s chew toy is in good condition, they’re good to chew to their heart’s content. Do keep an eye on the toy’s condition though, as even the toughest chew toys will break down eventually. Dr. MacMillan recommends that "If the toy is starting to look damaged, then you should replace it with an alternative.”

If you leave your dog to chew on a damaged toy, then they may even up chewing pieces off and swallowing them. While Dr. MacMillan says that “small bits of ingested toy material may be passed without problem” she does warn that “larger pieces could be a choking hazard or cause a foreign body in your pet’s digestive tract”.

Why has my dog become possessive of their chew toy?

While there is no limit to how often your dog can use their chew toy, if they start showing signs of obsession and can’t easily be distracted from their chewing then you may need to step in.

“Anxiety, stress, boredom, or fear of competition could cause a dog to obsessively chew,” explains Dr MacMillan. “If you see signs of aggression when you approach your chewing pet, such as a hard stare, raised lips, tense body language, growling, or snapping, then they could be resource-guarding. It is worth speaking to your vet or a qualified pet behaviorist if your dog is obsessed with their chew toy or if they won’t allow you to touch it.”

Read next: are rawhide bones good for dogs, why is my dog chewing rocks and is rawhide bad for dogs?

Everyone who’s ever had a puppy knows they’re into everything! No abandoned shoe, discarded bottle or floor cushion is safe from those inquisitive little furry explorers. Farley, a miniature Australian Shepherd pup from the Canadian Rocky Mountains, quickly discovered a household toy that went a step better – it played back!

Like most dogs of the shepherd breed, Aussies are intelligent, energetic and like to explore their surroundings. Although she also loves hiking, camping and swimming Farley soon found that the perfect plaything was in her very own home. Spring-mounted door stoppers never get tired of playing – they go ‘boing’ ceaselessly but can’t run away!

Owners Victoria Stuart and her partner Todd – who describe their beloved pet as ‘the center of our worlds’ – were amused at Farley’s attachment to her new toy. They filmed her reactions for TikTok where the videos quickly went viral and gave them an idea.

• Best dog toys: Perfect playthings to keep them occupied
• How to play with a puppy: Tips and advice from a vet

A viewer posted a comment suggesting a ‘bouncy board’ covered with multiple door stoppers – and soon the Stuarts knew exactly what Farley was getting for Christmas.

Todd thought it through and decided to combine the bouncy board with a toy box. He bought a readymade wooden planter online and carefully measured the spacing to put in a whopping 25 door stoppers.

The initial video of Farley receiving her doorstopper gift, titled ‘Farley’s new toy’, has been now been viewed over 30.3 million times on TikTok. Farley’s joy as she figures out how the box works and starts to play with it is the best thing you’ll see today! Complete, utter joy and excitement captured in a few seconds of film as she leaps from one paw to the other, barking.

A couple of weeks into the new year and we’re pleased to report that the novelty hasn’t worn off. Victoria, who posts on TikTok and Instagram as JustBeingFarley, has continued to post clips of her pet having the time of her life with her new toy. Farley is one lucky dog, with owners who pay her so much attention – but having watched her joyful exploits, we think her owners are pretty lucky too.

If you want if Nylabones are safe for dogs, you’re not alone. Nylabones are non-edible flavored chew toys. They come in endless flavors, so chances are you’re pup has one that absolutely love.

With some pet parents loving these products and other pet parents advising against them it can be a little confusing and overwhelming trying to decide if this is a good product for your dog or not. They seem harmless enough. They come in popular flavors and they last longer than some of the best long lasting dog chews.

But are they actually safe for dogs? We spoke to vet, Dr. Jo Woodnutt, and found out the answer.

What is a Nylabone?

You'd be forgiven for thinking that a Nylabone is an edible bone. After all, the word 'bone' is baked right on into the name, plus, they come coated in flavoring, what could be more suitable for consumption than that?

Nylabone is a very unfortunate choice of name because it's actually a toy and not a food product. Created in the 1950s, Nylabones are made from a form of plastic called Nylon and then coated in delicious flavors, such as peanut butter, chicken or bacon to give them their delicious taste.

The whole purpose of creating the Nylabone was to create a toy for aggressive chewers that would help teach them appropriate chewing behavior. By coating the toy in flavors that dogs naturally find appealing, the idea is that your dog will go for their new toy rather than your clothing or furniture.

Separation anxiety in dogs is also quite a common issue, so some pet parents find that using Nylabones is a great way of soothing their hound when they’re home alone. As a non-edible chew, Nylabones come in a range of shapes, sizes, and flavors, and include rings that can be given to teething puppies.

Are Nylabones dangerous?

What our vet has to say...

Speaking to Dr Jo Woodnutt a qualified vet, she says, “The jury is out on this! Whether Nylabones are safe for dogs or not will depend a lot on your dog and their style of chewing. If your dog likes to eat things and has a powerful jaw, it’s possible they’ll swallow bits of Nylabone.”

She adds, “While the plastic is not in itself dangerous, if enough is swallowed it could cause a blockage (intestinal obstruction), which would require emergency surgery to remove. On the other hand, if your dog is a gentle chewer and prefers to rip things up rather than eat them, Nylabones may be safe.”

If you want to get your dog a Nylabone (and plenty of pet parents do!), then the most important thing is to use your common sense. Just like with any of the best dog toys, we recommend you inspect your dog's Nylabone regularly, looking for any signs of cracks and splinters. When it starts to look really worn, is close to breaking, or has started to break, replace it with a new one.

A great way to avoid mistaking a Nylabone for an edible item is to carefully check what the product is made from before you buy it. Online retailers, such as Amazon, clearly list 'nylon' or 'plastic' in the material section of the product description, so taking a look at this will help prevent confusion.

You'll notice there are a lot of Nylabones on the market, so it's worth thinking through what you're primary purpose is for purchasing this toy. For example, some are great for teething puppies while others will do a brilliant job of keeping your canine companion's pearly whites in tip-top condition. Make sure you select the right Nylabone for your dog’s size, age, and needs.

What Nylabone has to say...

Here’s what the team at Nylabone have to say about picking out one of their products:

“It is important to select the appropriate chew toy type, size, and formulation based on your dog's age, breed, chewing style, and weight. The pressure exerted by a strong chewer's jaw is considerable, and when directed straight down can put tremendous (as much as 450 psi) stress on the dog's teeth. It is therefore recommended that nonedible chew toys be large enough to encourage chewing from the side rather than the top and bottom. If you have more than one dog in your household, select chew toys that are appropriate for your largest, strongest chewer.”

Any dog that’s been given a Nylabone should be supervised when using it. While the Nylabone has been constructed to make sure large chunks can’t be broken off, nothing is ever 100% safe and if your dog does snap off and swallow a large piece, they’ll need to be taken to the vet immediately.

Nylabone safety tips

1) Conduct regular checks: It’s a good idea to have a look at your dog’s Nylabone after each use. While that may sound like we’re being pedantic, regularly inspecting the chew toy will let you quickly catch if any pieces have been broken off. You’ll also be able to spot when the Nylabone is starting to wear down, and needs replacing.

2) Supervise your dog: Never leave your dog alone when they’re playing with their Nylabone. It can be frustrating when you’ve finally got some peace to have to keep watching them, but if a piece breaks off you’ll be able to move it out of their way so that it doesn’t present a choking hazard.

3) Proper storage: Being made of plastic, the Nylabone will be affected by the heat if it’s left out in the sun. When plastic melts, it releases toxic chemicals, so always store this toy away when not in use, preferably out of reach of your dog.

So, are Nylabones safe for dogs?

So there you have it, everything you need to know about Nylabones! Remember, non-edible Nylabones are no more dangerous than other chew toys when used under the proper supervision, but they are most definitely not to be ingested.

If you’re feeling concerned about getting your dog a Nylabone, but still need a toy that will hold up to an aggressive chewer, why not check out our guide on how to use Kong toys?

We’re huge fans of these hollow rubber toys, and they can be smeared with peanut butter, yogurt, canned pumpkin, or dog food, for a delicious mentally and physically stimulating treat.

Read next: Safe dog chews for aggressive chewers and are yak chews safe for dogs?

An affordable and popular Cyber Monday pet deal this year is the ChuckIt! Fetch & Fold Sport Ball Launcher, available for $9.43 at Amazon (a 27% savings off its retail price). 

There are few things that shine about this product. First, the price. In terms of ball launchers, this item is one of the most affordable options. It fits into the category of dog toys that cater to people who want to avoid or cannot perform too much mechanical movement on their part to throw a ball for a dog to fetch. If you have the budget for a higher-end launcher, like the All for Paws Automatic Ball Launcher or the GoDogGo Fetch Machine, check those out too. But if you are looking for something less than $100, the ChuckIt! Fetch & Fold Sport Ball Launcher is a great affordable choice.

And we're not the only ones who think so: this dog toy ball launcher is the number one bestseller in that category on Amazon. 

The unique characteristic of this ball launcher is that it can be folded, making trips to the dog run less cumbersome. 

The toy can accommodate a standard tennis ball, but if you don't have any at home, the item also comes with one medium sized fetch ball. According to the manufacturer, the ball has a lot of bounce to it. It also floats, in case you want to toss the toy into a pool for your pooch to fetch in the warmer months. The ball's bright orange color also makes it easy to locate if it gets too far away.

So if you have a hyperactive dog at home and are looking for an easy and inexpensive way to tire them out, consider the ChuckIt! Fetch & Fold Sport Ball Launcher this Cyber Monday. 

These Cyber Monday dog toy deals are well worth jumping on if you’re after a little something special to pop under the Christmas tree for your good boy or girl this year. 

Save anywhere from 40% to a mind blowing 65% on six of the best dog toys of 2021, including the popular festive version of Chewy's Goody Box, packed full of holiday dog toys, treats & accessories this season. Not to mention, great savings on bouncy balls that are sure to keep your canine on their paws!  

Whether you’re after a new chew toy for your buddy or an entertaining game that you can play together, these super fun Cyber Monday dog toy deals have got you and your canine companion covered.

• Best Cyber Monday Deals at Chewy
• Best Cyber Monday Deals at Walmart
• Best Cyber Monday Deals at Amazon US
• Best Cyber Monday Deals at Amazon UK
• Best Cyber Monday Deals at Pets At Home

PetsRadar's pick of the best Cyber Monday dog toy deals

Best Cyber Monday deals from across the web

• Early Black Friday pet deals 2021: PetSmart, Amazon, Petco and more!
• Black Friday Amazon pet deals 2021: Shop early and save big!
• Chewy Black Friday deals 2021: Early sales on pet supplies
• Pets at Home Black Friday deals 2021: Best of the early bargains
• Best Black Friday dog food deals: feed your pooch for less
• Best Black Friday cat food deals 2021: Early sales on delicious dishes
• Best Black Friday cat toy deals 2021: Early offers from Amazon, Chewy and more

While most dog owners have heard of Kong toys, how familiar are you with how to use Kong toys to entertain your dog? Kongs rank highly in any list of the best dog toys, and their wide variety of uses make them an excellent choice for almost any dog.

Kongs are hollow toys, made of rubber. Some are soft enough for teething puppies, while others are designed for vigorous chewers. They can be stuffed with a variety of dog treats or food items for your dog to enjoy; after use, they can easily be cleaned in the dishwasher. Kong toys are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from extra-small sizes for toy breeds, to extra-extra-large sizes for very large dogs. Fortunately, there’s a Kong toy to fit the needs of nearly any dog. 

• The best dog chew toys: Give them something to get their teeth into
• Best durable dog toys: Tough toys they can't destroy
• Best rope dog toys: Great for fetching, chewing and tug of war

Benefits of using a Kong toy 

All dogs need mental stimulation and enrichment. In a perfect world, we would all take our dogs for long walks and play interactive games, such as fetch and tug-of-war, multiple times daily. Unfortunately, the reality of life is that we aren’t always available to do those things as often as we (or our dogs) would like. Even when we’re at home, we’re not always available to provide our dogs with attention. As I’m writing this article, my dog is enjoying a nap – but what if he wanted to play instead? That’s where a Kong toy can help. Kong toys keep your dog busy and mentally stimulated, even when you’re unavailable for interactive play.

Taking just a few minutes to stuff a Kong toy with food or treats can occupy your dog for several hours, depending on your dog’s personality and interest level. As your dog works to remove food or treats from the Kong toy, he’s expending excess energy. Not only does this help reduce boredom, it can also help alleviate anxiety. In some dogs with mild separation anxiety, a Kong toy can help prevent destructive behavior simply by giving the dog a source of entertainment and an outlet for his energy while left at home alone.

While the gift of independent play is a major benefit of a Kong toy, it isn’t the only benefit. Some people feed their dog’s daily meals from a Kong toy, instead of a food bowl. This can be especially beneficial when striving to help your dog lose weight. Feeding meals from a Kong toy instead of a food bowl will add a bit more physical activity to your dog’s day, while also helping a small portion of food last longer for your dog.

Kong toys can also be used for teething puppies and we’ve included the Puppy Kong in our guide to the best puppy teething toys.

Are Kong toys safe?

Kong toys are designed to be strong and relatively indestructible, so leaving a Kong toy as a special treat when your dog is home alone is pretty common among dog owners. However, the unattended use of Kong toys (or any toy, for that matter) is never completely risk-free. Although it’s rare, some dogs manage to chew off fragments of Kong toys and swallow them. If this happens to your dog, you could find yourself facing an emergency veterinary visit and maybe even emergency surgery. 

Before leaving your dog alone with a Kong toy, consider your dog’s chewing style and personality. Is your dog a vigorous chewer with a reputation for destruction? In that case, don’t allow access to any toys, including a Kong, while he is unattended. Vigorous chewers should be given access to a Kong toy only when they can be closely watched, so you can take it away at the first sign of a problem. If your dog is an average chewer, however, you probably have little reason for concern. (Again, though, it’s important to remember that the risk is never zero!)

Next, consider the size and shape of your Kong toy. Is it large enough for your dog? If a large dog is given a Kong toy designed for small dogs, the risk of ingestion goes up significantly. An appropriately-sized Kong toy, however, will be difficult to swallow. Use the size guide as a general guideline when purchasing a new toy for your dog. Then, watch your dog as he plays with his Kong toy, ensuring that the toy cannot fit entirely within your dog’s mouth.

Finally, inspect your dog’s Kong toy daily. If you see cracks in the rubber or other signs of aging or wear, it’s time to replace the toy. A toy that is beginning to break down heightens the risk of your dog tearing off a bit of rubber and swallowing it. 

What to put in Kong toys

There are many ways that you can stuff your dog’s Kong toy. Hard treats can be wedged inside of the Kong, requiring your dog to bounce or jostle it to dispense treats. You can also smear a soft treat on the inside surfaces of the Kong, allowing your dog to use his tongue to lick the treats clean. Use trial and error to see which type of treat your dog prefers. 

There are a number of treats specifically designed for use in Kong toys. These include both hard treats, such as KONG Ziggies, and soft or creamy treats, such as KONG Easy Treat. You can also think outside the box, using other soft or crunchy treats that you may have at home. 

When it comes to soft treats for spreading, common options include:  

• Peanut butter (avoid sugar-free peanut butter, which may contain xylitol)
• Yogurt
• Canned pumpkin
• Canned dog food
• Cream cheese
• Applesauce

You can even freeze liquid inside a Kong toy, as a special treat during the warm summer months. (You will want your dog to enjoy this treat outside, though, because it will be messy!) Seal the holes in each end of your dog’s Kong toy with peanut butter, then fill the center of the toy with chicken or beef broth. Place the toy in the freezer overnight to make your dog his very own pupsicle!

Calories count, even in a Kong toy

As you experiment with treats and foods in your dog’s Kong toy, you need to ensure that you aren’t providing your dog with too many calories. The last thing you want is for your new enrichment to cause obesity! Try to keep your dog’s daily caloric intake relatively constant, even with the addition of these new treats.

If you’re adding dry dog food (kibble) to your dog’s Kong toy, be sure to remove that kibble from your dog’s daily food allotment. If you are adding other treats, calculate how many calories you’re giving in the form of treats and decrease your dog’s food correspondingly. With a bit of trial and error, you should be able to find a balance that allows your dog to maintain a healthy weight while still enjoying his Kong toy. 

Keep in mind that at least 90% of your dog’s calories should come from a well-balanced dog food. If your dog receives too many calories from treats, he will be less likely to eat his dog food. This can result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies. 

Be flexible and experiment

Now that you know how to use Kong toys, it’s time to try one out with your canine companion! Pick a Kong toy that is the appropriate size and consistency for your dog, as well as a couple of different fillings. Experiment and see which fillings are the most appealing to your dog. Does your dog prefer hard, crunchy treats that he can remove by bouncing and tossing the Kong toy, or sticky treats that he can lick from the toy? If you try a variety of options, your dog should let you know his preference!

The spooky season is upon us, so it’s only right that you treat your pooch to some fun and festive Halloween toys to celebrate. Chewy, the go to online destination for pet supplies, has revealed this year’s Halloween toy collection for pooches.

We all know that Halloween is a time for watching scary films and playing lots of mysterious games, but what about your favorite four-legged friend?

Best sellers include one of the best one-off treat boxes for your pets, especially themed for Halloween and hand-picked by pet parents, the Goody Box Halloween Toys, Treats & Bandana for Dogs, that includes two squeaky toys, two pouches of tasty treats, and a spookily stylish bandana. 

Then there's the Frisco Halloween Dog Toy collection with an assortment of spooky Halloween characters so frightfully good you'll want your paws on them immediately and the best part? They're currently on a flash sale. 

• 5 delicious homemade Halloween dog treats

The bat plush features a built-in squeaker and crinkle-paper stuffed wings, just perfect for playing fetch, hide and seek, or simply being a snuggly cuddle buddy. 

While the Halloween Haunted Shack Hide and Seek Puzzle Plush Squeaky Dog Toy, with its super spooky design and squeaky toy inners, will help keep their mind sharp. Combining the best of both plush and puzzle toy types, your cool canine will have hours of fun with this ghoulish Halloween toy.

It’s important to also remember that trick or treat isn’t just for humans! Your pooch will love Halloween ever more with all of these fancy treats on offer. 

Chewy’s delicious range of Halloween treats includes lots of fall favourites from pumpkin-flavoured chews and apple cinnamon biscuits, to Greenies Scary Berry dental sticks, Blue Buffalo Boo Bits and Spooktacular Snacks from The Lazy Dog Cookie Co.

And no spooky season would be complete without a cool Halloween costume for your pet. From dinosaurs and lobsters, to the more traditional pumpkins and tarantulas, to more unusual looks such as famous TV characters and even hot dogs, it’s quite likely that your pet will outshine you with their outfit! 

To view the full Halloween toy sale visit Chewy's official website. 

The Wickedbone Smartbone dogs toy appears to have arrived from the future. Looking rather splendid thanks to its sleek, clean design resembling a hi-tech bone, it'll not only going down a treat with your dog once it's up and running, it'll also keep any gadget lover curious too: maybe, just maybe, we humans could have some fun with this as well!

It certainly attracted our attention when we were putting the best dogs toys to the test. Download the accompanying app and you can control how it moves, even getting the athletic toy to jump and flip. You can also make use of the interactive mode and allow the toy to figure what your dog is doing before responding automatically.

As such, it's a great toy for anyone who has a dog that becomes easily bored because there's no real way for your furpal to work out what the toy is likely to do next. Made from safe and durable materials, it also operates outdoors as well as indoors and it'll withstand a reasonable level of chewing. There's also a one-year warranty for added peace of mind.

Wickedbone Smartbone: Features 

This smart dog toy isn't the cheapest by any stretch of the imagination but the manufacturer can justify the cost. Intelligently-designed and billed as the world's first interactive dog bone, it works with both iOS and Android smartphones, providing an app that its split across two modes – drive and interactive – to give you all the control you need.

Connecting the app to the device is as simple as tapping the smartphone. In Drive mode, you can then select one of nine motion icons, performing actions such as roll forward, turn around, shake, quick spin and front flip, as well as using the virtual joystick to manoeuvre. The Interactive mode, meanwhile, lets you sit back and allow the toy to do its own thing. You can, however, determine the length of a play session: anything from five to 20 minutes.

In both cases, you can keep an eye on the battery life. You get about 40 minutes in Drive mode and four hours in Interactive, with full USB charging of the built-in battery taking around an hour. The bone itself moves at a maximum speed of 11.5 feet per second or 3.5 metres per second so it's rather speedy. You can also control it from as far as 65.6 feet or 20 meters away: an impressive enough range.

Even so, it's not 100 percent perfect. Although the FDA food-grade polycarbonate coating the device protects a dog's claws and teeth, the device isn't ideal for heavy chewers. The tires on either end of the bone can be rinsed under the tap and cleaned but the actual body is not waterproof. This also means that, while it can be used outdoors, you should be wary around puddles, rivers and in the rain. Those, however, are relatively small niggles.

Wickedbone Smartbone: User reviews 

Having a toy that you can control using a smartphone is a head-turner. It has also won over some users. One reviewer wrote: “I was really skeptical from the description because there is a lot of design and technology that needs to come together to make something ambitious like this. But it is all here.” Another was surprised that their dog took to it well. “I'd recommend this for anyone that wants to stay engaged with their dog as its loads of fun for both of us,” the user commented.

Yet one said you need to be careful when using it because the device can move fast. To help, there are three app settings that let you adjust the speed, swerve and acceleration but the reviewer was still worried that spins and jumps could accidentally hit your dog: “I tried reducing the speed and settings but its still hard movements,” the user wrote. 

Thankfully, few people had problems getting to grips with the app. “It is definitely beginner level,” a user said, although some expressed concern about the required permissions. Looking at the App Store for iOS, it would appear the company has yet to provide details about its privacy practices and handling of information.

The main problem, however, seems to be the material. Some don't like the hard plastic, one yearned for a furry cover and another said “the display glass is cracked from him biting down on it.” Most people suggest that dogs do enjoy the Wickedbone though. “My dog is absolutely in love with the toy,” said one. “I really love this thing,” said another. The key decision is whether you want to stump up so much money.

Should you buy the Wickedbone Smartbone? 

If your dog is generally happy with any toy and appears to play happily for hours, then you may not find a need for a smart toy. But if your dog is easily bored and you're finding the toy box is overflowing with discarded purchases, then the Wickedbone is more likely to pique their interest.

The ability to interact can help with bonding and the number of moves on offer gives you a decent amount of control. Again, however, it all comes down to cost. But get dogs used to the Wishbone Smartbone and it's likely they will get a lot of use out of it, potentially making it great value for money.

You might also want to consider the Enabot ROLA PetPal.

The Nina Ottosson Dog Worker interactive treat puzzle is a complex toy that's ideal for highly intelligent breeds who need something challenging to get stuck into. The perfect brain workout, this engaging puzzle will keep your pooch occupied and give them the mental stimulation they need to thrive.

Put the best dog treats you have in your cupboard to good use by hiding them in the different compartments and letting your pooch use their problem-solving skills to figure out how to get to their reward. There's plenty of hiding holes and we particularly love the combination of movements required to release the treats - your pup will have to swivel the flippers, scoot the blocks, and spin the center wheel before they can get their paws on the goods!

Made from a durable plastic that's BPA, PVC, and phthalate-free, this is a safe and non-toxic toy and it can be easily cleaned with warm water and mild soap in between uses. There are no removable parts either, so you won't have to worry about any bits of this puzzle coming loose and being swallowed.

One of the best dog puzzle toys on the market, let's take a closer look at the Nina Ottosson Dog Worker interactive treat puzzle to see if it's the right fit for your forever friend. 

Nina Ottosson Dog Worker: Features

Although this is a relatively complex toy for your dog to figure out, it’s fairly simple in design and construction. It features a number of holes that you can place treats in – or perhaps smear with something like peanut butter or meat jelly – which are then covered over by movable flaps, plugs, or a large, circular wheel in the middle of the toy. 

Dogs will need to use their brains to figure out how to unlock the treats, and you also have the option to include a two or three-step motion to make it extra challenging. For example, you can plug the large, circular wheel so that not only does the dog have to move the plug out of the way, but it then has to rotate the wheel to get a treat out. 

Designed to be durable, none of the parts are removable. It is made from BPA, PVC, and phthalate-free materials, which are safe and also make it easy to wipe clean when you need to. Considering just how much your dog is likely to sniff, lick, and chew the toy, it’s recommended that you give it a good wipe every now and then to keep it fresh. 

It’s fairly large for a dog toy, so it’s perhaps not one for those with limited space, but it is also quite flat, so you should be able to store it away neatly when not in use. It has rubber feet on the bottom, which makes it ideal for hard floors, as it shouldn’t slip and slide about as your dog investigates it. Although you can of course use it on carpeted floors if you wish, using it on a hard floor makes it easier to clean up any mess that may come from the food inside it.

Nina Ottosson Dog Worker: Performance 

Over the years I must have spent hundreds of dollars on various different dog toys for my miniature dachshund, who is easily bored and very, very destructive. I was therefore slightly hesitant before I purchased the Nina Ottosson toy, as it’s certainly not a cheap proposition. 

However, after a couple of weeks of using it, it seems to be worth every penny, as my dog loves playing with it, and it feels like a great way to give her some treats, while also making sure she works to “earn” them. 

That said, there are some important caveats to take note of. While she loves playing with it now, it took some time for her to understand how each of the treat compartments could be accessed, and I feared she would easily get bored and walk away. I sat with her and moved the toy’s parts with my hands, and encouraged her with plenty of praise when she managed to move something by herself.

Some of the toy’s parts are stiffer than others, so if you have a very small dog, perhaps with very small paws (such as a chihuahua), then they might struggle with some of the compartments. By contrast, very large dogs may overwhelm the toy, so generally I’d recommend it for small to medium-sized dogs.

Another important thing is to ensure that you supervise your dog while playing with this toy, especially if they are prone to chewing. Occasionally, my dog will get fed up with trying to figure out how to get the treats out and simply take the approach of trying to chew her way through to them – it hasn’t worked yet, and nothing has detached, but as nothing is totally indestructible, it’s not something I’d feel wholly comfortable leaving her alone with.

Should you buy the Nina Ottosson Dog Worker?

Although reasonably expensive for a dog toy, this is a toy that should hopefully give your dog lots of enjoyment, last very well, and give them far more mental stimulation than the average toy. 

If you have a dog that has been easily bored by other “normal” toys, it’s one that comes well-recommended, and it’s quite a fun exercise teaching your dog how to use it – so it’s good for bonding as well. 

Lastly, if you have a dog that is eating its dinner far too quickly and you need to slow it down, this could be used to help. It’s durable, well-built and easy to clean, and overall comes very highly recommended.

Customized for a growing puppy’s baby teeth and gums, the Kong Puppy Toy will help provide some much-needed relief as your puppy loses their baby teeth and gets ready to welcome their adult ones. 

One of the best teething toys for puppies, It’s also a great way to help your young fur baby learn appropriate chewing behavior, get them to settle in their crate at night, and help to make the times when they’re separated from you that little bit easier.

We love how this hollow toy can be stuffed with treats, making it great for mental enrichment, and its unpredictable bounce means it also offers plenty of fun physical stimulation. 

Durable and long-lasting, this affordable toy comes in a range of sizes to suit every breed, but is the Kong Puppy Toy really one of the best puppy toys on the market? Let’s find out! 

Kong Puppy Toy: Features

Made from a gentle and natural rubber formula, the Kong Puppy Toy has been specifically designed to meet the needs of your pup’s 28 baby teeth with a soft feel that will reduce a lot of the pain that comes from the inflammation that occurs during teething.

Hollow in the middle, the Kong can be stuffed with kibble and peanut butter for a great mental enrichment activity that will occupy your young pup’s mind. It also has an unusual shape that offers a fun unpredictable bounce, making it ideal for games of fetch and keeping your puppy physically stimulated.

A chew toy, a fetch toy, and a puzzle toy all rolled into one, the Kong Puppy Toy ticks all the boxes when it comes to versatility, durability, and longevity,  and it’s also dishwasher safe, meaning clean up is a breeze. Available in small, medium, and large sizes, and a choice of pink or blue, there’s a Kong toy to suit every puppy regardless of breed or gender.

And although it makes an especially good teething toy, that’s not the only way you can use it. You’ll find the Kong Puppy Toy equally effective for helping to ease separation anxiety, alleviating boredom, and keeping your young fur baby company during crate training.

Kong Puppy Toy: User reviews

With over 20,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, it’s clear that the Kong Puppy Toy continues to be a big hit with both pet parents and their young pups with one reviewer calling it the ‘greatest dog toy of all time’.

It’s a sentiment echoed by thousands of happy customers who praise the toy’s ability to keep their puppy happy and content. One reviewer writes: “The buzz is beyond deserved! Maple absolutely loves her Kong and will spend hours bouncing it around and trying to get all the yummy treats we put in it.”

Another delighted puppy parent says: “Our 17-week old puppy has never loved a toy so much! We adopted her from the Humane Society at 8-weeks old and her teething/mouthiness (biting our hands, clothing and feet) was a nightmare. I should have caved in and bought this KONG toy then instead of waiting until now.”

While there are plenty of people raving over the Kong Puppy Toy, as you’d expect, it’s not for everyone. The main complaints amongst pet parents are the sizing (which is smaller than a lot of people were expecting), and the difficulty in keeping it clean (the grooves mean it’s easy for bits of food to get stuck). 

That being said, the ratio of positive to negative reviews is strongly skewed in favor of the former, and given how affordable this toy is, we reckon it’s well worth a try if you’re wanting to ease some of the pain and discomfort that comes with teething.

Should you buy the Kong Puppy Toy?

When it comes to teething, play, and mental enrichment, the Kong Puppy Toy ticks all the boxes. We love that the soft rubber design soothes sore gums, while the hollow design and unpredictable bounce means the toy can also be used as a food puzzle or in a fun game of fetch.

While it is slightly on the small side and the grooves can make it trickier than other toys to keep clean, we feel the affordability, durability, and sheer range of uses that the Kong Puppy Toy can fulfil make it well worth the purchase. 

If you find yourself questioning, ‘Why do dogs lick toys?’, then you’ve come to the right place. While licking isn’t out of the ordinary for our furry friends, you still might be curious as to why they’re doing it – especially if it’s a new behavior.

Once you’ve invested in some of the best dog toys, it shouldn’t come as a surprise if your pooch is giving them a little more attention. After all, who doesn’t like a brand new toy? However, if your dog is constantly licking them, then you’ll probably be left with lots of questions, like whether it’s something for concern.

The good news is that it doesn’t always mean that something is wrong with their health. Some dogs might choose to lick their toys because they want to explore – something that is very common for teething pups. However, it’s worth being aware of all the reasons as it could be a sign of doggy dementia, anxiety in dogs or canine compulsive disorder.

Below, we’ve listed all of the reasons why dogs lick toys to help you work it out. If you’re concerned about your pup’s behavior, we advise speaking with you vet for a proper diagnosis and guidance.

Why do dogs lick toys?

1. Hunger or thirst

While it may seem like a weird way to try and fill their tummies, your dog may lick their toy as a way of letting you know they’re hungry. This is particularly likely if the toy they’re licking is one that you’d normally fill with the best dog treats, so it could be their way of saying ‘I’m starving, please feed me!’

Thirst is also a common reason for licking toys as this helps to stimulate the salivary glands, which can help to get rid of dry mouth. If you notice your dog isn’t frequenting their water bowl as often as you’d like but keeps licking their toys, consider investing in one of the best pet water fountains to try and entice them to drink up. 

2. Exploration

Before they can even open their eyes, puppies will start to explore the world with their tongues and mouths, a behavior that continues on into adulthood. Chewing and licking are great ways for dogs to get to know their surroundings and it’s particularly common in the early days when a puppy is teething.

If you have a young fur baby in the house, the best teething toys for puppies have been specially designed to let them lick away until their heart’s content, and for older dogs, a durable chew toy can provide the perfect surface for their tongue to explore.  

3. Separation anxiety

Dealing with separation anxiety in dogs is something a lot of pet parents go through and believe it or not, licking their toy may be a sign that your dog is having trouble being away from you. This is particularly prevalent amongst pets at the moment as more people start to return to the office after long periods of working from home. 

Alongside separation anxiety, there’s also general anxiety and this is another reason your dog could be licking their toys. Think about whether there have been any changes in your dog’s environment lately. Houseguests staying, a new pet, or a disruption in their routine can all be enough to trigger a stress response. 

We recommend you speak with your vet if you’re concerned your dog’s licking behavior could be a result of anxiety. They’ll be able to properly diagnose your pooch and advise you on the best course of action.

4. Canine Compulsive Disorder

You may have heard of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) which causes some of us humans to have recurring thoughts that drive repetitive behaviors, but did you know there’s also a doggy version? It’s true! Canine Compulsive Disorder (CCD) is just as real and can cause repetitive compulsions, such as licking and pacing.

There’s nothing abnormal about your pooch licking their toys every now and then, but if you notice it happening regularly, CCD could be the reason. According to Dr. Jerry Klein, while it can affect all breeds, doberman pinschers, golden retrievers and labrador retrievers are particularly prone to developing compulsive licking behaviors. 

5. Boredom

Boredom is a common problem for a lot of dogs and while some may deal with it by sleeping the day away or chewing up your furniture, others will take to excessive licking.

A good way to curb this behavior is to make sure your pup is getting plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Take them out for a good walk, play a game of fetch, or spend some quality time engaged in one of our favorite indoor games for dogs - perfect when it’s too wet to get outside.

If you need to leave your pooch on their own for a few hours, many of the best pet cameras double up as toys that also toss treats, which is a great way to help banish boredom. Leaving them with a challenging puzzle toy that has hidden treats inside can also make the hours whiz by. 

6. Dementia

Often thought of as a human condition, doggy dementia affects up to 62% of canines between 11-16 years of age and can result in confusion, excessive barking, peeing and deficating around the house, and compulsive licking. 

If you notice that your dog has only recently started licking their toys and it’s accompanied by other behavior that’s out of the ordinary, it’s worth speaking to your vet to see if your pooch may be suffering from a cognitive impairment. 

The most important thing to remember is that your dog isn’t engaging in these behaviors deliberately, they truly can’t help it, so remaining calm and patient and avoiding punishing them will help them to feel less stressed and anxious.

7. Nausea

Who would have thought that feeling sick could be the reason behind your dog licking their toys, but believe it or not, it’s a fairly common reason you may spot them being more mouthy with their favorite plaything than they usually would be.

When your dog has a queasy tummy, either because they’ve eaten something unpleasant or they’re not feeling well, it can leave a yucky taste in their mouth that they’ll want to get rid of. Licking their toy will help them to get some of that bad tasting saliva out of their mouths.

8. Mouth problems

Licking could also be your dog’s way of wanting to relieve the pain that accompanies oral inflammation, which can happen when they’ve ingested and chewed on something sharp.

Gingivitis, which causes the gums to become inflamed and is the result of tartar buildup, can also become painful if left untreated. Make sure you get your pup’s teeth checked regularly, brush their teeth daily, and use the best dental chews for dogs to keep their chompers in tip-top condition. 

Ever wondered why do dogs roll on their toys? Check out this feature for the reason. Or, if you want to find out why do dogs bring you toys and other gifts, take a look at this vet’s guide. 

Having a few dog toy storage ideas up your sleeve is a great plan for those moments when you feel like your home has suddenly become overrun by all your pooch’s playthings. 

Given how much you love your furry friend, we bet you’ve spoiled them plenty by investing in some of the best dog toys. Which is a great thing by the way, because just like us humans, our pets can suffer from boredom, stress, and anxiety when they don’t have enough to do, and that can lead to all sorts of destructive behaviors.

But we also have a hunch that you have times when you survey your home in horror and wonder how on earth every single square inch of space has ended up being dominated by all of your beloved dog’s belongings!

If you’re wanting to tear your hair out right now with all the clutter, then trust us, you’ve come to the right place because we’ve found some ingenious dog toy storage ideas that are going to have your home looking like something Mary Poppins would be proud of in no time. Promise!

1. Canvas storage bin

Stylish and functional, canvas storage bins blend beautifully into any home decor and the fabric can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth, making them a great low-maintenance choice. We particularly love this Morezi storage box which has convenient side handles, an easy-to-fasten lid, and a collapsible design that makes transporting it a breeze. 

2. Wine racks

Now, we know what you might be thinking, you’d quite like to keep your wine racks for actual wine, right? Well, don’t worry, you can, but it might also be a good idea to invest in an extra one for your dog’s toys as the humble wine rack performs a great double duty here. Choose a cubby style with a sealed back to keep everything secure.

3. Storage ottoman or footstool

Not only can the right storage ottoman or footstool add a touch of class to your living space, but it’s also a great place to store all those extra toys. There are tons of chic options to choose from, although we’re particularly loving the budget-friendly Otto & Ben ottoman-style toy box chest that comes in a wide range of colors.

4. Crates

Wooden storage crates have tons of rustic charm and they’re ideal for keeping the spaces around your home free from clutter. Nesting crates are particularly great as you’ll get different sizes, plus some even come with cute signage attached so you can quickly see what’s in each. You could use one for toys and the other ones for your dog’s grooming and walking supplies.

5. Shoe cubbies

Not just for your footwear, shoe cubbies are also ideal when you’re looking for a little bit of extra storage space. You can invest in vertical or horizontal cubbies in a range of sizes depending on the layout of the room you’re wanting to put it in and how many toys you have, but you’ll probably find something like a 15-unit organizer to be more than adequate.

6. A toy hammock

Want to keep your dog’s toys off the floor? Enter the hammock! This is an ingenious way of keeping your floors clear of clutter by suspending the toys in the corner of a room. It also prevents your pup from having access to them when you don’t want them to, so that’s a nice bonus. 

7. Ladder shelving

Ladder shelving gives a beautiful modern look and it can be a nice way of displaying your dog’s toys alongside other items. You’ll find all sorts of lovely finishes in a range of tier levels, but we particularly like the combination of wood and metal offered by homeware brand Blissun.

8. Vintage suitcases

If you’re a fan of the retro or vintage look, why not store your dog’s toys in a suitcase? Purchasing two or three in various sizes enables you to stack them for a unique look that makes for a great talking point. You’ll find some great buys at your local thrift shop, but here’s an example from Deco 79 to give you an idea of the sort of look you can achieve. 

9. Wicker basket

The humble wicker basket never goes out of fashion and they look stunning no matter where you put them, plus they’re budget-friendly, which is always a winner in our books! We have to admit we’re crushing hard on this cute option from the Bone Dry Store that’s made from durable and long-lasting hyacinth material that’s been woven into a metal frame. 

10. Over-the-door shoe organizer

If you want to keep those toys firmly hidden away, why not go for an over-the-door shoe organizer? These hook over the inside of your door and come with pockets that you can place many of your pet’s items in. Once you’ve placed everything in the pockets, close the door and voila, out of sight, out of mind! AmazonBasics offer a great cheap and cheerful organizer with 20-pockets, more than enough to hold all those toys. 

How to store your dog's toys

Although all of the above storage options are a great way to keep your pooch's playthings organized, there are a few additional tips that can help you extend the longevity of both the toys and whatever you're choosing to store them in.

Just like our clothes and bedding need washing regularly, you'll also want to make sure you regularly give all of your dog's toys a good clean to rid them of bacteria, yeast and mold. Rubber and plastic toys can be easily wiped down, but fabric toys often need to go in the washing machine at around 40-60 degrees to kill germs.

Make sure you check your dog's toys regularly too and when you notice fraying or pieces starting to come loose or break off, it's time to throw them in the bin and get a replacement. 

Because dogs chew on their toys, your chosen storage option will need a good regular clean too. To make your life easier, look for materials like wood or metal that you can quickly go over with a damp cloth or fabrics like canvas, which can often be machine washed or spot-cleaned. 

Dogs are notorious for getting into trouble, so choosing safe chew toys for dogs is important. Poorly made chew toys can cause gut blockages, dental damage, and mouth injury amongst other things, so choosing one of the best dog chew toys is more important than you might think. A recent study showed that 1 in 25 dogs needed veterinary treatment due to a problem with chewing material. 

With a wide range of interactive dog toys hitting the market each year, including chew toys and bones, it’s getting harder and harder to tell what’s safe, and what isn’t. Let’s take a look at vet-recommended dog chew toys, and those to avoid.

The importance of chew toys for dogs 

The first question to answer is whether dogs need chew toys at all. Vets and behaviorists agree that chewing is a natural behavior that dogs should be allowed to express. Whilst not every dog will want to chew, many will enjoy gnawing on a bone or bone-substitute. It’s thought that being able to express this natural behavior is good for dogs. 

In fact, one study showed that shelter dogs enjoyed a chew toy more than other toys, and that it encouraged them to move around rather than remain stationary. In fact, chewing behavior is thought to be so important that the guidelines for keeping laboratory dogs recommend provision of chewable objects.

Of course, we can’t ignore the possible benefits on dental health of chewing. Studies have shown that several types of dog chew reduce plaque and tartar, including rawhide, specially-designed chew sticks, and raw beef bones. 

Either way, it’s pretty clear that if your dog enjoys chewing, giving it an appropriate object to chew is a good idea. It’s not uncommon for dogs that don’t have access to good chews to end up using other household objects, such as slippers, furniture, and remote controls.

What makes a safe chew toy for dogs? 

The ideal characteristics of a safe chew toy for dogs includes:

• Tough and long-lasting
• Available in a range of sizes to suit each dog
• Completely and quickly digestible, in case of swallowing
• Not harder than dental enamel
• Contains no harmful chemicals
• Attractive to dogs (tastes/smells good, right texture)
• Doesn’t splinter into sharp pieces

The problem with this ‘wish list’ is that no chew toy perfectly fits – and it’s possible that one never will. Toys that are tough and long-lasting are not likely to be quickly digestible if they’re swallowed, or they’ll be harder than dental enamel. Trying to find the perfect dog chew can be a little like looking for leprechaun gold!

So what safety information can you look out for? Firstly, you need to work out if the chew is intended as a toy (i.e inedible) or as a treat (i.e edible). If it’s edible, you need to look into how digestible it is, and whether it’s likely to form a blockage. If it’s designed as an inedible chew, it needs to be big enough and strong enough that your dog can’t break off small bits to swallow.

What is the safest thing for dogs to chew on?  

There are a huge range of products out there for dogs to chew on, with new additions each year. It’s safe to say that there are no chew toys that are 100% safe for dogs. However, some are better than others. And, to complicate matters, which chew toy is best (and safest!) for your dog will vary depending on your dog’s breed, jaw type, and chewing style.  The following sections will detail how to choose the safest dog chew toy for your pooch. 

What chew toys do vets recommend? 

If you ask a large group of vets whether they’ve seen problems with a particular type of dog chew, there will always be at least one vet who can tell you a dog chew horror story for each type and brand. Whether it’s Nylabones, yak milk chews, raw beef bones, rawhide, or even bully sticks – we’ve seen accidents with all of them. But the benefits of chewing are important, too, and in the end most vets would agree that you should give your dog something to chew, but be aware of the risks and monitor them carefully.

So, what are the risks of each edible dog chew and dog chew toy? The advice below is compiled from responses received from 130 vets:

• Nylabone – these can be too hard for some dogs, causing them to break their teeth whilst chewing. Others swallow them, causing an obstruction. However, they’re very long-lasting in most dogs. Find out more about the safety of Nylabones in our vet's article.
• Yak Milk – a very hard chew made from processed milk, these are digestible but only if small slivers are swallowed. Large chunks can cause an obstruction and need surgical removal. There’s also a concern that they’re too hard for teeth and cause fractures.
• Raw bones – High chance of contamination with harmful bacteria that can cause disease in your dog and/or your family. Need to be large enough and strong enough that your dog can’t break into splinters, but not so strong that it breaks teeth – a difficult balance! Contrary to common opinion, is not completely digestible and can cause a blockage, sometimes building up over months. Bones with a large marrow can also become stuck around the lower jaw, requiring surgical removal.
• Rawhide – falling out of favour due to chemical manufacturing process. If large chunks are swallowed, rawhide can cause blockages as it isn’t digested quickly enough.
• Dried tripe/bully sticks/ostrich tendons/pigs ears etc – Bacteria can thrive on these dried edible chews, at risk to your dog’s health as well as your family’s. As long as chewed thoroughly, these are (usually, but not always) sufficiently digestible to cause a blockage, although many vets report operating to remove undigested pigs ears causing a blockage.
• Rubber Kong – if the wrong strength of rubber is used, or the rubber perishes over time, it’s easy for these to break into pieces and be swallowed, causing an obstruction. The correct size toy needs to be used to prevent swallowing whole.
• Antlers – not advised by vets as these are too hard and cause teeth to break, requiring surgical removal.
• Hooves – Not quickly digestible, so a risk if large pieces are swallowed. May be too hard for teeth, causing fractures.
• Wooden chew – some types of wood splinter less than others, but splinters causing mouth damage and impacting between the teeth causing gum disease are both possible.

How to choose safe dog chew toys

Now you know some of the benefits and some of the risks, hopefully you’re in a better position to choose some safe dog chew toys for your furry friend.

1. Consider your dog's size and breed

Firstly, think about what your dog is like. Are they a greedy-gut, likely to swallow anything small enough and risk a blockage? Are they a breed known for having strong jaws? If they have very strong jaws and are a risk for swallowing anything, you’ll want to head more down the hard rubber toy route.

You may also be able to use a highly-digestible dried treat, but that will depend how much they’ll chew before swallowing. On the other hand, if you have a small breed dog with weaker jaws and who is more of a nibbler, you’ll want to choose something that isn’t going to splinter into small bits or break their tiny teeth. If you don’t know, start them on the safest possible option – like a VOHC certified dental chew – and watch what they do.

2. Choose a reputable brand

Secondly, look for a reputable brand. This is not an area where you want to compare prices and choose the cheaper product – you need good quality, from a brand with a reputation to protect.

3. Supervise at all times

Once you’ve decided on a dog chew, you’ll need to supervise your dog closely when they’re using it. That means in the room, and with eyes on your dog – at least the first few times. Don’t give your dog a new chew just before you leave the house for a few hours – you need to know if they like it, if they swallowed it whole, how long it lasted, and whether they’ve damaged anything whilst chewing. Many vets occasionally feed the ‘risker’ treats, but under strict supervision, removing the chew once it becomes too small or damaged.

Should you use chew toys for dogs?

There are no completely safe chew toys for dogs, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use them. It’s all about balancing the possible risks against the possible benefits to your dog, and then doing what you can to minimise the risks. If you’re unsure, talk to your vet, who will be happy to share their experiences with a range of dog chews! 

Knowing how to wash dog toys correctly is an essential skill for any dog owner, after all our furry friends love nothing more than slobbering over their favorite plaything. It's also something dog toy manufacturers and vets recommend because they can be such a breeding ground for potentially harmful bacteria, germs, mold and mildew. 

This means it is worth learning how to protect your beloved pet from the illnesses they can cause. And if those toys are brought in and out of the house that becomes your problem as well as the dogs: according to NSF.org they are likely to be the seventh dirtiest place in your home. That's why you should always wash your hands thoroughly after a playtime session with your four-legged friend.

Your furry pals use their mouths to play with their toys as they drag them around the house and garden, which leads to slobber-covered, gnawed, mud- and dust-coated toys. Any well-loved toys need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly to keep your fur baby (and you) safe. It will also help prevent puppy acne which is caused by their pores getting clogged with dirt and saliva. 

An added bonus is that regular washing will extend the life of even the best dog toys you've invested in, as they are less likely to degrade if you keep them clean, not to mention preventing them giving off distressing odors!

How often should I wash dog toys? 

If dog toys are kept outside a thorough rinse with a hose after a chewing session should help keep dog toys from being breeding grounds for bacteria, with a more thorough wash using disinfecting cleaning products once a week. 

Toys that are frequently played with indoors should be washed once a week, but if they are covered in slobber, dirt or dust, it's worth giving them a thorough clean straight away. 

Which dog toys should I bin rather than wash? 

You should check over your dog's toys regularly, as if they have been a bit too well-loved it may be better to throw them away than try to save them. Any toy which is falling apart can be a potential choking hazard for your four-legged pal. Remember too that toy stuffing can also cause intestinal blockages if swallowed, so while we are all for recycling and avoiding waste, the safest place for crumbling dog toys is in the bin.

If you own an aggressive chewer and don't want to be constantly throwing your furry friends' destroyed playthings away all the time, it's worth investing in high quality durable dog toys so they'll last longer than a few hours!

What should I use to wash dog toys? 

It will depend on what your dog toy is made of, and we go into more detail on how to clean the main types below. The first place to look is the manufacturer's guidelines which can be found on the toys packaging or the manufacturer's website. Not all dog toys come with cleaning instructions so it's good to use your judgement, combined with our suggestions below. 

You can find pet-friendly cleaning products to use to ensure bacteria and germs are wiped out in the safest way possible. However, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says that cleaning toys with bleach should cause no problems for your fur baby, provided it is diluted properly and the toys are completely rinsed after cleaning. You can see how much to dilute bleach using the ASPCA's detergent dilution guidelines.

As well as disinfectant there are other more common household products that can be used to clean dirty dog toys. Soaking non-absorbent toys for 30 minutes in a solution of 5% vinegar to 95% warm water followed by a good scrub with a sponge or brush will keep them in good order. An old toothbrush is a useful tool to use for cleaning hard-to-reach areas where dirt can linger. 

For soft toys you can sprinkle them with baking soda before putting them in the washing machine. Add a couple of capfuls of vinegar and put them on a rinse cycle for a DIY and gentler clean.

How to wash rubber, nylon or plastic dog toys 

Slobber and garden dirt are perfect breeding grounds for bacteria and germs, and if dog toys are regularly being brought into the house it's a good idea to keep them clean. Most rubber, plastic and nylon toys can be popped in the dishwasher, as they are hard enough to withstand them. However, it's worth checking on the manufacturer's website to see if they are dishwasher safe, as some toys can warp, become brittle or release harmful chemicals when exposed to the high temperatures found in a dishwasher.

Otherwise, a wash with antibacterial detergent (or the DIY option using a 5% vinegar solution mentioned above) in the sink and a good going over with a scrubbing brush should be good enough to sanitize them. 

Whichever method you use, give them a thorough rinse afterwards and leave them out to dry naturally. It's also worth checking if they have filled with water before returning them to your dog. Not only will your dog not enjoy the soapy water collected inside, it will squirt everywhere once they get their teeth into it again!

How to wash rope dog toys 

Rope toys may seem very durable, but those fibers once wet, particularly from dog dribble, are a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, mold and mildew. Again they can be cleaned in the washing machine using a gentle detergent on warmish water cycles and are usually able to be dried in a tumbler dryer on a low heat.

Another quick way to sanitize them if they aren't looking too dirty is to use a microwave. Just soak them in water for five minutes then pop them in the microwave for a minute. This will kill all living organisms that they may be harboring. Do not microwave rope toys if they have metal or plastic parts. 

How to wash plush dog toys 

As well as saliva and general dirt, soft fabric dog toys can attract dust mites so it's worth cleaning them regularly. Most plush toys can stand up to a quick run through the washing machine, but those with plastic additions, crinkle stuffing or squeakers may need to be put on a cold wash. Use your judgement to decide which cycle the toy will be able to cope with.

It's good to wash soft dog toys on sunny days if possible. That way they can dry naturally pegged on a washing line in the sunshine. Remember to squeeze the toys to get rid of excess water so they won't need so long to dry so you can reunite them with your canine pal as fast as possible!

If outside drying isn't possible then you can dry them in a tumble dryer on an air-only or low heat setting.

How to wash dog toys with squeakers 

Soft toys with squeakers can be washed in a similar way to normal plush toys, remembering that the plastic squeaker may not be up to high temperatures in the washing machine or dryer. Just choose a low heat setting to avoid the squeaker getting bent out of shape or releasing potentially harmful chemicals. The squeaker may also fill with water, but a quick squeeze to drain it and leaving it to dry will get it back squeaking in no time. 

How to sterilize dog bones 

It's great to give your furry friends real bones to chew on, but fresh bones must first be sterilized to kill any bacteria from the meat. Immerse the bone in a pot of boiling water, ensuring the water level is two inches higher than the bone, then let it boil for thirty minutes. Let the bone cool to room temperature and strip off any excess meat before giving it to your dog to get their teeth into. 

Cleaning dog toys after illness 

If your dog has been ill it's important to sterilize all surfaces and fabrics in your house, paying special attention to cleaning their toys, feeding bowls and washing dog beds to prevent infection of other pets in your home or potential reinfection. 

Diseases like Canine Parvovirus (parvo) or kennel cough need a complete sterilization of your home to ensure it doesn't spread to other animals, and as these diseases are resistant to more gentle forms of disinfectant, watered down bleach is needed to ensure a proper sterilization. As long as everything is thoroughly rinsed after cleaning this should pose no problem to your recovering pet. 

How to extend the life of your dog toys 

As well as cleaning them there are a few things you can do to keep your canine pal's favorite toys from being binned too soon. Outside toys shouldn't be left outside exposed to the elements. Water and ice will cause them to degrade faster, and strong sunshine can cause toys to become brittle and start to chemically decompose. Keeping them in a box or similar covering will help them last longer. 

You can also rotate your dog's toys so they don't just spend all their time worrying away at the same one. As well as meaning they are less likely to be destroyed as fast by the constant onslaught, your dog's interest in the toys is likely to be higher due to its 'newness'. Dogs love variety, so not only will you be protecting your dog, you'll be adding to their engagement.

The toughest dog toys for chewers are able to withstand the attention of even the most determined of pups. Any pet parent with a heavy chewer in the family will quickly come to appreciate the benefits of these more indestructible dog toys, particularly if they've come home to find their faithful companion has made short work of yet another toy or, in my case, chewed through a lead.

As well as easing teething pain and helping with separation anxiety, the best dog toys will keep your pup entertained and mentally stimulated, but a durable dog toy combines this with high quality and tougher materials, such as hard rubber. This saves owners from worrying about the potential choking hazard posed by parts being chewed off or from the stuffing found inside soft toys.

As well as choosing products made from hard-wearing materials, owners should ensure the durable dog toy is right for their pup’s size and habits – weightier options are unlikely to be suitable for smaller dogs who like throwing their toys around, for instance. With chewers likely to get spit and slobber on them, ease of cleaning will be another factor to consider. Products that can be cleaned in water – or in some cases, even go in the dishwasher – will make your life a lot easier.

To help owners find the toughest dog toy for chewers, we've tested options with both small and large dogs to find products that will keep even the most determined of chewers entertained. We've also spoken to Dr. Hannah Godfrey BVetMed MRCVS, who answers some common questions owners may have when looking for a durable dog toy. Here, we’re sharing seven of our favorites.

The toughest dog toys for chewers 2026

Are there any indestructible dog toys?

It’s important for dog owners to remember that even the toughest dog toy for chewers is not guaranteed to be indestructible to a determined chewer. As well as supervising their play, owners should keep a regular eye on the condition of their pup’s toys, looking out for when they begin to show signs of use and could become a potential danger to their canine companion.

Dr. Hannah Godfrey advises, "While many toys are marketed as being durable, and some branding will promise that the toy is indestructible, it’s still essential to supervise your dog when they are playing with toys, and inspect the toys regularly for damage."

Choosing the toughest dog toys for chewers

There are numerous factors at play that can influence your buying decision when looking at the toughest dog toys for chewers. Dr. Hannah Godfrey recommends thinking about "the size and breed of your dog, as well as the type of play that your dog enjoys". A smaller dog, for example, is likely to struggle with a larger and heavier toy.

Owners should also consider health problems or injuries that their forever friend might have. Dr. Godfrey says, "A tug toy made from a durable material, for instance, might seem like the most ‘indestructible’ and safe, but if your dog has problems with their teeth, neck, or hind legs, or doesn’t enjoy that type of play, it’s not a good idea."

Dr. Godfrey also advises considering the material the toy is made from, adding, "Avoid ropes or fabric toys as these tend to disintegrate into fibers, while plastic, wood, and similar hard or brittle materials can fracture or splinter, leading to injury."

The benefits of a durable dog toy

A durable dog toy can be a blessing for owners who have a determined chewer in the family. These hard-wearing toys are made with tough and high-quality materials, saving pet parents from worrying about the potential choking hazard posed by pups chewing parts off.

Dr. Godfrey says, "It's a good idea to choose a durable dog toy rather than anything flimsy because it will keep your dog safe."

"Broken parts can easily be swallowed, causing gut blockages, and sharp edges can cause damage to your dog’s tongue, mouth, or gums, or if swallowed their esophagus, stomach, or intestines."

A durable dog toy doesn't just provide peace of mind for owners, however. It can also prove a worthwhile investment, as Dr. Godfrey says, "it will save you buying new toys to replenish the toy box regularly".

Read next: Are yak chews safe for dogs?

If you’re like us and the thought of making something causes you to break out in a sweat, don’t worry because all of the DIY puppy toys below are so simple that even we could knock them together! 

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time, but if you’ve spent ages selecting the best puppy toys only to find out that your new fur baby would rather play with a cardboard box, then saving your money and getting back to basics can be a great idea. 

Just like our favorite DIY dog toys, these DIY puppy toys will provide your energetic ball of fur with plenty of mental and physical stimulation, engaging all of their senses and helping them grow up to be happy and healthy. 

Puppies explore their world with their mouths and paws, so whether you’re buying a toy from a shop or making one yourself, always make sure it’s safe for them to chew and throw around. Avoid small parts, sharp edges, or any loops or holes that your puppy could get tangled up in.

These DIY puppy toys are all safe options and they’re a  great way of making use of any old or unused items you have lying around at home. Plus, they’re super easy to make and won’t take up much of your time. Here are a few of our top picks...

1) Water Bottle Cruncher

Many puppies go mad for the irresistible crinkly and crunchy sound of water bottles and while all that plastic can be dangerous on its own, a few ingenious pet parents have come up with a great way to make this cheap toy fun and safe.

To make your own water bottle cruncher, you’ll need the following items:

• Empty water bottle
• Scissors
• Dry kibble 
• An old sock

Directions:

1. Remove the bottle cap and cut off the ring that sits just below it. Discard the cap
2. Put some dry kibble inside the water bottle 
3. Slide the bottle inside an old sock
4. Tie a tight knot in the sock

You can leave the toy like it is or cut into the top of the sock above the knot to create fringes and make it look a little more fancy. 

It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your puppy when using this toy and replace it as soon as it starts to break down. This will ensure they don’t bite their way through the plastic, creating sharp edges that could injure their teeth and gums. 

2) The Octopus

If you have a young pup who loves to play fetch or tug of war, then this toy is going to prove a huge hit. It’s a great one to make if you have an old shirt lying around that you don’t know what to do with and if you’re creative, you’ll love the braiding element.

What you’ll need:

• Old T-shirt
• Tennis ball
• Scissors
• Measuring tape

Directions:

1. Cut the top of the T-shirt from the arms up, so that just the torso portion is left
2. Cut the hem off at the bottom of the shirt, cut it so that you make one long strip (rather than a circle), and set it aside. Then cut the shirt in half so that it measures approximately 17 x 14 inches. You’ll only need one side of the shirt to make one octopus toy
3. Cut slits into the shirt all around the edges to create the straggly ends you’ll braid together. Cut in about 2-3 inches and try to make an even number of stragglers
4. Put the tennis ball in the middle of the T-shirt and wrap the fabric around it
5. Tie the hem strip around the fabric to secure the ball in place
6. Cut into the fabric a bit more to make the straggly ends longer, then make braids. Tie a knot at each of the ends. You can extend the ‘octopus arms’ by knotting on scraps from the T-shirt hem

3) Treat Puzzle

If you have a bag of the best puppy treats lying around and you want to make your fur baby do some work for them, then this fun puzzle is just the ticket. This is a particularly good toy to make if you’ve been doing home renovations and have some excess PVC pipe that you want to put to good use.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• A piece of PVC pipe appropriate to the size of your pup
• Two PVC caps or tennis balls
• A drill
• Puppy treats 

Directions:

1. Grab your PVC pipe
2. Drill holes about 5mm wide all over the pipe – about as wide as your puppy’s treats. You want holes that are big enough to get the treats into but not so big that they all fall out in seconds
3. Put the treats into the pipe and then seal the ends with the caps or with tennis balls that you’ve cut a small hole into. 
4. The treat puzzle is now ready for your pup to roll, chew, and throw

4) Braided puppy toy

Another quick and easy way to use up those old T-shirts you no longer want is to make this simple yet entertaining braid toy. It's great for tug-of-war and depending on the fabric of the shirts you’re using, it's surprisingly durable.

You’ll need:

• A couple of old shirts in different colors
• Scissors
• Ruler or measuring tape

Directions:

1. Cut the hem off the shirts 
2. Start cutting strips that are about 2-inches wide and about 20-inches long until you end up with nine strips in total
3. Gather all the strips together and tie a knot at one end and pull firmly to tighten
4. Separate the strips into three sections and then braid them almost all of the way down
5. Tie a knot at the end

While you can use any kind of shirt for this toy – shirts that have a bit of give in them will be easier to tie. 

5) Muffin Tin Hide and Seek

This is a great toy for older puppies who are ready for a challenge. It’ll give their brain a workout while also providing them with a satisfying reward at the end of it all. Here’s what you’ll need for these DIY puppy toys:

• A muffin tin
• 12 tennis balls
• Some kibble or puppy treats

Directions:

1. Pop small portions of kibble or treats into a few of the muffin tins
2. Place tennis balls over all 12 of the tins
3. Bring your pup in and watch as they try to figure out which tins contain the kibble

At first, you might like to put kibble in all the tins until your pup has figured out what they need to do. When that becomes too easy, you can limit the kibble to just a few tins. 

Combining stylish design with tough durability, the Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew Toy is perfect for canines who love to play and chew alike.

The tropical treat is available in two sizes: small and extra large, and is part of a wider range of Beewarm Dog Chews, including avocado, corn, and simple beef bone designs that may look cute, but are designed for even the most aggressive of chewers.

Whether you're considering the best puppy toy for your canine chum, opting for one of the best puppy teething toys, or deciding on the best durable dog toy money can buy, what's great about the Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew is that it can be used by both young pup and mature mutt alike. 

If you're feeling charmed by the design but want to know a bit more about how the Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew stacks up, let's take a closer look...

Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew Toy: Features

The Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew is made from a tough safety rubber that's ideal for a puppy's teething phase. Even in the jaws of an eager pup, the thick material can show little sign of wear and tear over time. 

The novel design here is more than just easy on the eye. Much like its real life counterpart, the pineapple toy's ridged indentations and tough exterior makes it a great choice for a dog toy.

However, if you have a particularly destructive dog, beware; although the Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew's extra-firm material is more than up to the challenge of aggressive chewers, it's not necessarily 'indestructible'.

Pet owners will appreciate the fun pineapple flavor here, and you can even buy 'Pineapple Extreme', which is essentially a supersized version of the original for larger pups.

Much like the best-selling KONG rubber dog toy, the product also comes with a hollow center, plus extra holes, that can then be filled with your dog's favorite gooey treat. 

However, the price difference should be noted. The Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew is typically pricier than the KONG, and buyers are likely to be disappointed with the lack of squeaking.  

It may come down to your dog's temperament. If you know your pup is liable to destroy the contents of his toy box and you love the creative designs on show, then you really can't go wrong with testing out the super tough material with your pup. 

Plus, the lifetime replacement offers peace of mind for the price, if you're unsure how your pup will take to their new toy. 

Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew Toy: User reviews

Typically, pet owners report that the Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew Toy is strong and highly durable. Plenty of pups have kept this chew toy alive and kicking, but determined chewers have managed to pull off the pineapple's leaves.

Where the product has survived the jaws of an overzealous pup, it's been praised for providing great value for money. 

The product is at a higher price point than some leading dog toy brands, but some reviewers have stated that it has lasted longer and been favored by their pup.

The added bonus of the pineapple's clever design features, including the attractive scent and treat-filled indentations, has meant that pet owners themselves have got just as much enjoyment out of the product as their pooch in some cases. 

Should you buy the Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew Toy?

A key selling point of the Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew Toy is its fun design, certainly, but there's more to this tropical treat than a pretty exterior and yummy scent.

If you're looking for a hardwearing dog toy that could be their new favorite from puppy to adulthood, then the higher price point seems fairly reasonable for its lifespan. This dog chew toy performs well as a puppy teether or a mature mutt's hardy chew toy alike.

Throw in a few fun features like adding in treats and smelling like a pineapple, and it's an attractive buy.

However, pet owners should be prepared in the event that their dog is particularly destructive with their new addition. The Beewarm Pineapple Dog Chew Toy is very tough, but not indestructible, so supervision is advisable.

There's something about giving your pet a teddy bear that's simply irresistible; the KONG Wild Knots Bear looks to pair a snuggly toy with all the benefits of knotted rope functionality.

One of the most popular dog toys on the market, the KONG Wild Knots Bear is, on the surface at least, an adorable cuddly bear that looks to sweetly cradle in your dog's paws.

It's developed by the KONG Company who specialize in enrichment, puzzle, fetch and dog chew toys, however, so expect multi-functional purpose. 

On one hand, it's designed to bring out the playful pup in your canine, and on the other it acts like a soothing comfort blanket that busts anxiety in dogs.

If you've been toying with purchasing one, then read on for a full review about the KONG Wild Knots Bear including a rundown on its core features and user reviews so you can be sure you've made the perfect choice for your pup. 

KONG Wild Knots Bear: Features

The KONG Wild Knots Bear's key features are the squeaker and hidden internal knotted rope tucked away in the bear's body.

The idea is to entice play in dogs by stimulating natural movement that encourages pups to pull, chew and tug. In doing so, however, it provides quite a contrast to the exterior cuddly image the toy portrays. 

If your dog is particularly destructive with their toys, you might find yourself cleaning up the mess of the toy's body rather than cooing in delight over your canine's new bedtime companion. 

In saying that, the KONG Wild Knots Bear does look to minimize mess by opting for minimal stuffing but that feels in direct conflict to the promise of 'soft but durable'.

While some pet owners report the toy is long-lasting and praise the dual functionality, others have seen the unfortunate bear ripped to pieces within minutes; it all rests on the nature of your dog, but you'd expect a heavy duty material for a product designed to be gripped by dogs.

More destructive dog breeds may need to look elsewhere, but if your dog is respectful of his or her toy box contents then it's likely you will be a happy owner. 

The loose squeaker inside can be hard for your pooch to find and set off but then, that's not necessarily a bad thing for an owner who likes a bit of peace once in a while! 

KONG Wild Knots Bear: User reviews

Scoring around 4.5 in user reviews, the KONG Wild Knots Bear is generally garnering positive attention. 

Happy buyers have been sharing photographs of their pooch snuggled up, cute companion in tow, in their favorite dog bed.

"Lovely while it lasted. I purchased this for my 5 year old staffy to see if she would find it comforting. To my surprise and relief, she did and carried all over the house and was her go to toy for greeting visitors,"  wrote one dog owner.

"Love this little bear and so have all my dogs! I board guide dogs and each of them have loved their bears - so much so that I had to send them off with their bears :)"

However, many pet owners have highlighted durability as a key complaint.

"The overall quality of construction is high and the fact this is from KONG assures me that it is entirely safe for my boy, although I do have to comment that he is not particularly destructive. He plays with this, chewing, mouthing and carrying it around a lot but he has not attempted to rip it up. If he did, I'm sure it wouldn't stand much chance."

Indeed, some owners have expressed disappointment in the short lifespan of the bear.

"The dog had removed his ears and stuffing within about 30 seconds. Then his nose and eyes. He's now been sewn up for the 3rd time and the dog is only allowed to play with him for 60 second bursts. The dog still loves him though."

Should you buy the KONG Wild Knots Bear?

With its soft body and attractive bear design, it's undeniable that the Kong Wild Knots Bear is just so lovable for both dog and owner alike. 

Pet parents will be delighted with the sight of their pooch cradling a teddy bear, while the canine will appreciate his new friend whether he's a playful pup or a mature mutt. 

Owners who have a particularly zealous dog should be prepared for the possible destruction of the toy, but if you're curious about whether your pooch will take to his new companion it's certainly worth trying out thanks to its reasonable price tag. 

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering "why do dog toys squeak" and what it is about that noise that delights your dog so much, then you’re in the right place because we’re about to delve deep to find the answers to both of those questions.

One of the best dog toys on the market comes packed with a mammoth 12 squeakers and many of our other favorites contain them too, so clearly all that noise serves a purpose but where is it coming from?

For those of you that used to love blowing on whistles when you were a kid, you’ve probably already guessed that toy manufacturers use mini versions of these inside their squeaky toys. When your dog starts getting stuck into their favorite chew toy the pressure of their jaw forces air to move through the squeaker, causing it to omit that high-pitched noise that so many of our dogs go nuts for.

If your canine companion has several squeaky toys, you may have noticed that the noise that comes from each can vary. That’s because the size of the squeaker that has been placed in the dog toy can make both the duration and the loudness of the squeak different from toy to toy. Some are also designed to create noise, both when the air is pushed out of them and when the air rushes back in as they regain their shape.

Why does your dog love their squeaky toy so much?

Some dogs are squeaker seekers who just can’t get enough of their beloved noisemakers, and it turns out there might be several reasons why.

Your dog carries a natural killer instinct that has been handed down to them from their wolf descendants and that squeaky noise is similar to the sound that frightened prey make when they’re being hunted. 

While we don’t want to get overly graphic here, if you’ve ever noticed your dog swinging its head and their squeaky toy back and forth while they’re playing with it, that’s likely because the noise from the toy is tapping into the natural way they’d kill their prey in the wild. When the whistle in the toy stops squeaking, it signals to your furkid that they’ve ‘killed’ their prey and can stop attacking.

There’s another driving force behind your dog’s love of their squeaky toy and that’s the instant gratification it provides. When a dog bites down on a toy and hears a squeak, the pleasure center in their brain lights up and lets them know that their bite is effective. Your dog quickly learns that when they bite hard enough on a toy with a squeaker, a sound is emitted, which feels like a reward. 

Like the best rope dog toys, squeaky toys are also a lot of fun and can provide mental and physical stimulation, ward off boredom, and stimulate your canine companion’s natural prey drive. 

Well, now that we’ve solved the mystery of why do dog toys squeak, it’s time to give you a sneak peek at a few of our favorites…

Have you ever heard of the concept of DIY dog toys?

If you want to give something a bit different to your dog, or don't want to break the bank with new toys, then why not give them a try? A decent variety of dog toys can be greatly beneficial to your pooch’s well-being. Variety can be a great thing, giving them plenty of play options and assisting with their cognitive development.

As we've mentioned, buying the best dog toys can get expensive, especially if you’ve got a dog who gets through toys at a fast pace. As well as saving money, it can serve as a project for you, allowing you to get your creative juices flowing.

Dogs get excited by the simplest things, so you don't need to worry about making anything overly complicated. With these straightforward DIY dog toys you’ll have a new set of toys in a matter of minutes, often made out of things that you already have lying around the house. Read on to find out more...

• The best dog chew toys: Give them something to get their teeth into
• Best durable dog toys: Tough toys they can't destroy
• How to play with a dog: Enjoy safe and fun bonding time with your pup

DIY ball tug toy

Prep Time: 30 minutes 

Materials needed: Old clothes (such as a t-shirt), tennis ball 

Tools needed: Scissors 

Skill Level: Easy 

A good way to spice up a simple tennis ball toy is by making it into a DIY Ball Tug Toy. If you’ve got any old, worn out clothes – t-shirts are ideal – that you were about to get rid of, this is a good way to recycle them.

All you need to do is place your t-shirt flat on a surface, like a floor or table. Use scissors to cut up the shirt into 3-4 pieces, wrapping the tennis ball (an old worn out one can also be used here, so it’s a great way to prolong the life of those too), in one of the pieces. With the remaining pieces, you’ll create a plait or braid to make it nice and strong. 

Once you’re done, you can use the toy for a game of fetch or tug. Be sure to supervise your dog while they are playing with a toy like this, since loose fibres can easy dislodge and present choking hazards. 

Plastic bottle toy

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Materials needed: Fabric (old sheets, blankets, t-shirts), empty plastic bottle 

Tools needed: Scissors

Skill Level: Easy 

Dogs love the scrunching texture of old plastic bottles. In fact, if you look inside many professionally made toys, you’ll find a structure which is not too dissimilar to a drinks bottle inside it. 

With that in mind, why not make your own and save some cash? All you need is an old, empty bottle, plus some old material that you no longer have a need for. If your dog has been ripping up its blankets or sheets, here’s a perfect way to use that up too. 

First of all, take your old piece of fabric (or you can buy some if you don’t have any), and cut it into a number of strips of different sizes. Leave one large section for wrapping the bottle in. 

Place the bottle in the middle of the largest piece of fabric and wrap it securely - making sure to cover up both ends. Then with the remaining strips, make ties around the bottle and the fabric to keep it in place. You can mix up the ties, adding as many as you like, and braiding any excess fabric to make different textures. 

Then let your dog get to work chewing the bottle. Be careful to watch your dog, since small parts of fabric (or plastic) from the bottle can create a hazard if they are particularly destructive. 

Scrab fabric DIY dog toy

Prep time: 15 minutes

Materials needed: scraps of fabric (try using old clothes)

Tools needed: Scissors

Skill-level: Easy 

This is quick and easy toy to make, as it can be put together in just a few minutes with just a few scraps of cloth. As it's so easy to make, there's no need to feel guilty if your dog destroys it. 

First, cut some fabric into long strips. You can make these different sizes depending on how large you want the toy to be, or how big your dog is. Once you have your strips, roll them into tube shapes, and tie them together at the top. After this, braid the strips together and secure the other end. 

That's literally all you need to do. If you need more detailed instructions, read the tutorial at The Craft Train. Here, you’ll also learn how to make a tag to turn these into gifts for your doggy friends. 

Keep an eye on your dog when they are playing with anything like this, since loose fibers and fabrics can easily become a choking hazard. 

DIY flirt pole

Prep time: 30 minutes

Materials needed: PVC pole (or wooden stick), bungee rope, old toy 

Tools needed: Scissors 

Skill-level: Easy

You can buy one of these rather charmingly named toys, like the one pictured, here on Amazon, but they are really easy to make at home. You can use them to move toys around the floor, making a fun game of catch all the more intriguing for your dog. 

If you want to make a sophisticated version, you can invest in a PVC pole  (with a hollow center), along with some stretchy bungee rope to thread through the middle. Once you’ve done that, tie a toy to the end of the rope, and use it to tease your dog. 

If you want to take a more home-spun approach, you could also forage for a stick when on your next walk, and use string to make a simpler version, too. 

Be careful when playing with sticks and poles with your dog, as certain breeds should be discouraged from jumping.

Make playtime more rewarding 

Making your own dog toys can be more rewarding than simply buying something from the pet store or online. You can use them to help train your pooch, with the flirt pole particularly ideal when teaching commands such as 'stay', 'wait', and 'drop'. Which one will you start with? Don’t forget to let us know if you attempt to make any on this list, or if you come up with any other great ideas for DIY dog toys.

These cheap dog toy deals represent a great way to treat your dog to something new. Keeping your dog entertained is important both for their mental and physical health, but we know that dogs love to destroy things – it’s in their nature – so splashing out on expensive toys isn't always an appealing prospect.

We've got an amazing round-up of the best dog toys, but here we've found some of the best cheap dog toy deals that are under $15 dollars, allowing you to entertain your pooch without breaking the bank. Amazon has a wide variety of cheap dog toy deals to suit a range of budgets! 

These cheap dog toy deals are perfect if you have multiple dogs, and if they tend to get bored after playing with a toy a few times. From chew toys to rope toys, treats, and more, there’s a dog toy to suit all types of dogs.

It can be difficult to know which dog toys are the best and where to find them, but we’ve made it easier by finding and collating some of the best cheap dog toy deals on the market right now.

Cheap dog toy deals under $10

Cheap dog toy deals under $15

Those are just a handful of some of the best cheap dog toy deals around. Playing with your dog is an essential way to keep them happy and healthy. You can also check out our 5 tips to keep your dog healthy in 2021 for more information on mental and physical stimulation for dogs. 

We’ve rounded up the best rope dog toys out there to save you time and trouble. We’ve sorted through hundreds of rope dog toys to bring you our top picks.

If you are wondering why to choose a rope dog toy over one of the best dog toys in the first place, let us help you out. Rope toys are a great option for dogs who are looking for something durable to sink their teeth into. Rope toys are also a great way to improve your relationship with your dog, as you can engage in lots of playtime with them.

While these toys are fun for dogs, we should note that you need to be on the lookout for any strands that may come loose through normal chewing and tugging while playing. Loose strands can be potentially dangerous if swallowed. Below, Dr. Rebecca MacMillan weighs in on these risks and how to decide if rope toys are a good choice for your dog.

Now, let's take a look at our top picks of the best rope dog toys.

The best rope dog toys 2025

How to choose the best rope dog toy 

Rope dog toys are a common choice for lots of pet owners. They are versatile, provide lots of different textures and sensations for your pet, and generally create less mess than soft stuffed toys or even rubber toys. They also generally don’t come with squeakers, so if you’ve got a manic chewer and would like some peace, they’re a good option.

The type of rope dog toy you choose will largely depend on the type of dog you’ve got. If you’ve got one that likes to engage in tug of war games, look for one which makes it easy to play that - such as by including a handle, or grip end for you (or another dog) to get hold of while playing.

If your dog is particularly destructive and loves a good chew, look out for rope toys that promise to be long-lasting. No toy is completely indestructible, but some definitely last longer than others – generally it’s a case of “buy cheap, buy twice”, so if you can splash a little more cash, you’ll usually get something sturdier and more durable.

Lastly, you could also look out for rope toys that provide some other kind of play - such as by including a ball attached to them, or take the shape of a bear or other animal, to be used as a comfort toy. That way, you get two toys for the price of one.

Dr. MacMillan also notes that the size of your dog should be taken into consideration. "When choosing a rope toy, pick one that is an appropriate size for your pet. Too small and it could be a choking hazard."

Are rope toys the best choice for my dog?

You'll want to think carefully about your dog's personality and chewing habits. If your dog is a more aggressive chewer and is often putting things in their mouth that they shouldn't, a rope toy may not be the best choice for them. You may have better luck with one of the best long lasting dog chews instead.

Have a dog who loves to chew? You may be interested in our guide to the best dog chew toys