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A dog can greet a new toy with excitement, then ignore it for weeks. That makes choosing dog toys trickier than it might seem. The shape, size, materials and style of play all need to suit your dog’s behaviour.
Marketing copy often uses terms such as “durable”, “teeth-cleaning” or “suitable for all dogs”. These claims only tell you so much, so check the product specifications and warnings too. Read on to find out what to look for and which options suit different types of dogs.
A small latex ball might suit a puppy or small dog, but be less suitable for a large dog with a powerful bite. On the other hand, a large, sturdy chew toy can be difficult for a small dog to pick up.
So check:
According to the product description, toys with ridges or textured surfaces can encourage chewing and contact with the teeth and gums. This doesn’t guarantee clean teeth, and it doesn’t replace regular dental care or a check-up with your vet.
So treat teeth-cleaning dog toys as an extra chew toy. Also check that the material doesn’t crumble and that no small parts come loose.
Squeaky dog toys often grab a dog’s attention quickly, but the squeaker can also get damaged. If a toy has a built-in sound module, check it especially carefully for tears, loose seams and exposed parts.
Always supervise your dog if they pull toys apart or chew them intensively. Replace the toy as soon as parts come loose or the inside becomes visible.
A toy should be large enough not to be swallowed whole, but still easy for your dog to handle. Lightweight models with a suitable grip are usually more practical as dog toys for small dogs and puppies. For example, a 23 × 23 × 3.5 cm product might be intended for small to medium-sized dogs, while a 7.5 cm toy ball will be used differently from a 6 cm one.
When choosing dog toys for large dogs, don’t just look for a large size. Check that the product information says it’s suitable for use by large dogs. A label such as “durable” doesn’t, by itself, guarantee that a toy can withstand every bite.
Common materials used for dog chew toys include rubber, latex, TPR, rope and fabric. Each has different properties:
Also check whether the toy can be cleaned with a damp cloth, water or a brush. Not every toy with a squeaker or sound module is washable.
Choose according to how your dog will use it:
Why it suits this profile: The set contains six latex balls in different designs for fetch, indoor play and short training sessions.
You get several balls rather than one toy for every activity. The product description says they’re washable, but you should still check them for cracks.
Six balls, soft latex, built-in squeaker and textured surface. The largest ball has a diameter of 7.5 cm; the other balls are 6 cm.
Why it suits this profile: This interactive toy is designed for dogs that enjoy rolling, bouncing and searching for treats.
The shape isn’t just decorative: the product description says it rolls and bounces unpredictably, with space for treats. Check that it’s suitable for your dog before buying.
Natural rubber, space for treats, and suitable for rolling and bouncing. The product information names dogs weighing up to around 15 kg as the intended users.
Why it suits this profile: For small to medium-sized dogs that enjoy rolling, throwing, chewing and responding to sounds alongside their owner.
The size and intended users are clearly stated: 23 × 23 × 3.5 cm for small to medium-sized dogs. However, the sound module needs regular checking.
Steering wheel shape, built-in squeak, textured fabric and a combination of chewing and interactive play.
We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
It depends on the material, how intensely your dog plays and their behaviour. A plush toy may last longer with gentle play than with daily tugging and chewing. Check toys before and after use. Tears, loose threads, exposed stuffing or a visible squeaker are all reasons to replace one.
Choose puppy toys in a suitable size, made from soft but sturdy materials and with clear warnings. For example, the product information recommends a TPR and fabric toy measuring 16.5 × 8 cm for puppies and small dogs. Don’t leave a puppy unsupervised if they’re trying to bite parts off the toy.
Interactive dog toys, fetch toys and toys that let you hide kibble can add variety and encourage you to spend time playing together. The effect varies from dog to dog. Rotate toys, keep play sessions short and stop if your dog becomes overstimulated or starts damaging the toy.
