Joybuy Insights

Choosing toys for pets: practical tips for dogs and cats

Good pet toys don’t have to be complicated. They do need to suit your pet’s size, play style and bite strength. An automatic ball that’s suitable for a small dog may be too fragile for a medium-sized or adult dog. A cat ball with feathers may also become unsuitable if the feathers start to come loose.

If you focus only on an eye-catching design or a claim such as “indestructible”, you could soon run into problems. Read on to find out what to check before buying dog toys or cat toys.

Common pitfalls when choosing pet toys

1. An appealing claim says little about everyday use

Terms such as “chew-resistant”, “intelligent” or “long-lasting fun” are no substitute for specific information. Check:

  • Which type and size of pet the product is designed for.
  • Which materials have been used.
  • Whether any parts are replaceable or washable.
  • Whether supervision during play is recommended or required.

According to the manufacturer’s product description, the Petgravity Snack Shack Ball has a durable construction, two play modes and a replaceable plush cover. These are verifiable product features. However, the description doesn’t prove that the ball is suitable for every dog, especially dogs with a very strong bite.

2. The wrong size can lead to frustration

A toy that’s too small may be difficult to hold or easier to swallow. A product that’s too large may be uninteresting or difficult to handle. When choosing toys for small dogs or toys for medium-sized dogs, check:

  • The toy’s length and diameter.
  • Its weight.
  • The size of the openings for treats.
  • The distance between moving or loose parts.

The ZEZE steering wheel dog toy measures 23 × 23 × 3,5 cm and is described in the product information as suitable for small to medium-sized dogs. Use this size as a guide, but also consider your dog’s individual size and bite strength.

3. Electronic toys need more maintenance than a standard ball

Interactive dog toys with a motor, sensors or a battery can offer movement and variety, but they need extra attention. Check whether:

  • The battery charges via USB-C.
  • The charging port needs to be kept dry.
  • The cover or outer surface can be cleaned.
  • The product is unsuitable for aggressive chewers.
  • You can keep an eye on your pet while it’s playing.

With an automatic dog ball, floor space and noise levels are also important. In a small flat, a noisy moving toy may be less practical than a dog treat dispenser or a simple chew toy.

Important specifications to check

Material and wear

A sturdy material doesn’t mean the product is indestructible. Nylon, rubber, silicone, polyester and EVA plastic all have different properties. Soft fabrics are often more comfortable, but may tear more easily. Hard-wearing chew materials may last longer, but should be checked regularly for cracks and deep grooves.

For dog chew toys, stop using the toy if pieces come loose, the inner material becomes visible or your dog can bite off large pieces. The product description for the ZEZE Bamboo Chew Toy lists a nylon main section with wood fibres and a fabric decoration. The manufacturer says the product is designed to help limit splintering; even so, check the toy yourself every time your dog uses it.

Purpose: chewing, moving or searching

First, decide what you want the toy to do:

  • Chewing: a durable chew toy or a dog toy designed to support dental care.
  • Moving: a ball, tug toy or fetch toy.
  • Searching: a treat ball or food dispenser.
  • Hunting: a cat ball with feathers or lightweight cat toys.
  • Scratching and resting: a cat scratching post or cat tree with a bed.

Descriptions of dental care should be treated as a product feature, not a medical claim. According to the product information for some models, chewing may help remove surface dirt from teeth. It doesn’t replace a check-up or advice from a vet.

Cleaning and replacement

A toy that’s difficult to clean can be impractical for everyday use. Check the care instructions. The plush cover on certain Petgravity models is replaceable and, according to the product description, washable. The ZEZE steering wheel, on the other hand, should be cleaned with a damp cloth and mustn’t be submerged because of its sound mechanism.

The same applies to cats. According to the product information, the Meowmagic Feather and Sisal Ball Toy should be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth. Replace the ball if feathers come loose or the sisal starts to fray.

Our recommendations for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Meowmagic Feather and Sisal Ball Toy Pack of 4

Meowmagic Feather and Sisal Ball Toy Pack of 4

Why it suits this profile: A set of four lightweight balls offers variety for cats who enjoy rolling, chasing and batting toys around, without the need to buy a large play structure.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states that the pack contains four balls and explains when to replace one. Make sure you check the feathers and sisal regularly.

Key benefit & highlights

Four colourful balls made with a combination of feathers and sisal, suitable for rolling, chasing and pouncing.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Petgravity Snack Shack Ball Blue

Petgravity Snack Shack Ball Blue

Why it suits this profile: For owners who want to combine exercise with searching for treats. The ball has two play modes, a replaceable cover and a USB-C rechargeable battery.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description clearly covers care of the cover, charging and supervision. This means the key conditions for using the toy are clear from the outset.

Key benefit & highlights

Two play modes, a treat dispenser, USB-C charging and a replaceable plush cover.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent use
ZEZE Dog Chew Toy Steering Wheel

ZEZE Dog Chew Toy Steering Wheel

Why it suits this profile: For small to medium-sized dogs who enjoy switching between chewing and fetching, and playing with their owner.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dimensions and recommended dog size are listed. The warning about the sound mechanism makes it especially important to check for wear.

Key benefit & highlights

23 × 23 × 3,5 cm, built-in sound, varied textures, and suitable for interactive chewing and fetch.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about pet toys

What toys are suitable for a dog that gets bored easily?

Offer a mix of movement, chewing and searching. An interactive dog toy with a treat compartment can keep your dog occupied, while an automatic dog ball is designed to encourage movement. Start with short play sessions and supervise your dog. Pets can react differently to sounds, movement and treats.

How long do dog toys typically last?

It depends on the material, how often the toy is used and your dog’s bite strength. A soft toy may be damaged quickly by a strong chewer, while a sturdier model may last longer with gentler use. Check the toy regularly and replace it if it develops tears, loose parts, deep grooves or visible inner material.

Can you use catnip toys and silvervine toys for cats at the same time?

You can, but each cat reacts differently. Introduce one product at a time and see how your cat responds. The ZEZE Green Apple Silvervine Toy, for example, combines silvervine and catnip according to its product description. Supervise your cat the first time they use it, and replace the toy if the fabric or filling starts to come loose.