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Best Dog Toys
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Durability
Every fur parent should first look for the quality of the toy for their fur baby. These toys are crafted for various purposes. These toys also vary in terms of your pet’s characteristics. This includes their style of play, level of activity, size, chewing behaviors, and age. Product quality includes the kind of material the toy is made of. This is one of the most important criteria that you should consider in giving your fur baby a toy. Because they bite the toy all the time, you should pick something that is non-toxic and will not harm your dog. If you own a destroyer type of chewer, you can give your fur friend edible treats and chewable. Rawhides and firm rubber toys are also ideal for this type of chewer. Another type of chewer is called nibblers. You can give nibblers like bully sticks, stuffed toys, edible treats, rawhides, and rubber chew toys. You can also offer rope chews or tennis balls as toys.
Materials
Product quality includes the kind of material the toy is made of. This is one of the most important criteria that you should consider in giving your fur baby a toy. Because they bite the toy all the time, you should pick something that is non-toxic and will not harm your dog.
A variety of dog toys are contaminated with toxic metals. This includes chromium, cadmium, and lead. These chemicals are often released from the toys when they are chewed or licked by our fur babies. When this happens, your dog is susceptible to carcinogenic chemicals and neurological toxins.
Make sure that your toy is not filled with latex, which manufacturers often use in place of plastic. Latex may have various hormone averters like BPA and phthalates. There are also toys that are severely filled with dyes. These dyes have adverse effects on the dog when they chew or bite the toy.
You can check the labels of the toys if they contain harmful toxins such as formaldehyde, PVC, phthalates, bromine, chromium, melamine, BPA lead, and arsenic. If your dog is an inhaler type of chewer, you can give him a firm rubber toy. This includes stuffed toys, tennis balls, and rope chews.
Features
This criterion will underline the unique selling feature of the product. What your dog will benefit if you are going to give him this type of toy. This will also include different types of pet toys. Currently, there are four major types categorized.
The Classic Balls
There are various types of balls that your dogs can spend their time with. Tennis balls, squeakers, plush, foam balls, and rubber balls are just some of the popular toys in this category. This classic choice is one of the simple but good ways to keep your fur baby physically active. Choose the properly sized ball for your dog.
Aside from that, ensure that it is sturdy enough that your chewer will not be able to chew it into bits. Balls also involve you as a parent to interact with your dog. This type of toy will strengthen your relationship with your fur baby.
Tug-of-War Toys
There are dogs that prefer to play tug-of-war with their parents and with other dogs. Some believe that this is not a healthy game because it might encourage aggression. However, according to PAWS, this should not worry you if your dog is properly trained. The most important thing to take note of this type of toys is to make sure that your fur baby does not tear it down.
This type of toy is usually made of leather, rope, or linens. It is important that they are replaced when shredding or damage is already visible. When playing tug-of-war with your fur baby, always remember to be gentle and restrict yourself from becoming aggressive.
Chewable and Treats
While dogs chew anything that can be chewed, there are toys specially intended for dogs. These chewable and treats and usually made of nylon or rubber. Some of these come with treats inside for your fur baby’s entertainment and training. Make sure that these toys are soft enough for your pet to chew on. Change the durability as well as the size of the chewable as your dog grows.
Plush Toys
The majority of dogs love plush toys. However, most of them are no safe for the fur babies. This type of toy is ideal if your dog has not yet reached his teething stage. Plush toys can be the perfect alternative for the dog to snuggle with at night. One important reminder about plush toys is to teach the dog to distinguish between his toy and that of the member of the family.
Style
In addition to the product quality and product features, another important criterion is the overall components. This may contain other characteristics of the products such as hardness, coating, softness, toughness, and washability. You can measure the hardness of the toy by using your thumbnail. Give the toy a little press using your thumbnail, if the toy does not flex, then it is hard enough and your dog could break its teeth.
It is important that the toy should not be extremely soft that your fur baby could just easily tear it to pieces. It is also crucial that it is well-made that it does not easily break apart. If you’re the toy is poorly-made, there is a chance your dog could easily chew it or worse, swallow it. You should also be wary of the coatings of the toy. It should not contain toxic substances that could upset your dog’s tummy.
The dog’s toy should not be extremely small that could choke your dog. Be careful also of its shape. It should not have a shape that could trap its tongue or feet. Most importantly, check if your dog’s toy can be easily cleaned. Overall components could also include the entertainment value of the toy.
Top 10 Picks
1. Kong Dog Jumbler Ball
The KONG Dog Jumbler Ball is perfect if you are looking for a toy that gives twice the fun and enjoyment.
Read moreProduct Quality
The KONG Dog Jumbler Ball is made from a non-toxic rubber material. It is pliable and can withstand heavy biting, chewing, and rough play.
Product Features
The Kong jumbler is also called two-in-one ball because it has a tennis ball inside and it produces a loud squeak that adds fun. Its exterior is a massive bouncy ball that shields the tennis ball. It has handles that allow you to pick it up easily.
Overall Components
It is a good toy to be used in a fetch game. This allows your dog to experience a lot of physical exercises. It will also strengthen your relationship with your dog. On the emotional side, it will help your dog in dealing with separation anxiety. It will also give him something to do and will occupy his mind.
Product Specifications
The Kong jumbler is available in two sizes. They are Medium/Large and Large/Extra Large. It has a product dimension of 7-inches x 7-inches x 7-inches. It only weighs 1.21 pounds and has a shipping weight of 1.5 pounds.
2. Otterly Pets Rope
The Otterly Pets Rope Toys are perfect if you are looking for a variety of rope toys for your dog. It is good if you have a heavy chewer.
Read moreProduct Quality
This is composed of four flexible and colorful ropes of different knots and sizes. It is made of 100 percent cotton fibers. It is washable and very easy to clean
Product Features
This type of tug toy from Otterly Pets comes in lively and gorgeous colors that will surely attract your dog. It is soft but sturdy that will help your dog’s dental health. It will give your dog something to do and will solve his boredom. This can redirect the biting habit of your dog.
Overall Components
This tug toy helps fight plaque and tartar buildup. It can aid in preventing your dog from developing a disease in his gums.it also channels his energy and occupies him. This will prevent him from biting or chewing everything in the house.
Product Specifications
The Otterly Pets Rope Tug toy has a product dimension of 6.5-inches x 6.5-inches x 3-inches. It weighs 0.8 ounces and has a shipping weight of 10.4 ounces. It comes with a reusable bag that you can use to carry and store your dog’s toys.
3. KONG Tugger Knots Moose
The KONG Tugger Knots Moose Toy is ideal if you want a toy that removes stress from your dog. It is also perfect if your dog is a heavy chewer.
Read moreProduct Quality
The KONG Tugger Knots Moose Toy is made from compound-layered fabrics. Its ropes are knotted and compressed to ensure that it can withstand even the heaviest bite or chew.
Product Features
This type of tug toy from KONG offers a materialistic texture that your dog can feel. It has a shiny and attractive color will attract your dog to bite it. It is very durable and has tug handles at its ends. Its distinct design produces various textures and opposition that the dog loves. The loops inside are knotted together to achieve extra strength.
Overall Components
The KONG Tugger Knots Moose Toy promotes the better dental health of your dog. In addition, it has a squeaker inside for added enjoyment. You can use this toy to bond with your fur baby. This will foster a stronger relationship with your dog. It is long enough for two dogs to enjoy.
Product Specifications
The KONG Tugger Knots Moose Toy is 20-inches in length. It only weighs 6.2 ounces and has a shipping weight of 10.4 ounces. It is perfect for dogs weighing 80 pounds.
4. Mammoth Flossy Chews
This is perfect if you are looking for a soft but chewable toy with a beautiful design that will keep your dog occupied for hours.
Read moreProduct Quality
The Mammoth 3-Knot Rope Tug is made of 100 percent cotton blend. It is composed of three sturdy cotton knots of various colors that will certainly attract your fur baby. The fibers on the rope are made of soft but durable materials that are not just soft but also very flexible for your dog to chew.
Product Features
This toy from Mammoth has several impressive features. This includes having a strong visual charm to your fur baby with its multiple colors. It is long enough that allows a couple of dogs to enjoy it together. If your dog has no playmate, the ample length will allow you to play with him.
Overall Components
The Mammoth 3-Knot Rope Tug toy offers entertainment to your dog that will redirect his destructive biting behavior. This chew toy also promotes better dental health. It is ideal if your dog is at its teething stage. Most customers love this toy because it is worth its price.
Product Specifications
The Mammoth 3-Knot Rope Tug has a product dimension of 25-inches by 3-inches by 3-inches. It has a total shipping weight of 8.8-inches.
5. GoCooper Puppy Chew Teething
The GoCooper Puppy Chew toy is the ideal toy if you have a small breed fur baby.
Read moreProduct Quality
It is made from 100 percent high-quality cotton. It does not contain any plastic or rubber, thus it is safe. It does not have any toxins, so you are assured that your furbaby is free from harmful components while having fun.
Product Features
This type of chew toy from GoCooper is specially designed for small dog breeds. It is a great companion of your dog that helps him in his mental and dental growth. The primary function of this toy is to help improve the dental health of your fur baby.
Overall Components
The GoCooper Puppy Chew toy is composed of sturdy knots that will not in any way hurt his stomach. While the toy is dyed, the manufacturer assured that they used non-toxic substances to keep your dog safe. Aside from his dental needs, it can also satiate your dog’s instinctual desires. This toy also promotes the right chewing attitude of your dog.
Emotionally, it helps lessen the separation anxiety when you leave your dog. While it passes on the wrong biting attitude of your dog, it also strengthens your relationship between you and your dog.
Product Specifications
The GoCooper Puppy Chew toy has a product dimension of 8-inches in length and 5.5-inches in width. It comes with a bag that you can reuse. You can use the bag for carrying and for storing your dog’s toys.
6. Nylabone Dura Chew Textured Chew
The Nylabone Dura Chew Toy is ideal if you have a heavy chewer dog. It is also a good choice if you are looking for a durable chew toy.
Read moreProduct Quality
The Nylabone Dura Chew toy is made from high-quality nylon that assures durability despite heavy and rough play. Since it is made of 100 percent nylon, you are assured that this toy can last for years.
Product Features
This type of chew toy offers various flavors. You can choose from the chicken, liver, peanut, and original flavor. It also has a course design all over its body. This texture will help a lot especially fur babies that are still teething. If you have a problem with your large breed dog chewing anything, giving him Nylabone Dura Chew could solve it.
Overall Components
This type of chew toy from Nylabone is best for the dog that weighs more than 50 pounds. It has various flavors so you can choose one or all if your dog grew tired of one flavor. Since it is a chew toy, it challenges the most aggressive type of chewer and restricts them from chewing destructively. It has also raised bristles that help control tartar and plaque while cleaning your dog’s teeth.
Product Specifications
The Nylabone Textured Chew toy has a product dimension of 7.6-inches by 1.2-inches by 2.1-inches. It weighs 6.4 ounces and has a shipping weight of 7.2 ounces.
7. Benebone Wishbone Dog Chew
This is the ideal toy if you have a chewer dog. Made from 100 percent bacon and nylon. The durable nature of nylon and the delectable flavor and taste of bacon will definitely attract your fur baby. It is designed for dogs that are heavy chewers.
Read moreProduct Features
This toy from BeneBone is specially designed for chewers and large dog breeds. It has a special curved design with a profound groove to allow your dog to make deep bites. It has a substantial area that will intensify the scent and flavor contained in the toy that will attract your dog.
Overall Components
In addition to its dog-friendly shaped, the BeneBone Wishbone Chew toy has a real flavor from real food to create a hard-to-resist scent and taste. The manufacturer further instructs the owner to check on their dogs once in a while they are at it because the toy is not edible.
Product Specifications
The BeneBone Wishbone Chew toy is intended for dogs with small dogs with weight below 30 pounds. The medium-sized toy is for dogs with weight below 60 pounds; while their large toy is for dogs with weight below 90 pounds. It is not meant for dogs or animals with allergic reactions to peanuts, pork, chicken, or nylon.
This chew toy has a product dimension of 7-inches by 1.5-inches by 4.8-inches. It has a weight of 5.9 ounces and has a total shipping weight of 6.9 ounces.
8. OurPets IQ Treat Ball
OurPets IQ Treat Ball is the ideal toy if you are looking for something that will give your dog a fun and stimulating activity.
Read moreProduct Quality
The OurPets IQ Treat ball is made from high-quality plastic that will stand the rough play. The plastic material is safe and has no toxic that could harm your fur baby. It can be easily twisted apart, which allows you to clean the toy easily and conveniently.
Product Features
This type of toy is a fun version of a slow feed container that fosters a healthy regime of your dog. You can place a small portion of your fur baby’s meal in this toy. This allows your dog to eat what is being released. You can put treats inside the toy and set your preferred level of difficulty. You can adjust the interior of the disc to achieve your desired target.
Overall Components
This toy has an adjustable level of difficulty that will provide challenges to your fur baby while he is learning. This can provide stimulation, fun, physical activity, and reward to your dog. This is because while your fur baby rolls the ball, the treats will be released as a reward for actively playing.
Product Specifications
OurPets IQ Treat ball has a product dimension of 4.4-inches by 4-inches by 4-inches. It weighs 4.8 ounces only.
9. TRIXIE Pet
It is perfect if you have a canine player of intermediate level. It is also ideal if you have a small fur baby.
Read moreProduct Quality
The base of this is made from non-slipping rubber. It is an activity game board with level 2 difficulty. Its hollow sliders, hinged lids, and a couple of cones are made of durable plastics that are non-toxic. The rim maintains the cones as your fur baby tries to discover the game.
Product Features
It is an entertainment that aims to channel the energy and curiosity of your dog into something stimulating and positive. It is a rewarding toy where the dog gets a treat depending on the techniques he used for opening the compartments. The toy is designed to prevent the cones from being knocked or bumped over. Your fur baby must lift the cone straight in order to remove it.
Overall Components
This toy is ideal for if you want something that will stimulate your dog’s mind while keeping them active. It will keep your dog occupied. Aside from being a good and stimulating toy, your dog will be delighted to get his reward after solving the puzzle.
Product Specifications
This toy comes with a free booklet that contains information on how to optimize your dog training. There are also tips and tricks that you can follow to make problem-solving more enjoyable for your puppy. This toy has an overall dimension of 9-inches by 9-inches by 1-inch. It only weighs 1 pound. It is easy to clean and is safe when used with dishwashers. It also comes with a one-year warranty from the manufacturer.
10. KONG Wobbler
Kong Wobbler Dog Toy is a multi-functional toy that will delight your fur babies. It is specially intended for moderate to an average type of chewers.
Read moreProduct Quality
This classic toy from KONG is one of the staple toys of dogs all over the world. It is made of a naturally formulated red rubber that is very sturdy. It produces an irregular bounce when hit by a dog’s nose or paw.
Product Features
This is a food-dispensing toy. It sits erect, releases treats every time the dog pushes it, and shakes, wobblers, rolls, and spins. The toy becomes interesting because of its irregular movement. Some owners use the Wobbler as an alternative to the dish bowl.
Its unpredictable release of treats slows down the dog’s mealtime. It also provides physical activity for your dog. This is very helpful in keeping your god occupied for several hours.
Overall Components
In addition to its multi-functionality, the KONG Wobbler is available in various sizes. This means that regardless of your fur baby’s size, he can still enjoy this kind of toy. It is also very durable and can withstand extreme wear from dogs of various sizes and different strengths. It is also available to dogs of all ages.
The Kong Wobbler can be refilled with treats.it can even provide a full meal for your fur baby. The best thing about this is that it can be both passive and active. You can keep it empty and make it bounce if you want to have a bonding activity with your dog.
Product Specifications
The Kong Wobbler has an overall dimension of 7.5-inches by 5.-inches by 5.1-inches. It only weighs 1.95 pounds. Its shipping weight is only two pounds.
Sources
- , The 7 Best Dog Toys of 2019, Article