The Best Dog Toys

As a dog owner, keeping your pooch entertained and engaged is essential for their physical and mental well-being. One of the best ways to achieve this is by providing them with a colorful variety of interesting toys to play with. But with so many options available in this ever-expanding market, choosing the right picks for your dog can feel like a tall order. The ideal dog toy should be safe, durable, and able to keep your dog stimulated and active. From chew toys to puzzle toys, there are endless choices to suit every type of dog. In this article, I’ll take a look at some of the best dog toys on the market that are sure to provide your pup with hours of playtime and joy.Before you make a decision on which dog toy you want to bring home for your pup, there are a couple of important factors you should take into consideration to inform your choice. Firstly, your dog’s safety should always be a top priority when choosing a toy. Prioritize toys that are made from non-toxic materials and don’t have any small parts that your dog could choke on. Be sure to avoid toys that are made from cheap materials that can easily break apart, as these can pose a choking hazard as well. Also, durability is a big concern for well-educated dog owners. Dogs are natural chewers and can quickly destroy toys that aren’t made to withstand their strong jaws. Look for toys that are made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand heavy chewing and play. Generally, toys made from tough materials like rubber or nylon tend to be more durable than those made from plastic, foam, or plush.

To ensure that your dog has a fun time with its new toy, it’s always a smart move to take size into consideration in your search. If the toy is too big, your dog might not be able to pick it up for fetch and other playtime games. If the toy is too small, it could pose a choking hazard. Additionally, you should consider what you want the toy to be used for. For example, if you want a toy to keep your dog entertained while you’re away, a puzzle toy or treat-dispensing toy may be a good option. If you want a toy for playing fetch or tug-of-war, opt for toys that are easy to grip and toss.

I’ve always found that the best dog toys are ones that keep your dog engaged and entertained. Seek out toys that have different textures, shapes, and colors to keep your dog interested over time. Toys that make noise or dispense treats can also be a great way to keep your dog engaged and mentally stimulated. Ultimately, when choosing a high-quality dog toy, it’s important to consider your dog’s safety, durability, size, purpose, and engagement. By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a toy that will provide your furry friend with hours of fun and entertainment.

Interactive Treat Dispenser Dog Toy

Treat dispenser toys are some of the most interesting and interactive toys a dog can play with, and this option from Starmark is one of the best I’ve yet to come across. Starmark’s unique Bob-a-Lot toy is a treat dispenser toy that houses multiple treats for your dog with a small opening that releases treats when turned in a specific way. Not only is the Bob-a-Lot an interesting treat dispenser toy, but it’s also a fun and interactive toy your dog can have a great time with – even when you’re not around. I couldn’t recommend this toy enough for owners with curious dogs that love solo playtime (and tasty treats).

Pros:

• Interesting colors and textures
• Holds a lot of treats
• Great for solo playtime
• Available in small and large size options

Cons:

• The opening in the dispenser only allows for bite-sized treats

Aerodynamic Fetch Dog Toy

If your dog is anything like most of the dogs I’ve come across in my life, it can’t get enough of playing fetch. And with Chuckit!’s incredible Air Fetch Football, you and your pooch can enjoy countless hours of fetch with a uniquely aerodynamic dog toy. This pick has an interesting design quality with a perforated construction that makes it easy for you to throw the toy long distances, and even easier for your dog to pick it up. Not to mention, this option from Chuckit! just so happens to float in water, making this a great choice for summer trips to the beach or lake.

Pros:

• Available in other shapes
• Aerodynamic construction
• Noticeable bright coloration
• Highly affordable

Cons:

• Although this toy is great for fetch, it’s not the most durable option on the market; aggressive chewers might tear through this one quite quickly

Agressive Chewer Dog Toy Multi-Pack

If you’re a dog owner with a hopelessly aggressive chewer in the house, it can feel impossible at times to find a toy that will stand the test of time. Thankfully, your chew-happy pup might finally meet its match with this heavy-duty multi-pack from Beneebone. Not only is Benebone’s chew toy multi-pack exceptionally durable and tough, but it’s also infused with irresistible flavorings such as bacon, Maplewood, and salmon. If you’ve been having a hard time getting your dog to chew on anything but your furniture, this tasty and satisfying multi-pack from Benebone might be just what the doctor ordered.

Pros:

• Infused with different flavors
• No artificial flavorings
• Exceptionally durable
• Safer than real bones or hides

Cons:

• These chew toys might be a bit too strong for small dogs’ jaws

Animal-Themed Plush Dog Toy Multi-Pack

There will always be a place for tough rubber toys and durable outdoor fetch sticks, but there’s something about plush indoor toys that dogs always go crazy for. And this animal-themed plush multi-pack from Jalousie has that adorable x-factor that the dogs in your household are certain to go crazy for. With bright coloration, soft plush fabric, and durable liners, these toys are as fun to play with as they are to look at. Ideal for indoor fetch or growly bouts of tug-of-war, you and your dog are bound to have countless good times with these adorable plush dog toys.

Pros:

• Different animal designs in the pack
• Interesting textures
• Affordable bulk buy

Cons:

• These toys will probably not last as long in your home as rubber alternatives – especially if you have aggressive chewers

Treat Dispenser Puzzle Dog Toy

Sadly, most dog owners have to leave their dogs home alone to go to work for long periods each day. As responsible owners, it’s important that we fill our homes with plenty of ways for our dogs to stay stimulated and happy until we return. And this unique puzzle dog toy from Petsta is one of the best ways to do it. This innovative puzzle toy features multiple compartments you can fill with treats, allowing your dog to use problem-solving skills and curiosity to find a way to get to them. What’s more, this treat dispenser also has an interactive squeak button.

Pros:

• Easy to clean
• Holds a ton of treats
• Anti-slip patches on the bottom to keep it in place
• 16 treat compartments

Cons:

• Some dogs might have a difficult time figuring out how to open the compartments

About the Author

With extensive experience as a professional dog handler, Nick wants to help owners choose the best possible products for their pooches. Since dogs show their humans such unconditional love, Nick believes it's only fair that we give it right back to them -- and who wouldn't want to? He has had dogs since elementary school himself, so you can trust him to have the best advice on canine care.

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