Dog toys

Chew toys are made to be gnawed on for a long time. Most are firm rubber or nylon, and some have ridges or hollow centres. They suit puppies who are teething, young dogs with energy to burn, and any dog who goes after shoes and table legs. Before buying, ask how hard the dog chews and check the size guide against the dog's weight. A toy that's too small or too soft won't last long.

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  Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

  Durable rubber chew toy

  This robust toy is ideal for dogs who love to chew, providing a safe and long-lasting outlet for their natural instincts.

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Puzzle toys hide treats or kibble behind flaps, sliders or openings, so the dog has to nose, paw or roll the toy to get the reward. They suit smart, easily bored dogs and dogs left alone for part of the day. Look for a difficulty level that matches the dog, since a puzzle that's too hard gets ignored. Check that the parts are easy to take apart and wash. A rubber treat toy like the West Paw Toppl works as both a puzzle and a chew.

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  Curated pick$25–$50

  West Paw Toppl Large

  A dishwasher-safe enrichment toy that turns dog-safe fillings into a longer supervised activity.

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  Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

  Dog puzzle toys

  Challenge a dog's mind with this stimulating toy, designed to keep them entertained while they work to retrieve hidden treats.

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Durable toys are made for dogs who tear through regular toys in minutes. Expect thick rubber, reinforced seams, or solid shapes with nothing easy to rip off. They're a good pick for large breeds, strong jaws and owners who are tired of replacing toys. No toy is truly indestructible, so read what the maker says about chewing strength and pick a size up if the dog is between sizes. Simple shapes usually outlast toys with lots of small parts.

A good ball is still one of the most-used dog toys. Tennis-style balls, solid rubber balls and floating balls cover most kinds of play, from backyard fetch to lake swims. They suit active dogs and owners who walk to parks or trails. Match the ball's size to the dog's mouth, and consider bright colours that are easy to spot in grass or snow. A set of several is handy, since balls go missing.

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  Gift ideaUsually under $15

  Classic fetch ball set

  Perfect for active dogs and outdoor adventures, these balls encourage exercise and strengthen the bond during play sessions.

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  Gift ideaUsually under $15

  Buoyant water play toy

  Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this toy floats on water, making it perfect for retrieving games at the beach, lake, or pool.

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Puzzle feeders turn mealtime or treat time into an activity. Slow-feed bowls, treat-dispensing balls and textured lick mats make a dog work a little for food, which can keep it busy and slow down fast eaters. They suit food-motivated dogs and owners who want a quiet activity for the dog indoors. Check whether the feeder goes in the dishwasher, whether it fits a normal meal portion, and whether it suction-cups or stays flat on the floor.

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  Curated pick$15–$25

  Dog Puzzle Feeder Toy

  Make the dog work for dinner — sliders, flippers, and one very busy nose.

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  Curated pickUnder $15

  Dog Lick Mat Set

  Smear, stick, and suddenly bath time is easy — the tiny hero of dog ownership.

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  Curated pickUnder $15

  LickiMat Classic Buddy

  An 8-inch cross-textured TPR mat for supervised floor-based licking and feeding.

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  Curated pickUnder $15

  Aquapaw Slow Treater

  A three-wing silicone lick mat that suctions to smooth shower surfaces during grooming.

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  Gift ideaUsually under $15

  Engaging treat dispensing ball

  Keep a dog engaged and rewarded with this toy that slowly releases kibble or treats as they play, encouraging active and prolonged interaction.

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Plush toys are soft, often squeak or crinkle, and are the ones a dog carries around or naps beside. They suit gentle players, small breeds, senior dogs and puppies who like to cuddle a toy. They're a poor match for dogs who shred things, so ask the owner first. Look for double-stitched seams and toys that can go through the washing machine, since favourites get grubby quickly.

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  Gift ideaUsually under $15

  Gentle plush squeaker toy

  A comforting companion for dogs who enjoy carrying soft objects, offering a gentle squeak for added engagement during quiet play.

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  Gift ideaUsually under $15

  Crinkle sound sensory toy

  Delight a dog with varied textures and enticing crinkle sounds, offering a unique sensory experience for curious and playful companions.

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Rope toys are made of knotted, braided fibre, often cotton. Dogs use them for chewing, shaking and tug-of-war. They suit playful dogs of most sizes and owners who like to join in. Check that the rope is thick enough for the dog's size and tightly braided so it doesn't fray right away. Ropes with knots at both ends are easier for two people, or two dogs, to grab.

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  Gift ideaUsually under $15

  Sturdy rope tug toy

  This robust rope toy is excellent for interactive tugging games, providing a fun way for dogs and owners to play together while promoting dental health.

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Tug toys are made for play between a dog and a person. They're usually long, with handles or loops so your hand stays well away from the dog's mouth. They suit energetic dogs, dogs in training who get tug as a reward, and owners who want a game for indoors on cold days. Look for a comfortable grip, sturdy stitching or rubber, and a length that fits the dog's size.