Choosing the best dog toys isn’t just about fun—it’s about keeping your pup healthy, happy, and out of trouble. With 67% of dogs showing boredom-related behaviors, picking the right toy can make a huge difference in their physical exercise and mental stimulation. Whether you’re hunting for durable chew toys, interactive puzzles, or safe, non-toxic options, you want toys that match your dog’s size, age, and play style. In this guide, tested and reviewed by the MinardiPets team, you’ll find top picks for every kind of dog—from power chewers to playful puppies—and expert tips to shop smart in 2025. Ready to find your dog’s new favorite toy? Let’s jump in!
Finding the right toy for your pup isn’t just about fun—it’s about safety, durability, and matching your dog’s unique needs. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the perfect plaything.
· Small breeds: Look for lightweight, small-sized toys that are easy to carry (e.g., soft plush, small rope toys).
· Large/giant breeds: Choose bigger, tougher toys designed to withstand powerful jaws. Avoid choking hazards with large pieces.
Chew Strength | Toy Recommendations | Notes |
Light Chewers | Plush, rope, soft rubber | Gentle on teeth but less durable. |
Average Chewers | Nylon, TPR, tougher rubber | Balanced durability & fun. |
Aggressive/Power Chewers | Indestructible nylon, natural antler, MinardiPets tough toys | Invest here—less replacement hassle. |
· Puppy teething: Soothing, soft toys like silicone teething rings, plush with no small parts.
· Senior dogs: Softer or slow-paced toys (plush, gentle rope) that won’t strain older teeth or joints.
· Fetch lovers: Durable balls or flying discs designed for distance and grip.
· Tug players: Strong rope or rubber tug toys with reinforced handles.
· Solo players: Puzzle toys, treat dispensers to keep them entertained alone.
· Food-motivated: Treat-dispensing or interactive puzzle toys that challenge their brain.
Always check:
· BPA-free and non-toxic materials
· No small parts that can be swallowed
· Durable enough to avoid quick breaks or choking hazards
· Easy to clean and maintain
Material | Pros | Cons |
Rubber | Durable, flexible, bouncy | May wear for aggressive chewers |
Nylon | Super tough, long-lasting | Can be hard, may chip teeth |
Plush | Soft, cuddly, comforting | Easy to rip, not for chewers |
Rope | Great for tug & dental | Can fray & cause blockages |
TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) | Durable & safe | Less common, may be pricier |
Natural Antler | Long-lasting, natural | Not for power chewers prone to cracking |
Choosing the right toy is about balancing size, strength, play style, age, and safety. Remember, your dog's happiness and health go paw-in-paw with the perfect toy!
Finding the best dog toys can be overwhelming, so here’s a quick rundown of the top picks for 2026, each suited for different needs:
· Best Overall Dog Toy: Combines durability, fun, and safety for most dogs.
· Best Indestructible Toy for Aggressive Chewers: Made from ultra-tough materials to handle the strongest jaws.
· Best Puppy Teething Toy: Gentle on gums and designed to soothe puppy teething pain.
· Best Interactive Puzzle Toy: Keeps dogs mentally stimulated and fights boredom.
· Best Plush Toy (with/without squeaker): Soft and cuddly, great for gentle chewers or comfort.
· Best Fetch Toy: Lightweight and easy to throw, perfect for active dogs who love chasing.
· Best Tug-of-War Toy: Built for strong grips and interactive play between dog and owner.
· Best Water/Swimming Toy: Floats and is made from water-friendly materials for summer fun.
· Best Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Toy: Made from recycled or natural materials, ideal for environmentally conscious owners.
· Best Budget Dog Toy Under $15: Affordable without sacrificing quality.
· Best Toy for Small Dogs: Sized and designed for smaller mouths and less aggressive chewers.
· Best Toy for Large/Giant Breeds: Durable and sized for large dogs that need sturdy, big toys.
· Best Treat-Dispensing Toy: Engages food-motivated dogs and slows down eating.
· Best Calming/Comfort Toy for Anxious Dogs: Helps reduce stress with soft textures or soothing scents.
· Best Cooling Toy for Hot Weather: Keeps dogs cool while they play during summer.
For deeper insights and to shop smartly, check out the full breakdown of the top 10 dog toys of 2026, which covers detailed reviews and recommendations. Whether you want the toughest chew toy or the most interactive puzzle, there’s a perfect match out there.
When picking dog toys, safety should always come first. Here are some toys to steer clear of in 2026:
lRawhide treats and toys: These can cause choking, digestive blockages, or bacterial contamination. Many vets recommend avoiding rawhide altogether.
lCheap squeaky toys that fall apart: Low-quality squeakers often break open quickly, exposing small parts that dogs can swallow or choke on.
lToys containing toxic materials: Avoid any dog toys made with phthalates, lead, or other harmful chemicals. Always look for BPA-free, non-toxic labels to keep your dog safe.
lTennis balls for power chewers: Although popular for fetch, tennis balls have abrasive fuzz that can wear down your dog's teeth, especially for aggressive chewers.
Choosing safe, durable dog toys reduces risks and keeps playtime fun. For more on safe pet gear, check out our guide to the best no-pull dog harnesses of 2026.
This year, dog toys are getting smarter and more innovative. Smart tech toys with GPS tracking and app control are becoming popular, letting you keep tabs on your dog’s playtime and even customize games remotely. Subscription toy boxes are another big trend, delivering a fresh mix of toys regularly to keep dogs entertained without you having to shop constantly.
Eco-friendly options are on the rise too, with more toys made from biodegradable and recycled materials, helping reduce waste while still being tough enough for chewers. Lastly, multi-function 3-in-1 toys that combine fetch, chew, and treat-dispensing features are winning over dog owners who want versatile, space-saving options.
For more tips on dog gear that complements playtime, check out our detailed dog harness guide.
Squeaky toys can be safe, but only if your dog isn’t an aggressive chewer who can easily tear them apart. Broken squeakers can be a choking hazard or cause digestive problems if swallowed. Always supervise your dog with squeaky toys and choose well-made, durable options like plush dog toys with squeakers designed to withstand moderate chewing.
Replace dog toys once they show signs of wear like cracks, tears, or missing parts. For aggressive chewers, this might be every few weeks, while gentle players can keep toys for months. Regularly inspect toys to keep your dog safe.
Tough breeds need highly durable dog toys for aggressive chewers. Look for indestructible dog toys made from nylon or TPR rubber. Brands focused on power chewers often feature reinforced designs that stand up to strong jaws. For alternatives to Kong toys, explore durable nylon or natural antler options.
Yes, Kong toys are a trusted choice widely recommended for their durability and versatility, especially for chewers and treat-dispensing needs. However, if you want variety, some brands offer Kong alternative dog toys that are equally sturdy and fun.
You can find a great selection of safe dog toys non toxic and durable ones at specialized retailers like MinardiPets. They offer everything from interactive dog toys for boredom to budget picks and eco-friendly dog toys, perfect for any dog’s needs.
For tips related to keeping your pup active and safe with the right gear, check out our guide on fitting a dog harness correctly at MinardiPets.
At MinardiPets, we believe every dog deserves toys that are safe, durable, and genuinely fun. With so many innovative options emerging in 2026—from eco-friendly materials to smarter interactive designs—there’s never been a better time to refresh your dog’s toy box.
If you’re unsure where to start, our team is always happy to guide you based on your dog’s chewing strength, play style, and daily routine.
Happy playing—and give your pup an extra wag from us!
Amy
Amy Wang