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Turn playtime into a boredom-busting adventure for your dog!
The perfect toy can keep them mentally sharp, relaxed, and out of mischief. From chew toys that satisfy their natural instincts to puzzles that challenge their minds, we have everything you need to strengthen your bond with your furry friend.
We offer reviews of a wide variety of dog toys, including:
Chew toys: Keep them occupied and happy with durable options that discourage destructive chewing.
Enrichment toys: Engage their minds and prevent boredom with stimulating puzzles and challenges.
Interactive toys: Create lasting memories and build a stronger connection through engaging playtime together.
No matter your dog's personality, size, or preferences, our carefully chosen selection has something special for every dog!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Our Picks of the Best Dog Toys
Our Picks of the Best Dog Toys
1. Best Toy Overall
K9 Connectables
Unleash the ultimate playtime experience with K9 Connectables! These award-winning dog toys seamlessly transform from chew toys to fetch favourites and treat dispensers, keeping your dog entertained for hours.
With their patented, award-winning design, these toys offer oodles of different combinations. Each individual element is designed to mentally and physically stimulate your dog by offering rewards.
We spent a few months extensively testing both the Gentle and Pro ranges.
Their Pro toy range is designed to have increased challenge levels and is made from harder materials that are extremely strong and chew resistant.
The elements slot and stack together offering different combinations to suit your dog.
Some of their range can be used as fetch toys, treat dispensers or puzzles and they even offer their own bone shaped bone treats to fit into the slots.
A series of ridges at each connection point let you increase the challenge level. The further you push the elements together, the harder it will be for your dog to pull them apart.
During testing, with a Labrador and Cockapoo, we found the PRO range to be extremely tough and durable so whilst K9 Connectables may not be the cheapest dog toys available, they will certainly outlast most.
Reasons to Buy
+ Tough enrichment toy
+ Unlimited combinations
+ Extensive range
+ Size and difficulty options
Reasons to Avoid
- Not the cheapest
Buying Options
If you would like more information, why not check out our deep-dive review of K9 Connectables |
2. Best for Building a Bond
Tug-e-Nuff
Looking for a fun way to keep your dog active, strengthen your bond, and even ace training? Tug toys are your secret weapon!
They provide high-value rewards that can help you achieve those elusive training goals, like mastering recall, leave it, and stay commands.
Tug-e-Nuff are a family run company launched way back in 2009.
They have combined their considerable experience as professional dog trainers with creativity to develop a range of high quality, innovative tug toys.
The Sheepskin Bungee Chaser ticks all the boxes for a tug toy. We've tested countless tug toys, but this one takes the cake!
Boasting incredible durability for even the most energetic chewers, it's also specifically crafted to soothe anxious pups.
But the real showstopper? It's the most enticing tug toy we've tested, guaranteed to spark serious playtime fun.
The toy measures over a metre long, so is ideal if you have an anxious dog, as they can play tug with you from a distance rather than up close which will help to build their confidence.
The strong handle is padded for extra comfort and includes a bungee cord section.
This innovative design takes the tug-of-war experience to a whole new level. It minimises strain on your arm and your dog's neck, making playtime more enjoyable for both of you.
Available in 4 colour combinations with a choice of black or white sheepskin bite material. If you prefer, Tug-e-Nuff also offer rabbit fur or faux fur options.
We think every dog lover needs a Tug-e-Nuff toy in their toy arsenal.
Reasons to Buy
+ Ideal for anxious dogs
+ Super fluffy
+ Padded handle
+ Bungee section
Reasons to Avoid
- If you're not a fan of fur
- Too big for your pocket
Buying Options
Get 10% OFF any Tug-e-Nuff toy
Using discount code SMARTBARK at checkout
Looking to explore more tug toy options? Dive deeper with our comprehensive review - Best Dog Tug Toys for 2024 - to find the perfect match for your playful pup! And once you've chosen your ideal toy, unlock the full potential of playtime with our guide - Playtime Perfect: Getting the Best from Your Dog's Tug Toy. |
3. Best for Active Dogs
Chuckit Ball & Thrower
Struggling to keep your energetic dog worn out? Unleash endless fun with a ball thrower!
We've tested countless balls and launchers over the years, but nothing beats the Chuckit range for its superior quality and effortless throws. Get ready to unleash epic fetch sessions and watch your furry athlete tire out in style!
No ordinary dog ball toys either, Chuckit balls have been designed for the most demanding 'fetch' use.
Created with a really high bounce to keep your dog guessing they are also highly visible so can be found easily when your dog appears to forget the 'fetch' command leaving you searching.
Playing at the beach or by a lake - no problem, Chuckit Balls float so they're perfect for water play.
Their Ultra ball range is designed to be extra tough with a smoother finish so we found them so much easier to clean than furry tennis balls which turn black and grey before you know it.
Their original 'furry' balls are available as singles and multi-packs in a range of sizes.
Chuckit also offer a eco-friendly recycled version and a newly launched Sniff Ball (peanut butter or bacon scented options no less).
Our advise, if you choose to buy a ball launcher and additional balls on-line, double check the sizes to make sure they fit.
Not all balls and launchers are created equal. We put a variety to the test, and the Chuckit combination emerged victorious. Their top-notch design boasts exceptional durability and makes throwing a breeze.
Dimensions ( diameter) - Small 5 cm | Medium 6.4 cm | Large 7.6 cm | X large 9 cm
Reasons to Buy
+ Tough dog balls + Easy to use
+ Size options for little dogs
+ Multi-packs available
Reasons to Avoid
- Cheaper options available
Buying Options
4. Best for Treat Dispensing
Bob-a-Lot
Starmark has been the world leader in pet education for over a decade, with award-winning training and behaviour tools developed by experts.
We've heard a lot about the Starmark Bob-A-Lot, so we decided to see for ourselves! We tested this interactive dog puzzle toy to give you the inside scoop.
To start, simply fill the top with your dog’s favourite treat, or if they have a kibble diet, you could put their whole meal inside.
Adjust the two openings to alter the difficulty to release the food and you're all set.
We loved that Bob-a-Lot offers you some flexibility in dispensing rate do you can make it more difficult for your dog.
The Bob-A-Lot was surprisingly heavy and sturdy. It wobbles around the floor on it's weighted base and as your dog nudges with their nose and paws, it releases treats.
After some trial and error we were able to open the slots just enough to keep Freddie interested but still keeping it challenging. Great for 'chewers', it's a substantial toy and super durable.
Our one reservation is that it doesn't come apart for cleaning so we would recommend using hard, crunchy style treats that won't leave crumbs inside the toy.
It's worth noting that it's a great option for greedy guzzlers as it works as a slow feeder by increasing the time it takes your dog to consume their food. Just be aware that it would only work with a kibble diet.
It's easy-to-fill and available in two sizes to suit puppies to large breed dogs.
Reasons to Buy
+ Tough and not easy to chew
+ Flexible difficulty level
+ Could act as a slow feeder
Reasons to Avoid
- Moves around floor
- Doesn't come apart for cleaning
Buying Options
You might also be interested in ..... |
Unlock the full potential of puzzle toys with yummy and healthy treats! Find the perfect options in our Best Dog Treats article. |
5. Best for Fighting Boredom
Kong
Let's be honest, no article discussing the best dog toys would be complete without a nod to probably the best known dog toy - the Kong.
The classic Kong, launched way back in 1976, is recommended by veterinarians and dog trainers worldwide. Made from natural rubber, it has an unpredictable bounce which is enticing for your dog.
If you're looking to extend their play, it can be filled with a whole range of dog treats to keep your dog entertained and works particularly well with soft treats such as yoghurt or dog - friendly peanut butter.
The ultimate boredom buster, the Kong is available in a wide selection of sizes and materials for chewers, puppies and extreme chewers.
In testing, we've always found that a Kong can really help with separation anxiety particularly when you're looking at ways to extend separation in young dogs and puppies.
If you're planning to get your dog a Kong, make it even easier with a Stopple from Paws in Earnest.
This handy stand prevents messy spills when filling your Kong and comes in two sizes for the perfect fit. Plus, it's dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Everyone loves Kong toys, but let's be honest, cleaning them after those yummy fillings can be a drag! Here's a tip: a quick soak in warm water right after playtime, makes that post-play cleanup a breeze.
Reasons to Buy
+ Best selling dog toy
+ Boredom buster
+ Tough
+ Range of sizes and durability
Reasons to Avoid
- Tricky to clean
Buying Options
For 10% OFF Paws in Earnest
use discount code SMARTBARK at checkout
You may also enjoy reading our new article exploring some Kong alternatives in the Best Enrichment Toys for 2024 |
6. Best Easy Interactive Toy
Kong Gyro
Another toy from the Kong stable is the Gyro. A simple but well designed treat dispenser which we love because it's easy to clean!
This is a great introduction to dog puzzle toys as it doesn't involve a huge amount of strategy and the results are immediate.
The Kong Gyro features a blue central sphere with a hole that dispenses treats as your dog playfully nudges and spins it. Smaller treats are ideal, creating a delicious trail as your furry friend navigates the toy across the kitchen floor, keeping them entertained and mentally stimulated for extended play sessions.
There is an opportunity to make the Gyro more of a challenge for your dog by adding chunkier treats. The dispensing hole is approx. 2cm diameter (slightly smaller than a £1 coin).
Our one reservation would be Power Chewers !
As it's made from plastic not rubber, we wouldn't recommend this for any serious chewers out there.
You may be better considering the larger, heavier and more substantial Bob-A-Lot featured earlier in our review.
The KONG Gyro could even be used as a slow feeder or to entice fussy eaters if your dog shows reticence or some anxiety eating from a more traditional dog bowl.
In testing, we enlisted the help of a playful foster mini dachshund. Even though kibble in a bowl wasn't her favourite, this toy transformed mealtime into a rewarding puzzle adventure.
Oh! and we should mention that it's available in two sizes to suit a range of breeds.
Reasons to Buy
+ Simple puzzle
+ Dispenses treats
+ Two sizes available
+ Easy to clean
+ Great value enrichment toy
Reasons to Avoid
- Limited challenge
- Not suitable for power chewers
Buying Options
7. Best Soft Toy
GoDog Plush Toy
Size isn't everything when it comes to chewing power!
Even the most playful pup can become a toy-destroying machine. Aggressive chewers can reduce a seemingly tuff toy to shreds in minutes.
Despite the huge number of different dog toys available, lots of our four-legged friends still prefer to play with soft toys.
This is probably because they retain your dog's scent to keep them coming back again and again.
So if you're looking for a soft yet tough toy that can withstand some heavy play, we'd suggest taking a closer look at the range of soft toys from GoDog.
Cute, soft and cuddly the headline feature for the GoDog range is their amazing construction.
Including chew-guard technology and double stitched seams so they are more durable than most soft dog toys, their ultimate aim is to keep the stuffing on the inside !
It's worth noting that their super cute dragon toy also include an internal squeaker.
Available in two sizes, if you have a chewer this tough soft toy range from GoDog may just stand the test of time.
Dimensions ( length) - Small 20 x 7 x 16 cm | Large 33 x 10 x 25 cm
Reasons to Buy
+ Tough soft toy
+ Internal squeaker
+ Chew-guard technology
+ Double stitched seams
Reasons to Avoid
- Not as durable as a Goughnut
Buying Options
Does your pup need a new chew challenge? We've tested and ranked the top 10 toughest dog toys available in the UK for 2024. Discover the ultimate chewer's paradise in our Best Indestructible Dog Toys guide! |
8. Best for Power Chewers
Goughnuts
Admittedly they don't look that exciting, but Goughnuts are extremely popular amongst dog lovers with power chewers.
Their range of toys is engineer-designed and made from a virtually indestructible rubber compound so is definitely built to last.
They are also designed with your dog's safety in mind. The Goughnuts range features two layers with a red indicator which lets you know that the central core has been reached.
A selection of different sizes are available along with different colours denoting their durability so you can select the right one for your dog regardless of whether they're a Dachshund or a Rottweiler.
The Goughnuts collection also features sticks, rings, balls and tug toys so you have options on shapes.
Easy to clean, simply wash under warm water. Oh! and it's worth mentioning that Goughnuts come with a lifetime warranty.
Reasons to Buy
+ Indestructible
+ Lifetime warranty
+ Range of sizes
Reasons to Avoid
- Not the most exciting
Buying Options
If you can't find what you're looking for, check out our Best Christmas Toys Guide.
9. Best for Canine Einsteins
Nina Ottosson
Puzzle toys, or dog enrichment toys, are more than just fun. They provide mental stimulation, learning opportunities, and even help wear out your energetic pup.
The extensive and popular Nina Ottosson range of dog puzzle caters for dogs who are new to puzzle toys along with those that think they're canine Einsteins.
This particular design, the Dog Casino, is a level 3 game so is recommended for more challenging play.
However as with most puzzle toys, we found it can easily be adapted to suit your dog.
The idea behind the Dog Casino is for your dog to slide the drawers open to access the treats hidden inside.
If your dog is good at solving puzzles, you can further challenge them by simply twisting the bone shaped white handles to lock the drawers in place.
We introduced the puzzle with a couple of drawers slightly ajar to entice our dog.
Once he was able to pull the drawers open to reveal the treats inside, we shut the drawers completely.
Lastly, we began to turn the bones to lock the handles in place and with some guidance Freddie was able to start unlocking them - this stage is very tricky!
Made from tough plastic, so not only can you use it for wet or even frozen treats, its dishwasher proof too.
Reasons to Buy
+ Well designed
+ Provides a challenge
+ Flexible
+ Easy to clean
+ No loose pieces
Reasons to Avoid
- Difficult to master completely
Buying Options
10. Best Dog Chew Toy
Bamboodles
Last to feature in our top 10 is the Bamboodles chew toy collection. Incredibly tough this wishbone shaped nylon chew is suitable for all breeds and sizes of dog.
The 'Y' shape has been designed to massage your dog's gums and better still, it's infused with flavour to keep them coming back for more.
Cleverly, the base is shaped to help your pup grasp the chew between their paws keeping it stable.
Crafted from natural bamboo fibre combined with multiple nylon fibres to create a long-lasting durable chew. Cleverly, as your dog gnaws, the infused bamboo flakes away rather than shears or snaps so there are no sharp edges to worry about.
There are several other shapes and designs available including a range for puppies.
Reasons to Buy
+ Range of designs
+ Range of sizes
+ Great value
+ Suitable for aggressive chewers
Reasons to Avoid
- Not interactive
Buying Options
Our Verdict
Our "Best Dog Toy" collection is a treasure trove of fun for your pampered pup. We've meticulously curated a selection that includes:
Treat Dispensers to spark playtime joy.
Brain-teasing puzzles to challenge their minds and keep them engaged.
Durable, long-lasting toys built for enthusiastic chewers.
Classic tug toys perfect for interactive play.
Enrichment toys that stimulate natural instincts.
Fetch favourites for endless games of chase.
We've considered every budget and play style, so there's a perfect match waiting for your furry friend.
But hey, if you think we've missed a hidden gem, a toy that deserves to be featured, let us know! We're always looking to expand our pawsome selection.
Why are Dog Toys Important ?
Dog toys are a more than simply fun for your dog, according to Behaviourist Carolyn Menteith at tails.com -
Like humans, stress can cause health problems for dogs. Dogs who aren’t provided with enough mental stimulation, problem-solving opportunities and an outlet for their natural behaviours are likely to experience heightened levels of stress, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and behaviour issues”
Dog toys play a crucial role in your dog's well-being. Here's a look at some key benefits:
Physical exercise
Many dog toys encourage physical activity and exercise, which is crucial for a dog's overall health and well-being. Look for toys that involve chasing, fetching, or tugging which help dogs burn energy.
Mental stimulation:
Dogs are intelligent animals that require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviour. Look for toys that challenge their problem-solving skills, such as puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys.
Dental health:
Chewing on toys can help keep a dog's teeth clean and healthy. Consider toys that are designed for chewing, such as dental chews or rubber toys
Emotional comfort:
Dogs are social animals and can experience separation anxiety or loneliness when left alone. Having access to toys, particularly soft or plush toys, can provide comfort and reduce stress and anxiety.
Bonding & interaction:
Playing with toys can strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Look for interactive toys, like tug ropes or interactive balls, allow for fun and engaging playtime together.
Redirecting unwanted behaviour:
Providing appropriate toys can redirect a dog's attention from destructive behaviours, such as chewing on furniture or shoes.
We hope our article helped you find the perfect toy for your dog.
Thanks for stopping by and reading our Best Dog Toys for 2024
