All dogs, especially puppies, thrive on stimulation and enjoy playing. Although it's great to play with your dog, it's not always practical or possible to do so all the time. That's where specialized dog toys come in - they can help keep your dog busy and ensure his mind is occupied. But what types of toys are right for your dog and how do you go about choosing a toy for your furry friend?



These days, there are a range of toys available to suit all preferences and tastes. Some dogs love chasing things, so balls that can be thrown are ideal, whilst others thrive on huge amounts of chewing or time spent puzzling over a strange looking toy. Finding out what would be best for your dog may be a case of trial and error. If you notice, for example, that he seems fond of chewing your slippers, then a toy to chew would be a good starting point. If you're not sure, buy a selection of different toys and try them out one by one. It may be that he appreciates the variety and enjoys them all, or you may find one in particular appeals more.

Ensuring you purchase a safe toy that won't harm your dog is just as essential as making sure toys bought for young children are safe. Each year many dogs suffer accidental injuries that can be nasty and painful as a result of swallowing small pieces of toys, broken off pieces of sticks or even the squeaky parts from inside novelty squeaky balls. So before you buy, make sure that the toy is well made, sturdy and doesn't have any parts that might come off and end up injuring your pet.

Some of the common types of dog toys include toys that can be tugged, chewed, thrown or offer some form of puzzle or novelty factor. Find out more about them below.

Toys to tug

Dogs that love to play tugging games are bound to enjoy tug toys! These come in various forms, such as rubber rings or hoops, and are generally designed to be held by a human on one side and by a dog on the other. A good quality, durable tug toy should last for ages, despite plenty of tugging activity, so remember to look for a well made option. When you're not there to aid in the tugging, they can often double up as great chewing toys.

Toys to chew

Whilst dogs would be happy to chew your slippers, furniture or anything tasty looking that comes into view, it's not always so great for owners to have anything and everything chewed to threads! That's where toys to chew come in and can be an absolute joy to your beloved pet. Toys designed to be chewed are usually made of strong, hard rubber, so that they last for ages and give your dog plenty of amusement.

Toys to throw

Many dogs traditionally love having a stick thrown for them to chase after, but sticks can pose a danger if bits break off and get stuck in the mouth or throat. If your dog enjoys toys that are thrown, choose alternative options such as balls or rubber objects that can be safely thrown and chased. Standard tennis balls are great, but you can also get specialised balls designed with attachments. As well as being great exercise for your dog, this type of play doubles up as good exercise for you, too!

Novelty toys

A quick peek in a good pet shop or online store will reveal a huge selection of novelty dog toys on offer, from things that squeak and make noises, to furry toys and strange toys to give dogs something to puzzle over. If your dog responds well to noises, then squeaky toys could provide hours of fun, plus they're good to chew. Do take care to ensure the squeaky part doesn't come loose easily though, as they're not designed to be swallowed. Toys that are puzzling are ideal for dogs that like quieter, drawn-out entertainment and those that are happy playing on their own.

As a whole, dog toys can provide hours of fun and enjoyment, and help your dog develop into a playful animal, so why not treat your pet today?