The Top Pet Toys for Different Types of Pets

Editor's note: This article is part of couponsrack.'s 2024 report.

Many dogs love plush toys. Some carry them around, cuddle them and even sleep with them. But if your dog is an aggressive chewer, it may tear through the soft exterior and rip out the inner squeaker.

The Bruto Plush toy holds up well against chewers and includes a squeaker for those who like to play tug of war. The West Paw Tux treat-dispensing toy captivates herding breeds with its unique shape and the ability to stuff it with treats or yogurt (freezing it increases the challenge).

Kong Cozies

Some pet toys are best suited for specific types of pets and problem behaviors. For example, plush toys like this adorable KONG Cozie Marvin the Moose cuddly soft squeaker dog toy encourage interactive play while also soothing a nervous pup. The minimal stuffing limits mess in case the toy is chewed or destroyed during rough play, and it`s suitable for indoor play.

This floppy, squeaky toy has a knotted rope inside and offers varying textures that encourage instinct-satisfying tugging behavior. The toy`s paws and tail also offer multiple gripping points for active games of fetch. It`s less bulky than a standard rope toy and has a soft plush body that invites snuggles.

For speedy eaters who get bored easily, this interactive KONG toy is a great choice. Fill the center ball with kibble or treats and watch your dog roll it around to slow down his eat-and-roll habit. The toy is also dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easy for busy pet parents. This toy also comes larger for large dogs and extra-large breeds, which is an advantage for power chewers. If you want to save money on your pet foods or accessories use the Angry Orange.

Kong Scrunch Knots Raccoon

While no toy is truly indestructible, some are designed with greater durability than others. A destroyed toy makes a mess and creates a safety hazard for your dog if ingested, so it’s important to choose toys that can stand up to some chewing.

Kong’s rubber toys are well known for their ability to withstand chewing and to attract dogs with treats or kibble inside (try freezing the treats for an added challenge). The Kong Classic is a good choice to keep high-energy puppies engrossed. This toy combines the classic Kong rubber with a plush animal exterior to encourage chewing while satisfying natural prey instincts.

Many dogs love plush toys so much that they carry them around, cuddle them and even sleep with them. For those dedicated stuffed animal lovers, the Kong Cozies are relatively durable and come with a hardworking squeaker to keep dogs engaged. For a unique combination of puzzle and chew toy, the Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel set features small stuffed squirrels with squeakers inside a plush treehouse. The puzzle aspect provides a great problem-solving exercise while the squeakers appeal to dogs’ hunting instincts. If you`re interested in purchasing plush dog toys or exploring other pet products, consider checking out PETstock and using the PETstock Promotions for potential discounts on your purchase.

Outward Hound Tail Teaser

For dogs with a strong prey drive, a simple toy that triggers their natural hunting instincts is a great idea. This flirt pole from Outward Hound comes with two plush squeaky toys that attach to the end of a nylon cord you control, and by bouncing them around it mimics the movement of prey to encourage active play and help burn off energy.

It`s important to keep in mind that not all toys are safe for every dog, and you should always watch out for small parts or pieces that could be a choking hazard for your pup. Smith recommends getting toys from a reputable manufacturer like Outward Hound or Kong, as they are typically held to a higher standard than those made by independent companies and only sold online.

For smarter pups, puzzle toys are a great way to challenge their minds and keep them from tearing up the house with boredom. This one from Outward Hound is a level 2 treat-dispensing game that`s perfect for dogs who have mastered simpler toys, and it`s easy to clean for indoor or outdoor use.

Snuggle Puppy

If you have a senior dog or puppy that suffers from separation anxiety or is crate training, this toy will provide comfort. The Snuggle Puppy is shaped like a plush puppy that has a Velcro slit for a plastic disc “heart” powered by AAA batteries and a disposable heat pack to make it extra cuddly.

The pulsing heartbeat and warmth simulate the cuddles of mom or siblings and help reduce negative behaviors resulting from anxiety (such as barking, whining, etc). It is especially popular with puppies being shipped to their new homes and older dogs who are transitioning into their retirement home.

These toys have also helped pets who are impacted by noises such as fireworks or thunderstorms. They have even been known to calm dogs that are prone to urinating on themselves. This calming toy is a great alternative to medication, which can have dangerous side effects. The calming effect lasts up to eight hours and is easily switched on or off as needed. The toy is machine washable with the heart removed.

PetSafe Chilly Penguin

The PetSafe Chilly Penguin is a freezable dog toy that gives your dog a frozen treat they will love. Fill the snowflake-shaped treat cavity with freezable food like flavored water, chicken broth, yogurt, or wet dog food and freeze overnight for your pup to enjoy. The base has a fun wobble to challenge your dog during playtime and the vanilla scent of this toy will have them coming back for more. The toy can be stacked together in the freezer to save space and is easily cleaned by placing it in the top rack of your dishwasher.

This toy is great for dogs that need mental stimulation as well as a way to cool down during hot days. The toy will keep your dog occupied for hours trying to lick and dig into the frozen treat. These types of toys are perfect for dogs with high food drives and are a great supplement to other options like chew toys or puzzles. They also work well in conjunction with a cooling mat or vest and help keep your dog hydrated and comfortable.

Cats Love Catnip

Cats love anything that smells like catnip. It`s a powerful scent that activates their instincts to hunt and pounce. Catnip toys can be plush and soft enough for cats to chase or bat, or hard and chewable like a crinkle ball or a catnip-stuffed kicker.

Some traditional cat toys contain feathers or strings, but cats who chew aggressively may ingest these items and experience intestinal obstruction, which can be life-threatening. Instead, try a string-free toy that doesn`t contain loops or tags and is made of durable materials. Some cats also prefer squeaking and chirping toys that encourage their hunting behavior, while others enjoy playing with toys that vibrate or swing.

Cats can become bored with the same toys over time, so it`s a good idea to have a few different types around. Ingrid Johnson, a certified cat behavior consultant at Fundamentally Feline, suggests regularly refreshing toys in scented herbs like catnip or silvervine to keep them enticing. You can also marinate old toys in a fragrant plant like mint or valerian to reignite a cat`s interest.

Dogs Love Chew Toys

Pet toys have a profound impact on your furry companions’ health, well-being, and happiness. They serve as valuable tools for maintaining physique, stimulating mental stimulation, bonding and socialization, releasing energy, and promoting dental health.

If you’re unsure which chew toy is right for your pup, we recommend consulting with your local veterinarian or reputable pet supply store. When selecting a toy, it’s important that it is safe for your pet to chew and contains no small parts that could pose a choking hazard or cause blockage.

Dogs love to play with toys because they stimulate the brain and satisfy instincts to chew, forage, and explore. They also encourage physical exercise, which is essential for keeping your canine companion healthy and active. Plus, playing with toys helps your dog develop independence and confidence, especially when you can’t be there to keep her company. If you`re interested in purchasing dog toys or exploring other pet products, consider checking out PETstock and using the Pets Coupons for potential discounts on your purchase.

Dogs Love Balls

Dogs have an innate instinct to chase and retrieve. This probably stems back to their ancestors who hunted small prey for food in the wild. Balls tap into that instinct and provide dogs with a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.

There are several different types of dog balls, including those that bounce, make sounds, and even dispense treats. Rotating a variety of balls throughout the day will help your dog experience new sensory stimulation.

Many toys that allow your dog to tug and chew are made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand vigorous play without damage. Some are also odor-resistant and waterproof. For example, the Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel plush toy is designed to withstand aggressive chewing while providing your pet with a fun way to interact with their environment.

Be sure to choose toys that are appropriate for your pet`s age and size. For example, a small squeaky toy may be fun for a puppy or kitten but could pose a choking hazard for larger breed dogs. The same goes for puzzle toys that require your dog to manipulate and nudge the toy to reveal a treat or kibble reward, like the Fable The Game, from Outward Hound.

Dogs Love to Treat Toys

Dogs love toys that tuck away treats or kibble for them to discover. Interactive puzzle toys like the West Paw Toppl or Nina Ottosson games require paw action to maneuver sliders and lift lids to release food. This kind of mental stimulation is especially important for dogs to prevent extended periods of boredom that can lead to destructive behaviors or attention-seeking actions.

Some dogs, particularly females (although males may exhibit this behavior from time to time), will play-act mothering a plush toy to satiate their deep instinct to nurture. This is a good idea for nervous or anxious pups as well as teething puppies.

Make sure that you choose toys that are safe and free of small parts that can present a choking or gastrointestinal obstruction risk. Also, be careful with plush toys that might show signs of teeth marks as these could cause your pet to gnaw on the toy for long periods that can result in pain and tooth loss. It is best to rotate your pets’ toys so that they are not playing with the same one over and over again.

Dogs Love Interactive Toys

Dogs love toys that challenge their brain power and help stimulate their instincts. They also keep them entertained and off the couch, so they won’t be tempted to chew on your shoes or other household items.

For example, there are puzzle toys like the Kong that dispense treats, or plush animal toys from Outward Hound that play hide and seek with your dog to encourage positive play and help curb boredom and anxiety. These are called enrichment toys because they address the “occupational” category of your pet’s needs, which means it gives them something to do when you’re busy or can’t play with them.

This is important because undirected energy can lead to anxiety, destructive behavior, and other problems. Enrichment toys can also reduce rambunctiousness and redirect your pup’s energy from jumping up on people or running amok around the house. They can be especially helpful for dogs with separation anxiety, as they give them a fun distraction to keep their mind occupied while you’re away. For these reasons, interactive toys are one of the best gifts for your dog.

Conclusion

Finding the right toy for your pet can be a challenge, but it`s important for their physical and mental well-being. Cats enjoy toys that stimulate their natural hunting instincts, dogs love toys that challenge their problem-solving skills, and small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs need toys that encourage exercise and chewing. By considering your pet`s individual needs and preferences, you can choose the perfect toy to keep them happy and healthy for years to come.