The 25 Best Dog Toys of the Year, from Balls and Plushes to Puzzles and Ropes

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We’ve put a lot of dog toys to the test here at Rover. This roundup includes our top picks for some of the highest-rated dog toys available right now, according to our expert testers, online reviewers, and our personal experiences as pet parents.

You’ll find old favorites that stand the test of time, like the famous Hide-a-Squirrel or the classic KONG. Up-and-comers include an electronic ball that talks and a self-soothing, lickable disc.

There’s a toy here for small dogs, large dogs, and all the pups in between. All of them earn praise for being high-quality and entertaining. In the end, simple, effective designs won out over bells and whistles. (Though we kept in a few squeakers, of course.)

Is it playtime yet? Your dog wants to know!

Best Puzzle Toy: Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle (Verified Review)

The Nina Ottosson collection by Outward Hound has some of our favorite dog puzzle toys. Made of high-quality materials, these puzzle boards come in a wide range of levels to suit pups of all abilities. For example, the Brick Puzzle is rated intermediate and has three different compartments to hide treats—the lids flip and slide, while the white bones lift up and out.

We like that you can build the puzzle’s difficulty as you go. And, in our testing, we found it provided much-needed entertainment and mental stimulation for Rover test pup Roo as she recovered from her spay. While the toy is durable, the lids snap off easily, so you’ll want to supervise your pup’s play.

Key takeaways:

• Rated intermediate, but levels are buildable
• Three types of compartments for hiding treats
• Great for mental stimulation and keeping bored dogs busy
• Lids snap off easily, so supervise play

Best Treat-Dispensing Toy: Starmark Bob-a-Lot (Verified Review)

There’s a lot to love about treat-dispensing dog toys. Not only do they slow down chowhounds, but they can also bust boredom and provide indoor exercise. The Starmark Bob-a-Lot is an excellent option for pups with a lot of energy who need more movement in their day. With a weighted, anti-slip bottom, the toy creates an unpredictable wobble that keeps dogs interested for a considerable amount of time.

Our reviewers liked the Bob-a-Lot’s adjustable openings that let them control how much food was released and how hard their pups had to work to get it out. An added plus? Both sizes of the toy hold a large capacity of food, so you can fit your dog’s entire meal into the treat dispenser.

We did find in our testing, however, that the toy is quite noisy on hardwood floors and may not be the best option for sound-sensitive pet parents and pups or second-floor apartment dwellers.

Key takeaways:

• Has openings on the top and bottom
• Large size holds up to three cups of food
• Adjustable difficulty level
• Weighted rubber bottom
• Can be noisy when batted against hard surfaces

Best KONG Toy: KONG Classic Dog Toy (Verified Review)

Sometimes the classics are just the best, which is true in the case of KONG toys. Simple and versatile, the original KONG can be stuffed, fetched, and frozen. We like that the classic design offers various options for pups of all ages and sizes—like soft rubber versions for puppies and seniors, and even a KONG Extreme for super chewers and large dogs.

Made of durable rubber, the KONG Classic meets a dog’s instinctual need to lick, chew, and problem-solve: just fill it with peanut butter or your pup’s favorite spread and let them go to town.

A great beginner puzzle toy, the KONG Classic is a pretty simple solve. So for pups who need more of a challenge, consider leveling up with something like the KONG Wobbler or KONG Gyro.

Key takeaways:

• Available in sizes from small to XL
• Comes in versions for puppies, seniors, and super chewers
• Stuff with kibble, treats, and spreads
• Made of durable rubber
• Dishwasher-safe

Best Chew Toy: Benebone Wishbone Dog Chew Toy (Verified Review)

Have a determined chewer on your hands? The Benebone Wishbone is firm but still has enough give for a satisfying bite. It comes in tasty flavors like chicken, bacon, and peanut butter and has a fun, curved shape that makes it easy for pups to grasp. Available in four sizes, the Benebone Wishbone is suitable for dogs up to 120 pounds. There’s even a puppy version to help get you through the teething stage.

In our review, the Benebone Wishbone was a big hit among enthusiastic chewers. We liked the durability of the natural nylon, though it does show bite marks and wears down over time. Luckily Benebone has made a handy guide that shows when to replace the toy bone. And, as with all chews, risk levels vary from dog to dog—we recommend supervising closely and contacting your vet if you’re unsure about what’s too hard for your pup.

Key takeaways:

• Durable nylon that still has some give that pups love
• Alternative to sticks and real bones
• Infused with chicken, bacon, and peanut butter flavors
• Available in small to giant sizes (and puppy sizes, too!)

Best Indestructible Dog Toy: Goughnuts Indestructible Dog Chew Toy Ring

If your pup is a power chewer, you’ll need some indestructible chew toys. A fan favorite among many pet parents, the Goughnuts original ring toy is known to withstand the jaws of even the most aggressive chewers, like German Shepherds and Rottweilers.

The rings offer different sizes and rubber options, allowing you to find the best choice for your dog’s weight and chew strength. Plus, the Goughnuts toys come with a lifetime guarantee!

Key takeaways:

• Comes in four sizes: suitable for pups as small as 10 pounds and dogs over 100 pounds
• Multiple “rubber recipes” let you pick the best chew-strength
• Lifetime warranty: Goughnuts will replace the toy if your dog damages it
• Made by a family-owned company in the U.S.

Best Plush Toy: ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz Squeaky Plush Dog Toy Trio (Verified Review)

Highly rated, this stuffing-free trio gives pet parents more bang for their buck. Each plush toy has multiple squeakers and a long body that dogs like to fetch, shake, and tug. The forest animals come in either an 18-inch or 11-inch design, depending on the size of your pup.

We found these toys to be long-lasting, surviving over a year with super shredder and notorious nibbler Roo. The squeakers, however, haven’t survived Roo’s chompers and have been punctured over time, which makes sense as the toy is more flat than fluffy. Still, it hasn’t stopped her from playing and cuddling with her favorite fox.

Key takeaways:

• Affordably priced: three plush toys for the price of one
• Long, flat design: either 11″ or 18″
• Stuffing-free for less mess and safer play
• Each toy comes with multiple squeakers

Best Toy for Large Dogs: Jolly Pets Teaser Ball Dog Toy

Jolly Pets is known for making excellent toys for big dogs. Firm enough for large jaws, the Jolly Pets Teaser Ball is also pliable enough to retain its shape even when punctured. And it’s buoyant if your big pup enjoys playing in the water.

Pet parents like that even though it’s sturdy, it’s still lightweight. It’s easier to play with than heavier rubber dog toy, so no sore toes or arms when kicking or throwing it.

Each color comes with a different, dog-friendly flavor. For other versions, the Jolly Pets Ball also comes as a soccer ball and football.

Key takeaways:

• Strong enough for large jaws but still pliable
• Bouncy and buoyant
• Sturdy but lightweight
• Small has 4.5″ diameter; large has 8″ diameter

Best Toy for Small Dogs: Outward Hound Hide-a-Squirrel Plush Dog Toy Puzzle (Verified Review)

Pint-sized pups like to play, too. But finding appropriately sized toys for small dogs can be a challenge. Measuring 4 inches wide and 4.5 inches high, this hide-and-seek toy by Outward Hound offers a lot of fun in a small package. Hide the squeaky squirrels inside the tree trunk for your dog to hunt out, or stuff it with treats for an added snuffling challenge. You can even play fetch with the squirrels individually or let your dog cuddle with them on their own.

We like that the Hide-a-Squirrel comes in a size suitable for smaller breeds, and the stuffed, plush texture is easy on little mouths. We have found, however, that the squirrels are much more durable than the trunk. So you might want to keep it out of reach between play sessions if you have a tiny shark on your hands.

Key takeaways:

• Small measures 4″ x 4.5″
• Versatile toy for foraging, snuffling, fetching, and cuddling
• Great puzzle toy for both food- and play-motivated pups
• Squeaky squirrels can be replaced if lost
• The trunk is less durable, so supervision is advised

Best Toy for Puppies: Nylabone Puppy Chew Freezer Dog Bone

Toys specifically made for puppies will get you through some of the most adorable and difficult stages of puppyhood. For example, this Nylabone puppy chew is a lifesaver for many pet parents with pups in the throes of teething. Dip it in water and pop it in the freezer to offer your puppy some cooling relief.

Multipurpose, this toy has two different textures that work in two different ways. The bone on top has soft bristles that massage inflamed gums, while the chilly cloth gives puppies something soft and soothing to chew.

Puppies that weigh up to 25 pounds will find this toy a suitable fit, but larger pups will need to size up with a bigger toy.

Key takeaways:

• Frozen chew toy is great for the teething stage
• Teaches puppies appropriate chew habits early on
• Two textures offer cooling relief
• Suitable for puppies up to 25 pounds

Best Frozen Toy: PetSafe Chilly Penguin

Frozen dog toys aren’t just for teething puppies. Freezable toys offer cooling properties that can benefit dogs of all ages, providing extra hydration on hot days and aiding in dental care to boot.

The Chilly Penguin by PetSafe has a large star-shaped opening that can be filled with liquid, like water or broth. Made of durable but pliable rubber, it has rounded edges that wobble, adding a fun challenge to snack time.

This frozen toy is available in two sizes and has a convenient flat shape that’s easy to stack in the freezer.

Key takeaways:

• Comes in two sizes for dogs up to 80 pounds
• Made of soft, durable rubber
• Large capacity provides extra hydration on hot days
• Stackable design is convenient for freezing

Best Heartbeat Toy: SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy (Verified Review)

Plush dog toys with heartbeats are popular for helping in stressful situations, like crate training, intentional separation, and when a puppy or dog is adopted to a new home. One of the earliest dog heartbeat toys on the market, the Snuggle Puppy is highly popular for its calming properties. Its soft stuffy body features a battery-powered heartbeat for comfort and a disposable heat pack for gentle heat.

In our testing, two of three Rover pups saw considerable improvement and could sleep peacefully in their crates with the Snuggle Puppy. (Oscar, the third tester and known stuffy shredder, showed that heartbeat toys aren’t the best for determined destroyers of plushies.)

Key takeaways:

• Heartbeat vibration mimics the real thing
• Disposable heat pack adds gentle warmth
• Designed for anxious dogs and puppies
• Includes two AAA batteries

Best Calming Toy: Stashios Soothing Saucer Calming Kit

The Soothing Saucer by Stashios is an innovative dog toy designed to give a safe outlet to anxious or compulsive lickers. A heavy ball rotates in a pool of broth, picking up more of the liquid every time your pup gives it a spin. A heavy conical base keeps your dog from flipping the saucer to get at their prize, while a broth formula containing lavender, ashwagandha, and magnolia bark promotes calm.

Our testers weren’t sure the supplement-rich broth was the key to inner peace (we replaced it with a regular dog-safe bone broth with equally good results), but we definitely noticed the Soothing Saucer kept anxious pups distracted and relatively peaceful during stressful situations like visits from strangers and wound treatments—with remarkable longevity.

Key takeaways:

• Kit Comes with a Soothing Saucer and two packets of Beef Bone Broth Soothing Sauce
• Soothing broth contains lavender and ashwagandha
• USA-made, BPA-free, and dishwasher safe (top rack)

Best Lick Mat: LickiMat Classic Buddy

Lick mats are also known to help soothe anxious dogs. Plus, they’re great for tackling boredom and even aiding in dental hygiene. A popular brand, LickiMat offers quality lick mats in various sizes and textured patterns. The LickiMat Buddy, for example, has an X-shape design that creates a long-lasting challenge for your pup. Just spread your dog’s favorite treat to keep them busy and happy.

Made from food-grade and recycled rubber, the LickiMat Buddy is freezer and microwave-safe. For more patterns, check out the Playdate and Soother designs. And for bigger breeds, LickiMat offers extra-large sizes.

Key takeaways:

• X-shaped pattern gets high marks for long-lasting distraction
• Made of food-grade rubber
• Freezer and microwave-safe
• Handwash only

Best Snuffle Mat: PAW5 Wooly Snuffle Mat (Verified Review)

Snuffle mats encourage dogs to hunt for treats under flaps of fabric, engaging their noses and minds. With its simple but effective design, the Paw5 Wooly is one of our favorite snuffle mats on the pet market.

This soft mat is made of pet-safe fibers and measures 18 inches by 12 inches. Our review found that the medium size was ideal, and the shaggy surface offered plenty of hiding space for treats. It kept our bored pups entertained and even encouraged some hesitant eaters to channel their foraging instincts.

Key takeaways:

• Medium-size snuffle mat, measures 18″ x 12″
• Machine washable
• Shaggy, pet-safe fibers create plenty of hiding spots for treats
• Great for nose work and gentle enrichment for puppies and seniors alike

Best Ball Toy: Chuckit! Ultra Balls (Verified Review)

Chuckit! is well-known for their dog ball toys, and the Ultra Ball is one of the brand’s most popular and highly rated toys. It’s durable, bouncy, and even floats in water. It can also be combined with a Chuckit! launcher (see below) for the ultimate game of fetch.

Made of tough but pliable rubber, these Chuckit! Ultra Ball balls are available in multiple sizes, with the small measuring two inches in diameter and the XX-Large coming in at four inches.

If your pup is wild about squeaky balls, the Chuckit Ultra line includes a squeaky version. The medium size is hunty pup Roo’s favorite ball toy. It’s extra noisy, and the textured exterior makes for a fun grip when retrieving (or not) the ball.

Key takeaways:

• Made of durable rubber
• Bounces high and floats in water
• Available in sizes ranging from small to XXL
• Compatible with Chuckit! launchers

Best Fetch Toy: Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher

Playing fetch with your dog is a fantastic way to burn off some pent-up energy while bonding with your pup. To get even more mileage out of your Chuckit! Ultra Balls, pair them with a handheld launcher. This classic design sends balls two to three times farther than you can throw on your own—great for retrieving pups who love to run.

The launcher also offers different sizes depending on your needs. If you want to throw farther, choose a longer length. If you want something more portable, go with a compact size. And the best part? The cup-like holder at the end makes it easy to scoop up the ball without bending over (or getting your hands slobbery). Just give your pup plenty of rest and water breaks between throws!

Key takeaways:

• Launches balls two to three times farther
• Ergonomic handle for easy throwing
• Cup-like holder at the end for hands-free pickup
• Ideal for medium to large breeds who like to sprint
• Compatible with most Chuckit! balls and standard-sized tennis balls

Best Automatic Ball Launcher: iFetch Too Interactive Ball Thrower for Dogs (Verified Review)

If you’re ready to give your arm a break, automatic ball launchers offer pups the same fun fetching and can teach them how to play independently. A popular brand, iFetch, has several automatic throwers to suit different dogs and situations. For example, the iFetch Too uses standard-sized tennis balls and is great for medium to large dogs. Powered by a button, the automatic launcher offers three distances (10, 25, or 40 feet) and a random mode that cycles through the various distances as the balls are dropped in.

For smaller dogs, the company offers the iFetch Mini, which includes three small tennis balls measuring 1.6 inches in diameter. There’s even a quiet launcher, the iFetch Frenzy, that’s great for playing fetch inside.

Our testers found the iFetch Too provided an effective way to exercise their energetic Australian Cattle Dog mix, Pepper. They liked that the automatic launcher was weather resistant, had a long-lasting battery, and was lightweight and easy to move around.

Key features:

• Ideal for medium to large dogs
• Offers four modes: 10′, 25′, 40′, random
• Uses standard-sized tennis balls
• Weather resistant and lightweight
• Long-lasting battery

Best Frisbee Toy: KONG Classic Flyer

If your dog loves to play fetch and Frisbee, you’ve probably already figured out that hard dog disc toys tend to fly the best. On the downside, they can also sting if your pup misses the mark. Made with the same rubber as KONG’s classic chew toys, this Frisbee offers a good balance. The durable material is strong enough for a hard bite but gentle enough for newbs still figuring out the game.

Pet parents like that the bendy design is easy to fold and transport. They also report that the rubber does a good job of standing up to all sorts of play, like catching, tugging, dragging, and pawing.

Key takeaways:

• Made of strong but soft rubber
• Provides accurate but soft catch
• Pliable and bendy for easy transport
• Great for multi-purpose play

Best Rope Toy: Mammoth Knots Rope Toy (Verified Review)

Mammoth makes some of the highest-quality dog rope toys at affordable prices. These versatile ropes are suitable for breeds from pint-sized Terriers to giant Mastiffs, with lengths from mini (10 inches long) to super XL (72 inches long).

We like that the dog ropes have big, beefy knots that give a toothsome chew, and the durable cotton-poly blend holds up well to active games of tug. Our reviewer also appreciated the length of the large 25-inch version, which offered plenty of safe space between her hands and her dog’s chompers.

Just remember that rope toys aren’t designed as solo chew toys, and pieces of cloth can fray and be swallowed. If your pup tends to gnaw on rope toys, swap them with appropriate chew toys between play.

Key takeaways:

• Sturdy, non-toxic cotton-poly material
• Choose from 3-, 4-, and 5-knot versions
• Sizes for mini to giant breeds
• Not safe as a solo chew toy

Best Water Toy: Chuckit! Amphibious Bumper Fetch and Float Toy (Verified Review)

Dog water toys are a must if your pup loves to swim and splash around. Built to withstand hours in the water, these toys float and have easy-to-grip textures. For example, this Chuckit! bumper toy is made of brightly colored memory foam that bobs visibly in the water. Offering excellent leverage, the non-slip, knotted rope handle makes it easy to launch the toy far for your dog to fetch.

If you’d like to get your dog into dock diving, this bumper toy is a nice option for smaller pups and those not quite ready for the longer official diving sticks. It’s also a great way to entice pups to get their paws wet and help them feel comfortable around water.

Rover test pup Roo found the squishy foam enticing enough to dip her delicate toe beans in a dog swimming pool for the first time. She also found it fun to gnaw on dry land, though the seams started to fray a bit after a week of consistent chewing.

Key takeaways:

• The knotted rope handle is excellent for launching long distances
• Memory foam material floats well
• Bright orange and blue color offer visibility in the water
• Available in small and medium sizes
• Not intended for aggressive chewers

Best Flirt Pole: Outward Hound Tail Teaser (Verified Review)

The Outward Hound Tail Teaser is one of the most popular dog flirt poles out there, and for good reason. It’s affordable, lightweight, and includes two faux fur squeaky attachments. While there are stronger flirt poles on the market, we found the Tail Teaser durable enough for our medium-sized tester and highly prey-driven pup Roo.

Constructed out of sturdy plastic and reinforced with a layer of nylon cord, the Tail Teaser’s rod held up well to Roo’s energetic play. It was also compact enough to take to the park and use for training on the go.

Key takeaways:

• Lightweight and easy to hold (7.2 ounces)
• Longer rope length (52 inches)
• Affordable price point
• Several reviews mention the handle breaking off (though it held up well in our testing)

Best Self-Moving Toy: Pet Qwerks Babble Ball

Perhaps you’re looking to add novelty to your pup’s toy box. Or maybe you want a toy to keep your dog occupied. Either way, electronic and self-moving dog toys are great for solo play and adding something different to your pup’s repertoire of toys.

A favorite among pet parents and their pups, the Babble Ball lights up and makes noise upon vibration as soon as it detects a dog walking by. Pet parents of blind and senior dogs especially appreciate this toy since they can easily interact and play with it. While known for being tough and long-lasting, the Babble Ball should only be used to roll on the ground. (No tossing or bouncing for this toy.)

Available in three sizes, the ball comes in different versions: the “Animal Sounds” recreate the wild; the “Blinky” sings, barks, and growls; and the “Talking” version tells jokes.

Key takeaways:

• Available in three sizes and three versions
• Interactive dog toy that makes dozens of sounds
• Hard plastic is designed for hard impact
• Battery-powered

Best Crinkle Toy: ZippyPaws Bottle Crusherz Dog Toy

Many dogs love the crackly crunch of chewing on a water bottle, but it’s not always the safest thing to play with. Providing a clever solution, the ZippyPaws Bottle Cruncherz toy line offers a unique spin on crinkle dog toys.

Creating a durable barrier, these plush toys feature reinforced fabric layers that cover and hold empty water bottles. A hook-and-loop flap on top also has a squeaker for extra stimulation.

From crocodiles to this fun wine bottle, these toys come in cute designs of all varieties. Once your pup has demolished the bottle inside, simply swap it out for a new one.

Key takeaways:

• Durable toy cover for plastic water bottles
• A squeaky top adds additional sensory detail
• Available in multiple designs
• Reviewers say the cover fits many common water bottle brands
• Play should still be supervised

Best Eco-Friendly Toy: West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Dog Toy (Verified Review)

Choosing dog toys from brands that support the environment can help reduce your pup’s carbon paw print. For example, most of West Paw’s toys are made from recycled material. While we’re big fans of pretty much all of the company’s toys, we especially love the durability and versatility of the Hurley. It bounces when tossed, floats in water, and can hold up to long periods of chewing.

Based in Montana, West Paw is a certified B-Corp company and follows some of the most stringent quality standards regarding dog toys. One of its coolest environmental initiatives? You can send in your used West Paw toys, and they’ll repurpose them into new ones!

Key takeaways:

• Made from recycled materials
• Certified B-Corp Company
• Old West Paw toys can be sent back to be made into new ones
• Hurley toy is great for fetch, water play, and chewing

Best Breed-Specific Toys

Best Toy for French Bull Dogs: Chuckit! Air Fetch Balls

If you have a French Bulldog, you know how important it is to find toys that work well for their adorable flat faces. The best toys for Frenchies and other brachycephalic pups will be ones they can carry around and still easily breathe through their mouths. We like the Air Fetch Balls by Chuckit! for this exact reason.

A breathable alternative to standard tennis balls, these vented balls offer a hollow design that allows air to flow into your Frenchie’s lungs as they run and fetch. While they come in various sizes, the medium ball measures three inches in diameter and is likely the best fit for a French Bulldog.

Key takeaways:

• Design increases airflow for easier breathing during play
• Durable rubber construction
• Available in a variety of sizes

How We Chose

The products featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, a comprehensive look at customer reviews across a wide variety of retail platforms, and interviews with veterinary experts. We prioritized dog toys that are durable and made of high-quality materials. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated pets, who are never stingy with their feedback.

Further Reading

• The 19 Best Puzzle Toys That Actually Help Bored Dogs
• Our Readers’ 22 All-Time Favorite Dog Chew Toys
• Review: The Arf Pets Dog Treat Dispenser is an Advanced Puzzle Toy—and a Good One