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Playtime is essential to a puppy’s development. It helps them develop impulse control, develop social skills, and expand their cognitive abilities. One way to prepare your puppy for success is to have appropriate and safe toys available before bringing them home. The best puppy toys will fit the size and age of your new best friend.
A mix of different types of the best dog toys is important because many puppies may prefer certain types and completely ignore others. “It’s all about variation, what the dog likes and can’t destroy,” said Dr. Katherine Houpt, a veterinary behaviorist and professor of behavioral medicine at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Toys range from plushies to squeaky balls to food puzzles. But not all toys are safe. Be sure to avoid toys with sharp edges and parts that are easy to chew or swallow.
We tested 27 toys for this guide including Herschel, a basset hound puppy. We also consulted with other pet sitters, veterinarians, and dog trainers to narrow down our recommendations to the richest, durable toys for puppies.
Our top picks for the best puppy toys
Best overall: West Paw Zogoflex Toppl – See Chewy
Toppl is a sturdy food toy that encourages puppies to problem solve.
Best chew toys: Dogwood Calming Chew – See Chewy
Dogwood Calming Chew is a safe alternative to real sticks that your pup might be attracted to.
Best for aggressive chewers: West Paw Zogoflex Hurley – See Chewy
The Hurley is a great alternative to bully sticks and outlasted most chew toys we tested.
Best for teething: Kong Puppy Teething Stick – See Chewy
This teething toy is great for young puppies but is also a great chew toy for older puppies with new adult teeth.
Best heartbeat toy: Smart Pet Love Snuggle Puppy – Check out Chewy
Snuggle Puppy helps calm anxious pups with its heartbeat and warming pad.
Best puzzle: Outward Hound Puppy Smart Interactive Puzzle – Check out Chewy
This beginner-level puzzle for puppies has hidden compartments for stashing treats.
Best squeaky: Outward Hound Invincibles Minis Dog – See Chewy
This plush toy has a delightfully loud squeaker hidden inside its durable, double-stitched fabric.
Best wrinkle: Frisco Frosted Pastry Plush Toy – See Chewy
If your pup loves toys that make noise, this squishy toy is a great option that’s quieter than a squeaker.
Best plush: Kong Wild Knots Bear – See Chewy
Wild Knots Bear combines a soft plush exterior with a knotted rope “skeleton” interior that provides a unique texture for chewing.
Best for getting: Kong Wubba – See Chewy
Kong Wubba gets your pup moving and exploring, helping to build their confidence.
Best ball: Chuckit! Ultra Squeaker Ball – See Chewy
Puppies love chasing this bouncy ball as well as trying to catch it in the air.
Best silent squeaker: GoDog Crazy Hairs Hedgehog – Check out Chewy
These soft hedgehogs will only be heard by your pup and are a great toy for people who just need some quiet time.
Best for hauling: Mammoth Cottonblend 3 Knot Rope Toy – See Chewy
This sturdy rope toy is small in size for the smallest pups.
