When you make a purchase through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more
Dogs need more than food, water, and walks to thrive. Regular playtime is also important to keep your dog healthy and happy. The best dog toys provide both physical and mental stimulation, known as enrichment. Fetch is an example of physical play, for example, and sniffing out hidden treats is a form of mental stimulation.
For this guide, we tested dozens of toys to keep dogs from getting bored, from chew toys to puzzles and everything in between. We also talked to a dog trainer and a veterinary behaviorist about toy safety, how dogs play, and what toys they might like. The Kong Classic is our top pick because it’s durable, can be played in multiple ways, and comes in a wide range of sizes.
Learn more about how Insider Reviews reviews and researches pet products.
Our top picks for the best dog toys
Best overall: Kong Classic – Check out Chewy
Kong Classic is a versatile rubber toy that keeps dogs busy and relieves boredom.
Best easy puzzle: Outward Hound Hide N’ Slide – Check out Chewy
Hide N’ Slide is challenging enough for puzzle beginners.
Best hard puzzle: Outward Hound Casino – Check out Chewy
Casino adds an extra layer of challenge for seasoned puzzle pros.
Best chew toys: Petsages Calming Dog Chew – See Chewy
With their woody texture, these chews are a safe alternative to actual sticks and seeds.
Best for aggressive chewers: Goughnuts .75 Black Ring Pro 50 – View on Amazon
It’s one of the toughest toys around, so it’s perfect for dogs with strong jaws who like to chew.
Best for puppies: West Paw Zogoflex Toppl – See Chewy
Toppl is a safe, durable treat toy that keeps puppies busy.
Best for small dogs: GoDog Dinos Bruto Plush Toy – View on Amazon
The GoDog Dinos Bruto Plush Toy is a cute, durable plush toy made for little muzzles.
Best for large dogs: Jolly Pets Teaser Ball – See Chewy
This toy has a unique ball-inside-ball design that allows it to spin erratically, attracting the attention of curious dogs.
Best interactive: Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel – See Chewy
Hide-A-Squirrel is a plush puzzle toy that offers mental stimulation for dogs.
Best for chasing: Outward Hound Tail Teaser – Check out Chewy
This interactive teaser toy is ideal for training and energy-filled play sessions.
Best treat balls: Starmark Treat Dispensing Chew Ball – See Chewy
Whether you fill it with treats or regular kibble, this ball is a mentally and physically enriching toy.
Best squeaky balls: Hartz Dura Play Ball – Check out Chewy
The Dura Play Ball is an engaging and inexpensive toy for playful puppies.
Best wrinkle: Playology Crinkle Disc – See Chewy
This peanut-butter-scented disc is great for dogs who love toys that make noise.
Best plush: Kong Cozie Marvin the Moose – See Chewy
Marvin the Moose is a cute, cozy plushie perfect for dogs who prefer soft toys.
Best for getting: Chuckit! Sport Launcher – Check out Chewy
The Chuckit! The Sport Launcher is a handy toy for maximizing fun and keeping dirt and slobber off your hands.
Best disc: Kong Flyer – Check out Chewy
The Kong Flyer is a soft, flexible alternative to a hard disc for playing fetch.
Best tug of war toy: Frisco Flat Rope Squeaky Toy – See Chewy
With multiple squeakers, this is a unique spin on traditional rope toys.
Best treat dispenser: Kong Wobbler – See Chewy
The Wobbler is a simple bobbing food dispenser that is easy to fill and clean.
Best subscription: BarkBox – Check out BarkBox
BarkBox is a monthly subscription service that delivers curated dog toys and treats right to your door.
