How to choose the right toys for your dog
Walk down any pet store aisle and you’ll find dozens—maybe hundreds—of dog toys. Squeaky balls, plush animals, rope tugs, puzzle feeders... it can be overwhelming! But here’s the secret: your dog’s personality is the best guide to choosing the toys they’ll love (and actually use).
Here’s how to match the right toys to your dog’s play style—and avoid wasting money on ignored or instantly destroyed toys.
🎭 Identify Your Dog’s Play Personality
Start by watching how your dog interacts with objects and people. Most dogs fall into one (or more) of these categories:
1. The Chewer
Loves to gnaw, shred, and destroy anything in sight.
Best Toys:
Durable rubber toys (like KONGs)
Nylon bones or antlers
Rope toys for tug and chew
Tough plush toys with reinforced stitching
Avoid:
Thin plastic or soft rubber
Toys with small parts that can be swallowed
2. The Chaser
Lives for a game of fetch or zooming after anything that moves.
Best Toys:
Balls (tennis balls, squeaky balls, or glow-in-the-dark options)
Frisbees or flying discs
Chase-and-pounce toys like flirt poles
Automatic ball launchers for solo play
Avoid:
Heavy or oversized toys that are hard to pick up
3. The Cuddler
Loves soft things, carries toys gently, and might nap with a favorite stuffed animal.
Best Toys:
Plush toys with squeakers
Crinkle toys or soft animal shapes
Snuggle mats or fleece blankets
“Baby” toys designed for comfort
Avoid:
Hard rubber or aggressive chewer toys—they may lose interest
4. The Problem Solver
Gets bored easily and loves a challenge.
Best Toys:
Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys
Hide-and-seek toys with pockets or compartments
Snuffle mats
Interactive toys that require problem-solving
Avoid:
Simple chew or fetch toys—they won’t hold attention for long
5. The Tugger
Lives for a good game of tug-of-war.
Best Toys:
Durable rope toys
Rubber tug rings
Two-handled tug toys for safe pulling
Avoid:
Fragile plush toys or anything with weak seams
🧠 Bonus: Mixing Toy Types for Mental & Physical Balance
Even if your dog has a clear play preference, it’s a good idea to rotate different types of toys to keep things fresh and enrich their environment.
Try rotating the toys
Week 1: Chew and plush toys
Week 2: Puzzle toys and tugs
Week 3: Balls and interactive games
🧺 Safety & Cleaning Tips
Always supervise new toys, especially chews and squeakers
Wash plush toys regularly to prevent bacteria buildup
Inspect toys often and toss anything damaged or dangerous
💬 Final Thoughts
The right toys bring out your dog’s instincts, provide enrichment, and make playtime more fun for both of you. By understanding your dog’s play style, you can create a toy box that’s exciting, safe, and tailored just for them. If you have more than one dog, like I do, make sure you have the type of toys that fit their play styles. If they like the same things, consider having multiples on hand to ensure they can each have one. It helps prevent them from fighting over a toy. Have fun!