Best Dog Toys, According to the Experts: Our Dogs [CNET]

Best interactive dog toy

Outward Hound Dog Tornado Puzzle

Best plush toy

Wild Knots Bears Durable Dog Toy

For the aggressive chewer

Kong Extreme Dog Toy

Best for mental stimulation

Outward Hound Dog Hide N’ Slide Puzzle

It’s easy to overlook the importance of toys in a canine’s life, but toys are necessary for your dog’s well-being — and for your own peace of mind. A tired and mentally engaged dog gets into much less mischief than a bored pup. Toys can help modify bad behaviors, keep your dog mentally occupied, tire them out, and provide an appropriate outlet for dogs that are prone to destructive chewing.

Dogs all have different personalities and activity levels, so you’ll want to have an understanding of your pup’s individual needs to find the toys that will suit them best. Dog toys generally fall under three categories:

• Active toys: Balls and Frisbees, as well as ropes and woven toys for tugging, are great for interactive play and getting your dog their much-needed exercise. If your dog is very active, such toys can also be used as training motivators.
• Enrichment toys: These toys keep your dog occupied and mentally stimulated. They can range from puzzles and treat-dispensing toys to a durable, rubber toy that you stuff with treats like the Kong. By working to get at the treats, your dog is trying to “solve a problem,” which stimulates their brain and gives them something to do. These kinds of toys are designed to keep your dog engaged when you’re busy with something else or not able to with them.
• Comfort toys: Did you have a favorite stuffy or doll when you were a child? Dogs aren’t all that different and can get just as much comfort out of carrying around a favorite toy. Anxious dogs in particular might benefit from having a stuffed companion. Just be careful since some dogs are aggressive chewers and shouldn’t be given soft toys. Avoid stuffies with squeakers, which can be easily removed and swallowed.

Chewing is a natural dog behavior, but if your pup tends to chew on things they’re not supposed to, it’s good to find suitable alternatives. Most of us know that cooked bones are a big no-no since they can splinter and break and get stuck in your dog’s throat or intestines. Your best bet is something that’s easily digestible and commercially available (like Greenies), or even better, a hard rubber chew like a Nylabone or Kong. As always, consult your veterinarian on the safest options for your dog.