Choosing the Right Dog Toys for Different Breeds and Ages

When it comes to keeping our canine companions entertained, mentally stimulated, and physically active, selecting the right dog toys is essential. Not all toys are created equal, and choosing the right one for your dog often depends on factors such as breed, size, age, and activity level. What you want your dog to play with might not actually be their first choice. The toys you provide them can determine their happiness level, overall health, or how destructive they are when left alone in your house.

While we love a mischievous dog video it's less fun to have a prankster in your house. All dogs want to play, and without stimulation they will create their own fun. Here’s a guide on how to choose the perfect toys for your furry friend based on these factors.

Consider Your Dog’s Age

Dogs go through different life stages, and each stage has its own set of toy needs. Understanding your dog’s age is the first step in choosing the right toys. First, determine the developmental level of your dog.

Puppies

Puppies can range in age up to 8 to 1 year months. They are in the teething stage, and their toys should be soft, chewable, and safe for their developing teeth. Look for teething toys like rings or balls, plush toys, and rubber toys that are gentle on their sensitive gums but durable enough to withstand their biting tendencies. Interactive toys that encourage play, like treat-dispensing balls, can also help with their mental development.

Toys that can be chilled or frozen are a great choice. These provide a natural numbing effect to the gums, which are sore and inflamed during the teething process.

If you have teething puppies, you probably don't know what they want to play with yet. They don't even know what they want to play with yet! Introduce new toys one at a time and let the dog experience it fully. They will let you know what they think about it. Before too long they will be running to their toy basket to get their favorites out, and you'll know what to buy they more of in the future.

Adult Dogs

For adult dogs, toys should focus on exercise and mental stimulation. Play is one of the primary ways that your dog engages their brain. Chewing has been shown to actually light up the pleasure centers in a dog's brain as brightly as if they were running through a field, or chasing a rabbit.

Fetch toys like tennis balls, frisbees, or ropes can help promote physical activity. For mental stimulation, puzzle toys or interactive feeders challenge their brains and help reduce boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior. At this stage, durability is crucial, especially if your dog is a power chewer.

Senior Dogs

As dogs age, their energy levels decrease, and their teeth may become more sensitive. Opt for soft toys like plush toys or rubber chew toys that are easy on the gums. Older dogs might also appreciate toys that promote mental engagement without requiring too much physical exertion, like slow-feeding puzzles or interactive toys that dispense treats.

Puppy toys are not necessarily a good fit for a senior dog, as their teeth can be brittle or broken, there can be gum disease, and they may actually need a softer surface to chew on. Ask your vet to recommend engaging items, or choose a brand that has a line specifically for senior dogs.

Geriatric Dogs

There is a phase past senior called Geriatric. A senior dog may be geriatric, but not all senior dogs are geriatric. The health and medical situation of your senior dog determines this. A vet will tell you when your dog has geriatric qualities. Geriatric dogs have very specific medical and physical needs, and often have lost many of their teeth, experience incontinence, confusion, lack of appetite. They have duller senses, slower movements, and diminished play needs, but still need stimulation. Plushies are a great choice for geriatrics, but be sure to eliminate all choking hazards or remove squeakers which can cause pressure on broken teeth.

Breed and Size Matters

Different dog breeds have different play needs based on their size, mouth shape, and energy level. For example, a tiny toy poodle has different requirements than a large Labrador retriever. Cats cannot play with most dog toys. A toy that is too small for your dog's mouth can be accidentally swallowed or inhaled. A toy that is too large can cause choking or jaw pain as your dog struggles to hold it. Neck strain is also possible. Be sure to investigate your purchase before taking it home. Once your dog gets a hold of it, it probably isn't returnable.

Toy Breeds (e.g., Chihuahuas, Mini poodles)

For smaller dogs, toys should be lightweight and appropriately sized to avoid choking hazards. Rubber or soft plush toys are often ideal, and interactive toys can keep them engaged for longer periods. Small, squeaky toys are also popular, as many smaller dogs love the sound and enjoy carrying them around.

These dogs are sometimes referred to as toy breeds. If you buy a toy that is intended for a small dog, it might still be too large. A dog can generally not lift something that is heavier than their body weight. Pay attention to the weight and dimensions of the toy before buying to ensure you are getting what you expect. If the page does not state these dimensions, reach out to the seller for information and request they update their public facing sales information to better inform future buyers

Small breed (Terriers)

Small breeds (not to be confused with toy breeds), are usually very active with a strong dig or play drive. A wide variety of toys will appeal to dogs of this size. Durability is important, but not as essential as it might be with a larger size dog.

Medium Breeds (e.g., Beagles, Cocker Spaniels)

Medium-sized dogs benefit from toys that balance durability with playfulness. Chew toys, ropes, and fetch toys are great for medium-sized dogs, silicone dog toys and durable rubber toys often offer a good combination of both. Puzzle toys that challenge their problem-solving skills are perfect for keeping their minds sharp.

Large Breeds (e.g., Labradors, German Shepherds)

Larger dogs require more durable toys due to their powerful jaws and strong chewing habits. Look for extra-tough rubber chew toys, ropes, and interactive toys. Large, robust balls are perfect for games of fetch, while heavy-duty tug-of-war ropes can handle the strength of these big pups.

Keep in mind that some larger breeds may need toys that help with joint health, such as rubber toys designed to promote movement without strain.

Brand New Puppy

If you have a new dog and don't know what they like to play with yet, get an assortment and introduce the toys one at a time to see how your dog reacts. You'll be able to tell when they get excited about something. Many toys might not be of interest to your dog, or they might lose appeal with repeated use. Like humans, many dogs get bored doing the same thing every day. They can even get bored of their favorite toy! Cycle the toys in and out so your dog is always experiencing them as new-to-them.

3. Toys for High-Energy vs. Low-Energy Dogs

Some dogs are naturally high-energy and need toys that can keep up with their enthusiasm, while others prefer more relaxed play with other toys.

High-Energy Dogs

Active pups, such as Border Collies, Belgian Malinois, and Huskies, require toys that challenge their minds and bodies. Look for toys that can be used in games like fetch, tug-of-war, or running. Fetch toys are a great choice, as they will run off energy catching and returning it.

Interactive toys that dispense treats while they work are another great way to keep these dogs mentally stimulated. Frisbees, durable tennis balls, and puzzle feeders can be excellent choices.

Low-Energy Dogs

For more laid-back breeds, such as Bulldogs or Shih Tzus, toys that encourage gentle play or provide comfort are often more appropriate. Soft plush toys, chew bones, or toys that dispense treats slowly are great options for relaxing moments.

Squeaky toys or simple balls for gentle games of fetch are also ideal for low-energy dogs who still enjoy some playtime without exerting themselves too much. With lower energy dogs be careful not to indulge them too much with treats or food or rely too heavily on treat dispensing toys. Treat-related weight gain is actually one of the largest causes of dog obesity.

Safety First

Regardless of your dog’s breed or age, safety is paramount when choosing toys. Always ensure that the toys you select are made of non-toxic materials and are free from small parts that could be ingested. Avoid toys with removable eyes or parts that could become choking hazards. Supervise your dog during playtime, especially with new toys, and regularly check toys for wear and tear.

You might be tempted to give your dog your leftover tennis ball or stuffed toy to play with. This isn't a good idea for a number of reasons.

First of all, you are teaching your dog to play with and chew your personal belongings. They may interpret this as approval for them to choose more of your possessions to play with, especially young dogs. Give them toys that are just for them, training them to seek entertainment among their available possessions instead of your own. Your dog is a member of your household and they need stuff to do! Keep your dog busy on productive tasks, like

Human balls and toys are not designed for dogs. Human stuffed plush toys are not as durable, and can be easily torn to shreds. They also tend to contain more choking hazards like thread, buttons, stuffing, zippers. A tennis ball may seem like a no-brainer dog toy, but thousands of dogs end up with intestinal blockages or choke from consuming parts of tennis balls every year. The fuzz from standard tennis balls is not digestible, but dogs love shredding it off, and the inner core of the ball is the perfect shape to adhere to the inside of a dog's stomach, or block your dog's throat.

Even a well made toy will break down with time. Your dog is determined and can chew through just about anything you give them, even hardwood. Discard toys that are damaged before your dog can ingest any pieces. A stuffed toy will most likely break down fastest. Most toys can last a few days to a few weeks. Extremely durable toys made from rubber can sometimes last months depending on your dog's energy and chew power.

Conclusion

Choosing the right dog toys involves considering your pet’s age, breed, size, and energy level. Whether you’re looking to entertain a high-energy puppy, stimulate an adult dog’s mind, or comfort a senior pooch, there’s a toy that will suit every stage of their life. Invest in high-quality, safe, new toys that engage your dog both mentally and physically, and you’ll help ensure they stay happy, healthy, and entertained.

While you're at it choose toys and supplies that don't wreck the environment. Cornstarch poop collection bags are compostable, and made from a renewable resource. Toys made from recyclable materials can go on to be remade a second or even third time into another product. Companies that focus on the environment will also have reduced packaging.