Bringing a new puppy home feels like adding a tiny tornado of joy, fur, and energy to your life. Those big eyes, floppy ears, and endless zoomies are pure magic—but let’s be real, that energy has to go somewhere. The thing is, puppies need toys. Not just any toys, but the best toys for puppies that keep them entertained, help with teething, and save your shoes from becoming chew victims.
So, if you’re wondering what to buy for your little furball, this guide has you covered. Let’s talk about the toys that’ll make your puppy happy, healthy, and maybe just a little less mischievous.
Why Toys Are Essential for Puppies
Before we jump into the fun stuff, it’s worth understanding why puppy toys matter so much. Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Chewing is how they learn, soothe teething pain, and burn off that wild puppy energy. Without proper toys, that curiosity can quickly turn destructive—think couch corners and favorite sneakers.
Toys also help with early training and mental development. A good toy can challenge a puppy’s brain, encourage healthy playtime, and even strengthen your bond during fetch or tug-of-war. And let’s be honest—there’s nothing better than watching your puppy proudly trot around with their favorite toy.
What Makes the Best Toys for Puppies?
When you’re picking toys, it’s not just about what looks cute or trendy on Instagram. The best toys for puppies are safe, durable, and size-appropriate. Soft toys are great for cuddles, rubber ones help with teething, and puzzle toys keep those smart little brains working.
Safety should be top of mind. Avoid toys with small detachable parts, hard plastics that could break, or anything that looks like it belongs in your kitchen (because trust me, your pup will start “borrowing” the real thing next).
Chew Toys: A Teething Puppy’s Best Friend
Teething is tough—for both you and your puppy. Around three to six months of age, their gums ache, and they’ll chew anything to find relief. This is where chew toys become absolute lifesavers.
Rubber chew toys like the KONG Puppy are classic for a reason. You can stuff them with treats or peanut butter to keep your pup busy for hours. Another great pick is Nylabone Puppy Chew, made specifically for teething puppies. It’s tough enough to handle serious chewing but gentle on tiny teeth.
Chew toys not only soothe discomfort but also teach your puppy what’s okay to bite—and what’s not. And yes, that includes your phone charger.
Plush Toys: Soft, Snuggly, and Oh-So-Cute
If your puppy is more of a cuddler than a destroyer, plush toys are the way to go. These are perfect for naps, light play, or just carrying around like a security blanket.
Look for ones made with reinforced stitching (because puppy teeth are sharper than you think). The ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz or KONG Cozie Marvin the Moose are fan favorites—soft, adorable, and surprisingly durable.
Just remember, plush toys aren’t indestructible. If your pup starts tearing out the stuffing or squeaker, it’s time to take it away. Always supervise playtime, especially with plush toys.
Interactive Toys: Keeping Those Puppy Brains Busy
Puppies might be small, but their brains are constantly firing. That’s why interactive toys are some of the best toys for puppies—they challenge them mentally and keep boredom at bay.
Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing balls, or toys like the Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel can keep your pup entertained for ages. These toys encourage problem-solving and make your puppy work for their reward. It’s fun, it’s stimulating, and it prevents that “I’m bored, let’s chew the furniture” phase.
You know how kids get cranky when they’re bored? Puppies are the same way. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical play.
Tug and Fetch Toys: For High-Energy Puppies
If you’ve got a bouncy, active pup who loves to run, fetch and tug toys are your best bet. They’re perfect for bonding and burning off all that extra energy (and there’s always extra).
Rope toys like Mammoth Flossy Chews are great for tug-of-war and even help clean your pup’s teeth. For fetch lovers, soft rubber balls or lightweight frisbees work wonders. Avoid heavy tennis balls at first—they can be too harsh on developing teeth.
Plus, these toys help teach basic commands like “drop it” or “bring it.” Training sessions disguised as playtime? Win-win.
Teething Rings and Cooling Toys: Relief in Every Bite
When teething hits hard, some puppies need extra comfort. That’s where cooling toys come in. You can chill them in the fridge, and they’ll help soothe sore gums instantly.
Try the Nylabone Chill & Chew or KONG Puppy Teething Stick—they’re designed to massage gums and can be filled with treats for added fun. On a hot day, these cooling toys also help your puppy stay refreshed. Think of them as puppy popsicles, but safer.
DIY Puppy Toys: When You’re on a Budget
Let’s be real—not everyone wants to spend a fortune on toys that might get shredded in a week. The good news is, you can make great puppy toys at home.
Old T-shirts braided into ropes, a knotted sock (under supervision), or an empty plastic bottle wrapped in fabric can keep your puppy entertained for hours. Just make sure everything’s safe—no loose buttons or small bits that can be swallowed.
Homemade toys are budget-friendly and fun to make, especially if you’re crafty. Plus, your puppy won’t care about the price tag—they just want to play with you.
How to Rotate Puppy Toys and Keep Playtime Exciting
Even the best toys for puppies can get boring if they’re always available. Try rotating your pup’s toys every few days. Hide some away, then bring them back out later—it’s like Christmas morning all over again.
This trick keeps your puppy’s interest alive and helps prevent destructive boredom. It also extends the life of their toys, which your wallet will definitely appreciate.
Choosing Toys for Different Puppy Breeds
Not all puppies are built the same, and neither are their play styles. A tiny Chihuahua will love small, squeaky toys, while a Labrador puppy might need something tougher to withstand those powerful jaws.
For small breeds, look for lightweight, soft toys that are easy to carry. For larger or more active breeds, go for durable rubber or rope toys. Always match the toy’s size and strength to your puppy’s breed and personality.
Keeping Safety First
It’s tempting to let your puppy play freely, but supervision is key. Always check toys for wear and tear—loose threads, broken squeakers, or cracked rubber can be dangerous if swallowed.
A good rule of thumb: if the toy can fit entirely in your puppy’s mouth, it’s too small. Replace damaged toys right away, even if your puppy “loves” them. Safety should always come before sentiment.
The Bottom Line: Playtime Is More Than Just Fun
At the end of the day, the best toys for puppies aren’t just about keeping them busy—they’re about helping them grow, learn, and feel loved. Every tug, every chew, every chase is part of their journey from clumsy little fluffball to loyal best friend.
So, whether you’re picking out that first KONG or braiding your own rope toy, remember that it’s not just a toy—it’s part of your puppy’s happy, healthy start in life.
Give them the right toys, play with them often, and watch that bond grow stronger every single day. Because, honestly, seeing your puppy wag their tail over a simple toy? That’s pure joy.