Dog toys give your dog ways to play, chew, explore and spend time with you. The best choice depends on your dog’s size, play style and how they use the toy.

Here’s how to choose toys, check them for wear and find activities your dog enjoys.

Choosing Safe Toys

Not every toy is right for every dog. Safety depends on your dog's size, chewing style, and the environment they spend time in. Watch how your dog plays, especially with a new toy. A dog who carries a stuffed toy gently may need something different from a dog who pulls toys apart.

General safety guidelines

Choose a toy large enough that your dog cannot swallow it or get it lodged in their throat.

Check toys for loose pieces, including squeakers, plastic eyes, ribbons and stuffing.

Put a toy away if it starts to break apart or your dog begins swallowing pieces.

Supervise your dog with new toys and chews until you know how they use them.

Ask your veterinarian about chews that are appropriate for your dog. Some chews can break into pieces or be hard on teeth.

HSC TIP Everyday objects can look like toys to a dog. Keep string, rubber bands, children’s toys and other small items out of reach, especially if your dog tends to pick up or swallow things.

What to look for on dog toy labels

A label can help you check the intended size and use of a toy, but it cannot tell you exactly how your dog will play with it.

Follow the maker’s size and supervision guidance.

Check whether a soft toy has removable parts or stuffing your dog may pull out.

Inspect squeaker toys often. Put them away if your dog opens the toy or removes the squeaker.

Choose toys you can clean according to the maker’s instructions.

Types of Dog Toys and What They're Good For

Active Toys

Active toys can give your dog a way to carry, chase, chew or play with you.

Durable rubber toys come in different sizes and shapes. Choose one that fits your dog, and replace it if pieces begin to come off.

Fillable rubber toys can hold some of your dog’s regular food or a small amount of a dog-safe treat. If you use peanut butter, check the ingredient label for xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Rope toys can work well for games with you. Put them away if they fray or your dog starts swallowing strands.

Balls can be fun for fetch. Choose a size your dog cannot swallow and replace balls that are damaged or coming apart.

Distraction Toys

Food toys can give your dog something to work on when you are nearby and able to check on them.

Fillable toys let your dog lick or work food out at their own pace. Start with an easy filling and see how they respond.

Puzzle feeders encourage your dog to move pieces to find food. Choose a difficulty level that lets your dog succeed without becoming frustrated.

Treat-dispensing toys can add variety to mealtime. Count the food or treats toward your dog’s daily intake.

If your dog breaks pieces off a toy or tries to eat the toy itself, take it away and try a different option.

Comfort Toys

Some dogs enjoy carrying or resting near a soft toy. Others prefer to pull it apart.

Choose stuffed toys based on your dog’s size and play style. Check seams and remove the toy if stuffing or small parts become accessible.

If your dog likes an item that smells like you, offer a suitable toy rather than loose clothing they may tear or swallow.

Getting the Most Out of Dog Toys

How your dog uses a toy matters as much as the toy itself. Try a few activities and notice what they choose to do again.

Rotate toys regularly
Keeping only a few toys available at a time and cycling through them weekly keeps things interesting. A toy that has been out of rotation for a while often feels new again.

Offer variety
A good toy collection includes something to carry, something to chew, something to roll or chase, and something to interact with you. Having variety means your dog can match the toy to their mood.

Make some toys interactive
Fetch, tug and other games give you time to play together. Keep the game comfortable for both of you, and pause if your dog becomes overly excited or starts grabbing at hands or clothing.

Try hide-and-seek
Hiding toys or treats around the house and encouraging your dog to find them is a great low-space activity that uses real mental energy. A dog who has spent 20 minutes sniffing out hidden treats is often ready to settle.

HSC TIP Interactive play is one of the most underused tools for managing behavior. A dog that gets regular, focused playtime with their owner is often less destructive, less anxious, and easier to live with. Even 10 or 15 minutes a day makes a real difference.

When Toys Are Not Enough

Toys can be one part of your dog’s routine, but they may not address the reason behind a behavior. If your dog regularly destroys household items, struggles when left alone or has a sudden change in behavior, talk with your veterinarian. They can help assess possible medical concerns and recommend next steps.

HSC RESOURCE The Humane Society of Charlotte offers dog training classes in Charlotte and free support through the Pet Help Center. If you are working through a specific behavior challenge with your dog, our team can help you find the right next step.

Dog Toys and How to Use Them Safely