Based on breed – how to choose the best toys for your dog!
(Keef Whiteman- BA, Psychology & English, student Canine Behaviourist at FOTD, and PA to Scotty Valadao)

The easiest way to determine your dog’s toy needs is to look at it’s breed and personal preferences and style of play, as this can be significant in finding the most viable options. One needs to understand your dog’s character as this is crucial for choosing toys that are best suited to their interest and energy levels.
Each dog breed boasts unique attributes that set it apart. Whether it’s different sizes, energy levels, cognitive abilities, or temperament, one thing that is common is their undying love for play.
Embracing these differences can help deepen the bond between the furry friend and their human family.
Breed Characteristics
Understanding your dog’s breed characteristics can greatly help in selecting the most suitable toys for them. Certain breeds have a strong need for mental stimulation, while others may have a high energy level that requires physical exertion. For example:
Each dog breed boasts unique attributes that set it apart. Whether it’s different sizes, energy levels, cognitive abilities, or temperament, one thing that is common is their undying love for play.
Embracing these differences can help deepen the bond between the furry friend and their human family.
Breed Characteristics
Understanding your dog’s breed characteristics can greatly help in selecting the most suitable toys for them. Certain breeds have a strong need for mental stimulation, while others may have a high energy level that requires physical exertion. For example:
- High-energy breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds often enjoy interactive toys that require movement and problem-solving skills.
- Retrievers, such as Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers, have an instinct to fetch, making fetch toys an ideal choice.
- Terriers are known for their love of digging and hunting, so puzzle toys that challenge their problem-solving abilities can be highly engaging.
- Large working breeds like German Shepherds, Dobermans, or Rottweilers can benefit from tasks or activities that challenge them both physically and mentally. This helps them satisfy their natural instincts and is also pleasant and rewarding.
- Brachycephalic breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs, due to their physiology, may encounter difficulty in engaging in high-energy activities, particularly in hot weather. They are more laid-back and may find joy in simple games at home or short walks when the weather is cool.
- Dogs bred for herding usually enjoy toys that allow them to mimic herding activities. These will benefit from interactive toys that mimic herding tasks. Toys that require them to manipulate objects or solve puzzles can help satisfy their need to work as well.
Toy Tips: - Size - Any small object that Fido can fit inside his mouth is a potential choking hazard. So, avoid small toys that can completely fit into your pup’s mouth. On the flip side, you don’t want extremely oversized toys where your dog can’t comfortably pick them up and play. You’re after something that’s not too small, nor too big. Something in the middle that’s just perfect.
- Replace old toys – Check to see if toys are worn or damaged and replace with new ones if necessary.
- Excess Bits- even if a toy is a great size for your fur kid, watch out for added strings, fringe, ribbons, plastic eyes, bells, etc. A lot of dogs love to chew and tug on these added frills, causing them to pop off. If your dog accidentally ingests any of these frills, he risks choking, intestinal blockages, and removal surgery.
- Know what the toys are made of- Various studies and tests have found toxins in certain dog toys. Here’s one example: Consumer Affairs tested pet toys that were made in China and purchased from Wal-Mart. The tests found lead, chromium, and cadmium inside the toys. So be sure to check the materials used!
- Never leave your pet unsupervised- no dog should be left unattended while playing with a toy, but this is especially true for durable chewers like Bull Terriers and Mastiffs. Safety always, must come first!
Choosing the best chew toys
Despite the individualistic nature of pet preferences, certain breed characteristics may serve as a useful guide when selecting a chew toy for your canine.
Toy Breeds: Maltese, Yorkies, and Chihuahuas - These are petite and they require chew toys that are suitable to their size. Choose toys that are small enough for them to handle safely. Consider chew toys like teething rings, small textured rubber toys, or petite-sized plush toys. These options provide variety in hardness and texture, catering to these toy breeds’ often finicky tastes.
- Very smart and active, these dogs require chew toys that offer both mental and physical stimulation. Puzzle toys filled with treats, durable rubber toys that can withstand constant gnawing, and toys designed for games of fetch would do the trick!
Medium-Sized Energetic Breeds: Beagles and Jack Russell Terriers - These breeds are often bundles of energy, so chew toys that can keep them engaged for extended periods are ideal. Interactive toys that can hide treats or rubber balls that bounce unpredictably can not only stimulate their minds but also encourage physical activity.
- Despite their size, these breeds tend to be sweet and gentle. Soft chew toys like plush toys or large, durable cloth toys they can comfortably lie down with would be great.
- They oftentimes struggle to play with traditional chew toys so opt for soft, yet sturdy chew toys that are comfortable to grip and easy to bite, such as rubber doughnut-shaped toys and soft-textured squeaky toys (where the squeak is caused by design and not by small loose bits).
Conclusion
The joy of pet parenting comes from discovering what your pet pal enjoys the most. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toys until you find the perfect fit. Enriching your dog’s life isn’t only about having the right toys, it’s about spending time together, training, and love.