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Best Toys for Small Dogs

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Published:  November 22nd, 2021

Looking for a perfect toy for your petite pooch? Check out the best toys for small dogs that will have your doggo wagging his tail.

Small dog breeds are every bit as playful and curious as their larger furry friends. In fact, some would say that little dogs have even more spirit and love for all kinds of toys. Of course, you can’t throw a big Frisbee to a Yorkie and expect them to fetch or give your lovely Papillon an old football. If you want your pint-sized pupper to truly enjoy playtime, you can’t go wrong with any of the items from our list of best toys for small dogs.

1. Editor’s Pick: Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Plush Toy

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Which pooch wouldn’t be thrilled to have some hide-and-squeak fun? This plush dog toy is not only adorable as heck, but it also offers important mental stimulation to your pet. Stuff the trunk with squirrels to give your dog’s inner hunter some fun or use the soft toys for a game of fetch.

2. Runner Up: Gnawsome Squeaker Ball Dog Toy

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The unique spiky texture gives the well-loved rubber squeaky ball a fun spin. The ball is made of BPA-free, food-grade TPR rubber, so you won’t have to worry about your dog playing with it every day. And he probably will- considering how fun dogs find brightly colored and loud toys!

3. Best for Average Chewers: KONG Classic

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KONG Classic should be a part of every pet owner’s arsenal. Seriously, for such a simple-looking toy, this bad boy can keep ANY pooch entertained and engaged for hours on end. It’s crazy what a piece of rubber can do when paired with a bit of kibble or a spoonful of peanut butter.

4. Best Snuffle Mat: Sniff Diggy Snuffle Mat

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Nosework is an important part of canine enrichment, as it stimulates their most important sense- the sense of smell. Snuffle mats are a fun way to keep your pooch’s olfactory system in top shape and provide them with an entertaining outlet for their basic instincts. This colorful, easy to clean snuffle mat will give your pooch hours of fun- just “bury” some treats in it and watch your toy dog turn into a bona fide scent hound!

5. Best Interactive: West Paw Zogoflex Tux Interactive Treat Dispensing Dog Chew Toy

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There’s only one thing better than a toy- a toy that comes with yummies inside! Freeze some blended bananas, use peanut butter or your pet’s fave treats to fill the Tux. This treat dispensing toy for small dogs is made from BPA-and-Phthalate-free, non-toxic and FDA approved material.

6. Best for Tug-Of-War: KONG Squiggles Dog Toy

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Cuddle buddy that doubles as a tug-of-war instrument and a squeaky toy? Yes, you get 3 toys for a price of one with the adorable Squiggles toy. The toy comes in shape of a donkey, rabbit, elephant, and a monkey to accommodate for every pooch’s taste for destruction. Or, in the case of most small dogs- the attempt at destruction.

7. Best Plush: Pet Qwerks Dog Squeak Toys

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You can’t go wrong with the classics- and nothing is more timeless when it comes to dog toys than a plushie with a squeaker. Most pooches go bananas for the sudden squeaky noise and not to mention that the softness and cuddliness of plushies make them an instant favorite with any pet. Pet Qwerks Dog Squeak Toys are made with attention to detail and make a lovely choice for any small breed dog- as long as they are not aggressive chewers. These “vocal” plushies come in a range of characters, including a hedgehog, parrot, monkey, pig, rooster, and many others. Of course, each character produces a different sound from chattering to oinking and plenty others in between.

Made from high-quality, durable materials, these plush toys are reasonably long-lasting, as long as your pooch is not a destructive chewer by nature. In that case, don’t count on their new furry toy to stay in one piece for too long- and be sure to monitor them during play.

8. Best Antler: Petstages Deerhorn Antler Alternative Dog Chew Toy

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Just because they are small, it doesn’t mean that petite pooches don’t have chompers capable of causing some damage! For some tiny canines, “regular” toys don’t do the trick: they quickly dismember plushies or rip balls to shreds. In case your pet is among those that like to chew their toys or a puppy going through teething stages, Petstages Deerhorn Antler Alternative Dog Chew Toy is an excellent choice. Made from naturally shed antlers it boasts all the benefits of real antlers and none of the cons: the material is completely safe for dogs, it has a taste and smell that is particularly enticing to canines, it is durable but doesn’t pose a choking risk as real antlers do. The special textured surface helps clean plaque buildup, massage gums, and promote better overall oral health. Such a nifty benefit to have in addition to hours and hours of fun your pooch will have with this chew toy!

9. Best Soft Squeak: Hartz Bug Eyes Squeak Dog Toy

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This one will have any dog bug-eyed! The pig, dog, or frog character comes with eyes that pop out when your pet squeezes- making for a hilarious show for you and a lot of fun for the doggo doing the squeezing. To boot, the toy is made from specially formulated latex that ensures durability!

10. Best Chirping: Multipet Look Who’s Talking Chick Plush Dog Toy

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I mean, is it even a toy if it doesn’t talk back? The soft, cuddly chick will make makes realistic chirping sounds when your dog tries to mangle it- which is kind of creepy when you look at it that way but don’t worry, your dog will find it extremely enticing.

11. Best Puzzle: Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Twister Dog Puzzle

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Nina Ottosson is a household name in the world of puzzle toys for dogs, so it’s no surprise that one of her designs found its way to this list. This is a level 3 interactive dog toy with 9 treat compartments that will keep even the smart cookies on their paws.

12. Best Silent Squeaker: Hear Doggy Silent Squeaker Blow Fish Dog Toy

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Your dog might adore loud squeaking toys but it doesn’t mean your neighbors do. If you don’t want your pet’s playtime to mean a headache for you or a complaint from the apartment next door, silent squeaker toys are the way to go. The squeaking sound is at a high-frequency, ultrasonic range that only canines can hear- a win-win situation!

13. Best Ball: Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball Dog Toy

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You can’t go wrong with the basics. A rubber ball is guaranteed to be an instant hit with any dog, regardless of their size. These bouncy balls, though, are an ideal size for petite pooches who want to play fetch with their hooman.

14. Best Electronic: Pet Qwerks Animal Babble Ball Dog Toy

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This might look like your ordinary toy ball, but it hides a whole zoo inside it! The babble ball features more than 20 different animal sounds, from ping oinks to dog barks. The sounds are triggered by touch and the toy boasts an automatic shutoff to prolong battery life.

15. Best for Dental Health: Hartz Chew ‘n Clean Twisty Bone Dog Chew Toy

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Great for moderate chewers, this twisty bone chew toy comes in two different sizes and features a handful of textures to massage your dog’s gums and clean their teeth.

Toys can be more than just something to keep your pup entertained while you work. Plush toys may become their new best friend, and chew toys, like this bone shaped model from Hartz, can remove tartar from their teeth to help keep their pearly whites healthy and happy! Infused with a delicious bacon scent, teething pups and senior dogs alike can enjoy the benefits of this flexible and durable chew toy.

16. Best for Casual Chewers: KIPRITII Dog Chew Toys

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With 15 toys included in each set, your small dog will be able to enjoy the benefits of a variety of toys to stimulate their brain, clean their teeth and give them a safe chewing outlet.

Do you have a puppy who’s teething or a pooch who can’t stop chewing on your furniture? Investing in a set of chew toys can help provide your dogs with a safe outlet to munch away their problems while also protecting your valuables.

This KIPRITII chew toy set comes with 15, yes 15 different toys, including 9 rope toys, 2 treat balls, a handy toothbrush stick, a banana shaped stuffed animal, a rubber bone and a frisbee!

17. Best with Sounds: Wobble Wag Giggle Ball

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With 3 internal tubes projecting “laughing” sounds and 6 handy pockets to help small dogs pick it up, this flexible and durable ball will get your dog up and moving, both indoors and outside.

If you can’t go outside to play, this Wobble Wag Giggle Ball is a great way to encourage your dog to exercise without tearing up your house. Once your dog gives the ball a nudge, it will roll around emitting fun – and somewhat strange – sounds to hold your dog’s interest. This is also an ideal toy for multi-pet homes as it features 6 handy clutch pockets, so that dogs of any size and breed will be able to pick it up with ease.

18. Best Stuffing Free: ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz No Stuffing Squeaky Plush Dog Toy

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Perfect for small dog breeds, these plush dog toys are a great way to keep your pup occupied and munching on something that isn’t your shoes!

If you have an aggressive chewer in your home, opting for a stuffing free dog toy may save you some valuable clean-up time, not to mention money. These ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz come with three plush toys created to look like a raccoon, a squirrel and a fox, and are made from safe and durable materials. Rather than being filled with stuffing, these toys include round squeakers to entice your pet and keep them entertained.

19. Also Consider: Star Factory Puppy and Small Dog Breed Chew Toys

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Built from a safe and durable rubber, these Star Factory colorful chew toys work to soothe your pet’s teeth and gums and can help to curb destructive chewing habits.

Specifically designed for small dogs or teething puppies, these Star Factory chew toys are made from soft and flexible, non-toxic, BPA free rubber to help massage their gums and soothe any pains. This set includes four different chew toys, each with their own unique shape, color and textures to keep your furry friend interested while helping to reduce any destructive chewing behaviours.

20. Honorary Mention: AWOOF Pet Snuffle Mat for Dogs

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Made from environmentally friendly cloth and a non-slip bottom, this snuffle mat can also double as a slow-food bowl thanks to its versatile adjustment belt!

Another amazing option for your dog is the AWOOF Snuffle Mat. This toy allows your four legged friend to use their nose to sniff out their food from a maze of fabric. Not only is this a great way for your dog to enjoy meal time, it can help provide them with valuable mental stimulation as well as an outlet for any built up energy.

21. Best for Aggressive Chewers: AMZpets Set of Durable Rope Dog Toys

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This versatile pack of toys is a great choice for dogs who love to chew. It also includes a handy storage bag that makes it easy to bring all of their favorite toys on the road.

Created for small dogs with a big bite, these AMZpets toys come in a mixed pack of 10 and include some popular toys such as rope toys and balls, a rubber bone, a squeaky toy as well as plush toys, all packed into one small carrying bag with straps! These versatile toys are great for bringing on the road, multi-pet homes, or for dogs who get bored of their toys easily.

What should I consider when choosing toys for small dogs?

Size matters, and it’s one of the first things to consider when buying a toy for your petite pooch. You want to get them a toy that will be appropriate for their breed, something small enough they can carry in their mouth and play with, but not too small so they don’t choke on it. Additionally, you want to pay attention to the materials, as they should be both durable and pet-safe: the last thing you need is your dog chewing off parts of the toy or chewing on something that releases dangerous substances. Finally, toys for small dogs come in a range of designs, from interactive and puzzles to balls, plushies, ropes and everything in between- choose depending on your dog’s personal play preferences.

Can I make toys for my dog by myself?

Sure you can! With a little imagination, the right supplies, and a bit of craftiness, you can easily make toys for your pet. For instance, you can braid old T-shirts into ropes perfect for tug of war, create interactive toys with just a muffin tin, some balls and treats, or transform a plain old tennis ball into a treat-dispensing one. However, it’s important to have your pet’s safety in mind when making toys- weak seams, flimsy constructions, small parts and similar all pose a threat as they can be easily ripped apart and ingested or otherwise hurt your pet so make sure that when you make toys, you are neat and meticulous about the safety aspects.

How often should I buy new toys for my dog?

This is very individual, as all dogs are unique and have a different playing style and general habits. Some dogs grow bored of their dogs or tend to destroy them in a matter of weeks, while others get emotionally attached to old ratty plushies they had since they’ve been a puppy. Generally, you should replace any well-worn toys that have become too damaged for safe use: these can be too stained and stinky to be recovered, stuffing coming out of them, or have broken off pieces that could be swallowed. Otherwise, just follow your pet’s cues for what they like and what keeps them occupied for the longest periods of time- it’s no use if you constantly pile up new toys that your pet completely ignores for the most part.

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Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Whether you’re stumped for a name for your new dog or cat, or you’re just curious to know what people are naming their pets these days, Rover has some answers for you. The company released a list of the most popular pet names of 2023, and the 11th annual Top Pet Names Report also sheds light on the inspiration behind the names.Here are some of the interesting findings that Rover shared.

Survey Finds America’s Most Dog-Friendly Cities, You May Be Surprise

The number of Americans embracing a pet-friendly lifestyle is on the rise, and we’re here for it! We read announcements and news articles daily about businesses introducing pet policies and welcoming our furry friends into their establishments.However, if you’ve been traveling with your pup, you know that not all cities are created equally. Some locations truly shine—not only welcoming dogs but also creating an environment where they can live their lives to the fullest. From dog-friendly patios and shops to beautiful park spaces, these cities are rolling out the red carpet.Interested in finding the best locations for our best friends? MarketWatchGuides studied the country's 98 biggest cities, ranking them based on seven dog-friendly metrics, including:Number of pet activities per 100,000 peopleNumber of dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 peopleNumber of dog-friendly apartments per 100,000 peopleNumber of dog-friendly weather days (days where the high did not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit and the low did not drop below 0 degrees Fahrenheit)Number of dog parks per 100,000 peopleNumber of vet offices per 100,000 peopleAverage vet costsUsing these findings, they gave each city a ranking out of 100 in 3 categories—Dog Friendliness, Dog Walkability, and Pet Health—as well as an overall score out of 100, allowing them to rank the cities from most dog-friendly to least dog-friendly. The findings may have you reconsidering what part of the country you call home!According to the study, Raleigh, North Carolina, was the most dog-friendly city in the United States, with an impressive overall ranking of 80.3. While the city did rank low on a couple of factors (namely, the number of dog-friendly weather days and the number of dog parks), it scored high enough in the other metrics to earn the top spot.Most impressively, the city scored 91.2 on the Pet Health Score, which considered the number of vet offices and average vet costs.Other cities that managed to earn a spot in the top 10 most dog-friendly cities included:Nashville, Tennessee (78.2)Madison, Wisconsin (77.4)Lexington, Kentucky (76.7)Boise, Idaho (76.5)Austin, Texas (74.3)Portland, Oregon (73.9)Cincinnati, Ohio (73.4)Seattle, Washington (72.6)Greensboro, North Carolina (71.1)Of course, ranking these cities on an overall score may not appeal to every dog parent. While one may prioritize finding a city with the lowest vet costs, another may be willing to pay a little more to enjoy a location with more dog-friendly restaurants.Recognizing this, they then broke down a few fun stats to consider:The city with the most dog-friendly restaurants per capita was Orlando, Florida. Meanwhile, on the other end of the spectrum, North Las Vegas, Nevada, took the title of the fewest dog-friendly restaurants per capita.The most accessible pet health care in the United States can be found in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.Does your dog love heading out for a “Pup Cup” on a warm day? The Starbucks chain first popularized this tasty treat, referring to the small cup of whipped cream as “Puppuccinos.” If the very mention of a Pup Cup has your dog’s tail wagging, you may want to visit Atlanta, Georgia, where you can find the most locations offering pup cups per capita.Wherever your pet-friendly travels take you, check out our list of Dog Travel Essentials to set you (and your dog) up for success!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Are the Symptoms of Dementia in Dogs?

As the years go by, health issues tend to pile up, even in canines. Old age can bring a range of problems – some doggos have troubles with arthritis and limited mobility, while others suffer from cognitive decline and experience issues such as dementia. That’s right, even dogs can suffer from dementia, which is also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). This illness can bring about some troubling changes in your pet’s behavior, and it would be wise to be familiar with all the symptoms of dementia, especially if you are a senior dog owner. Let’s go over them and get familiar with the challenges of canine dementia.Doggy Dementia: Symptoms and What To ExpectAs your pet reaches their golden years, some issues are bound to pop up, including dementia. Known as canine cognitive dysfunction, it has similar symptoms to Alzheimer's disease in humans. The main cause is the aging of the dog’s brain, which results in many troubling issues. Of course, CCD doesn’t happen to all old dogs. Latest studies revealed that it only happens to roughly 50% of dogs that are over 11 years old. Of course, if you own a senior doggo, it is wise to get to know the symptoms of dog dementia. Here are some of the most common ones:Confusion and Disorientation:As dementia sets in, your pet might seem suddenly disoriented and awfully confused. They could get lost in spaces that should be all too familiar to them (the house for example), or could just stand and stare blankly into space. Major Sleep Pattern Changes:Dogs tend to have a solid sleep routine. But with dementia, this can suddenly change. They could experience alterations in their sleep-wake cycle, sleep a lot during the day, and become restless and sleepless throughout the entire night.Loss of Interest:Your dog, with dementia, could suddenly become a totally different pet. They could lose all interest in common interactions. They could have zero interest in playing with you or interacting with the family members. The same goes for interacting with other pets, or playing with toys - even if they were their favorites. Forgetting Housetraining:

Mind-Reading Pet Psychics Are a Burgeoning Business

Pet parents pay big bucks to communicate better with their best buddies.

How to Clean Dog Diarrhea From Carpet

Sure, sharing your life with a dog is fun and your days are filled with love, but sometimes, it can get messy. Like, real messy. After all, even though we love them, dogs are not the neatest of animals out there (that title would go to kitties, I’m afraid). In the daily life of a dog owner, there is bound to be a bit of dirt, hair, and - inevitably, poop – to clean up after your pet. And as if picking up poop from the street after your pet wasn’t bad enough, sometimes accidents happen inside your home, and the messes are that much harder to clean. Especially when you’re dealing with diarrhea and not your regular ole poop situation. But even though it’s far from pleasant to clean up after, it’s not the end of the world if an accident happens. While it can be difficult to thoroughly clean dog diarrhea embedded in the carpet fibers, everything can be cleaned if you are persistent enough – and know how to approach the issue. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you clean dog diarrhea from carpet – stains and smell both.How to Clean Dog Diarrhea from Carpet: Step by StepNow, keep in mind that cleaning dog diarrhea from a carpet can be a messy task, but it's important to clean it thoroughly and as quickly as possible to prevent lasting stains and lingering odors. Even if you are disgusted by the sight before you, it is necessary to keep at it until the job’s done. Someone has to do it, right? And we all know it ain’t gonna be your pooch.So, first things first, you’ll need to gather supplies. It is always good to have them handy and keep them stored in a secure cabinet. You never know when an accident can happen and they will be needed, so be sure to be stocked on  pet-safe cleaning supplies (if you’re not already, now is a perfect time to pick up all of your basic necessities). 

Taters the Cat Streams From Deep Space for NASA

Cat playing with laser pointer is used by NASA to measure band-with between deep space and Earth.

Are Collagen Chews Good for Dogs?

Are you searching for a tasty treat to keep your pup occupied? Have you heard the warnings made by experts about the potential dangers of rawhide chews and are struggling to find a healthy alternative for your dog? A newer type of dog chew is gaining popularity in the pet world, beloved both by pets and their parents alike. Let’s discuss the benefits of collagen chews and why this would be a great option for your dog. What Are Collagen Chews? Before we get into the benefits, we’ll start with the basics. What exactly is a collagen chew? Like rawhide, a collagen chew is a dried animal product. However, it is made from the inner layer of a cow's skin instead of the hide. This may seem like a minor difference, but it makes the product much easier to digest, making it safer for pet parents concerned about the risk of obstructions associated with rawhide. Collagen chew products are available in various forms, including flat chews, sticks, traditional bone shapes, and rings. Each variation of the chew ranges in size, thickness, and, therefore, chew difficulty level. Do Vets Recommend Collagen Sticks? Yes! Many veterinarians recommend collagen chews as a healthy alternative to rawhide. This healthy and natural chew option offers many health benefits, including joint issues and dry skin. Most collagen chews are made from all-natural ingredients and are free from fillers, artificial colors, and artificial flavors, making them a healthy replacement for your dog’s favorite rawhide bones.Is Collagen Better Than Rawhide? While both collagen chews and rawhides are long-lasting chew options, collagen chews address many of the health concerns related to rawhide. If your dog loves rawhide chews, this is a great alternative. Like rawhides, collagen chews are long-lasting. However, if your dog swallows a portion of the chew, its digestibility makes it less likely that you will find yourself at an emergency vet paying for surgery to remove an obstruction.

Why is My Rabbit Eating Poop and How Do I Stop It?

It’s a weird and uncomfortable habit, but if your rabbit is eating poop, it may not be a sign of health issues! In fact, for rabbits, eating poop may actually be a healthy decision (even if we’d prefer not to see it).In this article, we’re diving into the mystery of why rabbits eat poop, including why you may want to let your rabbit engage in this “cringey” habit. Plus, we’ll look at the warning signs that something is, indeed, off and when you should contact your veterinarian.Let’s get started…Is it Normal for a Rabbit to Eat Their Poop?Obviously, seeing your rabbit eating their own feces isn’t something any rabbit parent enjoys. If this is your first time seeing your rabbit engaging in this behavior, it may even cause serious concerns. What could possibly be so wrong with your rabbit’s system that they would feel tempted to do that? You may be surprised to learn that this is incredibly common and, in many cases, a regular part of their digestive process. By eating a specific type of poop, they ensure that they are getting (and keeping) all the nutrients that they need to support a healthy, happy life. The idea of chowing down on our own waste is disgusting to us. But for our furry friends, this is a normal part of their daily routine. Rabbit Poop vs Cecotropes To better understand the connection between poop eating and your rabbit’s health, we need to learn about the different types of rabbit waste. More specifically, we need to know about cecotropes. When we go to the bathroom, we have one type of solid waste – a material we couldn’t imagine getting near, let alone making into a meal. Rabbits, however, pass two different types of droppings. The first is fecal waste or poop. If your rabbit has a healthy, functioning digestive system, these will be small, round, dry, ball-like pellets that are light brown. This is often found in your rabbit’s litter box (if they are litter-trained) or the bottom of their cage.The second and the most important type of droppings are cecal pellets or cecotropes. These have the appearance of a small bunch of grapes with several round pellets clumped together. They are shiny, coated in mucus, and usually dark brown/mulberry color. The mucus is sticky, which could cause the cecotropes to pick up a layer of hay, wood shavings, or fur from their environment. While feces is the body’s way of discarding everything your body doesn’t need from your food, aka the ‘waste,’ cecotropes are a little different. These pellets contain partially digested foods that passed through your rabbit’s system without the nutrients being absorbed the first time. They are packed with nutrients as well as helpful bacteria and fungi that support a healthy gastrointestinal system. When you see a rabbit eating their waste, they are usually eating these cecotropes. This allows them to absorb the much-needed nutrients that would otherwise be lost.

Is a Cat Tree Necessary for My Cat?

When you first bring home a new cat, it’s an exciting time – especially if you’re a first-time cat parent. However, amidst the excitement, there are many questions that may be holding you back from fully embracing the joy. Are you prepared to meet all your cat’s needs? Are there “must-have” items you have overlooked? The struggle is real! We have good news… Many of the items that are deemed “necessary” are actually optional. One such item is the traditional cat tree or cat scratcher. Do they offer benefits? Yes! Can they help to improve your cat’s mental and physical health? Yes! But is a cat tree necessary for your cat? No, it’s not. There are other ways you can meet your cat’s needs if your budget or space doesn’t allow for a large piece of cat furniture. Let’s dig into the truth about cat trees and your cat. What is the Point of Cat Trees? If you’re currently standing in your local pet store, looking over the wide assortment of cat furniture available, you may wonder – what exactly is the purpose of cat furniture? Is it just a fancy bed solution for your cat, or are there other considerations when these products are developed? It’s an honest question I often hear from first-time cat parents. After all, these large, elaborate structures often come with a hefty price tag. If they do nothing more than provide a place to sleep, wouldn’t a simple cat bed suffice? Cat furniture is designed to meet many of your cat’s instincts, including their need to scratch, hide, climb, and oversee their surroundings. Each type of cat furniture has its benefits to consider.

What's the Deal With Black Cats and Hallowe'en?

Satanic partner or independent thinker... tonight the black cats rule!

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