Small Dog Toy – keep your small dog healthy and entertained!

It’s hard finding the right small dog toy for your pup!. Especially if your dog is a small breed. Where do you begin to look? What are the best toys for a small dog? Have no fear! I have compiled a small guide (no pun intended) to help you shop for your tiny family member!

Small Dog Toys Aggressive Chewers

Is your dog an aggressive chewer? Your best option is likely a KONG Extreme Dog Toy, or a rope tug. These toys are readily available for larger breeds, but may be harder to find for small dogs.

There are many brands which feature a “tiny” line of bones and chew toys that don’t sacrifice durability for size. There are many different sizes and varieties available. Toys with squeakers are not historically known to be durable when paired with an aggressive chewing dog, but a high demand for these small dog toys have made stronger fabric and stronger squeakers a more popular option. Typically, these toys tend to be hand sewn or have a thicker fabric, often with no stuffing inside. As a precaution, always make sure playtime with a squeaky toy is supervised!

Extra Small Dog Toys

Does your small dog enjoy interactive toys? Some of the more involved toys contain treats that are released by solving a puzzle or maneuvering a treat a certain way. These are a great option to keep your dog stimulated. The simplest options are fun-sized tennis balls and cloth discs. Smaller sized tennis or rubber balls are designed especially for small breeds or puppies so they, too, can play fetch to their heart’s content. Specially sized cloth discs are preferable for small breeds because it is lighter and easier to carry. There are tons of different varieties of small balls and discs available, so you are sure to find something to match your small dog’s unique personality.

Small Dog Squeaky Toys

Homemade Toys for Small Dogs

What happens if you still can’t find the perfect toy for your small dog? Do it yourself! There are plenty of talented DIYers who have created all kinds of toys, and now you can make your own toy perfect for your small dog. Most ideas involve spare ropes and clothes, and can be extremely simple or very time consuming to make.

Best Dog Toys for Small Dogs

If your small dog prefers the “natural” feel to rubber, some brands make chew toys from antlers. These toys are a better option because they don’t splinter and they provide a source of minerals and protein.

If you’re opting for tennis balls, pick balls specifically made as dog toys. There is less chance of the ball will shred and become a choking hazard. Avoid choosing balls with one air hole. These toys may cause a dangerous suction that can trap the dog’s tongue. Be mindful of labels. The FDA does not regulate dog toys, so some manufacturers are able to get away with selling toys that contain ingredients toxic to dogs Do not use heavily dyed fabrics or treated fabric. As a rule, try to look for a “BPA Free” label when shopping for rubber or plastic small dog toys.

Small Dog Toys Amazon

How do you choose just one? Don’t! A variety of toys is important for stimulation and interest. For example, buy a couple different textured balls or buy a few different tugs and rope toys. Buy a few toys and make a couple of your own. You may end up with a few different toys just from trial and error. Find out what your small dog likes, and go from there! A variety of toys is a great way to keep your small dog healthy and entertained. Amazon is a great resource for trial and error because of their huge selection and easy returns.

There are many options when it comes to shopping for the perfect toys for small dogs, even if they aren’t immediately available.

Along with Amazon, there are a lot of sites dedicated exclusively to dog toys and many of them even have specific categories for small dogs. Your small dog is an important part of your family, so be sure that you are taking care of them as well!