Toys are more than just fun for pets — they’re essential. The right toy can provide mental stimulation, prevent boredom, reduce stress, and even help with training and behavior. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best toys for your dog or cat?
In this article, you’ll learn how to select safe, enriching toys for your pet’s size, personality, and lifestyle — and how to rotate them to keep your pet interested and engaged.
Why Toys Are Important for Pets
Whether your pet is a high-energy puppy or a laid-back senior cat, toys serve vital roles in their daily lives:
- Prevent destructive behaviors like chewing furniture or scratching walls
- Improve mental health by offering stimulation and problem-solving
- Provide physical exercise to help manage weight and energy
- Build confidence in shy or anxious pets
- Strengthen the bond through interactive play with you
A bored pet can become a misbehaving pet — and toys help prevent that.
Safety First: What to Avoid
Before we explore toy types, here’s what you should always avoid:
- Small parts that can be swallowed
- Strings or ribbons (especially for unsupervised cats)
- Squeakers in soft toys, if your dog tends to tear toys open
- Rawhide and overly hard plastic toys, which can splinter
- Toxic materials — always choose non-toxic, BPA-free toys
Check toys regularly for wear and damage. If they’re torn, fraying, or missing pieces, it’s time to replace them.
Toy Types for Dogs: How to Choose
Dogs have different play styles, and the best toys match their energy, size, and personality.
1. Chew Toys
Great for puppies, teething dogs, and heavy chewers.
- Examples: KONG, Nylabone, Benebone
- Benefits: Satisfies chewing instinct, reduces anxiety
- Tip: Stuff hollow toys with frozen treats for enrichment
2. Interactive Toys
These require your dog to solve a puzzle or move the toy to get a reward.
- Examples: Treat-dispensing balls, snuffle mats, puzzle boards
- Benefits: Mental stimulation, longer playtime
- Best for: Smart or easily bored dogs
3. Fetch Toys
Ideal for active dogs who love running and retrieving.
- Examples: Tennis balls, frisbees, rubber fetch toys
- Benefits: Exercise, training reinforcement
- Use in: Safe, open areas or fenced yards
4. Plush Toys
Good for gentle players or dogs that like to cuddle their toys.
- Look for: Reinforced seams, no small parts
- Replace if: Your dog starts ripping or tearing
Toy Types for Cats: How to Choose
Cats love to stalk, pounce, and chase. Choose toys that tap into those natural instincts.
1. Wand Toys
Great for bonding and active play.
- Examples: Feather wands, string toys on poles
- Benefits: Encourages jumping, chasing, and agility
- Tip: Supervise use to avoid tangling or swallowing string
2. Balls and Rolling Toys
Great for solo play.
- Examples: Ping-pong balls, balls with bells inside
- Benefits: Batting, chasing, quiet play when alone
3. Interactive and Puzzle Toys
Stimulates problem-solving and hunting behavior.
- Examples: Food mazes, motion-activated toys
- Best for: Indoor cats needing more stimulation
4. Kick Toys
Soft, elongated plush toys for cats to hug and kick.
- Often filled with catnip
- Provides a satisfying way to release energy
How to Rotate Toys
Pets get bored with the same toys left out all the time. Rotating toys keeps them interesting.
Rotation strategy:
- Keep 2–3 toys out at a time
- Swap them every few days
- Reintroduce “old” toys after a week to rekindle interest
- Store unused toys in a separate container out of sight
This method makes your toy collection feel new — without spending more money.
Consider Your Pet’s Age and Health
For Puppies & Kittens:
- Choose soft, gentle materials
- Avoid hard plastic or rubber
- Offer teething toys for comfort
For Seniors:
- Use lighter toys that don’t require too much energy
- Prioritize interactive toys for mental stimulation
- Avoid toys that require excessive jumping
For Pets with Special Needs:
- Choose toys that match their physical ability
- Focus on sensory toys (textures, scents, or light sounds)
- Avoid anything that might frustrate them or cause discomfort
How to Play Safely With Your Pet
- Supervise toy use, especially with new toys
- Avoid rough tug-of-war with dogs who have dental or neck issues
- Don’t use your hands as toys — it encourages biting or swatting
- Always end play on a positive note with praise or treats
Enrichment Beyond Toys
While toys are essential, real enrichment also includes:
- Training sessions
- New scents (walks, playdates, or even scent boxes)
- Hide-and-seek games
- Rotating playtime environments
Toys are part of the equation — not the whole solution.
Final Thoughts: Smart Play = Happy Pet
The right toy can brighten your pet’s day, boost their confidence, and even improve their health. With so many options available, don’t just grab the first toy off the shelf. Choose with intention — based on safety, your pet’s needs, and how they like to play.
A toy may seem like a small thing. But for your pet, it can be the highlight of their day.