What Are the Best Dog Toys Available for Small Dogs In 2025?

If you're a proud owner of a small dog, you know how important it is to find toys that are safe, engaging, and perfectly suited for their size. With so many options flooding the market in 2025, choosing the best toys for your small dog friend can be overwhelming. But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with this article.

In this article, we'll explore some of the top dog toys that are not only fun and durable but also designed to keep your small dog entertained and mentally stimulated. Read on to discover the best picks for your pup!

8 Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Toys for Small Dogs

When choosing dog toys for small dogs, it's essential to keep a few important factors in mind to ensure both safety and fun for your furry friend. Here are the key factors to consider:

Size and Fit: Small dogs have smaller mouths and teeth, so it’s crucial to choose toys that are appropriately sized. Toys that are too large can be difficult for them to handle, while toys that are too small can pose a choking hazard.
Durability: Small dogs can be surprisingly strong chewers, so durability is key. Look for toys made of high-quality, non-toxic materials that can withstand your dog’s chewing habits without breaking apart.
Safety: Always ensure that the toy is made from safe, non-toxic materials, especially since small dogs are more likely to chew and ingest parts of their toys. Avoid toys with small detachable parts that could be swallowed.
Type of Toy: Depending on your dog's play style, choose the right type of toy—whether it’s a squeaky toy, a plush toy, a chew toy, or a puzzle toy. Chew toys help keep teeth clean, while puzzle toys stimulate your dog mentally.
Interactive Play: Small dogs often thrive with interactive toys that engage them with their owners, like tug-of-war ropes or fetch balls. These types of toys promote bonding and exercise.
Material: Soft, flexible toys are great for smaller dogs with delicate mouths, but harder toys, such as rubber or silicone, may work better for chewers. Be mindful of the material's texture, as some might be too rough for tiny teeth.
Ease of Cleaning: Small dogs can be messy, and their toys can accumulate dirt or saliva. Opt for toys that are easy to clean, either machine washable or simple to wipe down.
Mental Stimulation: Small dogs are often intelligent and curious, so toys that challenge their mind, such as treat-dispensing toys or puzzle feeders, can help prevent boredom and reduce destructive behaviors.

By considering these factors, you can choose the perfect toys that will keep your small dog entertained, active, and happy!

Types of Dog Toys Suitable for Small Dogs

When selecting dog toys for small dogs, it's important to choose options that cater to their size, behavior, and safety needs. Here are some of the best types of toys suitable for small dogs:

1. Chew Toys

Chew toys are essential for small dogs to maintain good oral health and to satisfy their natural chewing instincts. They help prevent your dog from chewing on inappropriate items like shoes or furniture.

Key Features:

Material: Chew toys for small dogs should be made from non-toxic, durable materials like rubber, nylon, or natural wood. These materials are safe and can withstand heavy chewing without breaking apart.
Benefits: Regular chewing helps clean teeth, reduces plaque buildup, and prevents gum disease. Chew toys also provide comfort and reduce anxiety, especially in puppies going through teething.
Size and Design: Make sure the toy is appropriately sized to avoid the risk of choking. Toys should be small enough for your dog to comfortably hold in their mouth but large enough to avoid swallowing.

Best For:

Ideal for teething puppies, dogs with anxiety, or any small dog who loves to chew. These toys keep them entertained and focused on healthy chewing habits.

Safety Tips:

Regularly inspect chew toys for signs of wear or damage. If the toy becomes too small or starts to break apart, replace it immediately to prevent choking.

Top Recommended Chew Toys For Your Small Dog in 2025:

Corn Cob Dog Toy By Doggy Elite.
Squeaky Dog Toys For Heavy Small Chewers By Doggy Elite.
Small Dog Carrot Farm Toy By Doggy Elite.

2. Interactive and Puzzle Toys

Interactive and puzzle toys are designed to engage small dogs mentally, providing a fun challenge while offering rewarding outcomes. These toys are ideal for dogs that enjoy solving problems and are excellent for reducing boredom.

Key Features:

Material: Typically made from durable plastic, rubber, or wood, these toys are designed to withstand some wear while being safe for dogs. Look for BPA-free, non-toxic options.
Benefits: These toys provide mental stimulation and help prevent destructive behavior by keeping small dogs engaged. They are also useful for slowing down fast eaters if used as a treat dispenser.
Size and Design: Puzzle toys come in various difficulty levels. Select one that matches your dog's problem-solving ability and provides a challenge without causing frustration.

Best For:

Great for intelligent small breeds like Poodles, Border Terriers, or Dachshunds that need extra stimulation. Also excellent for dogs that tend to get bored easily or have separation anxiety.

Safety Tips:

Check that the puzzle pieces are securely attached to avoid accidental swallowing of parts. Also, ensure that the puzzle is not too difficult, which could discourage your dog.

Top Recommended Interactive and Puzzle Toys For Your Small Dog in 2025:

Dog Food Puzzle Bowl By Doggy Elite.
Automatic Dog Toy Chase By Doggy Elite.
Sniffing Mat For Dogs By Doggy Elite.

3. Plush and Squeaky Toys

Plush toys are soft, cuddly, and often come with squeakers inside. Small dogs love to carry them around, snuggle with them, or shake them vigorously. These toys appeal to dogs who enjoy soft textures and squeaky sounds.

Key Features:

Material: Plush toys are made from fabric and filled with soft stuffing, though many now feature durable reinforced seams to prevent damage. Look for non-toxic materials and those that are easy to wash.
Benefits: Plush toys are perfect for comfort and stress relief, especially for puppies or dogs with separation anxiety. The squeaker inside adds an element of fun, encouraging dogs to play.
Size and Design: These toys come in various sizes, but it’s important to pick one that your dog can easily carry and play with. Be cautious of stuffing that could be ingested if the toy gets torn apart.

Best For:

Ideal for small dogs that love to cuddle or shake toys, such as Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, or French Bulldogs. These are also good for dogs who enjoy soft, comforting play.

Safety Tips:

Ensure that the toy doesn’t have small detachable parts (like eyes or buttons) that could be swallowed. Regularly inspect the plush toy for wear and tear.

Top Recommended Plush and Squeaky Toys For Your Small Dog in 2025:

Snuffle Mats For Dogs By Doggy Elite.
Calming Plush Dog For Dogs By Doggy Elite.
Octopus Squeaky Dog Toy By Doggy Elite.

4. Fetch Toys

Fetch toys are ideal for dogs who love to run, chase, and retrieve. Small dogs often enjoy a good game of fetch, and these toys help provide physical exercise while also being easy to carry and throw.

Key Features:

Material: Fetch toys are typically made from rubber, foam, or lightweight plastic, designed to be soft enough for small mouths yet durable enough for repeated play. Many are also water-friendly, making them perfect for poolside or beach play.
Benefits: Playing fetch helps your dog burn off excess energy, improves coordination, and provides exercise. These toys are perfect for small dogs with high energy levels, helping them stay active and healthy.
Size and Design: Fetch toys should be small enough for your dog to carry comfortably but durable enough to withstand chewing. Choose a soft yet resilient material that won’t harm your dog’s teeth.

Best For:

Perfect for small breeds with lots of energy, such as Jack Russell Terriers, Miniature Schnauzers, or Cocker Spaniels, who enjoy running and retrieving.

Safety Tips:

Ensure that the ball or fetch toy is not too small to avoid choking hazards. Check regularly for any wear and tear, especially if the toy has been exposed to outdoor elements like dirt or water.

Top Recommended Fetch Toys for Your Small Dog in 2025:

Automatic Indoor Ball Thrower For Dogs By Doggy Elite.
Flying Saucer Dog Toy By Doggy Elite.
Toy Plush Monkey By Doggy Elite.

5. Ball and Tug Toys

Ball and tug toys are perfect for interactive play between you and your dog. These toys promote bonding through games of tug-of-war and fetch while providing great physical exercise for your small dog.

Key Features:

Material: Tug toys are usually made from durable fabric or rope, while balls are often rubber or foam. Look for options that won’t fray easily and are gentle on your dog’s mouth.
Benefits: Tug toys help with training, discipline, and bonding. They promote healthy play between you and your dog, while balls provide physical activity and mental stimulation.
Size and Design: For small dogs, choose a ball that fits easily in their mouth but is not too small. Tug toys should be long enough to allow for a safe tug-of-war game without causing strain on your dog’s teeth or neck.

Best For:

Great for active small breeds like Beagles, Miniature Pinschers, or Pugs who love interactive games and spending time with their owners.

Safety Tips:

When playing tug, always ensure that the toy is used in a controlled manner to avoid any accidental injuries. Don't allow your dog to chew on the tug toy, as it’s designed for playing, not for prolonged chewing.

Top Recommended Ball and Tug Toys For Your Small Dog in 2025:

Automatic Indoor Ball Thrower For Dogs By Doggy Elite.
Automatic Dog Toy By Doggy Elite.
Dog Toy Ball With Holes By Doggy Elite.

Each of these toy types provides different benefits for small dogs, from mental stimulation to physical exercise. The right selection will keep your dog entertained and healthy, supporting their overall well-being.

Safety Tips for Dog Toy Selection

Choosing the right dog toys is essential for your small dog's health and safety. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind when selecting and using dog toys:

1. Choose the Right Size

Selecting a toy that’s the appropriate size for your dog helps prevent choking hazards and ensures they can interact with the toy properly. Small toys could be swallowed, while large toys might not provide the same engagement.

Tip: Pick toys that are specifically designed for small dogs. Check the label for size recommendations, and always choose toys that your dog can safely carry, chew, or play with without risk.

2. Inspect Toys Regularly for Wear and Tear

Toys can wear out over time, and broken or worn toys can pose a danger. Pieces might break off, creating choking hazards, or sharp edges could cause injury.

Tip: Inspect toys regularly for cracks, tears, or fraying. Discard any toys that show signs of damage to avoid accidents. Always replace toys that have missing parts or are no longer safe for your dog.

3. Supervise Playtime

Some dogs can be more aggressive chewers or more enthusiastic in their play, which can increase the risk of breaking or damaging a toy. Supervision ensures that your dog uses toys safely and reduces the chances of injury.

Tip: Always supervise your dog, especially with new toys. If your dog tends to chew or swallow things they shouldn't, keep an eye on them during playtime to ensure they don’t accidentally ingest small parts.

4. Avoid Toys with Small Parts or Dangerous Materials

Toys with small parts can easily be swallowed or become choking hazards. Additionally, certain materials like toxic paints, non-food-grade rubber, or harmful chemicals can be dangerous if ingested.

Tip: Choose high-quality, non-toxic toys made from durable materials like BPA-free rubber or natural fibers. Avoid toys with small removable parts or ones that could be easily chewed off and swallowed.

5. Rotate Toys to Prevent Boredom

Bored dogs are more likely to engage in destructive behavior or lose interest in their toys. Rotating toys helps maintain your dog’s excitement and interest, keeping them mentally stimulated.

Tip: Keep a variety of toys on hand and rotate them every week or so. This keeps the toys feeling new and exciting, while also helping to prevent boredom.

6. Choose Toys that Match Your Dog's Play Style

Every dog has their preferred way of playing—some love to fetch, others prefer chewing or tug-of-war. Choosing toys that align with their play style will enhance their enjoyment and keep them active.

Tip: For dogs who love to chew, choose durable chew toys. For dogs that enjoy fetch, opt for lightweight balls or frisbees. Interactive toys are ideal for dogs who need mental stimulation.

By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that your dog enjoys their toys safely and keeps them engaged, active, and happy for a long time.

Tips For Maintaining Your Dog's Toy Collection

To ensure your small dog's toys remain safe and engaging:

Inspect toys weekly for wear and tear.
Clean according to manufacturer instructions.
Replace toys showing signs of significant damage.
Rotate toys every few weeks to prevent boredom.

Where to Buy the Best Dog Products for Your Furry Friend in 2025

Ready to pamper your dog with top-quality products? At our own store Doggy Elite, we offer a wide selection of essential and luxurious items to enhance your pet’s life, from engaging toys to cozy beds and stylish accessories.

Here’s why Doggy Elite is your premier destination for dog products:

Quality Assurance: Our products are carefully selected to meet the highest standards of safety and durability, ensuring your pet enjoys every item for years to come.
Wide Selection: We provide a diverse range of categories including Dog Toys, House & Bed, Grooming & Care, Accessories, Harness & Leashes, Clothing, Collars, Feeding, Traveling, and Paw Prints. Whatever you need, we have something for every dog.
Competitive Pricing: Enjoy great value with our affordable prices, making it easy to spoil your furry friend without breaking the bank.
Customer Satisfaction: Our dedicated team is committed to providing outstanding customer service, helping you choose the perfect products for your dog and offering guidance when needed.

Therefore, we invite you to explore our range of dog products today. Click below to visit our store and discover the perfect items for your beloved pet!

[Check Our Store]

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best dog toys for small dogs in 2025 requires careful consideration of size, durability, safety, and mental stimulation. With a wide variety of options available, it's essential to select toys that match your dog's play style and needs, whether they're chew toys for oral health, interactive puzzles for mental engagement, or plush toys for comfort.

By following safety tips, such as regularly inspecting toys and ensuring they are the right size, you can help prevent accidents and enhance your dog's playtime experience. Furthermore, rotating toys to keep them fresh and exciting is another simple way to maintain your dog’s interest and well-being.

With the right toys, you’ll not only keep your small dog entertained but also promote their health and happiness.

Key Takeaways

When selecting dog toys for small dogs, ensure they are appropriately sized to prevent choking hazards and to allow for comfortable handling.
Small dogs can be strong chewers, so choose toys made from non-toxic, durable materials that can withstand heavy chewing.
Always opt for toys made from safe, non-toxic materials, and avoid those with detachable parts that could be swallowed.
Small dogs enjoy a range of toy types, including chew toys, interactive puzzle toys, plush toys, fetch toys, and tug toys. Choose based on your dog's play preferences.
Interactive and puzzle toys are ideal for intelligent small breeds, as they provide mental challenges that prevent boredom and reduce destructive behavior.
Plush and squeaky toys offer comfort and stress relief for small dogs, especially those with separation anxiety or who enjoy cuddling.
Fetch toys promote exercise and coordination, ideal for small, high-energy breeds that enjoy running and retrieving.
Check toys regularly for wear and tear, and replace any damaged toys to prevent choking hazards or injury.
Always supervise your dog during play, especially with new or unfamiliar toys, to ensure safety and prevent accidental ingestion of parts.
Rotate your dog's toys to maintain their interest and prevent boredom, keeping playtime exciting and stimulating.

FAQs

How often should I replace my small dog's toys?

Replace toys when you notice signs of wear such as tears, loose parts, or heavy damage. Generally, active chewers may need new toys every 1-3 months.

Are rope toys safe for small dogs?

Rope toys can be safe when properly sized and supervised, but watch for fraying strings that could be ingested.

What size toy is appropriate for my small dog?

Choose toys that are large enough to prevent swallowing but small enough for your dog to carry comfortably. A good rule of thumb is selecting toys slightly larger than your dog's mouth.

How can I tell if a toy is too small for my dog?

If your dog can fit the entire toy in their mouth, it's too small and poses a choking risk. Always err on the side of caution with sizing.