When it comes to choosing the best dog toys for small breeds, size really does matter. Small dogs—like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, or Dachshunds—have delicate mouths, so picking toys that suit their scale isn’t just fun, it’s safer. Experts emphasize that toys should be appropriately sized; anything too small can be a choking hazard.
Top Toy Picks for Tiny Pups
Here are three great toy choices that are ideal for small breeds — whether they love to chew, cuddle, or problem-solve:
Here are a few favorites and why they’re great for small pups:
KONG Puppy Toy: Made of soft puppy rubber — gentle on tiny gums, but bouncy enough for fetch.
JW Hol‑ee Mini Rubber Ball: Stretchy, chewable, and can be stuffed with little treats — it’s both a toy and a dispenser.
KONG Snuzzles Mini Frog: Plush and flat, easy for small dogs to grasp, with a full-body squeaker for extra fun.
Nina Ottosson Brick Puzzle: A brain game! Slide pieces around to release hidden treats — perfect for mental enrichment.
Starmark Everlasting Treat Sprocket: Very durable and designed to hold a treat inside, so teething or bored pups stay busy.
Multipet Lamb Chop Plush: A soft, squeaky classic many small dogs love to cuddle.
HuggleHounds Knottie Raccoon: Plush yet reinforced with a three-layer lining — more robust than typical stuffed toys.
Knotted Fleece Chew Toy (Mini): Handmade out of fleece, great for tugging or gentle chewing, and sized small for toy breeds
Safety Tips for Small-Dog Toy Play
By mixing different types of toys — plush, chew, and puzzle — you’re not just providing playtime, but also mental stimulation and dental health for your little pup. Happy playing!
- Supervise Play: Always watch your small dog while they play, especially with toys that have squeakers. Sacramento SPCA+1
- Inspect Regularly: If toys start to shred or crack, throw them out. Small parts can be dangerous if swallowed. West Valley City+1
- Rotate Toys: Switch out toys every week or so. This keeps playtime fresh and engaging. animalfoundation.com
- Choose Safe Materials: Natural rubber or reinforced plush are often safer than hard or ingestible chew items, especially unsupervised. animalfoundation.com