Skip to main content

PawTracks may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

4 toys under $40 your puppy simply can’t destroy

That cute little puppy who destroys every toy you buy him really can’t help it. His ancestors were foragers, and even though dogs have been domesticated for more than 15,000 years, some of those natural instincts are simply undeniable.

havanese-puppy-with-red-ball
https://www.shutterstock.com/g/mdorottya

That means whether your dog is bored, curious, or simply wants to kill the squeak in his new plush toy, finding durable toys for your dog to play with can be a challenge. No toy is completely indestructible, but here are four tough options we’ve found that won’t break the bank:

Related Videos

Goughnuts Indestructible Ring Chew

If your dog is “out of this world” (and we know he is), buy him a toy made from the same rubber engineers use to build spaceships and aircraft. Multiple sizes ensure the right fit for your dog, and the red safety-indicator core inside gives you peace of mind (the yellow dot shown in our picture indicates this model is made for the toughest munchers).

Petstages Dog Chew Toy

Safely satisfy your dog’s urge to chew on wood with this chew stick made of natural wood fiber and synthetic material. The texture and taste mimic real wood, which eliminates the risk of oral and intestinal injury caused by real wood splinters. Multiple sizes allow you to choose the right fit for your pet.

Jemesx Dog Toy for Aggressive Chewers

Treat your heavy chewer to this beef-flavored, bite-resistant chew toy made from nontoxic and eco-friendly natural rubber. Squishy spikes effectively remove food particles to keep teeth cleaner.

Kong Classic Dog Toy from $7.49

Treat your favorite canine and provide mental and physical stimulation at the same time with this classic rubber food puzzle. The unique shape bounces unpredictably for a fun game of chase. Dishwasher safe and comes in six sizes.

Does my dog really need toys?

Providing appropriate toys for your dog does more than just make you feel good as a pet parent; it also addresses several of your puppy’s needs:

  • It teaches him to chew on appropriate items. The old stories about chewed-up slippers are real. Dogs will play with almost anything that interests them.
  • It keeps him from being bored. As much as you might want to, you simply can’t be with your pup every single minute. Having toys to play with keeps him occupied and helps prevent him from developing problem behaviors.
  • It provides a sense of comfort. Some dogs find companionship in small plush toys they can carry in their mouths.
pug-puppy-with-rubber-duck
https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Ezzolo

How to choose the best toy for my dog

That dog toy might look cute in the pet store, but take a few minutes to evaluate your dog’s needs before you buy it.

  • Is it the right size? Toys that are too small can be a choking hazard. Conversely, your pup might lose interest in a toy that’s too big to carry in his mouth.
  • Does it fit your dog’s activity level? Plush toys and those with squeakers are a good choice for gentle dogs, while durable rubber toys are best for more energetic dogs.
  • Is your dog up to a challenge? Supersmart (or easily bored) pups usually enjoy treat-dispensing and puzzle toys.

Here’s another tip. Change things up by rotating toys. And, of course, always supervise your pet whenever you introduce him to a new toy so you can observe his behavior. Remember, whether it’s a chew, fetch, tug, or treat toy, your dog loves interacting with you. Any activity that brings you together benefits you both.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
6 ways to make your Super Bowl party dog-friendly this year
Snacks, safety, and other details to throw the best dog-friendly Super Bowl party
A poodle mix dog wearing a Green Bay Packers shirt and hat sits and looks into the camera

As football fans from across the country gear up for Super Bowl Sunday, you might find yourself getting swept up in the hype. We get it! The NFL championship game is a big deal, and it's fun to get together with loved ones to mark the occasion. While you're planning your football-themed menu and decor, we encourage you to consider inviting furry friends, too. At the very least, make sure your own dog is well prepared for a fun day, too.
2023 pet trends revealed that more and more owners treat their dogs like their children, so we wouldn't be surprised to see a rise in dog-friendly Super Bowl parties this year. That's why we've compiled six important ways anyone can accommodate pets at their Super Bowl party -- from finding the right snacks to finding the right space.

Don't forget to provide snacks for dogs, as well as people
There are two key components to a successful Super Bowl party -- watching the game and enjoying the food -- so once you've got your location decided, make sure to plan a menu that accommodates everyone you've invited. That means feeding the dogs, too!
Most owners will have their own plan for feeding their pup dinner, but when it comes to snacks, it doesn't hurt to be prepared. When in doubt, ask ahead about your canine guests' preferences and restrictions. That way, other pet parents can bring food for their pups -- and no one is excluded.
A classic homemade dog biscuit is always a safe snack to have on hand, and they last for a long time as leftovers, too. Since most recipes will have you making and baking dough, you can use a football-shaped cookie cutter or silicone mold to add to the day's festivities!

Read more
5 dog outings to plan for your Valentine’s Day (with or without a human date)
Need a date for Valentine's Day? Take your dog for a special outing instead
A dog lies on the bed surrounded by roses for Valentine's Day

It can be a time to go on an important date or to stay at home with a bottle of your favorite Napa cab, but Valentine's Day also offers the opportunity to focus on the other important "people" in your life. This year, celebrate a different kind of love — the lasting bond between human and pup (no pricey chocolates included).
You don't have to have a human partner to observe Valentine's Day in style (though they can always tag along to your pet-themed activity). Here are a few things to do with your dog for a different kind of holiday experience.

Have a dinner date
Pick out a special dinner for you and Fido to enjoy together at your home or find a pet cafe or pet-friendly restaurant to dine out as a "couple." Most dogs can eat cooked meat in small quantities, so perhaps you want to share a chicken or steak on this special day. Of course, don't change up their diet if they have a sensitive tummy and cut only a piece that includes the same number of calories you'd ordinarily give them for dinner.
Go for a hike
OK, this isn't a classic Valentine's Day with your dog, but it's one your pup is sure to love. Enjoy the great outdoors together for exercise and scenic views, away from the noise of the day. Make it special by picking a unique destination and bringing some extra special snack.
Take your pooch on a date with their one true love
Does your pet have a best friend? Get them together on V-Day so your pup feels both human and canine love (bonus points if you and their owner also bring along your chosen beverage). A park day or pack walk will get everyone out of the house and feeling their best for this February 14th.
Watch romantic movies
All dogs love to snuggle on the couch with rom-coms. Find a couple of flicks that you've had on your list (or want to rewatch) and indulge in treats together in front of the TV. Your beloved pup won't judge if you tear up at the end when the couple finally gets together. Extra points if you pick out a dog- or cat-themed movie that might pique their interest with pet sounds.
Volunteer together
If your four-legged friend has the right temperament, consider training them to volunteer at a nursing home. It can be tricky to get approved for this; and only dogs that truly have a personality suited to the environment should try it. But if you can get them through the training, you'll both have a blast and brighten the days of everyone who gets to give you dog pats and biscuits.

Read more
Urinary tract infections in dogs are so painful – here are ways you can help your pet through one
What is the best dog food for urinary health? The answer may surprise you
A sad white bulldog

A urinary tract infection, or UTI, is a common but pesky issue for humans. Though cats can get UTIs, it’s rare in the feline population. How common are urinary tract infections in dogs?

Unfortunately, it’s pretty common for vets to diagnose UTIs in dogs. We don’t like it when our pets are unwell, so this news may not be the best to hear. A UTI is a painful condition that happens when the dog’s urinary tract gets infected. It’s usually a bacterial infection.

Read more