Bringing home a new puppy is pure joy, but shopping for toys can quickly turn confusing. With hundreds of options available, how do you know which ones are actually good for your growing pup?
The truth is, many new pet parents make mistakes when choosing toys, leading to wasted money, chewed-up furniture, or worse injuries. Here’s what to avoid and how to choose better, with expert picks you can trust.
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Toys
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 5 common mistakes to avoid when buying puppy toys, and share smarter alternatives featuring expert-recommended products.
Let’s help you build a toy box that’s fun, safe, and tailor-made for your pup’s needs.
1. Choosing the Wrong Toy for Their Age & Breed
Many puppy parents assume all dog toys are universal. They buy what’s trending or what looks fun—without thinking about their puppy’s size, breed, or energy level.
A Great Dane puppy and a Chihuahua puppy may be the same age, but they have drastically different play needs. Giving the wrong size or style of toy can lead to boredom, injury, or choking.
Smart solution:
- For active, strong breeds: the Tether Tug Dog Toy offers safe, high-energy solo play and burns off excess energy.
- For small or toy breeds: the Grriggles Baby Bark Bungee Pup is designed for gentle mouths and tiny paws.
2. Prioritizing Cuteness Over Durability
It’s easy to get drawn in by cute plush toys shaped like donuts or animals—but they often lack durability. Puppies, especially during teething, can tear through them in minutes.
What starts as a fun purchase can quickly become dangerous when pieces like stuffing or squeakers get swallowed. Plus, constantly replacing flimsy toys adds up.
Smart solution:
- Choose trusted, chew-safe options like the KONG Classic Dog Toy, built with durable natural rubber.
- Need something tougher? The Tough Treader and Flex-n-Chew Bones are engineered for relentless chewers.
3. Ignoring Mental Stimulation Needs
Many new owners focus only on physical toys such as balls and chew bones and forget that puppies also need mental stimulation.
Without it, smart pups get bored and turn destructive. Mental fatigue can be just as real as physical exhaustion, and it’s key to a calm, well-behaved puppy.
Smart solution:
- Use engaging toys like the Push-n-Play or Tug-n-Toss to add variety to playtime.
- Stuff a KONG with treats or frozen peanut butter to challenge and reward your pup while keeping them busy indoors.
4. Not Matching the Toy to Chewing Behavior
Puppy parents often assume all dogs chew the same—or underestimate how strong their puppy’s bite can be.
Soft toys might last with one puppy but get shredded by another in seconds. Giving the wrong toy can lead to early breakage, wasted money, or dangerous ingestion.
Smart solution:
- For moderate chewers: the 9″ ROPE TOY is perfect for gentle tug play and chewing without tearing.
- For aggressive chewers: the Flex-n-Chew Bones and Tough Treader are built for durability and safe gnawing.
5. Skipping Safety & Cleanability
Many people buy cute or cheap toys without checking if they’re safe to leave with a puppy—or if they’re washable.
Dirty toys can collect bacteria, mold, and saliva buildup, leading to skin issues or digestive problems. Plus, toxic materials or detachable parts can pose serious health risks.
Smart solution:
- Choose non-toxic, vet-recommended toys like the Push-n-Play or Tug-n-Toss—both easy to clean and ideal for indoor/outdoor play.
- Avoid toys with glued-on parts, beads, or stuffing unless you’re supervising play closely.
Final Thoughts
Puppy toys aren’t just about keeping your dog busy—they’re tools for training, growth, and bonding.
By avoiding these common mistakes and choosing toys that match your puppy’s breed, energy level, and chewing style, you’re setting your pup up for a healthier and more enriching playtime experience.
Whether you’re raising a tiny teether or a rough-and-tumble chewer, there’s a perfect toy for every pup and now, you know exactly what to look for.
Safe. Durable. Tail-wagging approved.