The 7 Best Tug Toys For Dogs
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Many people think that tug games can lead to an increase in aggression and dominance in dogs. However, after years of research and observation experts found that when played correctly, a game that includes tugging can be a positive and great experience for you and your dog!
At a Glance: The Best Tug Toys For Dogs To Buy
We highly recommend looking at the comparison table we have below where we highlighted the features of each product. You’ll also find more detailed information about each product later in the article.
Compare Best Tug Toys For Dogs
|
Price range
Mid-high |
Price range
Low |
Price range
Mid-high |
Price range
Low |
Price range
Mid-low |
Price range
Low |
Price range
Mid-high |
|
Material
Cotton |
Material
Firehose |
Material
Naturally shed Elk antlers and cotton blend |
Material
Cotton and rubber |
Material
Rubber and two-ply nylon cord |
Material
Cotton |
Material
Nylon and stuffing |
|
Size
3.79 pounds |
Size
27 inches long, 3.2 ounces |
Size
Available in two sizes |
Size
1.81 pounds |
Size
12 inches |
Size
21 inches, 13.8 ounces |
Size
30 inches long |
|
Made In
China |
Made In
China |
Made In
USA |
Made In
USA |
Made In
Vietnam |
Made In
China |
Made In
China |
There are many benefits to playing tug games with your dog. Tug games can also strengthen the bond you and your pup have! Playtime that includes playing tug-of-war provides an intense workout that engages all your dog’s senses. Not only is it a great physical workout but it stimulates their minds, too!
About Tug Toys
There are many different types of tug toys to choose from. When researching tug toys for your dog, you should consider your dog’s preferences for material, price, and durability. Tug toys should be soft to protect your dog’s mouth and teeth. Tug toys include some of the following:
- Rubber “handle” tug toys: these types of toys are often made from a soft rubber material in an “s” shape.
- Plush tug toys: These types of toys are great for smaller dogs or dogs with a low chewing drive.
- Rope tug toys: Rope toys are knotted and twisted to create a strong tugging toy. These types of toys also act as dental floss, cleaning your dog’s teeth as he or she plays.
Tug Toy Safety Information
There are many different types of toys made by many different manufacturers. New toys should always be introduced with supervision. As a rule, you should monitor your dog’s interaction to ensure safety. Some toys should always be played with under supervision, for example, chews or bones. It is important to remember that no toy is completely indestructible. For that reason, you should periodically inspect your dog’s toys for signs of wear and tear.
Here are some guidelines to consider when conducting your own research.
Size: You should always choose toys that fit your dog’s size. Small dogs may not want to play with large toys, and small toys may be dangerous for large dogs.
Washability: Keeping your pup’s toys clean is very important. Always check to make sure that the toys can be machine washed, wiped down, dishwasher safe, or hand washed. This is critical in keeping your pup not only happy – but healthy!
Material: The material of the toy is very important. Dogs are driven by their strong sense of smell. Also, they love licking and tend to explore the world through their mouths. Since there are no federal regulations on dog toys, they can be made with almost anything. Thus, you need to make sure to do your research!
You know your playful dog the best, and know what types of toys he or she will like most. Your dog’s activity level – both indoor and outdoor, their ability and drive to destroy toys, and the size of your dog will help you figure out the best toys for them.
Guidelines To Follow When Playing Tug Of War
My 6-year-old Belgian Shepherd Malinois, Hyper, loves to play tug with his various toys. We have worked hard to encourage playful and non-aggressive tug games. Here are some of the guidelines we follow that have helped us ensure everyone is having fun!
Discourage growling or your pup showing his or her teeth. Discouraging can be vocal commands like “no growling” and stopping to play the game with your pup.
If your pup’s mouth or teeth touch you or your clothing, the game is over – even if it is an accident. This will teach your dog that under no circumstance is it ok for their mouth or teeth to touch you.
Teach your dog to release the toy (“drop it”) and sit on command. If your pup refuses, keep your hand on the toy but let your arm go limp and ignore your pup. Once they let go, shower them with positive reinforcements (treats and lots of “good boy/girl”).
Your dog’s tail will help you identify his or her feelings. A wagging tail means they are having fun!
How The Toys Were Tested:
- We used our own money to purchase all the toys. In other words, the toys were not purchased in exchange for positive reviews.
- Each toy was carefully chosen depending on quality, material, price range, and durability.
- We spent a few hours each day testing the toys.
Our Top Picks For The Best Tug Toys For Dogs
Our dog LOVED this experiment, he was able to play and interact with so many new toys to create this list. In other words, Hyper has given all the items 5 stars and barking reviews!
The 7 best tug toys for dogs reviewed and compared:
AMZpets Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers
Product Info
- Price range: Mid-high
- Material: Cotton
- Size: 3.79 pounds
- Made In: China
- Veterinarian Approved
- 100% Cotton
- Safe to use
- Not recommended for overly aggressive chewers
- Nondurable
The ropes are made from high-quality chew toys and throwing ropes with knots. This is a safe, long-lasting dog toy that is great for games, fetch and play.
Fire Hose Dog Tug Toy with Squeakers
Product Info
- Price range: Low
- Material: Firehose
- Size: 27 inches long, 3.2 ounces
- Made In: China
- Made from real durable firehose material that is extremely hard to destroy
- Three separate squeakers
- No stuffing! You won’t need to clean up the stuffing if your pup destroys the firehose
- Well made and cute designs
- Always monitor your dog while playing with this kind of toy
- Lizard legs can tear off (as seen in the photo)
The toys are used for all types of playtime, including tug of war. Additionally, the Fire Biterz are not made with stuffing.
This means that if your pup DOES destroy it – because no toy is completely indestructible- there will be no stuffing thrown around your home. No. Stuffing. Thrown. Around. Your. Home! The squeakers also are durable, long-lasting, and will boost your dog’s playtime excitement.
KONG Wild Elk Antler Dog Toy
Product Info
- Price range: Mid-high
- Material: Naturally shed Elk antlers and cotton blend
- Size: Available in two sizes
- Made In: USA
- Combines tug dependent play and independent chewing
- Antlers are naturally shed
- My pup is able to chew through antlers in record time – not for strong chewers
Jolly Pets: Rope and Ball Tug Toy
Product Info
- Price range: Low
- Material: Cotton and rubber
- Size: 1.81 pounds
- Made In: USA
- All materials are recyclable and non-toxic
- The ball is made from puncture resistant rubber
- Acts as playtime dental floss for your pup
- Great toy for tugging, chasing, and swimming activities!
- Frayed edges may be torn off
- The puncture-proof ball is heavy
Chuckit! Tug Rope with Classic Rubber Balls
Product Info
- Price range: Mid-low
- Material: Rubber and two-ply nylon cord
- Size: 12 inches
- Made In: Vietnam
- High-quality materials
- Compatible with the launcher
- Balls are easily wiped down
- Can be used in water and outdoor playtime
- Active chewers may chew the strap
- Active chewers may destroy the rubber balls
Pacific Pup Tug Rope
Product Info
- Price range: Low
- Material: Cotton
- Size: 21 inches, 13.8 ounces
- Made In: China
- Made from safe, non-toxic material
- Passes the ASTM F-963 Children Toys Safety Standards
- Proceeds help rescue dogs from high-kill shelters
- Acts as playtime dental floss for your pup
- Frayed edges may be torn off
Nerf Dog Squeaker Vortex Chain Tug Dog Toy
Product Info
- Price range: Mid-high
- Material: Nylon and stuffing
- Size: 30 inches long
- Made In: China
- The shape and material is really engaging
- You can play fetch and tug games with this toy
- It is lightweight but still durable
- This toy is water-resistant, making water play so much fun!
- Not made for strong chewers or tuggers – the football detached from the tail after a few days of play.
- Hyper likes this toy so much that we have sewed it back together.
Final Thoughts
The best thing that we can do for our dogs is to challenge them, both physically and mentally, to keep them happy and healthy. I hope that you and your dog find this list of The 7 Best Dog Tug Toys for Dogs helpful and fun!
Bily Bumer
He destroyed every toy I bought. I have to try one of these. Thanks for the article!