Golden Retrievers need more than just food and water to keep them happy. You can’t underestimate the importance of playtime. Toys provide mental stimulation that’s crucial in keeping dogs healthy and happy.
The right toy can even help train your pup on things like potty training or basic commands. So, which are the best dog toys for Golden Retrievers? We got that covered here, stay put!
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| Types of Toys | Best Dog Toys for Golden Retrievers | Image |
| Best Treat Dispensing Toy: (Best Overall) | KONG – Wobbler – Interactive Treat Dispensing Dog Toy, Dishwasher Safe |  |
| Best Fetch Toy/ Ball: (Best Budget) | Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy |  |
| Best Stuffed/ Comfort Toy: (Savvy Pick) | SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy |  |
| Best Puzzle Toy: | Nina Ottosson Puzzle Game Dog Toy |  |
| Best Squeaky Toy: | VANFINE Dog Squeaky Toy |  |
| Best Chew Toy: | Benebone Real Bacon Dog Chew Toy |  |
| Best Floating Toy: | KONG – Aqua – Floating Fetch Toy for Water Play |  |
| Best Tug of War Toy: | Mammoth Flossy Chews Color Rope Tug Toy for Dogs |  |
Product reviews of the Best Dog Toys for Golden Retrievers
Best Treat Dispensing Toy: KONG – Wobbler – Treat Dispensing Dog Toy
Stop feeding your dog out of an opened bag while you eat dinner on the couch. Give them their own food dispenser this time…except better because KONG – Wobbler patented design causes it to wobble unpredictably so they have to use more energy trying to get treats out!
KONG Wobbler is just what your Golden Retriever puppy needs to prevent boredom. Fill it up with their favorite treats or kibble, then watch them get into the groove of things – following its unpredictable movement, nudging and pawing at it, trying to get hold of whatever comes out next.
The erratic movements make dispensing food unpredictable which keeps dogs engaged for longer periods of time while they enjoy a wholesome meal.
Coming in two sizes, small and large, this treat-dispensing puzzler is also dishwasher safe. Not forgetting, it doubles as a dog bowl. Simply unscrew the bottom part to fill it up. No need to worry about spills or messes either.
And because it contains no BPA or latex, it also makes a very friendly chew toy so even if you get bored of the puzzle, he can still gnaw on him worry-free.
Pros
- It’s dishwasher safe.
- It helps limit the amount of treats your dog feeds on
- It stimulates mental activity
Cons
- It’s pricey
Best Fetch Toy/Ball: Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy
Have you ever wished that your large dog ball could just bounce around indefinitely without getting dirty, drying out, or being lost? Well, now it can!
Aim your dog’s instincts with the Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy. Water-friendly, lightweight, and ultra stimulating, this bouncing ball for dogs comes in a blend of bright colors sure to catch your pup’s attention.
The canine toy is shaped to provide dogs with an easy grip and ensures you can play fetch anywhere, whether at the park or on the shore.
Made of tough yet soft rubber that can withstand high impact for even more fun, this durable toy features a thick rubber core for aggressive chewers but will never hurt their mouth. The lightweight design makes it perfect for indoor fetch rounds, while its buoyant material means your canine friend can enjoy long periods of play time at the pool too.
Pros
- Super bouncy nature encourages play
- It is suitable for all dog breeds and sizes
- Relatively affordable
- The design provides a good grip for the dogs
- It’s lightweight
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a hole to prevent suffocating in case it’s swallowed, as most balls do
Best Stuffed/ Comfort Toy: SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy
Do you have a pooch that just can’t stop barking, whining, or tearing around the house when left alone in the kennel? With plush toy snuggles like this SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy– it’s easy to find peace and quiet for you and your pup.
Treat your dog’s loneliness or aggression with a snuggle from this adorable little heartbeat stuffed toy. It mimics the soothing sound of a human heartbeat, providing relief for your pup in times of need.
Made from materials that are safe for all people and machine washable, you can rest assured that this heart toy won’t leave a trace of harmful chemicals on your pup or on anything they come in contact with.
The intuitive hearts of this snuggly stuffed toy help calm dogs down or reduce stress. When paired with crate training, this heart-shaped toy will amplify the technique that works best for your pet to succeed.
Pros
- It’s available in a wide range of colors
- It’s machine washable
- It helps alleviate stress and calm down your pup
- Made from non-toxic materials
Cons
- It’s a bit pricey
Best Puzzle Toy: Nina Ottosson Puzzle Game Dog Toy
We knew your dog had a great nose, but now he’ll have an even better brain to match! With puzzles made with durable material, thisNina Ottosson interactive toy will last long enough to satisfy the genius of any dog for hours on end. This puzzle is not only colorful and engaging but provides mental stimulation, too, giving intelligent dogs something extra to keep them feeling satisfied.
Whether you’re looking for an interactive playtime or want something to keep your pup entertained when he gets bored at home, this puzzle is perfect. I promise this won’t be anything like my last chew toy – in two days my favorite chew toy was upside down in my bowl of food which kind of defeated the purpose.
Different layered games require different degrees of thinking and focus, making it perfect for all dogs looking to put their best paw-ever forward. Hours of mental stimulation is just what you need for your indoor pooch, so play smart with Nina Ottosson!
Choose from multiple shapes and sizes to find prizes in just the right-sized bites for your dog. Enjoy together as he speeds through these fun yet tricky games, or let him play alone with a treat in hand while pawing at each drawer to release tasty morsels found inside.
A lot can go wrong when it comes to toys but not with these Nina Ottosson puzzles. You can trust them because they are free from BPA, PVC & PHTHALATE.
Pros
- It’s durable and safe
- Offers great mental stimulation for your dog
- Eliminates boredom
Cons
- It’s not dishwasher safe.
Best Squeaky Toy: VANFINE Dog Squeaky Toy
Let’s face it. Chasing your dog around the house and trying to retrieve toys they’ve destroyed is a Sisyphean task. You can also be sure that many of these so-called tough chewers are no match for your aggressive chewer, who’ll have demolished them in minutes flat.
It’s never fun to shell out for expensive dog toys all the time, but with a VANFINE Dog Squeaky Toy, you know you can take a break from desperate hunting.
With a variety of shapes and sizes, a novel and unique design that packs an irresistible squeaker built-in for extra fun while chewing, this teething toy is perfect for releasing your pup’s natural chewing instincts.
This Jumbo-style dog toy is perfect for any size of dog, and he won’t be able to tell it from a real beef steak. You can rest assured of long-lasting quality because it features safe and sustainable materials.
Pros
- Made from rubber, which is eco-friendly and non-toxic
- Uses natural flavors
- It comes with an in-built speaker to produce squeaky sounds.
Cons
- While the product promises to be indestructible, past customers with very aggressive chewing habits claimed it was torn within days, if not minutes. However, mild chewers still enjoy this soft toy.
Best Chew Toy: Benebone Dog Chew Toy
You know what’s not cool? Shoving your fingers in your dog’s mouth to remove an item they don’t want. It’s even less cool when said object is one of your dirty socks. Save yourself the embarrassment and get this durable bone instead.
TheBenebone Dog Chew Toy comes in different sizes, so you can pick the perfect size for your canine compadre, ensuring that it will last long enough that no resentment or disdain ever builds up between you both.
Plus, you can choose either bacon, peanut butter goodness, or chicken flavored – to bring out its inner primal nature.
Let your pup chew his worries away with this adorable wishbone chew toy. This durable, long-lasting chew is tough like a real bone but soft enough for your pup’s gentle tooth. The curved shape makes it paw-friendly so your best friend can easily get their favorite chew going in seconds flat.
Pros
- Available in multiple sizes to suit your dog’s size
- It’s durable
- It’s flavored- sure to be your dog’s favorite tough toy
Cons
- It’s not suitable for aggressive chewers
Best Floating Toy: KONG – Aqua – Floating Fetch Toy for Water Play
Underwater hunting just got a lot more fun! Get your dog to dive deep into the water with this Aqua KONG toy, which has been specifically designed for use in and out of the water.
The KONG Aqua’s lightweight and buoyant design allows it to be tossed further than your average rope toy! It’ll float and bob on the surface of the water, just waiting for you to throw it for a fun-filled chase.
The bright orange color won’t be lost in any body of water either, so you can easily find it. It is also soft and squishy enough that it won’t hurt your pup’s fragile teeth. And, you don’t have to keep touching the drool from your dog- yikes! It comes with a long rubber rope.
Talking of the rope, it makes throwing long distances possible, so you can still have interactive play with your pup outside or even in their crate when bored.
Fantastically created with a foam core so it floats easily in water, this toy gives dogs easier access to retrieving when on land or when swimming. This is an excellent training tool that helps develop muscle strength and coordination during either inside playtime or out in open spaces.
Pros
- Lightweight and buoyant
- Soft yet durable make
- Easy to spot even when underwater
Cons
- The rope is too long, causing dogs to trip often, but you can just tie it in a knot.
Best Tug of War Toy: Mammoth Flossy Chews Color Rope Tug Toy for Dogs
They may seem like ideal playmates, but your dog is bored. Hatch an epic game of tug o’ war with theMammoth Flossy Chews Color Rope Tug Toy for Dogs.
It’s perfect for playing interactive games of tug, tossing the toy in the air, and not worrying about too much mess—it floats in water, so it doesn’t matter if you take turns across the pool.
And we know biting may be part of playtime, too: this tough dog toy is durable enough to stand up to aggressive chomping and gnawing.
These dog chews are made from premium North American Cotton-Poly yarns that absorb drool and wetness while also providing some serious flossing action that dogs love.
This dog chew toy is great for easy dog teeth cleaning, naturally supporting your pup’s oral health – the fibers in the tugs floss dogs’ teeth as they chew and play. What I call bringing pet care to the next level.
It’s available in various sizes, so you’re sure to find just the right toy for your dog that will keep them squeaking with joy.
Pros
- Made from safe, non-toxic material
- It enhances your dog’s oral health
- Relatively affordable
Cons
- Not ideal for aggressive chewers
- Choking hazard- you’ll have to supervise your dog as it plays with this toy.
Types of Dog Toys for Golden Retrievers
Chew Toys
Dogs are naturally inclined to chew. Not only do they need this teeth exercise, but also something safe and non-destructive in order to satisfy their natural instinct for destruction.
A good idea is giving them a toy that allows chewing on certain shapes like sticks or ropes to make sure your pup doesn’t end up destroying things of value around the house while still enjoying himself with treat teething sessions.
Fetch Toys/ Balls
Fetch is a game that dogs love to play. As you may have guessed from its name “fetch,” the object of the game requires your furry friend to fetch whatever their owner throws for them- usually an item such as a tennis ball or stick.
Fetching and playing fetch is one of the best ways to keep your dog healthy, happy, and excited. Golden Retrievers, in particular, love running around after a thrown object like their favorite toy or ball with such vigor that you’ll be hard-pressed not to laugh when they do it.
There are balls in various shapes and sizes, including ones that light up or have some squeaky sounds. Choose one depending on their playstyle preference – larger dogs may want something with more durability while smaller breeds enjoy lights & sound.
It’s also necessary to make sure the ball is big enough so they won’t swallow and just the right fit for their mouth so they can carry it comfortably.
Stuffed/ Comfort Toys
It’s a given that golden retrievers are among the most snuggly breeds out there. But did you know they also make great cuddlers and occasional playmates too? If your golden retriever likes to cuddle, then let him cuddle a stuffed toy in his bed, it’ll be a great treat. Just make sure they don’t chew on the stuffing.
Puzzle Toys
Puzzles are an excellent way for your golden retriever to work his brain and exercise some energy. Physical puzzles can be as simple as putting together an old-fashioned Rubik’s Cube, while electronic games offer more variety in terms of difficulty level \.
Squeaky Toys
Squeaky toys are great for golden retrievers. For a dog who loves waterfowl, plushies provide the perfect imitation of carrying prey in its mouth with all that softness and fuzziness. Squeeks come alive when you squeeze them; this makes them very responsive playtime companions as well as being highly entertaining for your golden throughout your day.
Treat-Dispensing Toys
Treat dispensing toys are a great way to get your dog mixing it up! These interactive chew items come with treats, so you don’t have to worry about them getting bored. Your pup has endless hours of fun playing around to find out how best to use this creative toy for the tasty reward at its core.
Floating Toys
If your golden retriever loves to swim, floating toys are perfect for them. Usually made of foam rubber or plastic material, they’re easy enough for the dogs to grab underwater with their paws and fling around.
Tug of War Toys
Tug of war toys are a great way to strengthen your dog’s teeth and bond with him. They typically come in the form of a rope and have two ends, so it can be easily done by two dogs or by you and your dog.
How to Choose the Best Dog Toys for Golden Retrievers
Safety First
Goldens need toys too! But not just anything will do. Make sure the toy you choose is safe for your golden retriever’s health and well-being. You should be wary of the types of materials that these playthings are made from and what others have said about them online before purchasing anything for their furry friend.
Avoid latex or BPA plastic toys because both can cause health issues if ingested by dogs during chewing sessions.
What Does Your Furry Friend Like Doing?
You know your pup best, but if I were to venture a guess- he loves playing games! What dog doesn’t?
If my golden retriever was an avid chewer and liked sticks then something durable rubber-based might work great with him. If yours prefers fetching anything that flies into the air, he may want one disc or ball-type toy instead. And if cuddling is his portion, you know he needs a stuffed toy.
Consider the Size of Your Dog vs. Size of Toy
When you’re shopping for a new toy, be mindful of your dog’s size and chewing abilities. The standard Golden Retriever sits in the medium to large category – meaning they’ll need larger toys. There are many ways to decide on what kind of plaything is best suited:
Taking their weight into consideration, comparing different length measurements against one another and breed recommendations, or simply following general guidelines such as avoiding anything under 3 inches long so no part thereof will fit inside an intestinal tract upon digestion.
A good example is when getting a tennis ball, make sure it’s not too small to swallow and it’s not too big that they can’t hold it in their mouth.
Toy Construction and Material
For those who like variety and want their pup’s playtime habits respected as much as possible (especially if you have more than one), consider the material of this treat before making any purchases.
Cheaper toys will often use substandard materials that most dogs will destroy quickly or easily, while a high-quality item provides plenty in return with its durability–even after heavy use!
Some of the most common materials you can trust for your dog’s toys include;
Rubber
Some people think that rubber is a bad choice for chewers. But, the truth of the matter is you want your pup to have something durable so they can put it through its paces and keep up with its destructive capabilities.
So while regular toys might be destroyed in minutes or hours respectively by goldens, rubber will last much longer without being torn apart.
Nylon
Some dogs don’t like the feel or bounciness from rubber, so it’s essential to know if nylon will appeal instead! Nylon is tough but not as strong, but it’s still a worthy option to consider.
Polyester
When it comes to choosing the perfect toy for your dog, think about their personality. If they like rough and tough playtime or if they prefer light play. Polyester and plush are both popular, but they have different qualities that you need to consider depending on what type of playtime you’re looking forward to with your retriever.
These materials will probably get ripped apart quickly if you have a rough golden. However, if their destructive tendencies remain under control, it might make sense as some fetching fun or chucking around the house.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Golden Retrievers Like to Play With Toys?
A Golden Retriever’s love for playing is well-known among dog owners. They enjoy the same activities as other breeds, but they are also very active when it comes to fetching toys and running around with their human companions.
What Do Golden Retrievers Do for Fun?
Golden Retrievers are energetic dogs who love to play. They’re always ready for a good time, whether it’s running around outside or jumping in the water. Plus, they’ve got this amazing ability to tug on anything with their mouth and chew away at it until perfection – just like kids do sometimes too. In fact, if there was one word I could use to describe these furry friends, it’s “enthusiastic” because pretty much everything about them screams having fun!”
Why Do Golden Retrievers Greet You With a Toy?
When your dog brings you the gift of play, it is his way of saying, “come on over and have some fun!” The type of toy he chooses may depend on what kind(s)of games he likes to play with you.
Do Golden Retrievers Like to Chew?
Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds for a reason! The love of chewing and holding things in their mouths is a common trait among many dogs, but not all can claim it as an attribute.
Golden Retrievers are no exception; they were bred to be waterfowl hunters with strong jaws that needed constant exercise through gnawing on rawhide treats.
Golden Retrievers love to chew and hold things in their mouth. This can be both good or bad, depending on what you’re looking at. For example, if your pup is teething, then chewing will provide them relief and exercise, which helps clear up some anxiety issues.
Summary
Golden Retrievers are a breed known for their intelligence and love of learning. The right toy can keep your Golden Retriever physically fit and mentally stimulated with games like fetch puzzles or tug-of-war. All dogs need exercise, but not all breeds require an hour-long walk each day, so it’s important to find out what will work best for yours.
The best dog toys for golden retrievers are the ones that they can’t destroy. When you’re looking to buy a new toy, consider what your furry friend might like and steer clear of items with stuffing and those made from BPA. You’ll also want to check any labels on the packaging for warnings about choking hazards or other unsafe materials before making your purchase.
Finally, always supervise when your dog is playing with a toy to prevent accidents such as choking. We hope these tips and product recommendations help you make smart decisions when buying dog toys.
Hurrah! You’ve made it to the end. But I’ve probably put so much before you, you’re not sure which one to go for. Well, I do like the KONG – Wobbler treat dispensing toy. It serves as an interactive toy, a feeding bowl, and can still function as a chew toy. Not forgetting that it’s non-toxic on top of being dishwasher friendly. What more could you ask?
