Dogs like squeaky toys because they’re interactive and designed to simulate prey. These noisy toys trigger an instinctual response in your dog that makes playing endlessly satisfying, as if they’re hunting alongside their wild ancestors.
If you want a happy pet, look for a squeaky toy that is both durable and loaded with interactive features. The Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Toy is the top pick because it’s whimsical, squeaky and features a fun puzzle that will keep your dog busy for hours on end.
There are many types of squeaky toys to choose from, and each dog likes something a little different. For a more exhaustive list of general dog toy categories, check out the complete dog toy buying guide from BestReviews.
Perhaps the most important thing to look for in a squeaky toy is durability. Most dogs have extremely powerful jaws, so choose a reputable manufacturer that makes durable construction a priority in their products. Details such as double stitching and puncture-proof squeakers are good indicators that a squeaky toy will be durable.
Squeaky toys are meant to spend a lot of time in your dog’s mouth, so safety is key. Look for a reputable brand that uses safe materials such as food-grade and BPA-free plastic, and avoid anything with small parts that your pet can swallow.
Look for a squeaky toy that’s appropriately sized for your pet. If the toy is too small, it can pose a choking hazard; if it’s too large, your dog might have trouble playing with it. Choose a balanced toy that’s small enough for your dog to carry but large enough to withstand their jaws.
Expect to pay $3-$30 for a squeaky dog toy. Keep in mind that cheaper dog toys are usually less durable and may need to be replaced more often.
A. Most durable squeaky toys can be added to a regular load of laundry without any issues. Just be sure to use cold or warm water, as hot water can damage the squeaker part of the toy.
A. Call your vet immediately. While there’s a chance your dog will pass the part without issue, you should see a professional to make sure there isn’t an obstruction.
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Toy
What you need to know: This popular dog toy includes an elaborate and interactive puzzle to keep your dog entertained.
What you’ll love: The stuffed, log-shaped toy includes six squeaky squirrels that can be hidden and discovered by your pet. The squirrels can then be thrown for a game of fetch, while the log itself doubles as a tug toy.
What you should consider: Parts of the toy could be destroyed by a determined chewer.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: This budget-friendly squeaker ball is great for playing fetch yet durable enough to withstand lots of chewing.
What you’ll love: This affordable squeaker toy is made from BPA-free, food-grade plastic, and the spikes that surround the ball are designed to massage your dog’s gums. Users say the ball is very durable for the price.
What you should consider: The squeaker is very loud, which is fun for the dog, but unpleasant for some pet owners.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: These popular squeaky toys have no stuffing and double as a tug toy.
What you’ll love: These squeaky toys come in two sizes and are designed to look like three adorable woodland creatures: a fox, a raccoon and a squirrel. Each toy contains three squeakers and no messy stuffing.
What you should consider: Several users said their dogs were able to rip out the squeakers relatively quickly.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Patrick Farmer writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
