10 Best Plush Dog Toys in 2026

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The Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar earns the Best Overall spot because its no-stuffing design eliminates the mess of torn toys. The jumbo squeaker and triple-stitched seams hold up to medium and large dogs that love to tug. For owners who want a dedicated tug toy, the Outward Hound Cuddle Tugs Cow stretches play sessions with its 26-inch length and dual squeaker pads. The Best Crinkle Octopus Toy, the Best Pet Supplies Crinkle Chicken, offers a lightweight, noise-making alternative for moderate chewers.

Every dog owner knows the cycle: buy a plush toy, watch it get disemboweled in minutes, and spend the afternoon vacuuming stuffing. The real challenge is finding soft toys that actually engage your dog without creating a disaster zone. What matters most is matching the toy’s construction to your dog’s play style, not all plush toys are built for the same type of fun.

This guide is based on a close look at each toy’s specifications, manufacturer documentation, and patterns in owner feedback. We focused on construction features, noise-making elements, and suitability for different dog sizes and play intensities. Here are the ten best plush dog toys that balance durability with engagement.

Top 10 Plush Dog Toys in the Market

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The Best Plush Dog Toys, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar

Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar
Dimensions9.5 x 3.9 x 1.6 inches
Construction2X reinforced, triple-stitched seams
FillNo stuffing
SqueakerJumbo squeaker inside
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What We Like

  • No stuffing reduces mess
  • Jumbo squeaker sparks play instincts
  • Triple-stitched seams add strength
  • Reinforced lining for tugging

Trade-offs

  • 9.5-inch length limits large-dog tug space
  • No stuffing means less body for cuddling

A 9.5-inch caterpillar with triple-stitched seams and a jumbo squeaker is built for dogs that treat toys like a personal challenge. The reinforced lining and molded layer mean this plush can handle the back-and-forth of tug without splitting at the seams. The lack of stuffing turns post-play cleanup into a quick sweep rather than a fluff hunt. It suits owners who want a durable plush for interactive play, tug, fetch, shake, without sacrificing the satisfying squeak that keeps a dog engaged.

At under ten inches long, this toy gives a large dog less to grab onto during a tug session compared to the 16-inch Outward Hound Cuddle Tugs Cow, which offers more length for a two-ended game. The Tough Skinz Caterpillar uses no stuffing to reduce cleanup and has reinforced construction with triple-stitched covered seams and a molded layer. Owners report it holds up well for dogs that chew through plush toys quickly, and the jumbo squeaker keeps play interesting.

Best for: Owners of medium to large dogs that love tugging and squeaking but leave a trail of stuffing behind. Not ideal for dogs that prefer a long, floppy toy for full-body shaking or for owners who want a soft, cuddly companion for quiet time.

Product photos

#2Best For Tug Play

Outward Hound Cuddle Tugs Cow

Outward Hound Cuddle Tugs Cow
Length16 in (extends to 26 in)
Weight0.4 lb
Sound2 squeaker pads + crinkle paper
FillNo stuffing
ReinforcementK9 Tuff Guard (non-rip seams, double stitching, fused backing)
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What We Like

  • Extends to 26 inches for two-handed tug
  • Two squeaker pads plus crinkle paper
  • No stuffing means less mess when torn
  • Reinforced seams and fused backing

Trade-offs

  • Not designed for aggressive chewers
  • At 0.4 lb, too light for strong pullers
  • Must replace immediately if damaged

A 16-inch plush cow that stretches to 26 inches when pulled means you and your dog can actually get a solid game of tug going without your knuckles scraping the floor. Outward Hound builds this with K9 Tuff Guard technology, reinforced non-rip seams, double stitching, and an ultra-durable fused backing, so it survives the back-and-forth better than most stuffed toys. The lack of stuffing keeps cleanup manageable when the inevitable hole appears, and the two squeaker pads plus crinkle paper inside give a dog plenty of auditory reasons to keep playing. This suits owners who want a toy that pulls double duty: a tug rope during playtime and a soft cuddle buddy when the game winds down.

The trade-off is that this is not a chew toy. The product description states it plainly, and at 0.4 pounds with plush construction, a determined power chewer will turn it into a carcass in minutes. The Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar uses four layers of reinforced strength, making it a different option for dogs that need extra durability. If your dog plays tug politely and you want a toy that transitions from play to nap without leaving a trail of fluff, this cow earns its spot in the cart.

Best for: Dog owners who want a soft tug toy that doubles as a cuddle companion for moderate play sessions. Not ideal for aggressive chewers or dogs who treat every toy as a chew project.

Product photos

#3Best Crinkle Octopus Toy

Best Pet Supplies Crinkle Chicken

Best Pet Supplies Crinkle Chicken
Size9.8 x 7.5 x 1.6 inches
Weight0.2 pounds
SoundSqueaks and crinkles
FillStuffing-free body
TargetModerate chewers
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What We Like

  • Crinkle material in legs
  • Squeaker in head
  • Stuffing-free body reduces mess
  • Lightweight for toss and fetch

Trade-offs

  • Not built for aggressive chewers
  • Small size limits large-dog play

This toy crinkles when squeezed and squeaks when pressed, giving a dog two distinct sounds to explore. The stuffing-free body means less fluff to vacuum up after play, and at just 0.2 pounds it sails nicely when you toss it across the yard. It’s designed for moderate chewers who want something to pounce on, carry around, and eventually curl up with. If your dog likes toys that make noise without needing batteries, and you don’t want to spend half your weekend picking polyfill out of the carpet, this one fits the bill.

The Crinkle Chicken is a lightweight, minimal-stuffing toy that keeps play tidy, but it’s not built for dogs that like to destroy things. Compared to the Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar, which has reinforced layers, this toy is a gentler option for dogs that play more than they shred. It works best as an interactive fetch-and-crinkle buddy for moderate chewers, or as a low-stakes cuddle toy for seniors and puppies. Just don’t expect it to survive a dedicated power-chewer; that’s not what it’s built for.

Best for: Owners of dogs that are moderate chewers who want a lightweight, noise-making toy that won't leave stuffing everywhere. Not ideal for heavy chewers or large breeds that need reinforced construction.

Product photos

#4Best Knotted Rope Skeleton

KONG Wild Knots Bear

KONG Wild Knots Bear
Dimensions10 x 4 x 8 in
Weight0.4 lb
StuffingMinimal
SqueakerBuilt-in
Size OptionsSmall/Medium to Jumbo
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What We Like

  • Internal knotted rope skeleton for tugging
  • Minimal stuffing reduces mess
  • Built-in squeaker adds engagement
  • Soft plush exterior for cuddling

Trade-offs

  • Only one squeaker, no crinkle or extra sounds
  • Soft exterior can still tear with heavy play

The internal knotted rope skeleton gives this bear more structure than a typical stuffed toy, so it can handle active play like tugging and shaking without falling apart right away. The minimal stuffing means less fluff to clean up when your dog gets into it, which is a practical perk for pet parents. A built-in squeaker adds extra engagement during play, and the soft plush exterior makes it comfortable for your dog to carry around or cuddle with.

The soft plush exterior is still the most vulnerable part; if your dog focuses on tearing the fabric, the toy won’t last forever. The Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar is described as having reinforced layers and no stuffing, whereas the KONG Wild Knots Bear is designed more for comfort and moderate play. It suits dogs that enjoy tugging and cuddling, but it’s not built for aggressive chewers who destroy fabric quickly.

Best for: Dog owners who want a cuddly plush toy with a durable rope core for tugging and less stuffing mess. Not ideal for heavy chewers who tear through fabric before reaching the skeleton.

Product photos

#5Best For Extra Small Dogs

KONG Duckie Plush Squeaker

KONG Duckie Plush Squeaker
Dimensions4.0 x 1.5 x 2.5 inches
Weight0.0 pounds
StuffingMinimal stuffing
SqueakerRemovable, replaceable
Target sizeExtra small dogs
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What We Like

  • Removable squeaker adds long-term value
  • Minimal stuffing means less mess
  • High-quality plush material
  • Compact size for tiny mouths

Trade-offs

  • At 4 inches, too small for medium dogs
  • Plush alone won't survive heavy chewing

At just 4 inches long and with minimal stuffing, this toy is designed for extra small dogs who need something light enough to carry and soft enough to cuddle without leaving a trail of fluff across the floor. The removable squeaker is a thoughtful touch. When it finally gives out, you can replace it instead of tossing the whole toy, which stretches the value well beyond what you’d expect from a plush this size. According to the manufacturer, the toy is great for easy fetch and cuddle time, so it suits extra-small dogs looking for gentle play.

The plush exterior is made from high-quality material but isn’t built for aggressive chewing. The lack of stuffing reduces mess during play, but the toy won’t hold its shape like a traditional stuffed toy. If your dog is more of a shredder than a snuggler, the Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar offers reinforced layers for a similar no-stuffing design, though it’s about two and a half times the length and aimed at larger mouths. For the extra-small set that just wants something to carry around and chirp at, this duck is a sensible, no-fuss pick.

Best for: Owners of extra-small or toy-breed dogs who want a soft, low-mess plush toy with a replaceable squeaker. Not ideal for moderate to heavy chewers or dogs that need a larger toy.

Product photos

#6Best Value Bundle

Jalousie Plush Toys 5 Pack

Jalousie Plush Toys 5 Pack
Dimensions8 x 5 x 10 inches
Weight0.6 pounds
Quantity5 toys per pack
MaterialsPlush, corduroy, squeakers
Design featuresReinforced seams, durable liner
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What We Like

  • Five squeaky toys in one pack
  • Reinforced seams and durable liner
  • Variety of animal shapes and colors
  • Suitable for small to large breeds

Trade-offs

  • Not indestructible despite reinforced construction
  • Supervised play recommended by manufacturer

This pack gives you five squeaky toys in one bundle, so you can swap them out to keep your dog interested. Each plush critter, dinosaur, monkey, unicorn, fox, and raccoon, includes a durable liner and reinforced seams, which helps them hold up better than basic plush toys. The 8-inch size and 0.6-pound weight suit medium and large dogs, and the bright colors and squeakers are designed to catch a dog’s attention.

No plush toy lasts forever against an aggressive chewer, and the manufacturer notes that supervised play and timely replacement are part of the deal. The Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar uses reinforced layers and no stuffing, making it a more durable option for heavy chewers. This Jalousie set is a softer, value-oriented choice for dogs that play without destroying every toy.

Best for: Owners of small to large dogs who want a variety of soft, squeaky toys for supervised play. Not ideal for dogs that destroy plush toys quickly.

Product photos

#7Best Stuffing-Free Variety

ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz No Stuffing Pack

ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz No Stuffing Pack
Dimensions18 x 0.5 x 2.5 in
Weight0.3 lb
Fill TypeStuffing-free
Variety PackFox, Raccoon, Squirrel
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What We Like

  • Three squeakers per toy for engagement
  • Stuffing-free design means less mess
  • Lightweight at 0.3 lb for easy fetch
  • Soft fabric suits all life stages

Trade-offs

  • 0.5-inch thickness offers minimal durability
  • Thin 0.5-inch fabric offers limited bite resistance

Three squeakers per toy and an unstuffed body that weighs just 0.3 pounds mean this pack delivers sound-driven play without the fluff explosion that follows a determined chewer. At 18 inches long and half an inch thick, each Skinny Peltz toy is essentially a plush envelope with a squeaker sandwich inside. That makes it a smart pick for dogs who love to shake, fetch, and carry but lack the jaw power to turn stuffing into a snowstorm. The trio of fox, raccoon, and squirrel gives variety without adding bulk to your toy bin.

The stuffing-free design keeps floors clean, but the thin fabric means a determined chewer can puncture it and silence the squeakers quickly. The Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar has reinforced layers, while this pack is lighter and offers three different animal shapes. It’s best for dogs that enjoy soft, squeaky toys during gentle play or supervised fetch, not for heavy tugging.

Best for: Owners of moderate chewers who want a mess-free, squeaky variety pack for fetch and carry play. Not ideal for aggressive chewers who need reinforced seams or thicker fabric.

Product photos

#8Best 5-Pack Animal Assortment

PrimePets Plush Squeaky Toy 5 Pack

PrimePets Plush Squeaky Toy 5 Pack
Dimensions (each)3.5 x 3.5 x 9.5 inches
Weight0.6 pounds
MaterialThick plush fabric, extra inner lining
SqueakersBuilt-in squeaker per toy
CareMachine washable
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What We Like

  • Five different animal designs
  • Reinforced seams for durability
  • Built-in squeakers for engagement
  • Machine washable for easy cleaning

Trade-offs

  • Not suitable for aggressive chewers
  • Not indestructible under heavy play

Five plush toys in one pack means you can rotate them or let a multi-dog household each have their own. Each one is 3.5 inches wide and 9.5 inches long, so they’re easy for small to medium dogs to carry and fetch. The thick plush fabric and reinforced seams give them a bit more staying power than a basic stuffed toy, and the built-in squeakers add the instant reward that keeps dogs coming back for more. This set is a good fit if you want variety without buying individual toys, and the machine-washable fabric makes cleanup simple when they get slobbery or dirty.

No plush toy is indestructible, and the manufacturer advises that these are not suitable for aggressive chewers. The PrimePets pack is designed for gentler play compared to the Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar, which has reinforced layers and no stuffing. That makes it better for gentle players or supervised play sessions rather than leaving a power-chewer alone with one. If your dog is a dedicated shredder, you will want something tougher, but for casual play and variety, this pack delivers a lot of value.

Best for: Dog owners who want a budget-friendly variety pack of plush squeaky toys for small to medium dogs or gentle players. Not ideal for aggressive chewers or large dogs that need a bigger, more durable toy.

Product photos

#9Best For Boredom Relief

ZippyPaws Large Caterpillar

ZippyPaws Large Caterpillar
Length20 inches
Body TypeUnstuffed body
Weight0.2 pounds
Dog SizeMedium & Large
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What We Like

  • Seven squeakers for extended engagement
  • Unstuffed body keeps it lightweight
  • Soft fabric suits all life stages
  • Long design for tug and fetch

Trade-offs

  • Unstuffed body offers less chew resistance
  • Single-layer plush not for aggressive chewers

Seven round squeakers are distributed throughout this 20-inch toy, so a dog has to sniff and pounce to trigger each one, which can hold their attention longer than a single-squeaker plush. The unstuffed body keeps the toy light enough for a senior dog to carry, and the soft fabric is comfortable for cuddling. For dogs that lose interest after one squeak, this design gives them multiple sound sources to discover.

The unstuffed body and soft fabric mean this toy is not built for heavy chewing. A dog that tends to destroy plush toys quickly may find it less durable than a reinforced option like the Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar, which has multiple layers of strength. For a gentle player who enjoys hunting for squeaks rather than tearing out stuffing, this toy offers a fun, low-mess play experience.

Best for: A dog who needs mental stimulation through squeak-hunting play and a soft toy they can carry and cuddle. Not ideal for aggressive chewers who destroy plush toys quickly.

Product photos

#10Best Classic Lamb Design

Multipet Lamb Chop Plush Toy

Multipet Lamb Chop Plush Toy
Size10 inches
Weight0.2 pounds
MaterialExtra soft plush
Target sizeSmall and medium dogs
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What We Like

  • Extra soft plush for cuddling
  • Classic Lamb Chop design
  • Lightweight at 0.2 pounds

Trade-offs

  • Not built for heavy chewers
  • Only recommended for small to medium dogs

A single squeaker inside a 10-inch plush toy makes this Lamb Chop a gentle noise-maker, not an obnoxious noisemaker. The extra soft exterior is great for dogs that like to carry and cuddle, and at just 0.2 pounds it is light enough for a small dog to toss without strain. Shari Lewis’ classic lamb design is instantly recognizable, and the toy is marketed as perfect for small and medium dogs who enjoy cuddling and playing indoors.

The trade-off is durability. If your dog is a dedicated shredder, the Lamb Chop will become a pile of fluff and squeakers fast. But for small and medium dogs who prefer to squeak, carry, and nap on their toys, this is a charming, low-risk option that delivers exactly what it promises.

Best for: Owners of small to medium dogs who want a soft, squeaky cuddle toy with classic appeal. Not ideal for heavy chewers or large breeds.

How We Evaluated Plush Dog Toys

We evaluated each toy by examining its build quality, material choices, and design features as documented by the manufacturer. Owner feedback patterns helped us understand how these toys hold up in real homes, especially for specific behaviors like tugging, shaking, and squeak-hunting. No toy was tested in a lab, this is a research-led evaluation based on what the product specs and community experience tell us.

The most important criteria were construction durability (stitching, seams, and linings), stuffing management (whether the toy is stuffed, minimally stuffed, or stuffing-free), and noise engagement (type and number of squeakers, crinkle materials, or other sound elements). We also considered size appropriateness. A toy that’s too small for a large dog can be a choking hazard, while one that’s too big for a small dog is no fun to carry.

A research-based evaluation has limits: we can’t predict how your individual dog will treat a toy, and owner experiences vary widely. What we can do is give you the facts about each toy’s construction so you can match it to your dog’s known habits. For dogs that truly destroy everything, we have a separate guide on best toys for dogs that destroy everything that covers more rugged options.

What To Look For In Plush Dog Toys

The right plush toy depends on how your dog plays, not just how cute the toy looks. Focus on construction, stuffing, and sound features first, then consider size and price.

Choose a plush toy based on your dog’s play style: look for reinforced seams and no-stuffing designs for tuggers, multiple squeakers for boredom-prone pups, and soft, lightweight builds for gentle cuddlers.

Construction and Seams

The most common failure point on plush toys is the seam. Look for triple-stitched or reinforced seams, especially on toys designed for tugging. Some toys add a fused backing or an internal liner for extra strength. For dogs that love to rip, a no-stuffing design removes the primary incentive, many dogs tear open toys specifically to get the stuffing out. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, you may need to look at toys with thicker fabric or rope skeletons that offer more bite resistance before the toy gives way.

Stuffing vs. Stuffing-Free

Stuffed toys are soft and cuddly but create a mess when torn. Minimal-stuffing toys reduce cleanup while keeping some body for carrying. Stuffing-free toys are flat and lightweight, which makes them great for fetch and tug but less satisfying for dogs that want something to hold. The trade-off is clear: less stuffing means less mess but also less cuddle factor. For owners who want the best of both worlds, toys with internal knotted rope skeletons offer a durable core with a soft exterior.

Noise Features and Engagement

Squeakers are the main attraction for most dogs, but not all squeakers are equal. Some toys have one large squeaker, others have multiple small squeakers, and a few combine squeakers with crinkle paper for varied sound. Multiple squeakers can extend engagement because the dog hunts for each one.

For dogs that need mental stimulation, toys with seven or more squeakers can turn play into a puzzle. Squeaky toys are generally more engaging than silent toys. But they also tend to get destroyed faster because the dog works harder to reach the noise source.

Size and Breed Suitability

A toy that’s too small for a large breed is a choking hazard, while a toy that’s too heavy for a small breed isn’t fun to carry. Check the toy’s dimensions against your dog’s mouth size and play style. Extra-small dogs need compact toys around 4 inches, while medium to large dogs need toys at least several inches long for safe tugging. The weight matters too, a 0.2-pound toy is fine for a Chihuahua but offers no resistance for a Labrador.

  • Match the toy’s seam construction to your dog’s tugging intensity.
  • Choose stuffing-free or minimal-stuffing for dogs that disembowel toys.
  • Count the squeakers: one is fine for casual play, multiple extends engagement.
  • Measure the toy against your dog’s mouth size before buying.
  • Consider a rope skeleton if your dog likes to tug and cuddle.

A plush toy should match your dog’s play style first and your aesthetic preferences second, the cutest toy in the store is useless if it lasts five minutes.

Plush Dog Toys Compared

The table below compares all ten plush dog toys across key specs so you can see at a glance which one fits your dog’s needs.

ProductDimensionsWeightSound
Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar9.5 x 3.9 x 1.6 inchesN/AJumbo squeaker inside
Outward Hound Cuddle Tugs Cow16.0 x 7.9 x 3.5 inches0.4 lb2 squeaker pads + crinkle paper
Best Pet Supplies Crinkle Chicken9.8 x 7.5 x 1.6 inches0.2 poundsSqueaks and crinkles
KONG Wild Knots Bear10 x 4 x 8 in0.4 lbBuilt-in
KONG Duckie Plush Squeaker4.0 x 1.5 x 2.5 inches0.0 poundsRemovable, replaceable
Jalousie Plush Toys 5 Pack8 x 5 x 10 inches0.6 poundsMultiple squeakers
ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz No Stuffing Pack18 x 0.5 x 2.5 in0.3 lbThree round squeakers
PrimePets Plush Squeaky Toy 5 Pack3.5 x 3.5 x 9.5 inches0.6 poundsBuilt-in squeaker per toy
ZippyPaws Large Caterpillar20.0 x 3.0 x 3.0 inches0.2 poundsSeven round squeakers
Multipet Lamb Chop Plush Toy5.0 x 5.0 x 10.5 inches0.2 pounds5 squeakers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best plush dog toy for a heavy chewer?

For dogs that destroy everything, look for toys with reinforced seams, minimal or no stuffing, and a durable internal structure like a knotted rope skeleton. The Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar and KONG Wild Knots Bear are strong options, but no plush toy is truly indestructible. For truly destructive dogs, you may need to move to rubber or nylon toys.

Are stuffing-free plush toys better for dogs?

Stuffing-free toys are better for reducing mess when a toy gets torn, and they’re lighter for fetch and carry play. However, they don’t provide the same cuddly feel that some dogs enjoy. The trade-off is between cleanup convenience and the soft, huggable quality that makes plush toys appealing in the first place.

How many squeakers should a plush dog toy have?

One squeaker is enough for most dogs, but multiple squeakers can extend playtime by giving the dog a “hunt” for each one. Toys with seven squeakers, like the ZippyPaws Large Caterpillar, are designed for boredom relief and mental stimulation. The right number depends on whether your dog loses interest after popping one squeaker or keeps searching for more.

Can plush toys be machine washed?

Many plush toys are machine washable, but it depends on the construction. Toys with internal squeakers or crinkle paper may need to be air-dried or have the noise elements removed before washing. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions. The PrimePets Plush Squeaky Toy 5 Pack is one option that specifies machine washability for easy cleaning.

What size plush toy should I get for my small dog?

Extra-small dogs need toys around 4 inches in length, like the KONG Duckie Plush Squeaker, which is designed for tiny mouths. A toy that’s too large won’t be fun to carry, while a toy that’s too small can be a choking hazard. Measure your dog’s mouth width and choose a toy that’s slightly larger than their bite range.

The Bottom Line

The Outward Hound Tough Skinz Caterpillar is our Best Overall pick because it solves the two biggest problems with plush toys: stuffing mess and seam failure. Its no-stuffing design and triple-stitched construction make it a strong choice for medium to large dogs that love tugging and squeaking without leaving a trail of fluff. If your dog prefers a dedicated tug toy with extra length, the Outward Hound Cuddle Tugs Cow is the better fit.

For budget-conscious owners, the Jalousie Plush Toys 5 Pack and PrimePets Plush Squeaky Toy 5 Pack offer variety at a good value, though both require supervised play. Owners of extra-small breeds should go with the KONG Duckie Plush Squeaker, while those with boredom-prone dogs will appreciate the seven-squeaker ZippyPaws Large Caterpillar.

The single most important factor in choosing a plush dog toy is matching the construction to your dog’s play style. A guide to choosing dog toys can help you assess your dog’s behavior before you buy. Whether you need a stuffing-free tug toy, a crinkly octopus, or a classic lamb design, the right choice starts with knowing what your dog actually does with their toys.