10 Best Dog Toys For Shih Tzu in 2026

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The KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Chew Toy earns our Best Overall spot because it is gentle on a Shih Tzu puppy’s baby teeth. It bounces for fetch and can be stuffed with treats or kibble for longer engagement. For adult small dogs who want a natural-feeling alternative to sticks, the Pupstages Dogwood Stick Dog Chew Toy is our Best Real-Wood Blend pick. Tiny Shih Tzu under eight pounds will appreciate the Nylabone Flexi Chew Tiny Gumabone Dog Chew Toys, our Best For Tiny Dogs choice.

A Shih Tzu’s brachycephalic face and small jaw mean many standard dog toys are too large, too hard, or too heavy for comfortable play. The right toy needs to fit a petite mouth, be gentle on teeth, and still hold a Shih Tzu’s attention, whether that is through squeaking, crinkling, or a treat-stuffable core.

This guide is research-based, drawing on manufacturer specifications, expert round-ups, and patterns in owner feedback across ten products. We focused on size, material safety, and play style to help you find the right match for your Shih Tzu’s age and chewing habits.

Top 10 Dog Toys For Shih Tzu in the Market

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The Best Dog Toys For Shih Tzu, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Chew Toy

KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Chew Toy
MaterialNatural rubber
Size3.0 x 1.8 x 1.8 inches
Weight0.1 pounds
UseTeething, fetch, treat-stuffing
OriginMade in USA
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What We Like

  • Gentle on baby teeth
  • Bounces for fetch games
  • Stuffable with treats or kibble
  • Made in the USA

Trade-offs

  • Small size limits older or larger Shih Tzu
  • Soft rubber wears faster with heavy chewers

This toy uses a natural rubber formula that is gentle on a puppy’s 28 baby teeth, so it won’t hurt tender gums while still giving them something safe to chew on. The bounce makes it fun for indoor fetch, and the hollow center lets you stuff kibble or paste to stretch playtime or help with crate training. For a small breed puppy that needs teething relief and a little mental challenge, this design covers both without being too big for a tiny jaw.

The trade-off is that the soft rubber, while kind to baby teeth, won’t hold up if your puppy turns into a determined chewer. Once the adult teeth come in, you may need to step up to something tougher. The Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Ring offers a freezable option for extra gum relief, but it doesn’t have the treat-stuffing versatility this KONG provides. For the teething stage, when puppies need to chew, this toy offers a good balance of gentleness and durability.

Best for: Shih Tzu puppies in the teething stage who need a gentle, stuffable toy for chewing and fetch. Not ideal for adult Shih Tzu with strong jaws or heavy chewers.

Product photos

#2Best Real-Wood Blend

Pupstages Dogwood Stick Dog Chew Toy

Pupstages Dogwood Stick Dog Chew Toy
MaterialReal-wood blend
Size5.4" x 1.3"
Weight0.1 lb
Dog weight range6-25 lb
CareDishwasher-safe
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What We Like

  • Real-wood blend with natural wood flavor
  • Made in USA with USA materials
  • No nylon, lead, or phthalates
  • Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning

Trade-offs

  • Only for moderate chewers, not heavy chewers
  • Small size limits use to dogs 6-25 lbs

At just 0.1 pound, a small adult dog can easily carry this 5.4-inch chew toy around without dragging it. The real-wood blend delivers a natural wood taste and texture that’s safer and less messy than real sticks. Made without nylon, lead, or phthalates, it’s gentler on teeth and gums and supports dental health. For owners wanting a low-mess chew that feels like a stick, this fits the bill.

This toy is designed specifically for moderate chewers in their prime adult years. Just know that it’s a niche tool, not a universal solution.

Best for: Adult small dogs (6-25 lbs) who are moderate chewers and want a natural-feeling, low-mess stick alternative. Not ideal for puppies, seniors, or heavy chewers that need extreme durability.
#3Best Teething Relief

Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Ring Bone Dog Toy

Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Ring Bone Dog Toy
Weight limitup to 15 lbs
Materialsoft, freezable plastic
Flavorchicken
Dimensions3.8 x 0.5 x 1.8 in
OriginMade in USA (New Jersey)
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What We Like

  • Freezer-friendly for extra gum relief
  • Massaging textures clean teeth
  • Soft material suits gentle puppy chewing
  • Infused chicken flavor discourages mouthing

Trade-offs

  • X-Small size limits use to dogs under 15 lbs
  • Not suitable for powerful chewers or adult teeth

A soft, freezable ring that soothes sore gums and supports dental hygiene at the same time is exactly what a teething Shih Tzu puppy needs. The nubs and ridges massage tender spots while the chicken flavor keeps the toy interesting, which can help steer those needle-sharp puppy teeth away from furniture. Since it’s designed for gentle chewers under 15 pounds, it fits the breed’s typical size and chewing style without being too hard on developing jaws. Freezing it adds an extra layer of relief for those rough teething days, and the fact that it’s made in New Jersey gives a little peace of mind about materials.

If your Shih Tzu is still losing baby teeth, this ring is a smart, targeted buy. If your dog is past that stage, you’ll want something tougher.

Best for: Shih Tzu puppies under 15 pounds who are actively teething and need gentle gum relief. Not ideal for adult dogs or puppies with full-grown teeth.

Product photos

#4Best Plush Squeaker

KONG Duckie Plush Squeaker Dog Toy

KONG Duckie Plush Squeaker Dog Toy
Dimensions4.0 x 1.5 x 2.5 inches
Weight0.0 pounds
SqueakerRemovable and replaceable
MaterialHighest quality plush material
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What We Like

  • Removable squeaker extends toy life
  • Replaceable squeaker adds value

Trade-offs

  • Zero stuffing means less structure for fetch
  • Plush material not built for heavy chewers

With no stuffing at all and a length of 4 inches, this KONG Duckie is a lightweight plush that a small dog can easily carry in its mouth. The removable and replaceable squeaker adds value by letting you keep the toy going after the first squeaker wears out. Because there is no stuffing, there is nothing to vacuum if the toy gets torn, and the toy stays light enough for a small dog to toss around.

The lack of stuffing makes the Duckie floppy, so it won’t hold up for a game of fetch the way a sturdier toy like the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teether would. That rubber option is heavier (0.1 pounds) and made of natural rubber, but it is also harder and less soft for cuddling. If your dog is more of a gentle squeaker-and-snuggler than a dedicated chewer, this plush delivers a soft, squeaky friend that is easy to carry and easy to replace the squeaker in.

Best for: Owners of small dogs who want a soft, lightweight plush toy with a replaceable squeaker for gentle play. Not ideal for dogs that chew through fabric quickly or need a bouncy fetch toy.

Product photos

#5Best For Tiny Dogs

Nylabone Flexi Chew Tiny Gumabone Dog Chew Toys

Nylabone Flexi Chew Tiny Gumabone Dog Chew Toys
MaterialFlexible, gentle on teeth
Dimensions2.75" x 1.56" x 0.38"
FlavorsPeanut butter & bacon
Special featureFill with treat paste
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What We Like

  • Freezable for extra soothing chew
  • Flavor pockets for treat paste
  • Soft material gentle on teeth
  • Designed for XX-small dogs up to 8 lbs

Trade-offs

  • Too small for dogs over 8 lbs
  • Soft material won't last heavy chewers

At just 2.75 inches long and made from a flexible, teeth-gentle material, this Nylabone is built for the smallest mouths. The peanut butter and bacon flavors are infused throughout, and the flavor pockets let you add a smear of spreadable treat for extra engagement. Freeze it for a chilled chew that can soothe sore gums, which matters for older Shih Tzu or teething puppies. It’s the right size for dogs up to eight pounds, so it suits the petite end of the breed range without overwhelming a tiny jaw.

That same softness is the trade-off. For a Shih Tzu who’s a determined chewer, this toy won’t hold up as long as a denser rubber option like the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Chew Toy. The Nylabone is better suited for moderate chewers who want a gentle, flavored chew they can carry around. If your dog is over eight pounds or likes to destroy toys in minutes, look at the KONG instead. But for a small, senior, or gentle pup, this is a well-matched choice.

Best for: Shih Tzu under 8 lbs who prefer a soft, flavored chew they can carry and stuff with treats. Not ideal for heavy chewers or dogs over 8 lbs.

Product photos

#6Best Budget Pick

Multipet Lamb Chop Dog Plush Toy

Multipet Lamb Chop Dog Plush Toy
MaterialPolyester fibers
Size6 inches
Weight0.1 pounds
SoundSqueaker inside
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What We Like

  • Soft plush for cuddling
  • Built-in squeaker for play
  • Lightweight at 0.1 pounds

Trade-offs

  • Not designed for heavy chewing
  • Only 6 inches, too small for larger dogs

At just six inches long and weighing 0.1 pounds, this plush toy is lightweight and easy for a small dog to carry around the house. The built-in squeaker adds instant engagement for gentle play, and the extra-soft polyester stuffing makes it a natural cuddle buddy after the fun is done. For a straightforward plush toy that delivers the basics without fuss, this Lamb Chop toy fits the bill for dogs who prefer soft toys over tough chews.

This is a plush toy with a single squeaker, not a chew toy. If your dog is a power chewer, the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Chew Toy offers a tougher, stuffable alternative. But for dogs who love to carry something soft, squeak it a few times, and nap with it, the Multipet Lamb Chop does exactly what it says with no surprises.

Best for: Dog owners wanting an affordable, soft plush toy with a squeaker for gentle play and cuddling. Not ideal for aggressive chewers or dogs that destroy stuffed toys quickly.
#7Best Dental Chew

Pupstages Cutie Chewies Hedgehog Dental Dog Chew Toy

Pupstages Cutie Chewies Hedgehog Dental Dog Chew Toy
Size5" x 3.5" x 1"
Weight0.1 pounds
Special FeatureFloats and bounces
TargetModerate chewers, small dogs
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What We Like

  • Spiky nubs massage gums and clean teeth
  • Floats for pool and beach play
  • Bounces for interactive fetch fun
  • Multi-textured surface for varied chewing

Trade-offs

  • 1-inch height limits deep-chew satisfaction for aggressive chewers
  • No flavor or treat-filling option to extend interest

At just five inches long and weighing barely an ounce, this hedgehog-shaped toy is sized for small dogs and teething puppies. The spiky nubs massage gums and help clean teeth during chewing, supporting dental care for moderate chewers. It also floats and bounces, so a single toy works in the yard, the pool, or the living room. For a small dog that needs gentle dental care and isn’t a destructive chewer, this is a practical pick that covers both play and hygiene without adding bulk.

The same design that makes it gentle also makes it short-lived for a dog that chews hard. At one inch thick, there isn’t much material for a determined chewer to sink teeth into, and there is no flavor or treat pocket to keep a disinterested dog coming back. Compared to the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Chew Toy, which can be stuffed with treats, the Pupstages Hedgehog is more specialized for dental care and water play. If your small dog is a moderate chewer who needs gum care and water-friendly toys, this hedgehog earns its place. If the dog chews with intent, look at the KONG instead.

Best for: Owners of small, moderate-chewing Shih Tzu puppies or adults who want a dental-care toy that also floats and bounces for active play. Not ideal for power chewers or dogs that lose interest without flavor or treat-filling.
#8Best Dental Duo Toy

Hartz Chew 'n Clean Dental Duo Bacon Flavored Dog Chew Toy

Hartz Chew 'n Clean Dental Duo Bacon Flavored Dog Chew Toy
Dimensions0.5 x 2.0 x 3.0 inches
Weight0.1 pounds
MaterialNylon shell with bacon treat
Chewer LevelMild to moderate
Dog Size10 pounds and under
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What We Like

  • Durable nylon shell for long-lasting chew
  • Extra small size fits tiny dogs
  • Bacon flavor in a chew toy and treat

Trade-offs

  • Not suitable for aggressive or avid chewers
  • Colors vary at random during shipment
  • Only for dogs 10 pounds and under

This toy weighs just 0.1 pounds and measures three inches tall, which means it fits easily in a Shih Tzu’s mouth without being awkward to carry or toss. The durable nylon shell combined with a bacon-flavored treat satisfies a dog’s urge to chew while supporting dental health. It’s a straightforward two-in-one that suits a calm, small dog who likes to chew but doesn’t go at it like a demolition crew.

For a mild to moderate chewer, the durable nylon shell of this toy doubles as a dental tool, helping to clean teeth while satisfying the urge to chew. For tiny dogs under 10 pounds, the extra-small size is a perfect fit, but owners of aggressive chewers should look elsewhere, as the manufacturer explicitly advises against it for avid chewing. Compared to the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Chew Toy, which is also small and recommended for gentle teething, this Hartz toy is built for thoughtfulness, not power.

Best for: Shih Tzu owners who want a simple, flavored chew toy that also helps clean teeth for mild to moderate chewers. Not ideal for dogs that chew aggressively or for owners who prefer a specific color.
#9Best Variety Pack

Volacopets Puppy Toys for Teething 5-Pack

Volacopets Puppy Toys for Teething 5-Pack
Dimensions5.5 × 5.5 × 10.6 in
Weight0.3 lb
Toy Count5-pack
MaterialsSoft cloth, crinkle, squeaker
Target SizeSmall dogs
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What We Like

  • Five toys in one pack
  • Crinkle and squeaker sounds engage puppies
  • Soft cloth rope for easy fetching
  • Washable materials for hygiene

Trade-offs

  • Not suitable for aggressive chewers
  • Only one squeaker toy in the set

A 5-pack of toys means you can rotate them daily without the puppy getting bored. At 0.3 pounds total, even a tiny dog can carry them by the soft cloth rope or fur. This set is built for gentle play: three chew toys with different textures keep puppies chewing, while the crinkly bunny (with a squeaker in its head and crinkle body) and the stuffed doughnut (makes sounds when squeezed) keep a curious puppy occupied. The woven cloth won’t produce small chips like some rope toys, which matters when you’re watching a little chewer. It’s a practical variety pack for owners who want options without buying five separate toys.

This 5-pack is built for gentle play, not heavy chewing. The soft plush and woven cloth are designed for teething puppies who need to soothe gums, not for aggressive chewers. Reviewers note that the variety of shapes and textures keeps puppies engaged, and the safe materials are easy to wash, making cleanup straightforward. However, for a dedicated shredder, the crinkle bunny may not last long.

Best for: Small dogs that are light chewers and need teething variety. Not ideal for aggressive chewers.

Product photos

#10Best Themed Plush

KIPRITII Breakfast Squeaky Dog Toy

KIPRITII Breakfast Squeaky Dog Toy
Dimensions3.9 × 6.3 × 3.5 inches
MaterialSoft plush
SoundBuilt-in squeaker
IncludesStorage bag
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What We Like

  • Breakfast-themed design adds visual variety
  • Built-in squeaker stimulates play instincts
  • Soft plush is gentle on teeth and gums
  • Storage bag keeps toys organized and portable

Trade-offs

  • Plush material is not for heavy chewers
  • Small size limits fetch range outdoors

A built-in squeaker that activates when squeezed or bitten rewards your dog’s natural play instincts, helping reduce boredom without requiring constant tossing. The breakfast-themed design adds visual variety compared to standard toy shapes, and the soft plush construction is gentle on small mouths and delicate gums. For a small dog that enjoys carrying a toy around or batting it on the floor, this is a low-risk, engaging option that also comes with a storage bag to keep the living room tidy.

If your dog likes to methodically dismantle stuffed toys, this plush squeaky toy may not hold up to determined chewers. The KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Chew Toy is built for teething and chewing, but it does not include a squeaker or themed design. The KIPRITII offers novelty and gentle play, while the KONG offers a tougher material for more aggressive chewers. Pick this one if your dog plays with toys rather than destroys them.

Best for: Shih Tzu owners who want a soft, squeaky toy with a fun breakfast theme and a storage bag for tidy homes. Not ideal for aggressive chewers or dogs who shred plush toys quickly.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Dog Toys For Shih Tzu

We started by reviewing manufacturer specifications and safety data for each toy, paying close attention to material composition and size dimensions. Owner feedback patterns, both positive and negative, helped us understand how each toy holds up in real homes with Shih Tzu. We also consulted expert round-ups from veterinary and training sources that address small-breed and brachycephalic toy needs.

The three criteria that mattered most for this category were size appropriateness, material gentleness, and engagement longevity. A toy that is too large or too hard can damage a Shih Tzu’s teeth or simply be ignored. We prioritized toys that fit mouths under 15 pounds, use soft or flexible materials, and offer features like treat-stuffing, squeakers, or crinkle sounds to maintain interest.

A research-led evaluation like this cannot replace hands-on observation of a specific dog’s chewing style. We present the data and owner consensus so you can match the toy to your Shih Tzu’s age, jaw strength, and preferred play type.

What To Look For In Dog Toys For Shih Tzu

Choosing a toy for a Shih Tzu starts with size and mouth geometry, a toy that works for a Labrador will frustrate or injure a Shih Tzu.

Focus on toys sized for dogs under 15 pounds. They should be made from soft or flexible materials that won’t damage teeth. Also consider the specific play style your dog prefers, whether that is chewing, fetching, or cuddling.

Size and Mouth Fit

A Shih Tzu’s small mouth and shortened muzzle mean toys labeled for “small breeds” can still be too large. Look for toy dimensions that match your dog’s weight range, extra-small and XX-small sizes are often the safest bet. A toy that is too large can cause jaw fatigue, while one too small poses a choking hazard. Many of our picks, like the Nylabone Flexi Chew Tiny Gumabone, are designed specifically for dogs under eight pounds.

Material Safety and Tooth Gentleness

Shih Tzu are prone to dental issues, so toy material matters as much as size. Soft natural rubber, plush fabrics, and flexible nylon blends are gentler on enamel than hard plastics or real bones. Avoid toys with hard, sharp edges or those that splinter. The KONG Puppy’s soft rubber and the Pupstages Dogwood’s real-wood blend are examples of materials that clean teeth without damaging them. Freezer-friendly toys, like the Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Ring, add extra gum relief for teething puppies.

Engagement and Play Style

A toy only works if your Shih Tzu actually plays with it. Consider whether your dog prefers chewing, fetching, squeaking, or cuddling. Treat-stuffable toys like the KONG Puppy extend playtime for food-motivated dogs. Squeaky plush toys like the KONG Duckie or KIPRITII Breakfast toy appeal to dogs who love sound feedback. For dogs who lose interest quickly, variety packs like the Volacopets 5-Pack offer multiple textures and sounds in one purchase.

  • Measure your Shih Tzu’s mouth width before buying, a toy should fit between the back molars without forcing the jaw open.
  • Check that squeakers are securely encased and cannot be removed by small teeth.
  • Wash plush toys regularly to prevent bacteria buildup from drool and dirt.
  • Rotate toys every few days to keep your Shih Tzu engaged and prevent boredom.

If your Shih Tzu destroys a toy quickly, step up to a tougher material or a treat-stuffable design that slows them down.

Dog Toys For Shih Tzu Compared

The table below compares our ten picks across size, material, play style, and key features to help you narrow your choice.

ProductMaterialDimensionsWeightSound/Feature
KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Chew ToyNatural rubber3.0 x 1.8 x 1.8 inches0.1 poundsStuffable for treats
Pupstages Dogwood Stick Dog Chew ToyReal-wood blend5.4" x 1.3"0.1 lbDishwasher-safe
Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Ring Bone Dog Toysoft, freezable plastic3.8 x 0.5 x 1.8 in0.1 poundsFreezable
KONG Duckie Plush Squeaker Dog ToyHighest quality plush material4.0 x 1.5 x 2.5 inches0.0 poundsRemovable squeaker
Nylabone Flexi Chew Tiny Gumabone Dog Chew ToysFlexible, gentle on teeth2.75" x 1.56" x 0.38"0.1 poundsFill with treat paste
Multipet Lamb Chop Dog Plush ToyPolyester fibers6 inches0.1 poundsSqueaker inside
Pupstages Cutie Chewies Hedgehog Dental Dog Chew ToyN/A5" x 3.5" x 1"0.1 poundsFloats and bounces
Hartz Chew 'n Clean Dental Duo Bacon Flavored Dog Chew ToyNylon shell with bacon treat0.5 x 2.0 x 3.0 inches0.1 poundsBacon flavored treat
Volacopets Puppy Toys for Teething 5-PackSoft cloth, crinkle, squeaker5.5 × 5.5 × 10.6 in0.3 lbCrinkle, squeaker
KIPRITII Breakfast Squeaky Dog ToySoft plush3.9 × 6.3 × 3.5 inchesN/ABuilt-in squeaker

Frequently Asked Questions

What size dog toy is best for a Shih Tzu?

Toys sized for dogs under 15 pounds are generally the best fit. Extra-small or XX-small sizes work well for most adult Shih Tzu, while teething toys sized for puppies under 15 pounds suit growing dogs. Always measure your dog’s mouth width to confirm a toy will not be too large or pose a choking risk.

Are plush toys safe for Shih Tzu?

Plush toys can be safe for Shih Tzu who are light chewers and do not rip fabric apart. Look for plush toys with reinforced seams and securely encased squeakers. The KONG Duckie Plush Squeaker Dog Toy is a good example, with a removable squeaker that extends the toy’s life if the dog does not destroy the fabric.

What kind of toys help with Shih Tzu teething?

Freezer-friendly teething toys provide gum relief for Shih Tzu puppies. The Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Ring Bone and the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Chew Toy are both designed for this stage. Freezing a soft rubber toy before giving it to a puppy numbs sore gums and encourages chewing on the toy instead of furniture.

How do I clean my Shih Tzu’s toys?

Most rubber and nylon toys can be washed with warm soapy water or placed on the top rack of a dishwasher. Plush toys should be machine-washed on a gentle cycle and air-dried to prevent mildew. The Pupstages Dogwood Stick is dishwasher-safe, making it easy to sanitize between play sessions.

Can a Shih Tzu choke on a dog toy?

Yes, any toy small enough to fit entirely in a Shih Tzu’s mouth poses a choking risk. Avoid toys with small parts like plastic eyes or loose strings. Always supervise your Shih Tzu with new toys and remove any toy that shows signs of breaking apart. Our toy selection guide covers size and safety in more detail.

The Bottom Line

The KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Chew Toy is our Best Overall pick because it balances gentle material with versatility, it works for teething puppies, light chewers, and even fetch sessions. If your Shih Tzu is an adult who prefers a natural chewing experience, the Pupstages Dogwood Stick offers a real-wood blend that is safe and dishwasher-cleanable. For tiny dogs under eight pounds, the Nylabone Flexi Chew Tiny Gumabone provides a soft, freezable chew with treat pockets.

Budget-conscious owners will appreciate the Multipet Lamb Chop Plush Toy for gentle cuddling and squeaker play. Those looking for dental benefits should consider the Pupstages Cutie Chewies Hedgehog or the Hartz Chew ‘n Clean Dental Duo. The single most important factor when choosing a toy for your Shih Tzu is size. A toy that fits their mouth comfortably will be played with more and last longer. For more options, check out our guide to Shih Tzu toys and our broader best dog toys article for small breeds.