10 Best Toys For Australian Shepherd Puppies in 2026
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The Pupstages Cool Teething Stick Dog Chew Toy is the best overall toy for Australian Shepherd puppies because its soak-and-freeze design soothes sore gums while the multi-textured fringe keeps a teething pup engaged. For durable chewing, the Benebone Puppy 2-Pack stands out, and the YECRAFT Herding Ball satisfies that natural instinct to chase.
Australian Shepherd puppies are a unique challenge. They have the sharp teeth of any teething pup, the energy of a working breed, and a strong herding instinct that needs an outlet. Pick the wrong toy and you get shredded furniture or a bored puppy who finds trouble.
This guide is based on manufacturer specs, expert round-ups on puppy development, and patterns in owner feedback for herding breeds. We break down what makes a toy work for an Aussie puppy and recommend 10 options for different needs and budgets.
Top 10 Toys For Australian Shepherd Puppies in the Market
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The Best Toys For Australian Shepherd Puppies, Reviewed
Pupstages Cool Teething Stick Dog Chew Toy
What We Like
- Soak-and-freeze design soothes sore gums
- Multi-textured fringe adds chewing interest
- Lightweight at 0.0 pounds for easy fetch
- Soft polyester shell is gentle on teeth
Trade-offs
- Polyester shell can tear if gnawed persistently
- Unsuitable for unsupervised play sessions
The soak-and-freeze design turns this 8.5-inch stick into a cold, crunchy chew that massages gums and soothes teething pups, and its lightweight build makes it easy for a small dog to carry and toss. The multi-textured fringe adds variety that keeps a curious pup engaged, while the icy temperature helps numb sore spots during the worst of the teething phase. For a puppy still learning what’s okay to chew, this offers a clear, soothing alternative to furniture and shoes.
The trade-off is durability: this toy is built for moderate chewers and teething puppies, so if your pup already shows signs of heavy gnawing, the polyester shell can fray or tear. It needs to be discarded once damaged. Compared to the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Toy, which is a natural rubber option, the Pupstages stick trades toughness for a gentler, cooling texture better suited for the earliest weeks of teething. It’s a targeted tool for a specific stage, not a long-term chew solution.
Benebone Puppy 2-Pack Maplestick/Zaggler
What We Like
- Real bacon and maplewood flavors
- Slightly forgiving for teething pups
- Paw-friendly shape for easy pickup
- Made and sourced in USA
Trade-offs
- Tiny size limits use as puppy grows
- Too firm for very young teething puppies
Real bacon and real maplewood flavors give this chew a scent payoff that keeps a puppy coming back, no fake stuff to ignore. The nylon is durable yet a teeny bit more forgiving for teething pups, so a determined chewer can gnaw without hurting tender gums. The paw-friendly shape lets a puppy without thumbs grab it and get a good chew going without you having to hand it back.
At just under five inches long, this is a tiny chew that a growing puppy will outgrow faster than you’d like. Compared to the SPOT Play Scent-sations Bone, which targets dogs up to 45 pounds, the Benebone is clearly sized for smaller puppies. For the first few months of razor-sharp needle teeth, though, this is a solid, stink-based distraction.
SPOT Play Strong Scent-sations Bone
What We Like
- Scent-fusion technology for lasting bacon flavor
- Massaging nubs clean teeth and gums
- No squeaker for quieter play
- Durable TPR for aggressive chewers
Trade-offs
- Rated only for dogs up to 45 pounds
- Single toy, not a multipack
The bacon flavor is locked into the TPR material using scent-fusion technology, so the smell keeps coming back as your dog chews. Massaging nubs along the bone help clean teeth and gums during play. This toy is made for aggressive chewers up to 45 pounds, which makes it a good fit for puppies and medium breeds that need something tough.
This bone is a single toy, and some puppies might lose interest once the bacon scent fades. Compared to the Benebone Puppy 2-Pack, which offers two different shapes and flavors in a tiny size, the SPOT provides a single bacon-flavored bone. If your puppy is a determined chewer who needs a durable, scented distraction, this works well. If they get bored easily, you might want a pack with more options.
KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Toy
What We Like
- Gentle on baby teeth
- Bounces for fetch games
- Stuffable for treats or kibble
- Made in USA
Trade-offs
- Small size limits use as puppy grows
- Not durable for strong adolescent or adult chewers
A toy that weighs just 0.1 pounds and uses a natural rubber formula developed specifically for a puppy’s 28 baby teeth means it’s gentle on developing teeth and gums. That makes it a smart choice for a small puppy going through the teething phase, especially since you can stuff it with kibble or paste to stretch out playtime or help with crate training. The bounce also works for fetch, so it pulls double duty as a distraction toy when your pup’s energy spikes.
That same lightweight rubber won’t hold up to a determined adolescent Aussie who’s already moving past the baby-teeth stage. The Benebone Puppy 2-Pack Maplestick/Zaggler is made with real bacon and maplewood flavors, and it’s described as durable for puppies, so if your pup is already a strong chewer, that alternative might last longer. If your puppy is still small and you want a stuffable toy that keeps them busy without hurting their mouth, this fits. Just plan to swap it out as they grow.
Product photos

Quizvi Triple-Grip Nylon Dog Chew Toy
What We Like
- Triple-grip arms for easy holding
- Textured dental nubs massage gums
- Bacon scent to attract chewing
- Durable nylon for daily play
Trade-offs
- 5-inch size limits use for dogs over 50 lbs
- Bacon scent fades over time with washing
The triple-grip design means a small or medium dog can grab this toy from almost any angle, making it easy to hold during chewing. At 5.1 inches across and just over a quarter pound, it’s light enough for a growing pup to carry around but dense enough in nylon to survive a determined chewing session. The raised dental nubs are intended to massage gums, and the bacon scent helps attract a dog’s interest.
This toy is designed for dogs up to 50 pounds, so if your dog is larger, you’ll need a bigger option. Compared to the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Toy, which is made of natural rubber and can be stuffed with treats, the Quizvi is a harder nylon toy. The manufacturer says it helps stop destructive chewing and redirects chewing away from furniture.
Product photos

Frienhund Tough Dog Toys 3 Pack
What We Like
- Three toys in one pack
- Bacon flavor for instant interest
- Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning
- Designed for 30-75 lb dogs
Trade-offs
- 10-minute session limit per chew
- Only three designs, not varied textures
Three nylon chew toys in one pack means you can keep a spare in the car, one in the crate, and one in the living room without buying three separate products. Designed for dogs in the 30-75 pound range, these bacon-flavored bones target the aggressive chewer who demolishes softer toys in minutes. The nylon construction is even stronger than real bones, which matters for heavy chewers. For a multi-dog household or a single pup who goes through toys fast, this set stretches your dollar without sacrificing durability.
The manufacturer recommends a ten-minute chewing session per use. That’s fine for a quick redirect, but if your puppy needs a longer solo activity while you work, the KONG Puppy Teething Toy can be stuffed with treats for extended engagement. The Frienhund pack also lacks the dental textures of the Quizvi Triple-Grip Nylon Chew Toy. Still, for a budget-friendly rotation of tough, cleanable bones that actually smell like bacon, this three-pack delivers exactly what it promises.
YECRAFT Herding Ball for Dogs
What We Like
- 6 handles for tug and training
- Double-stitched 1800D Oxford cover
- Burst-proof slow-leak PVC bladder
- Zippered cover for easy cleaning
Trade-offs
- Not for aggressive chewers
- Requires full inflation to avoid loose cover
- 10-inch size limits to small herding breeds
A 10-inch herding ball with six handles gives you a toy built for the specific way Australian Shepherd puppies like to work: chase, nudge, and tug. The double-stitched 1800D Oxford cover and burst-proof slow-leak PVC bladder mean it can take the bumps and rolls of backyard herding without popping on the first outing. That makes it a practical pick for channeling natural instinct into exercise, especially if your pup is a mini Aussie or another small herding breed that needs a target size it can actually move.
This toy isn’t meant for a puppy who chews everything in sight. The product description notes it is not for aggressive chewers, and the loose cover that appears before full inflation can tempt a determined chewer. The 10-inch size is designed for small herding breeds like Corgis and Mini Australian Shepherds, so if your pup is on the larger side, you will want a bigger ball to keep the game fair and the frustration low.
Product photos

Snugrance 18'' Herding Ball with Bell
What We Like
- Reflective strip for low-light visibility
- 2520D double-layer oxford fabric resists punctures
- Built-in bell satisfies herding instincts
- Removable handle strap with dual zipper closure
Trade-offs
- 18-inch size is large for small puppies or indoor use
- Requires inflation with included pump before first play
- Handle strap must be removed during play to avoid snagging
An 18-inch herding ball with a 2520D oxford cloth cover and built-in bell means this toy is built for the kind of relentless pushing, chasing, and nudging an Australian Shepherd will throw at it. The reflective strip keeps it visible during evening sessions in the yard, and the included pump makes inflation straightforward. This suits owners who want a dedicated outdoor toy that channels natural herding drive into exercise rather than furniture destruction.
Size and setup are the trade-offs. At 18 inches across, this ball is too large for cramped apartments, and you do have to inflate it yourself before the first use. Compared to the YECRAFT Herding Ball, which also comes in a 10-inch and 25-inch size, the Snugrance commits to a large format that works best for dogs with space to roam. If your space is compact, this ball may sit idle.
Product photos

Beiker 20 Pack Puppy Chew Toys
What We Like
- 20 genuine toys, no filler items
- Includes treat dispenser for training
- Soft rubber protects teething gums
- Rope toys for tug-of-war and fetch
Trade-offs
- Not suitable for super heavy chewers
- No squeaky toys for sound-driven play
- Must supervise and replace if damaged
Twenty toys in one box means you can rotate fresh options daily without buying another pack for weeks. The set skips squeakers and small parts, so a teething puppy can gnaw on soft rubber rings, tug ropes, and a treat dispenser without you worrying about choking hazards. Natural rubber and cotton materials keep things safe for mouths still growing into adult teeth, and the variety helps you figure out which textures your pup actually prefers before you invest in pricier single toys.
Durability is the obvious trade-off: this pack is built for moderate chewers, not the land-shark phase some Australian Shepherds go through. If your puppy is already shredding tougher toys, the Benebone 2-Pack offers flavored nylon that holds up longer against determined jaws. But for most puppies in their first few months, the Beiker bundle gives you enough different shapes and functions, ropes, rings, a bone, a ball, to keep boredom at bay without breaking the budget on a single toy that might get ignored after day one.
Product photos

Vitscan Upgraded Goose Plush Dog Toy
What We Like
- Dual sounds: squeaker and crinkle paper
- Long neck for tugging and fetching
- Soft plush protects gums during teething
- Convex and concave sides aid chewing
Trade-offs
- Plush construction can be torn by determined pups
- Not suitable for aggressive chewers despite Amazon title claims
At 13.4 inches long and weighing just 0.2 pounds, this goose plush is built for gentle play rather than demolition. The dual sounds, a squeaker and crinkle paper, tap into a puppy’s natural curiosity, keeping them engaged without the need for hard plastic or rubber. The soft plush and textured sides are specifically designed to soothe teething gums, which matters when you’re bringing home a puppy that’s going through that razor-sharp stage. This is a toy for supervised play, fetch, and cuddle time, not for leaving alone with a determined chewer.
That puts it in a different lane from the Benebone Puppy 2-Pack, which is a dense nylon chew that survives serious gnawing. But for what this toy does, light tug, fetch, and comfort, the soft construction and dual sounds make it a better pick for the early teething weeks when you want something gentle on sore mouths.
Product photos

How We Evaluated Toys For Australian Shepherd Puppies
We started with the basics: material safety for teething gums, durability for a breed that chews with purpose, and whether the toy engages the herding instinct or just sits there. Manufacturer data on materials and weight limits gave us the framework. We then looked at what owners of Australian Shepherds and other herding breeds actually report about how these toys hold up.
Three criteria mattered most. First, mouth safety, a toy for an Aussie puppy must be soft enough for baby teeth but tough enough not to break into swallowable pieces. Second, engagement, the toy must hold the attention of a smart, high-energy puppy through flavor, texture, or movement. Third, breed fit, does the toy match the size, chewing style, and instinct of an Australian Shepherd puppy specifically?
This is a research-led evaluation, not a hands-on test. We synthesize what is known from specs, veterinary guidance on puppy teething, and the collective experience of owners in forums and reviews. The goal is to narrow your choices so you can pick with confidence.
What To Look For In Toys For Australian Shepherd Puppies
The right toy for an Aussie puppy balances teething relief, durability, and instinct. Here is what to check before you buy.
Choose toys made from puppy-safe materials (soft rubber, nylon, or fabric) that pass the thumbnail test: if your nail can dent it, it is gentle enough for baby teeth but may not last long.
Material and Teething Safety
Puppy teeth are sharp but fragile. Hard nylon or heavy rubber can damage emerging adult teeth or discourage chewing altogether. Look for materials labeled as puppy-grade: soft natural rubber, flexible TPR, or polyester shells. The Pupstages Cool Teething Stick uses a soft polyester shell, while the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Toy uses a specially formulated rubber that is gentler than the classic red KONG. Avoid anything marketed for “power chewers” until your puppy has adult teeth.
Durability for the Breed
Australian Shepherd puppies chew with determination. A toy that survives a Lab puppy may not survive an Aussie. The best durable chew toys for teething use materials that yield slightly under pressure but do not shred. The Benebone Puppy 2-Pack uses a slightly forgiving nylon that holds up to persistent gnawing without cracking. The SPOT Play Strong Scent-sations Bone uses TPR that is tough but still gentle on gums. If your puppy is already a heavy chewer, skip plush toys and soft rubber until the adult teeth come in.
Engagement and Herding Instinct
Aussies are working dogs. A toy that sits still is a toy they ignore. The best options either move (balls, fetch toys), make noise (squeakers, crinkle paper), or taste good (bacon-infused nylon).
For the herding instinct specifically, the YECRAFT Herding Ball and Snugrance 18” Herding Ball with Bell are designed to roll and be chased. These toys for herding instincts satisfy the breed’s drive to circle and control moving objects. For mental stimulation, add puzzle toys to the rotation; an Aussie puppy needs to think as much as it needs to chew.
- Does the toy pass the thumbnail test for gum safety?
- Can your puppy pick it up and carry it easily?
- Does it move, make noise, or taste interesting?
- Is it sized for a puppy mouth, not an adult dog?
- Does it match your puppy’s current chewing strength?
A toy that works for one Aussie puppy may fail for another. Buy one toy first, watch how your puppy uses it, then buy more based on what they actually engage with.
Toys For Australian Shepherd Puppies Compared
The table below compares all 10 toys side by side, so you can see at a glance which one fits your puppy’s age, chewing style, and play preferences.
| Product | Material | Dimensions | Weight | Target Chewer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pupstages Cool Teething Stick Dog Chew Toy | Soft stuffed polyester shell | 8.5" x 5.5" x 1.5" | 0.0 pounds | Teething puppies, moderate chewers |
| Benebone Puppy 2-Pack Maplestick/Zaggler | Nylon, real bacon & maplewood flavors | 2.0 x 0.8 x 4.9 inches | 0.3 pounds | Determined chewers, puppy line |
| SPOT Play Strong Scent-sations Bone | Thermoplastic rubber (TPR) | 6 inches | 0.4 pounds | Aggressive chewers up to 45lbs |
| KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Teething Toy | Natural rubber | 6.3 x 3.9 x 2.9 inches | 0.1 pounds | Small puppies |
| Quizvi Triple-Grip Nylon Dog Chew Toy | Nylon | 5.1 x 4.9 x 1.2 in | 0.3 lb | Up to 50 lbs |
| Frienhund Tough Dog Toys 3 Pack | Sturdy nylon | 5.0 x 4.5 x 1.5 inches | 0.9 pounds | 30-75 lbs medium/large breeds |
| YECRAFT Herding Ball for Dogs | 1800D Oxford cover | 10 inches | N/A | Small herding breeds |
| Snugrance 18'' Herding Ball with Bell | 2520D Oxford cloth cover & inflatable bladder | 18 x 18 x 18 inches | N/A | Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, herding breeds |
| Beiker 20 Pack Puppy Chew Toys | Natural rubber & cotton | 9.2 x 5.3 x 5.1 inches | 1.9 pounds | Puppies & small dogs |
| Vitscan Upgraded Goose Plush Dog Toy | Thicker sturdier plush | 13.4 x 5.9 x 2.4 inches | 0.2 pounds | Not very aggressive chewers |
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of toys do Australian Shepherd puppies like best?
Australian Shepherd puppies need toys that engage both their body and mind. Soft teething chews soothe sore gums, while fetch toys and herding balls satisfy their instinct to chase. Interactive toys that move or make noise hold their attention longer than stationary chews.
When can my Aussie puppy have a durable chew toy?
Switch to durable chew toys once your puppy has all adult teeth, usually around six months. Before that, stick with puppy-grade rubber, soft nylon, or fabric toys. The Benebone Puppy 2-Pack is a good bridge option, it is firmer than plush but still forgiving enough for teething.
How many toys does an Australian Shepherd puppy need?
A rotation of five to seven toys works well. Include a teething chew, a fetch toy, a herding ball, a puzzle toy, and a comfort plush. Rotating them every few days keeps the puppy interested and prevents boredom chewing.
Are herding balls safe for Australian Shepherd puppies?
Yes, but size matters. A herding ball should be large enough that the puppy cannot get their mouth around it. The YECRAFT Herding Ball is 10 inches and works for small herding breeds, while the Snugrance 18-inch ball is better for full-sized Aussies with outdoor space. Always supervise play with herding balls.
Can I leave my Aussie puppy alone with chew toys?
Only with toys designed for unsupervised play, like the Benebone Puppy 2-Pack or SPOT Play Strong Scent-sations Bone. Plush toys, rope toys, and anything with small parts should only be used when you are watching. Check any toy regularly for wear and replace it if pieces start to come off.
The Bottom Line
The Pupstages Cool Teething Stick is the best overall toy for Australian Shepherd puppies because it directly addresses the two biggest challenges of the puppy phase: sore gums and the need to redirect chewing. It is lightweight, gentle, and engaging enough to hold an Aussie puppy’s attention during those high-energy moments.
If your puppy is already a determined chewer, the Benebone Puppy 2-Pack or SPOT Play Strong Scent-sations Bone will last longer. For instinct-driven play, the YECRAFT Herding Ball or Snugrance Herding Ball gives your Aussie a job to do. Owners who want variety should grab the Beiker 20 Pack for a full starter kit.
The single most important factor is matching the toy to your puppy’s current chewing strength and play style. An Aussie puppy that is bored with its toys will find something else to chew, and it will probably be your baseboard.




