7 Best Toys For Shih Tzu in 2026
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The KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Chew Toy wins as Best Overall because its gentle rubber soothes baby teeth while bouncing for fetch and stuffing with treats, a three-in-one toy that grows with a puppy. For teething relief, the Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Ring Bone freezes for extra gum comfort, and the Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Toy keeps curious minds busy with hide-and-seek play.
Shih Tzu puppies and adults share a common problem: they need toys soft enough for their small mouths and delicate teeth but engaging enough to prevent boredom chewing on furniture. The right toy depends on age, chew style, and whether your dog prefers chasing, gnawing, or solving puzzles.
We built this guide by reviewing manufacturer specifications, consulting expert round-ups on small-breed toy safety, and analyzing patterns in owner feedback. Our seven picks cover every need, from teething to gentle plush play, so you can match the toy to your dog’s personality.
Top 7 Toys For Shih Tzu in the Market
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The Best Toys For Shih Tzu, Reviewed
KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Chew Toy
What We Like
- Gentle natural rubber for baby teeth
- Bounces for fetch games
- Stuffable with treats or kibble
- Made in the USA
Trade-offs
- Small size limits filling capacity
- Soft rubber wears faster with aggressive chewers
The KONG Puppy is made from a soft natural rubber that is gentle on a puppy’s 28 baby teeth, so it provides appropriate chewing enrichment without damaging sensitive gums during teething. At 6.3 inches long and weighing 0.1 pounds, it is light enough for a small puppy to carry and small enough to stuff with kibble or paste for crate training or quiet time. That dual life as a chew toy and a treat dispenser is what earns it the top spot here: it covers the teething phase while also making training easier, which is exactly what a new puppy owner needs in one piece of rubber.
The trade-off is that the same softness that protects baby teeth also makes it less durable against a determined chewer. Once those adult molars come in, this toy will wear faster than something like the Nylabone Flexi Chew Gumabone, which uses a tougher flexible material for older puppies. The pink color is also a deliberate choice from KONG, and if that does not match your preference or your dog’s aesthetic, you are stuck with it. For the first few months of teething and training, however, this is the most versatile single toy in the guide.
Product photos
Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Ring Bone
What We Like
- Freezable for added teething relief
- Soft material safe for gentle puppy chewers
- Chicken flavor may reduce mouthing of household items
Trade-offs
- X-small size limits use to dogs under 15 lbs
- Only suitable for gentle chewers, not power chewers.
At just 3.8 inches long and designed for puppies up to 15 pounds, this ring bone targets the exact size and chewing stage a young Shih Tzu is in.
This toy is built for the teething window only. Once adult teeth come in or if you have a determined little chewer, the soft material won’t hold up the way a tougher rubber toy like the KONG Puppy would. That makes it a targeted tool rather than an all-purpose chew. But for the weeks or months when your Shih Tzu puppy is cutting teeth, the combination of texture, cold therapy, and flavor is exactly what that sore mouth needs. It is a short-term specialist, and it does that job well.
Product photos
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Toy
What We Like
- Engages hunting instincts with hide-and-seek play
- Three removable squeaky squirrels for tugging
- Soft plush material suitable for gentle play
- Encourages problem-solving and enrichment
Trade-offs
- Not built for heavy or aggressive chewers
- Stuffing and squeakers pose risk if damaged
Three squeaky squirrels tucked inside a plush tree trunk turn fetch into a puzzle that taps into a Shih Tzu’s natural prey drive. The toy measures 5 inches long, 7 inches wide, and 7 inches tall, so it’s easy for a small dog to carry and paw at. The soft plush body makes it suitable for cuddling after the squirrels are freed. This is a toy that rewards persistence without requiring heavy chewing, which fits the typical Shih Tzu’s gentle mouth and lower energy style.
The plush construction and stuffing won’t survive a determined chewer. If your Shih Tzu tends to shred soft toys, the KONG Wild Knots Bear has a knotted rope interior and minimal stuffing, which may reduce mess during play. For dogs that prefer a gentle game of find-and-tug rather than destruction, the Hide-A-Squirrel delivers exactly that kind of interactive fun.
Product photos
Nylabone Flexi Chew Tiny Gumabone Dog Chew
What We Like
- Soft material gentle on teeth
- Freezable for extra soothing chew
- Treat pockets for interactive play
- Infused dual flavors throughout
Trade-offs
- Only for dogs up to 8 pounds
- Small size limits treat filling capacity
The Nylabone Flexi Chew Tiny Gumabone is made for the smallest mouths, sized for dogs up to 8 pounds. The flexible gummy material is deliberately soft, which means it bends rather than bangs against teeth, making it a sensible pick for senior dogs. The treat pockets let you smear in peanut butter or wet food, turning a plain chew into a mini puzzle that keeps a little dog busy without encouraging destructive habits.
That same softness won’t survive a dedicated chewer. If your dog treats toys as a demolition project, this one will get shredded faster than a sturdier option. But for a gentle, toy-focused dog who likes to lick and gnaw rather than rip, this is a way to add variety, especially when you freeze it for teething relief or hot days.
Product photos
KONG Wild Knots Bear Plush Toy
What We Like
- Internal knotted rope skeleton satisfies natural instincts
- Minimal stuffing reduces mess during play
- Soft and durable construction
Trade-offs
- Not built for aggressive chewers
- Color varies and cannot be chosen
The internal knotted rope skeleton gives a small dog something to grip and tug, while the minimal stuffing keeps playtime cleaner than a typical stuffed animal. That matters when your dog likes to dissect things. This bear suits dogs that prefer gentle mouthing over hard chewing, offering the satisfying resistance of a rope core inside a cuddly exterior.
The same soft build that makes it gentle on teeth also limits its lifespan with determined chewers. Compared to the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Chew Toy, which is made of natural rubber, this plush is better for dogs that play fetch or snuggle rather than gnaw. If your dog treats toys like a demolition project, you will want something tougher, but for a dog that carries and shakes, this bear delivers the right balance of softness and structure.
Product photos
Petcare 6Pcs Christmas Dog Toy Set
What We Like
- Six varied shapes keep play interesting
- Soft TPR rubber is gentle on teeth
- Suitable for teething puppies up to 8 months
Trade-offs
- Small size limits use for larger Shih Tzu adults
- Not suitable for aggressive chewers
Six toys in one pack means you can swap out shapes before your Shih Tzu gets bored, and the soft TPR rubber is gentle on those tiny puppy teeth during the 0-8 month teething window. This set suits owners who want variety without committing to a single toy style, especially if your Shih Tzu is still in the puppy stage and needs soothing relief for sore gums.
Measuring 4 inches across, each toy in this set is sized to fit comfortably in the mouth of a small-breed puppy like a Yorkie or Chihuahua. Owners of teething puppies up to 8 months old report that the soft TPR natural rubber is gentle on emerging teeth and highly elastic, which helps relieve itching without damaging furniture. The set includes six distinct shapes, peas, a bone, a ball, a donut, a pentagram, and a cylinder, each designed to clean teeth from multiple angles. For a full-grown adult dog of the same breed, however, the pieces may feel less engaging, as they are optimized for smaller mouths and lighter chewing pressure.
Product photos
PetYupp Natural Coffee Wood Chew Sticks
What We Like
- Zero caffeine or additives
- Long-lasting gnawing for boredom relief
- Lightweight and easy to grip
Trade-offs
- Not recommended for heavy destroyers
- Must supervise and replace when small
At just 0.2 pounds and 5 inches long, this chew stick is sized for small jaws, so dogs like Poms or Shih Tzus can grip it comfortably. The 100% natural coffee wood contains zero caffeine, additives, or chemicals, and its natural scraping action helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup for better dental health.
This stick is built for light to moderate chewers only. If your Shih Tzu is a determined destroyer, you’ll want something tougher, like the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Chew Toy, which can handle more aggressive gnawing and even holds treats. Supervision is also required, and you need to replace the stick once it wears down small enough to swallow. For a natural, worry-free chew that supports dental health without additives, this is a solid fit.
Product photos
How We Evaluated Toys For Shih Tzu
Our evaluation started with the physical limits of the breed. Shih Tzu have small mouths and can be prone to dental issues, so every toy had to be sized for dogs under 15 pounds and made from materials that wouldn’t damage developing or adult teeth. We ruled out anything hard, sharp, or large enough to cause jaw strain.
We then scored each toy on three criteria: material safety (non-toxic, freezable or flexible rubber, minimal stuffing risk), engagement value (does the toy entertain without owner involvement?), and durability relative to a Shih Tzu’s typical light-to-moderate chewing. We cross-referenced expert recommendations for toys for small dogs and Shih Tzu toys against owner reports of what actually lasted.
This is a research-led guide, not a hands-on test. We haven’t put every toy through weeks of play ourselves. But the patterns we found are consistent: Shih Tzu owners overwhelmingly prefer soft rubber and plush toys with low stuffing and praise interactive designs that tire a dog mentally as well as physically. Our toy selection guide explains more about what makes a toy safe for small breeds.
What To Look For In Toys For Shih Tzu
Choosing a toy for a Shih Tzu comes down to size, material, and play style. A toy that works for a teething puppy will bore an adult, and a plush toy that suits a gentle senior will be destroyed in minutes by a determined chewer.
Look for toys under 5 inches wide, made from soft rubber or low-stuffing plush, with no small parts that could be swallowed. Freezable options help teething puppies, while puzzle toys suit curious adults.
Size and Weight Limits
Shih Tzu mouths are small. A toy that’s too large can be frustrating or even cause jaw discomfort. Stick to toys rated for dogs under 15 pounds, and check the dimensions, anything over 5 inches in length is likely too big. The Nylabone Flexi Chew Tiny Gumabone, for example, is designed for dogs up to 8 pounds, making it ideal for the smallest Shih Tzu. For adult dogs on the larger end of the breed standard, toys for small dogs rated up to 15 pounds offer more variety.
Material Safety and Dental Health
Soft rubber and non-toxic nylon are the safest bets for Shih Tzu teeth. Hard plastic or real bones can crack teeth, especially in puppies. Look for materials that are freezable, cold soothes sore gums during teething, and avoid toys with loose stuffing or squeakers that a small dog can pull out and swallow. The KONG Wild Knots Bear uses minimal stuffing and a knotted rope skeleton, which is safer for gentle players. For puppies, Shih Tzu puppy food and proper chew toys work together to support dental development.
Engagement and Play Style
Not every Shih Tzu plays the same way. Some love to chase, some prefer to gnaw, and others need mental stimulation. A single toy won’t cover all three. The Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel is perfect for dogs who like to “hunt” their toys, while the KONG Puppy works for both fetch and treat-stuffing. If your dog gets bored quickly, interactive toys like puzzle feeders can keep them occupied longer.
- Measure your dog’s mouth width before buying, the toy should fit between the back molars without forcing the jaw open.
- Check for removable squeakers or stuffing that could become a choking hazard.
- Rotate toys every few days to keep novelty high and prevent destructive boredom.
- Supervise the first few play sessions with any new toy to confirm the size and durability are right.
A good rule: if you can’t comfortably pinch the toy between your thumb and forefinger, it’s too hard for a Shih Tzu’s teeth.
Toys For Shih Tzu Compared
The table below compares all seven toys across the factors that matter most for a Shih Tzu: size, material, recommended age, and play style.
| Product | Material | Size | Use/Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Chew Toy | Natural rubber | 6.3 x 3.9 x 2.9 inches | Teething, fetch, treat stuffing |
| Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Ring Bone | Nylon | 3.8 x 0.5 x 1.8 inches | Freezer-friendly for extra soothing |
| Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Toy | Plush with stuffing | 5 x 7 x 7 inches | Plush puzzle with 3 squeaky squirrels |
| Nylabone Flexi Chew Tiny Gumabone Dog Chew | Flexible, gummy texture | 6.5 x 5.5 x 0.7 inches | Treat pockets, freezable |
| KONG Wild Knots Bear Plush Toy | Soft plush with knotted rope skeleton | 6 x 4 x 2 inches | Minimal stuffing |
| Petcare 6Pcs Christmas Dog Toy Set | TPR natural rubber | 4.0 x 4.0 x 0.7 inches | 6 pieces, shapes included |
| PetYupp Natural Coffee Wood Chew Sticks | 100% natural coffee wood | 5.0 x 1.5 inches | Promotes oral hygiene |
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of toys are best for Shih Tzu?
Soft rubber chew toys, low-stuffing plush toys, and puzzle toys that engage their hunting instincts are the best choices. Avoid hard plastic, real bones, or toys with small parts that could be swallowed. Size matters: everything should be rated for dogs under 15 pounds.
Are Kong toys safe for Shih Tzu puppies?
Yes, the KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Chew Toy is specifically designed for teething puppies. Its soft rubber is gentle on baby teeth and can be stuffed with kibble or treats to encourage calm crate time. Always choose the puppy formula, not the red adult version, which is too firm.
How do I keep my Shih Tzu entertained indoors?
Rotate a few different toy types, a chew toy, a puzzle toy, and a soft plush toy, so your dog doesn’t get bored. Interactive toys for small breeds like the Hide-A-Squirrel provide mental exercise that tires a Shih Tzu faster than physical play alone.
When should I replace my Shih Tzu’s toys?
Replace any toy that shows cracks, tears, or loose parts. A small dog can choke on a piece of rubber or stuffing that breaks off. For natural chews like the PetYupp Coffee Wood Sticks, replace them once they’re small enough to swallow, about the size of a fingertip.
Can Shih Tzu play with plush toys safely?
Yes, but choose low-stuffing options like the KONG Wild Knots Bear. Avoid plush toys with many small parts like plastic eyes or ribbons. Supervise play and remove the toy if your dog starts pulling out stuffing. A safe harness for your Shih Tzu also helps with control during outdoor play.
The Bottom Line
The KONG Puppy Natural Rubber Chew Toy is the single most versatile pick for most Shih Tzu owners. It works for teething, fetch, and treat-stuffing, and its gentle rubber won’t harm developing teeth. If your puppy is in the thick of teething, the Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Ring Bone offers targeted gum relief that freezing makes even more effective.
For owners on a budget or those with very small dogs (under 8 pounds), the Nylabone Flexi Chew Tiny Gumabone delivers tooth-friendly chewing at an affordable price. Puzzle-loving Shih Tzu will get the most out of the Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel, which satisfies natural hunting instincts without requiring heavy chewing.
The most important factor is size. A toy that’s too large or too hard can hurt your Shih Tzu’s mouth, so always check the weight limit and material before buying. Match the toy to your dog’s current life stage, and you’ll save money on replacements and keep your pup happily occupied.
