9 Best Dog Toys for Chihuahuas
Contents of Article
- What Is the Best Dog Toy for Chihuahuas?
- Different Types of Dog Toys for Chihuahuas
- Best Toys for a Chihuahua
- 1. Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle Plush Dog Toy
- 2. Kong Extreme Ball Dog Toy
- 3. ZippyPaws Loopy Hedgehog 6 Squeaker Plush Dog Toy
- 4. Kong Classic Dog Toy Small
- 5. West Paw Zogoflex Large Tux Tough Treat Dispensing Dog Chew
- 6. Mammoth Cloth Rope Tug for Dogs
- 7. Trixie Mini Mover Activity Strategy Game Dog Toy
- Best Dog Toys for Chihuahua Puppies
- Features to Look for in a Good Chihuahua Toy
- Best Toys for Adult Chihuahuas
- Tips for Keeping Your Chihuahua Entertained
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Chihuahua owners must make sure to purchase products designed specifically for small dogs. Otherwise, your Chihuahua may be uninterested in the toy at best, and you may also be putting your dog’s health at risk in the worst-case scenario. To make playtime enjoyable and safe, it’s vital to spend a little extra time finding a Chihuahua-size toy.
To help you find the right option, today we’re going to tell you about the 9 best dog toys for Chihuahuas. We’ll also go over everything you need to know to keep your dog entertained and answer some frequently asked questions about dog toys. Without further ado, let’s jump right in!
What Is the Best Dog Toy for Chihuahuas?
- Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle Plush Dog Toy
- Kong Extreme Ball Dog Toy
- ZippyPaws Loopy Hedgehog 6 Squeaker Plush Dog Toy
- Kong Classic Dog Toy Small
- West Paw Zogoflex Large Tux Tough Treat Dispensing Dog Chew
- Mammoth Cloth Rope Tug for Dogs
- Trixie Mini Mover Activity Strategy Game Dog Toy
- Nylabone Puppy Chicken Flavored Teething Dinosaur Puppy Chew Toy, Petite
- Nylabone Teething Pacifier Puppy Chew Toy
Different Types of Dog Toys for Chihuahuas
There are several types of dog toys you can choose from, but not all are ideal for this impressively energetic breed’s personality. The best toy for a Chihuahua will allow your dog to go let out all this excess energy during playtime. Here are the types we recommend.
Also Read: Chihuahua Brush
Balls
Balls should be any Chihuahua owner’s go-to toy, as it’s one of the easiest products to find in this breed’s size. It’s also a toy that your pup can play with on his own, or you can play fetch together.
Squeakers
Toys that squeak are an excellent way to engage interaction-needy Chihuahuas. The noise they create is very entertaining for them and can keep your dog occupied for long periods.
Chew Toys
Chihuahuas tend to be chewers, which is why providing them with a durable chew toy is a fantastic way to let them act on this urge. The right chew toy helps prevent boredom, maintain dental health, and keep your dog happy.
You must ensure that any chew toy you give your dog is durable, however. Avoid anything that may break up into small pieces, as these pieces can get stuck in your Chihuahua’s small airways and cause them to choke.
Treat Toys
Finally, treat toys (like Kongs, which we’ll look at below) are another fantastic option for this breed. They keep your dog focused on trying to get at the treat, which takes their attention away from chewing things that you don’t want them to, like your furniture. They’re also fun because they bounce, and your dog can chase it around.
Best Toys for a Chihuahua
Now let’s take a look at the best toys for a Chihuahua.
1. Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle Plush Dog Toy
Key Features
- Durable design
- Includes squeaky toys
- Interactive game
Get more bang for your buck with this three-in-one product: it’s a squeaky toy, interactive game, and plush toy all in one.
If you’re looking for a versatile toy for your pup, the Outward Hound Hide a Squirrel Puzzle delivers. As you may have guessed from the name, you hide the squirrels in the tree trunk, and your dog has to figure out how to get them out. Once your puppy removes them from the puzzle, they can play with each squirrel and its squeaky center until you hide them again.
Additionally, the tree trunk has no squeaker and can be used as a plush toy to comfort your dog when you’re away, giving them practically endless options for entertainment. This toy comes in various sizes, and the junior size is perfect for Chihuahuas. It’s also available in bee, hedgehog, or bird form, and replacement squirrels are available if need be.
2. Kong Extreme Ball Dog Toy
Key Features
- Made with ultra-durable rubber
- Extreme bounce
- Puncture resistant
This versatile ball has an extreme bounce to make games of fetch even more exciting. It can also be used as a chew toy when your dog is on her own, and vets around the country recommend this product.
Kong is a ubiquitous brand for dog owners, and their well-loved products are highly regarded for many reasons. Perhaps the most important one is that Kong products are made to stand up to many years of use, and they can handle even the most powerful chewers. So although a ball is a simple product, with Kong, you know you’re getting a ball that will stand the test of time.
Pet owners are enthusiastic about this product because of how versatile it is. Games of fetch are more fun than ever thanks to the extra bouncy design, and your dog can self-soothe with it as a chew toy while you’re away. The small size is just right for Chihuahua mouths, and it’s virtually indestructible.
3. ZippyPaws Loopy Hedgehog 6 Squeaker Plush Dog Toy
Key Features
- No stuffing
- Comes with six squeakers
- Long-lasting
- Cute design
If you’re looking for the perfect squeaky plush toy that won’t leave your house a mess, the ZippyPaws loopy hedgehog is an ideal companion.
If we had to use one word to describe the ZippyPaws hedgehog, it would have to be cute. This plush toy has a circular body featuring six squeakers positioned all around it, which will keep your Chihuahua entertained for long periods. The toy can also help comfort your dog while you’re away, and the small size fits well in Chihuahua mouths, so they can carry it around the house with no problem.
But if you’re not a fan of plush toys because they frequently leave your house covered in stuffing, you won’t have to worry about that with this ZippyPaws toy. It has no stuffing, so you won’t have to worry about cleaning up if your pup chews through it.
4. Kong Classic Dog Toy Small
Key Features
- Robust construction
- Can be used with treats or without
- Comes in different shapes
- Unpredictable bounce makes play more fun
Need to keep your dog entertained for hours? This treat-dispensing toy is a classic, and it will challenge even the toughest of chewers.
Kong makes such excellent products that we were obliged to include a second one on this list. Their famous Classic Dog Toy is a must for dog owners for plenty of reasons. You can use it on its own as a chew toy, or you can stuff it with snacks. Your pup will have to work to get at the treats inside, keeping them busy for extended periods.
Its odd shape also creates a fun and unpredictable bounce that will keep your Chihuahua guessing. But perhaps the most critical feature is that it’s robust. The design will stand up to years of abuse, so if you’ve got a serious chewer on your hands, they’ll be no match for this toy.
5. West Paw Zogoflex Large Tux Tough Treat Dispensing Dog Chew
Key Features
- Plenty of entertainment options
- Treat-dispensing
- Made from non-toxic materials
- Indestructible
Looking for something to keep an active dog busy? Fill this treat-dispensing toy with your dog’s favorite for a fun way to keep them entertained for hours on end.
West Paw offers an excellent alternative to the Kong treat-dispensing toy with its Zogoflex Tough Treat Dispensing Dog Chew. Give it to them empty to use as a chew toy, or put their favorite treats in it to keep them occupied. The Zogoflex has a different shape than the Kong, really allowing your furry friend to work on their molars. For longer-lasting fun, put frozen snacks in it.
The toy is made in the US, and the rubber design doesn’t include any BPAs or phthalates. Once it’s reached the end of its life, you can recycle the toy, which makes it environmentally friendly. West Paw also includes a one hundred percent guarantee against destruction, and the toy is dishwasher safe as well for easy cleanup. It’s available in three fun colors.
6. Mammoth Cloth Rope Tug for Dogs
Key Features
- Made from 100 percent natural cotton
- Ideal for strong chewers
- Can be used for fetch and tug-of-war
- Available in various colors
Add another play option to your Chihuahua’s repertoire that is not only perfect for their small size, but it also flosses your dog’s teeth at the same time.
Don’t be fooled by the Chihuahua’s small stature–they love a good game of tug-of-war just as much as the next dog. This cloth rope fits the bill, allowing for a great challenge your dog will love. Just make sure to let them win to boost their confidence, and they’ll keep coming back for more.
The cloth rope also helps floss their teeth while you’re playing, so it’s excellent for dental health. And you can even use it with puppies and strong chewers.
7. Trixie Mini Mover Activity Strategy Game Dog Toy
Key Features
- Dishwasher-safe
- Non-slip rubber feet
- Holds treats
- Comes with an instruction manual
If your dog already has some skill at puzzles, this product can provide the next challenge. It’ll keep mischievous dogs engaged to prevent trouble around the house.
Our final toy for adult dogs is the Trixie Mini Mover Activity Strategy Game, which is well-suited to any dog with too much extra time on its hands. Give them this interactive dog toy, and keep them busy for hours. It requires you to hide treats in secret pockets that your dog then has to find. The four levels of play require dedication and determination to keep improving.
This game is the perfect way to keep your dog from undesirable behaviors while stimulating their intelligence. Plus, this puzzle is ideal for the Chihuahua’s small size, and the rubber feet hold it in place while they play. We also like that it comes with an instruction manual to give you some ideas on how to make the most out of the game.
Best Dog Toys for Chihuahua Puppies
Here are our top two picks for Chihuahua puppies.
1. Nylabone Puppy Chicken Flavored Teething Dinosaur Puppy Chew Toy, Petite
Key Features
- Non-edible
- Chicken flavor
- Has cute dinosaur shape
- Nylon material
The Nylabone Teething Dinosaur features a delicious chicken flavor that will last for as long as your puppy is teething. It also helps promote dental health from a young age.
Nylabone designed this product with small nubs all over its body to relieve even the worst gum pain, and its small size is perfect for tiny Chihuahua puppy mouths. Its texture promotes oral hygiene, and the cute dinosaur design satisfies their natural chewing urges. So, in addition to soothing your dog, you’re also teaching them proper chewing habits. Not to mention, even the pickiest of dogs will love the yummy chicken flavor.
Keep in mind that this product is not designed for highly destructive chewers.
2. Nylabone Teething Pacifier Puppy Chew Toy
Key Features
- Includes two chew toys
- Promotes healthy oral hygiene
- Designed for dogs without permanent teeth
- For puppies up to 25 pounds
Use this toy to keep your pup entertained while you’re teaching them healthy chewing habits.
The teething pacifier by Nylabone is a product specially designed for young puppies who require something to ease teething pain but can’t handle chew toys for older dogs. This toy comes with two chewing pacifiers with nubs to help stimulate their teeth and gums. It will allow your puppy to focus their chewing energy where you want it and not on your favorite pair of shoes.
Plus, you can freeze the Nylabone Teething Pacifier for added relief. Just make sure to swap it out for a regular chew toy when your dog gets their permanent teeth, as it’s not suitable for adult teeth.
Features to Look for in a Good Chihuahua Toy
When you think of a Chihuahua, an image of a dog that loves to sit on laps and be groomed probably comes to mind. But don’t be fooled by this image–this breed still needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Here are some features to look for in a good Chihuahua toy.
Size
One of the main challenges in finding a good Chihuahua toy is selecting something appropriate for this breed’s size.
If the toy is too big, your dog won’t be able to play with it. Giving them an over-large toy is also an easy way to frustrate them, as they won’t be able to interact with the toy the same way other, larger dogs can. For this reason, always stick with something designed specifically for mini dogs.
Durable
We’ve touched on this already, but it’s worth repeating: Chihuahua toys must be robust. Anything that breaks easily presents a choking hazard for the Chihuahua, so make sure to read reviews to get an idea of how durable the toy is.
Challenging
Chihuahuas are a highly intelligent breed, and they love to be challenged. Puzzle toys can keep them engaged for a long time, and they’re also an excellent option for senior dogs who have slowed down a bit.
Comfort
The Chihuahua is a loyal and loving breed. Its attachment to its owner can cause it to suffer from separation anxiety, but the right toy can provide them comfort while you’re gone. Look for something that emulates the warmth of sitting in your lap, such as a stuffed animal. You can also provide them a distraction toy, like a Kong, to take your absence off their mind.
Teething Relief
Even when they’re not teething, Chihuahuas are prone to chewing. So as puppies, providing them a toy to chew on during the teething period is essential. Without the proper outlet for these urges, they may explore other undesirable avenues, such as your furniture or shoes. To avoid destruction to your house, look for teething toys and chew toys for miniature dogs.
Best Toys for Adult Chihuahuas
| Chihuahua Dog Toy Comparison Table | |||
| Rank | Toy | Price | Rating |
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A+
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A
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A
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#8 |
Nylabone Puppy Chicken Flavored Teething Dinosaur Puppy Chew Toy, Petite |
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A
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#9 |
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$ |
A
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Tips for Keeping Your Chihuahua Entertained
Though it may be hard to imagine because of their miniature statue, life with a Chihuahua can quickly become a nightmare if you don’t keep them adequately exercised and entertained. Here are some tips for a happy and healthy Chihuahua:
- Make sure their walk routine/play regimen is structured to ensure they’re getting the right amount. Stick to a schedule if that helps.
- Provide your dog with a variety of toys to engage them in different ways. For example, give them chew toys when they’re teething, puzzle toys to keep them busy, rope toys for playing with you, etc.
- Take them to new places to explore.
- Have them socialize with other dogs to improve their temperament and well-being. Being around other dogs can help them be friendlier.
FAQs
Let’s wrap things up with a few common questions Chihuahua owners have about toys.
What Toys, if Any, Are Unsafe for Chihuahuas?
For the most part, avoid giving your Chihuahua bones and sticks. These toys can splinter and wreak havoc on your dog’s stomach and digestive tract, so it’s best not to take the risk.
Similarly, anything they may accidentally swallow should be avoided, such as toys with small parts that could come off. Any cat toys should be for cats only, as they are typically too small for Chihuahuas.
And despite being heavy chewers, this breed doesn’t have a strong jaw, which means that stuffed toys are fine. Having said that, always supervise their playtime to ensure they don’t swallow the squeaker or any fluff if they rip the toy apart.
How Much Exercise Do Chihuahuas Need?
We’ve mentioned a few times that Chihuahuas need plenty of exercise. Aim for a walk a day, or you can also play games of fetch in your yard.
Keep in mind, however, that “lots of exercise” is relative to this breed’s size. Chihuahuas don’t need to be walked as much as say, a Labrador. Always pay attention to your dog’s behavior when walking her. If she is panting too hard or stops altogether, it’s time to pick her up and go home.
Does Age Affect What Kind of Toys My Dog Will Enjoy?
Age can certainly affect the types of toys your dog will gravitate towards, though this can vary from breed to breed.
Chihuahua puppies, for example, will be curious and willing to play with almost anything. But because they’re even smaller than a full-grown Chihuahua, they need extra supervision during playtime. Make sure not to give them anything they can choke on.
On the other hand, senior pups often have less energy and, therefore, less desire to play. Some may forego playing with toys altogether.
Conclusion
Finding a toy that your Chihuahua will love requires some consideration, but there are plenty of safe options as you can see. All of the products on this list have high ratings and were chosen with the utmost care, so you can be rest assured that other Chihuahua owners have had success with them.
Now comes the fun part–trying out one (or several!) with your dog and enjoying playtime with your furry friend.
