Choosing the best toys for your Shih Tzu can feel tricky. These playful dogs need toys that match their small size and big energy. This guide will share top toy picks to keep your pup happy, active, and mentally sharp.
Keep reading—you don’t want to miss this!
Key Takeaways
- Shih Tzus need small, durable toys like KONG Plush Teddy Bear or Chuckit! balls that fit their size and gentle chewing.
- Safe materials like BPA-free plastic and non-toxic polyester ensure healthy play for your pup.
- Interactive toys like treat puzzles or snuffle mats keep Shih Tzus mentally sharp and reduce boredom.
- Teething puppies benefit from cooling toys like the Petstages Cool Teething Stick to soothe aching gums.
- Plush options, such as Multipet Lamb Chop or Outward Hound Hedgehogz, are great for cuddling but suit light chewers best.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Toys for Your Shih Tzu
Your Shih Tzu deserves toys that are fun, safe, and built to last. Pick wisely to keep playtime exciting and trouble-free!
Size and durability
Shih Tzus need small dog toys that fit their bite. Toys too big can frustrate them, while tiny ones can pose choking risks. Stick to options marked for extra-small or small breeds.
These ensure the perfect size for their little jaws.
Durable dog toys are a must since Shih Tzu puppies love to chew. Soft plush toys with reinforced seams work well, as do rubber fetch toys like Chuckit! balls. Choose tough yet gentle materials to avoid wear and tear too soon.
Next up: Safety and non-toxic materials!
Safety and non-toxic materials
Toys should always be safe for your Shih Tzu. Look for options made from food-safe, BPA-free plastics or polyester. These materials reduce the risk of harmful exposure during playtime.
Synthetic fabrics and BPA-free silicone are excellent choices.
Small dog toys with no sharp edges prevent choking hazards. Remove any small pieces that can break off easily. Avoid toxic chemicals or dyes in chew toys to keep your pup protected while they gnaw away happily!
Interactive and mentally stimulating features
Shih Tzus love games that challenge their minds. Toys with treat-fillable designs, like puzzle toys, can grab their attention. For example, a toy holding up to 1/4 cup of treats keeps them busy sniffing and solving while rewarding them along the way.
Snuffle mats are another excellent option for mental stimulation, mimicking natural foraging.
Crinkle paper or squeakers add excitement during playtime. Hide-and-seek-style toys give dogs a task to solve and prevent boredom. These interactive dog toys reduce separation anxiety by occupying your Shih Tzu’s mind.
Let’s explore some top choices they will adore!
KONG Plush Teddy Bear Dog Toy
The KONG Plush Teddy Bear is soft, cuddly, and great for tiny pups like Shih Tzus. It’s a toy that mixes fun with comfort, keeping your dog happy and busy.
Features & Description (KONG Plush Teddy Bear Dog Toy)
Soft and snuggly, this toy is perfect for Shih Tzu puppies. It has a plush body that feels gentle on tiny teeth and gums. The teddy bear includes a squeaker inside to keep your dog entertained.
Priced at just $1.49, it’s both budget-friendly and fun. With 9,804 reviews and a 4.3/5 rating, it’s a crowd favorite among small dog toys!
Pros & Cons (KONG Plush Teddy Bear Dog Toy)
The KONG Plush Teddy Bear Dog Toy offers fun and comfort for Shih Tzu dogs. This small, soft toy is perfect for cuddling or light play.
- Made with non-toxic materials, it’s safe for chewing and biting.
- Its size suits small breeds like Shih Tzus, making it easy to carry.
- Hidden squeaker inside adds excitement and keeps dogs entertained.
- Removable squeaker pouch allows easy cleaning or replacement.
- Plush texture makes it gentle on a puppy’s teeth and gums.
- Not durable enough for heavy chewers; they may rip it quickly.
- Squeaker noise might annoy some pet parents over time.
- May need frequent washing as the fabric attracts dirt easily.
Multipet Lamb Chop Squeaky Plush Dog Toy
This soft, squeaky toy is a hit with small dogs like Shih Tzus. Its cute design and gentle texture make it perfect for cuddles and playtime!
Features & Description (Multipet Lamb Chop Squeaky Plush Dog Toy)
The Multipet Lamb Chop Squeaky Plush Dog Toy is a hit with Shih Tzus. Made from soft synthetic fabric and polyester, it’s gentle on small mouths. This plush toy includes a squeaker to keep dogs entertained for hours.
At just $6.99, it’s budget-friendly too.
With over 21,700 reviews and a solid 4.5-star rating, many dog owners love it. Its size fits perfectly in the paws of smaller breeds like Shih Tzu puppies. The design is safe for chewing but durable enough to last through play sessions.
Pros & Cons (Multipet Lamb Chop Squeaky Plush Dog Toy)
Soft, squeaky toys can bring joy to Shih Tzus. The Multipet Lamb Chop Squeaky Plush Dog Toy is a top pick for small dog toys.
Pros:
- It’s cuddly and perfect for snuggling.
- The squeaker inside grabs your Shih Tzu’s attention fast.
- Its soft material is gentle on your dog’s teeth and gums.
- It’s lightweight, making it easy for small dogs to carry around.
- Many pet owners rate it highly because dogs love it so much.
Cons:
- Not very durable for heavy chewers; may rip easily with rough use.
- Some dogs might tear out the squeaker quickly, which could pose safety issues if swallowed.
- The white color gets dirty fast, especially during outdoor play.
- It’s more suitable for calm play rather than chewing or tugging activities.
- Frequent washing may cause wear and tear over time, reducing longevity.
Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball Tough Dog Toy
The Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball is perfect for Shih Tzus who love a good game of fetch. It’s tough, bouncy, and sized just right for small mouths.
Features & Description (Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball Tough Dog Toy)
This tough rubber ball is made for small dogs like Shih Tzus. It’s bouncy, making fetch games more exciting. With a diameter perfect for little mouths and durable material, it handles chewers well.
It has a 4.8/5-star rating from over 10,000 reviews. Each two-pack costs $8.95 ($4.48 per ball), so it’s affordable too! Plus, the bright design makes it easy to spot in grass or during playtime outdoors.
Pros & Cons (Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball Tough Dog Toy)
The Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball is a fantastic option for Shih Tzu dogs who love to fetch. Its durable design makes it perfect for small but active pups.
- Made with high-quality rubber, it can handle rough play without falling apart.
- Fits Shih Tzu mouths well due to its medium size, making it easy to carry during fetch.
- Bounces high, adding extra fun and excitement during playtime.
- Easy to clean, so you won’t have to worry about dirt sticking after outdoor use.
- Lightweight and portable—great for trips to the park or the backyard.
- Does not squeak, which may be a downside if your pup loves noisy toys.
- Might not hold up against extreme chewers, as no toy is fully indestructible.
Petstages Cool Teething Stick
Teething pups love the Petstages Cool Teething Stick. It’s soothing, fun to chew, and perfect for tiny mouths.
Features & Description (Petstages Cool Teething Stick)
The Petstages Cool Teething Stick is made for Shih Tzu puppies dealing with itchy gums. It helps ease discomfort during teething. Soak it in water, freeze it, and give it to your pup for a soothing chew session.
The stick has a soft yet durable fabric that’s gentle on tiny teeth but tough enough to last.
It also features bright colors and textured surfaces for extra sensory play. Lightweight design makes it easy for small dogs like Shih Tzus to carry around. This toy boosts mental stimulation while offering relief from biting urges caused by teething pain.
Safe materials ensure worry-free chewing every time!
Pros & Cons (Petstages Cool Teething Stick)
This teething stick is perfect for Shih Tzu puppies. It helps with teething pain and keeps your pup entertained.
Pros:
- It is gentle on small dog teeth and gums, making it ideal for Shih Tzu puppies.
- The frozen feature soothes aching gums during teething.
- Lightweight design allows easy chewing and playing for tiny dogs like Shih Tzus.
- Made from safe, non-toxic materials to protect your dog’s health.
- Offers both chewing satisfaction and mental stimulation for playful pups.
Cons:
- This stick does not stand up to heavy chewers or aggressive biting habits.
- Frequent freezing may be needed to maintain the cooling effect, which can feel inconvenient.
- Smaller size might get lost quicker in busy households or outdoor play areas.
- Some dogs lose interest in it once the cooling effect wears off.
- More suitable for teething puppies rather than fully grown Shih Tzu dogs looking for durable dog toys.
Outward Hound Hedgehogz Plush Dog Toy
The Outward Hound Hedgehogz toy brings fun and comfort for Shih Tzus who love plush buddies. Its squeakers and soft texture can keep your pup happy for hours!
Features & Description (Outward Hound Hedgehogz Plush Dog Toy)
This plush toy is shaped like a cozy hedgehog, perfect for small Shih Tzus. It includes a squeaker inside to grab your dog’s attention during playtime. The toy has no sharp edges or hard parts, making it safe for gentle chewers.
The soft material makes it great for cuddling and chewing. With minimal stuffing, there’s less mess if your pup gets too excited. Its lightweight design is easy for small dogs to carry around the house or yard.
Pros & Cons (Outward Hound Hedgehogz Plush Dog Toy)
The Outward Hound Hedgehogz Plush Dog Toy is a favorite among Shih Tzu owners. It provides fun and mental stimulation, but it has its ups and downs.
- Fun squeaker inside adds excitement during play.
- Soft plush material is gentle on a Shih Tzu’s mouth.
- Lightweight design makes it easy for small dogs to carry around.
- Helps with separation anxiety by keeping your dog entertained.
- Not the most durable option—stuffing may come out under heavy chewing.
- Works best for light chewers, not aggressive ones.
- Offers hours of interactive play but requires supervision to avoid messes from torn stuffing.
Conclusion
Your Shih Tzu deserves toys that make them wag their little tail with joy. Pick ones that suit their size, play style, and chewing habits. Try different types like squeaky or puzzle toys to keep them happy and sharp.
A good mix of fun and learning keeps your pup entertained for hours! Treat your furry friend—they’ll love you even more!
FAQs
1. What are the best toys for Shih Tzus?
The best toys for Shih Tzus include small dog toys, chew toys, and puzzle toys that provide mental stimulation and suit their size. Interactive dog toys like snuffle mats or fetch toys can also keep them active.
2. Are durable dog toys important for Shih Tzu puppies?
Yes, durable dog toys are essential for Shih Tzu puppies since they love to chew while teething. Tough materials prevent quick wear and tear during playtime.
3. How do interactive dog toys help with separation anxiety in Shih Tzus?
Interactive dog toys keep your Shih Tzu busy when you’re away by offering challenges or rewards. This helps reduce boredom and eases separation anxiety.
4. Can I use puzzle or snuffle mats during crate training my Shih Tzu?
Absolutely! Puzzle and snuffle mats make crate training easier by keeping your pup entertained inside the crate, helping them feel more comfortable.
5. Where can I find discounts on the best Shih Tzu toys?
Websites like rover.com sometimes offer vouchers or coupon codes that you can use to save money on high-quality Shih Tzu-friendly products!