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Are you looking for the best toys for your Golden Retriever? You’re in the right place!
Golden Retrievers are playful, smart, and full of energy. They love to play with toys that keep them busy and happy.
In this article, I’ll share the top 10 toys Golden Retrievers love most. These toys are fun, safe, and perfect for keeping your dog active.
From chew toys to fetch toys and puzzles, this list has something for every Golden Retriever.
Let’s find the perfect toy for your dog!
Table of Contents
Types Of Toys Suitable For Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers enjoy a variety of toys, each serving different purposes:
- Interactive Toys: Interactive toys engage your dog’s mind and prevent boredom. Examples include treat-dispensing toys and tug-of-war toys, which provide essential mental stimulation. Note: Avoid rope toys; the strings can cause serious internal injuries if ingested. Opt for rubber, neoprene, or canvas tug toys instead.
- Chew Toys: Chew toys satisfy natural chewing instincts and promote dental health. Durable rubber chews and flavoured bones help clean teeth and reduce plaque.
- Fetch Toys: Fetch toys encourage physical exercise and play. Balls and frisbees are great for maintaining a healthy weight and improving agility through active play. Note: Be cautious with tennis balls; the felt can wear down your dog’s teeth over time. Consider using balls specifically designed for dogs.
- Plush Toys: Plush toys offer comfort and gentle play. Stuffed animals and squeaky toys provide a sense of security, making them perfect for cuddling.
- Puzzle Toys: Puzzle toys stimulate mental activity and problem-solving. Hide-and-seek toys and treat puzzles enhance cognitive abilities and keep your dog engaged.
A mix of these toy types helps keep your Golden Retriever physically active, mentally stimulated, and content. Remember to supervise play and regularly check toys for wear and tear.
Top 10 Best Toys For Golden Retrievers
Here are the 10 best toys that Golden Retrievers love. These toys will keep your dog happy, active, and entertained.
1. Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel Puzzle Plush
Golden Retrievers will love the Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel Puzzle Plush. It’s a 2-in-1 toy featuring a soft tree trunk with six squeaky squirrels to hide inside.
The puzzle challenges your dog’s mind, while the plush squirrels are perfect for fetching.
Gentle on teeth and gums, it’s suitable for dogs of all ages.
The squeakers add excitement, keeping your Golden engaged for hours. Though not ideal for heavy chewers, it offers great mental stimulation and versatile play options.
2. Nina Ottosson Lickin’ Layers Interactive Puzzle
This three-layered puzzle toy challenges Golden Retrievers mentally and slows down eating. It holds 1.5 cups of wet or dry food, making mealtime fun and engaging.
The durable, dishwasher-safe design is easy to clean.
While it may not challenge all dogs equally, it’s great for reducing anxiety and providing mental stimulation, perfect for intelligent Golden Retrievers.
Details:
- 3 Layers to Hide Treats.
- Fill With Dry or Wet Food.
- Holds 1.5 Cups.
- Food Safe.
- Easy To Clean; Dishwasher Safe.
- Non-Slip Base.
- Fights Boredom.
- Provides Mental Stimulation & Reduces Anxiety.
- Slow Feeder Improves Digestion.
- Keeps your dog busy and engaged for hours.
- Challenges your dog's problem solving skills.
- Can be used as a slow feeder to improve digestion.
- Versatile design can be used with wet or dry food.
- Durable and well made.
- May not be challenging enough for some dogs.
- It doesn't slow down eating enough.
3. Multipet Lamb Chop – Jumbo
Golden Retrievers who love soft comfort toys will adore the Multipet Lamb Chop Jumbo Size.
At 24 inches, it’s a plush toy with a squeaker for added fun and reinforced stitching for extra durability.
Perfect for fetching, interactive play, and gentle chewing, it often becomes a favourite.
Though not built for heavy chewers, it’s excellent for cuddling and light play, making it a versatile choice for many Golden Retrievers.
Details:
- 24" Jumbo Size.
- Ideal For Large Dogs.
- Comfort Toy.
- 1 Noise-Making Squeaker.
- Engaging & Fun.
- Versatile Toy; Fetch, Interactive Play, Comfort, & Gentle Chewing.
- Officially Licensed Product.
- Reinforced Stitching & Well-Made.
- Easily becomes a favourite toy among Golden Retrievers.
- Great comfort toy for cuddling.
- Soft plush is gentle on teeth & gums.
- Durable design with reinforced stitching; holds up to light chewing.
- Noise-making squeaker engages dogs.
- Not intended for heavy chewers as it can be easily destroyed.
- Only 1 squeaker inside.
- The squeaker doesn't last long.
4. goDog Dinos Frills Squeaky Plush
This durable plush toy features Chew Guard Technology and reinforced seams, making it tougher than average plush toys.
It’s great for Golden Retrievers who enjoy cuddling, fetching, and light chewing.
The built-in squeaker adds excitement, while the 30-day guarantee offers peace of mind.
Although not indestructible, it’s a long-lasting option for most Golden Retrievers, combining comfort with durability.
Details:
- Soft & Durable Bubble Textured Plush.
- Reinforced Seams & Chew-Resistant Lining.
- Chew Guard Technology.
- Built-In Squeaker.
- Versatile Toy; Cuddling, Fetch, Interactive Play, & Chewing.
- 30-Day Guarantee; 1-Time Free Replacement.
- Well-made & durable.
- Designed with chew guard technology to withstand rough play and chewing.
- The built-in squeaker adds more excitement.
- Lasts longer than other plush toys.
- Comes with a 30-day guarantee; if your dog happens to destroy it, you get a free replacement.
- While it lasts longer than other plush toys, it is not indestructible.
- Not for aggressive chewers.
5. Chuckit! Ultra Ball
The Chuckit! Ultra Ball is perfect for fetch-loving Golden Retrievers. It’s ultra-bouncy, floats in water, and fits Chuckit! launchers for longer throws.
The durable, textured surface is gentle on teeth and gums. While not a chew toy, it’s resistant to dirt and slobber, making it ideal for active play both on land and in water.
It’s a versatile, long-lasting choice for most Golden Retrievers.
Details:
- 2.5" Diameter; Similar Size of a Tennis Ball.
- Ultra High Bounce.
- Ultra Durable Rubber.
- Floats on Water.
- Textured Surface & Thick Rubber Core.
- Soft on Dog's Mouths.
- Compatible with Medium Chuckit! Launchers.
- Ideal for Dogs 20-60Lbs.
- Lightweight.
- Lightweight & easy to throw.
- Bounces super high.
- Durable rubber stands up to light chewing.
- Soft & gentle on teeth and gums; it will not wear teeth down.
- Versatile ball can be used on land and in water.
- Dirt & slobber resistant.
- Not intended as a chew toy.
- Aggressive chewers can still destroy this ball.
6. Chuckit! Ultra Fetch Stick
Add some excitement to your Golden’s games of fetch with the Chuckit! Ultra Fetch Stick. Not only is this stick durable, it has an unpredictable bounce that keeps your dog engaged and guessing where it will land next.
Its bright colour makes it easier to spot in tall grass, and its soft material is gentle on teeth and gums, making it suitable for light chewing.
While not for water use or heavy chewers, it’s a great land-based fetch toy that’s long-lasting and easy to throw, perfect for active Golden Retrievers.
Details:
- Made From Durable High-Quality Natural Rubber.
- Unpredictable Bounce.
- Bright Colours For Increased Visibility.
- Gentle on Dogs Teeth & Gums.
- Ideal For Interactive Games of Fetch.
- Compatible With Chuckit! RingChaser Launcher.
- Land Use Only.
- Durable & well-made.
- Soft & gentle on your dog's mouth.
- Holds up to light chewing.
- Easy to throw & its unpredictable bounce keeps dogs engaged & excited.
- It is a bit heavy.
- It is not meant for water play; it does not float.
- Some dogs have no interest in this toy.
- Not intended for heavy chewers.
7. Benebone Fishbone Durable Dog Chew
The Benebone Fishbone is a long-lasting nylon chew toy flavoured with real Jack Salmon, perfect for Golden Retrievers who love to chew.
Its unique fish shape adds challenge and interest and helps clean teeth. Plus, it’s durable enough for aggressive chewers.
Made in the USA, it’s odour-free and suitable for dogs with allergies to common proteins like beef and chicken.
While it needs replacing eventually, it’s a satisfying, long-lasting option for most Golden Retrievers.
Details:
- Durable & Long-Lasting Chew Toy.
- Flavoured With Real Jack Salmon.
- Cleans Teeth & Satisfies Chewing.
- Made in USA.
- Made of Nylon & Real Fish Flavour.
- Odour Free.
- Various Sizes Available.
- Satisfaction Guaranteed.
- The curved fish design adds some challenge.
- Long-lasting chew that keeps your dog happy & occupied.
- Holds up to aggressive chewing.
- Ideal for dogs with allergies to other proteins, fish is a great alternative.
- Durable & USA made.
- Some dogs don't like the shape of it, compared to the Wishbone.
- As with all toys, supervision is a must.
- Needs replacing after wear and tear.
8. KONG Ring Chew Toy
This USA-made rubber ring is a versatile toy for Golden Retrievers. Its durable design satisfies chewing instincts while promoting dental health.
The unpredictable bounce adds excitement to fetch and interactive play.
While not for aggressive chewers, it’s a long-lasting, multi-purpose toy that’s backed by KONG’s quality guarantee.
Its compact size and durability make it an excellent choice for most Golden Retrievers.
Details:
- Made of Durable Natural Rubber.
- Made in USA.
- Measures 4.25" x 4.25"
- Satisfies Chewing.
- Promotes Healthy Teeth & Gums.
- KONG Satisfaction Guaranteed.
- Long-lasting toy that satisfies chewing instincts.
- The added nubs help clean teeth and promote a healthy mouth.
- Strong & safe chew toy.
- Versatile toy; great for chewing, fetch, and interactive play.
- Has an unpredictable bounce which adds excitement.
- KONG is known for its durability & quallity.
- Some owners mention the toy is smaller than they initially thought.
- Not intended for aggressive chewers.
9. West Paw Zogoflex Toppl Treat Dispenser
The West Paw Zogoflex Toppl Treat Dispenser is a durable, USA-made option that’s ideal for Golden Retrievers who love puzzle toys.
It’s incredibly versatile—perfect for treats, meals, or even fetch, whether on land or in water.
Made from tough, safe Zogoflex material, it’s also easy to clean.
While it may be a bit pricey, its durability and West Paw’s guarantee make it a worthwhile investment.
For added challenge, try connecting two different sizes together to provide hours of mental stimulation for your Golden Retriever.
Details:
- Made of Zogoflex; A Proprietary Blend of Plastics-NOT Rubber.
- Interactive Chew Toy For Moderate Chewers.
- Durable Treat-Dispensing Chew Toy.
- Holds Dry or Wet Food & Treats.
- BPA, Latex, & Phthalate-Free.
- Durable, Safe & Responsibly Made.
- Made in USA.
- Dishwasher Safe.
- Floats on Water.
- Bowl Shaped Design With Interior Rubber Prongs to Hold Treats.
- West Paw Love It Guarantee.
- Super durable & easy to clean.
- Versatile toy can be used as a treat dispenser, and playing fetch on land or in water.
- Keeps dogs entertained & busy for hours; freeze your dog's favourite food inside.
- West Paw has excellent customer service.
- West Paw toys are pricey, but their durability are worth it.
- Not challenging enough for most dogs; you need to buy 2 Toppl's in different sizes & connect them together to make it more challenging.
10. KONG Jumbler Ball
The KONG Jumbler Ball is perfect for Golden Retrievers, combining a tennis ball, squeaker, and easy-grip handles.
It’s great for fetching, shaking, and light chewing, keeping dogs engaged with its loud squeak and bouncing action.
While durable, it’s not meant for heavy chewers or to be left in the sun, as it can warp. KONG’s satisfaction guarantee adds extra assurance for owners.
Details:
- Interactive Dog Toy With Interior Tennis Ball & Loud Squeaker.
- Designed For Tough Play.
- Ideal For Fetch, Shaking, & Tossing.
- Easy To Grab Handles.
- Available in 2 Sizes.
- Made of Rubber.
- KONG Satisfaction Guarantee.
- 2-in-1 Ball toy for twice the fun.
- It squeaks, bounces, & keeps dogs engaged.
- Suitable for both indoor & outdoor use.
- Great for games of fetch, gentle chewing, tossing, & shaking.
- Easy to grab handles make it easy to throw & easy for dogs to carry.
- The squeaker is loud; some owners are annoyed by it.
- Not recommended for heavy chewers.
- Not intended to be left outside; it warps in the heat.
How To Choose The Best Toys For Your Golden Retriever
Picking the right toys for your Golden Retriever is important for their happiness and safety. Here are some tips to help you choose:
- Size Matters: Choose toys large enough to prevent choking. Avoid toys smaller than your dog’s mouth.
- Durability: Golden Retrievers can be strong chewers. Pick toys that can withstand their strength.
- Age-Appropriate: Puppies, adults, and senior dogs have different needs. Select toys suitable for your dog’s life stage.
- Safety First: Avoid toys with small parts, toxic materials, or sharp edges. The American Kennel Club offers a helpful guide on unsafe toys.
- Variety Is Key: Mix different types of toys to keep your Golden mentally and physically stimulated.
- Consider Activity Level: Match toy types to your dog’s energy and play style.
- Texture Preferences: Some dogs prefer soft toys, while others like harder materials. Observe what your Golden enjoys.
- Dental Health: Include toys that promote good oral hygiene, like dental chews.
Remember, always supervise playtime and regularly inspect toys for damage to ensure your Golden Retriever’s safety.
Maintenance And Care For Dog Toys
Proper care of your dog’s toys ensures they remain safe and enjoyable. Here are some helpful tips to keep them in top condition:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean toys regularly to remove dirt and bacteria. Use mild soap and water, and make sure they are thoroughly rinsed and dried.
- Inspect For Damage: Check toys frequently for signs of wear and tear. Replace any toys that are damaged or have small parts that could pose a choking hazard.
- Safe Storage: Store toys in a clean, dry place to prevent mould and mildew. Keep them out of direct sunlight to avoid deterioration.
- Rotating Toys: Rotate your dog’s toys to keep them fresh and interesting. This also helps prevent wear on any single toy.
FAQs
1. What Are The Best Chew Toys For Golden Retrievers?
Durable rubber bones and flavoured chews are ideal. Choose from trusted brands like KONG, West Paw, Benebone, and Nylabone. These toys are perfect for heavy chewers, support dental health, and keep dogs engaged.
2. What Types Of Toys Are Ideal For Golden Retrievers?
Golden Retrievers benefit from interactive, chew, fetch, plush, and puzzle toys. Each type provides different benefits, from mental stimulation to physical exercise.
3. How Do I Know Which Toys My Golden Retriever Will Like The Most?
Golden Retrievers often enjoy toys that match their play style. For instance, fetch toys like balls and frisbees are great for active play, while interactive toys like treat dispensers keep them mentally engaged.
4. Are There Any Toys I Should Avoid Giving My Golden Retriever?
Avoid toys with small removable parts, as they can be choking hazards. Steer clear of rope toys, which can cause internal injuries if ingested, and felt-covered tennis balls, which can wear down teeth. Also, avoid toys made from toxic materials.
For a more detailed list of toys to avoid and their potential risks, check out my article on the 10 worst toys for Golden Retrievers.
5. How Can I Encourage My Golden Retriever To Play With New Toys?
Introduce new toys gradually and use positive reinforcement such as treats and praise. Engage with the toy yourself to spark interest and make it fun for your dog.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to finding the best toys for Golden Retrievers, selecting the right options can make all the difference.
These toys not only keep your Golden happy and engaged but also support their health and well-being.
Here are the key points to remember:
- Choose toys that are safe and appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing strength.
- Incorporate a mix of interactive, chew, fetch, plush, and puzzle toys to keep your Golden entertained.
- Regularly check and clean toys to ensure they remain in good condition.
- Avoid toys with small parts, toxic materials, or those that can easily break into dangerous pieces.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can find the perfect toys that will keep your Golden Retriever happy and active.
What toy does your Golden Retriever love the most? Share your favourites in the comments below.
Hi, I’m Jenny, the owner and content creator of First Time Dog Mom. As the proud owner of Ellie, my senior Golden Retriever, I share the insights and tips I’ve learned through my own experiences as a dog mom. With a lifelong love of animals, I hope to be a helpful resource for others navigating the joys and challenges of pet parenthood.
Never buy a rope toy. They can swallow some of the loose strings which can bind their intestines.
Hi Karen,
Thank you for this warning about rope toys. I really hope this is not something that has happened to your dog. It is certainly something to be aware of and good advice for all dog owners. Many dog owners have had great success with rope toys, including myself. But yes I can absolutely see how this can be dangerous. I strongly recommend close supervision with any toy that your dog is playing with.
Thank you again for this advice, I will update the article with a rope toy alternative.
Jenny.
I love my Golden Retriever. His name is, guess what? Lassie. He likes running all around my yard. And he’s very healthy. But I was thinking the other day that I haven’t bought him any toys in a while. His birthday is around the corner, so I feel I should buy him something. I really liked the outward hound invincibles stuffingless snake. Cool!
Hi Ann,
I’m sure your Golden Retriever would love a new toy for his birthday! The Outward Hound stuffingless snake sounds like a great choice.
Thanks for stopping by,
Jenny.
We’ve had the good fortune of having Golden’s for the past forty years – seven in total. Your comments and those of other readers nail their traits and inherent good nature. Finn, the near three-year-old current, stands out in that his mouthing characteristics (our vet tags it as Pica) have led to three abdominal surgeries to remove injected, impassable rocks.
Like I suspect that of all your readers, ours have been wonderful companions. Beyond that, in the emotionally hardest of times, Seamus had this apparent sense of those times and went the extra distance of being exceptionally attentive and caring. Similar to good friends that will never be forgotten nor not appreciated, he is that fondly remembered and loved.
Hi Dan and Nancy,
Thank you for sharing your experience. You are truly Golden Retriever owners for life, having 7 in total! I’m sure you could write a book about all of the many adventures you have had. I am sorry to hear that your golden Finn has had to go through 3 abdominal surgeries, Pica is very common in this breed as well as other breeds. I know my Ellie has certainly eaten her share of questionable items, it happens so quickly which is why these dogs need to be monitored very closely. Luckily she has never ingested anything that has required her to have surgery.
All the best,
Jenny.
Hi Jenny,
The Goldens are a great dog, and love to be part of the family! The toys are also so awesome nowadays! My daughter’s likes the stuffed animals and I see these are machine washable which is also great! Do you know what type of filling they use to stuff the toys? I was just wondering in case they tear them open. These toys are so cute, I want them all!
Thanks for the great review, Jenny!
Chas
Hi Chas,
I am glad you enjoyed my review of the best toys for Golden Retrievers. I am not surprised that your daughter’s golden loves the soft plush animals, because they are a favourite in my house too. Goldens love to carry them in their mouths and shake them, and the more realistic looking they are the better, because they bring out their hunting instincts.
The stuffing inside of the toys is made of non-toxic materials, same with the outside of the toys. The gray squirrel by Sancho and Lola’s Closet is made of the same material used in baby toys, so it is safe and non-toxic.
That being said, you don’t want your dog to ingest any material, but accidents happen, so you can feel safer knowing the toys are non-toxic.
Thanks for your comment, and I hope this helps you out.
Great and useful tips for buying the best toys for doggy.
My sister has two dogs and quite often I am searching for some gift ideas. I like all of these ideas… Actually, I am quite impressed by the rope toy and its quality, you are mentioning this rope toy has a one-time free replacement guarantee, in fact, it tells me this rope toy will last forever.
Is the hide a squirrel puzzle good for a boxer as well?
Thank you for sharing this great post!
Thank you for your comment. The rope toy is extremely durable and is designed for aggressive chewers, and its great for teething puppies. It would make a great gift for your sister’s dogs, they could play tug-of-war with each other.
The hide a squirrel puzzle toy is a great toy for all dogs who love puzzles and toys that squeak. It is a soft plush toy, so it is not ideal for aggressive chewers who will want to chew and rip it apart, but if the Boxer is a gentle chewer then this toy would be great.
How durable is the Hide a Squirrel toy? I have a golden that LOVES squeaking toys, but she also tends to perform deep surgery on them within the first hour or two and tear all of the filling and fluff out of them. I almost feel bad for having bought the toys after that!
I’m guessing maybe the tug of war rope is the best bet given the implied durability, but figured I’d check on the hide a squirrel as well since it is absolutely adorable!
Hi Craig,
The Hide A Squirrel is a soft plush toy, that is meant for gentle chewing. This toy is not meant for aggressive chewers, but if your dog is a gentle chewer it will last for a long time. The durability of this toy will also depend on how your dog plays with it, and how often your dog plays with it.
It is super cute, and very popular with dogs who love puzzle toys and squeakers. It is always best to supervise your dog when playing with any toy. My golden has damaged many soft plush toys, but instead of throwing them out I end up stitching them up because they are her favourites. You can also get replacement squirrels, if any of them become damaged.
The rope toy is very durable and strong, and it is made for aggressive chewers. It is nearly indestructible, and the manufacturer offers a one time replacement guarantee if your golden happens to destroy it.
Hope this helps you out, if you have any other questions or concerns I would be more than happy to help you. Thanks for your comment.
Jenny.
I have been searching for the best toys for my golden but I haven’t seen something like this. All of these toys are good looking and I’m sure my golden will love any of these. I will be getting one of these toys for my dog before this month runs to an end. Thanks for sharing this information.
Thanks for your comment. Your golden will absolutely enjoy any of the toys listed above, they are very popular with Golden Retrievers, as well as other dog breeds. If you want to bring out the hunting instincts in your golden, the Plush Rabbit Dog Toy by Pet Lou is a great choice.
Golden Retrievers are perky and carefree, and they can frequently be seen conveying something in their mouths. Typically a stick, a tennis ball, or whatever else that they happen to discover lying around. This breed is known for their adoration for water, playing fetch, and recovering. Remembering the qualities of this breed, the absolute best toys for Golden Retrievers would need to incorporate delicate toys that they can convey, tennis balls for fetch, and toys that skim in the water. Each Golden is diverse in what toys they like best, so you have to decide how your canine likes to play, and their biting style. In the event that your canine is a delicate chewer, a delicate extravagant toy is reasonable, be that as it may if your puppy is a forceful chewer you will need to search for intense bite toys that are tough enough to withstand control biting.
Thank you for your comment, and you have mentioned all the important points that I have touched on in this article.