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Selecting the right stuffed dog toys can provide endless entertainment and comfort to your dog. I couldn't have stuffed dog toys in the house for years because Rodrigo would destroy them in five seconds. Today, I have dogs that love playing with stuffed dog toys and don't treat them like prey that needs to be de-stuffed. In this article, I'll explore how to find the best-priced stuffed dog toys, highlight the top five stuffed dog toy brands, discuss the importance of cleaning dog toys regularly, and reveal why leather sewer kits are a fantastic solution for mending well-loved stuffed companions.
What to Consider When Choosing Stuffed Dog Toys
When looking for stuffed dog toys, there are a few key things to think about to make sure you’re picking out the best toy that’s safe for your dog to enjoy. When I'm out and about, I look for toys that are made from high-quality materials, toys that are tough and durable, and able to withstand rough play without ripping easily.
I avoid toys that have small parts – this is rare with stuffed dog toys, but I've seen a few that have parts that a dog can easily tear off and can potentially become a choking hazard. And, for my dogs, size does matter. I have large dogs and look for toys larger in size that can handle their strength and daily games of tug-o-war.
Lastly, I consider the look and style of the toy – mostly dinosaurs and donuts. Toys with bright colors or cool designs can really capture a dog’s attention. Mainly, I choose stuffed dog toys that keep my pups entertained and happy!
Finding the Best Priced Stuffed Dog Toys
When searching for stuffed dog toys that won't break the bank, consider factors like durability, safety, and your dog's preferences. Look for deals on reputable online pet stores, check for discounts and promotions, compare prices across various retailers, and don't forget to read reviews to ensure you're getting a quality product at an affordable price.
I have found the best deals at TJ Maxx, Home Goods, and Marshalls. We shop at those stores to fill raffle baskets for local rescue fundraising events. That's when I first noticed the great deals on high-quality dog toys, including ChuckIt! balls, which aren't cheap. My fixation on dinosaurs stems from a childhood fascination with all things Jurassic. And the donut dog toys were cute, so we have many of those, too.
The stuffed dog toys cost between $4 to $6; some are more, but I stick with the lower-priced toys, which ar priced lower than toys sold online or at pet stores.
Top Five Stuffed Dog Toy Brands
When shopping for stuffed dog toys, I look for something that can withstand three dogs. While they don't actively attempt to “kill” their toys, my dogs will take advantage of a weak spot. I've found that the following dog toy brands produce sturdy dog toys for my pack.
- goDog
- Fringe Studio (but avoid the toys wearing a hat – it's a weak spot)
- Snugg ARooz Pet
- Bow Wow Pet (I've only seen these at the Home Goods stores)
- Fluff & Tuff (available online, and not cheap, but they last for YEARS)
When I'm shopping for toys, I check the material and seams for any weak spots. I've found that toys wearing a hat or holding objects aren't as sturdy.
How Often to Clean Stuffed Dog Toys
Regularly cleaning my dogs' toys is crucial for maintaining their hygiene and preventing the spread of bacteria that makes the toys smell. I've read that stuffed dog toys should be washed in the washing machine monthly. I'll be honest: I wash the toys that get the most play quarterly or when they look dirty, and leaving them outside in the sun to dry.
Mending Stuffed Dog Toys
When one of the stuffed dog toys shows signs of wear or one of the dogs rips a hole in the toy, I will break out the sewing kit. It doesn't matter how inexpensive the toys are; they still cost money, and I'm not throwing them away until they're unsalvageable. A friend recommended using a leather sewer kit instead of a traditional kit. Leather sewer kits provide the tools needed to mend tears, reinforce seams, and extend the life of beloved toys, saving money on constant replacements and extending the life of the toys. I've gotten pretty good at sewing the toys.
Final Thoughts on Stuffed Dog Toys
Stuffed dog toys aren't for all dogs. In fact, I sometimes wonder why they still make them, because most people seem to have dogs that destroy toys in seconds. I feel lucky to have dogs that do well with stuffed dog toys and I've found a source where I can buy them for a third of the price.
Choosing high-quality stuffed dog toys, maintaining their cleanliness, and utilizing leather sewer kits for repairs are the reasons why we have a great collection of toys that are surviving life with our dogs. But, to be honest, the toys are mostly surviving because they're a good fit for my dogs. If you have a dog that is determined to “kill” their toy, I recommend Fluff & Tuff – these were the only toys Rodrigo couldn't destroy and I have stuffed toys that have survived for years.
