Dogs play in a variety of different ways.
Some have an undeniable compulsion to retrieve anything you toss. Others just love ripping things apart with their mouths. There are also dogs out there who love jumping around like complete goofs without even needing a toy to unlock full puppy-play mode.
And then there are dogs like my pupper, who enjoy nothing more than epic tug-of-war battles.
They just want to dig their teeth in, throw their weight back, and show you how strong they are.
These kinds of games are often fun for both parties, but you must use a high-quality toy for safety’s sake. For that matter, you’ll save a ton of money over time if you skip the super cheap tug toys that are so common and pick one that is built to last.
We’ll try to help you do exactly that below as we discuss a few of the best tug toys on the market and explain some of the things you’ll want to think about when making your choice.
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Different Types of Tug Toys for Dogs: Which Is Best for Your Barker?
Tug toys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with each providing a slightly different type of play experience. Any type of tug toy will work for playtime, but you and your pooch will have more fun if you select one that is well-suited for your needs.
We’ll discuss four of the most common designs below.
Rope Toys
Rope-style tugs are probably the most popular type of toy to use for tug-of-war games with your floof, and it’s easy to see why:
- Most feature a knot at each end, making them easy for dogs and humans to grip during a tug session.
- Rope toys are lightweight, soft, and strong, which means they’re pretty safe for playtime.
- They’re inexpensive, which makes them gentle on your bank account.
Rope toys for dogs also tend to hold up pretty well over time, although many pups will disassemble them one thread at a time if allowed to chew on them. This makes monitoring your pup’s playtime with a rope dog toy a must, as these fibers can cause serious tummy trouble.
Bumpers
Many owners and trainers use bumpers as training tools for retrievers, but some also work well for tug games. Some bumpers are comprised of a canvas or jute bag, which is filled with sand or some type of fibers; others are made from durable plastic.
Some of the neatest features of bumpers include:
- Bumpers are made from different materials, so you can select one that is best suited for your pooch.
- Bumpers typically come with an attached handle (and some have two), which makes it easy to keep a grip on the toy while playing.
- Most bumpers are very durable, and they’ll hold up well to the teeth of many dogs.
Some dogs will have trouble gripping bumpers, but others seem to love the way it feels to bite down on these types of toys. Bumpers obviously work well for fetch games too, and many plastic models float, making them great water toys for playing at the pool or beach.
Rings
Some tug toys are made in ring form. They’re essentially just a hollow ring of plastic or rubber; your dog will grab one side, you grab the other, and both of you can start pulling!
Some of the most notable features of ring toys include:
- Ring-style tug toys are great for playing in confined spaces, as they’ll keep you and your pooch closer together than longer ropes or canvas toys.
- Ring-style toys work well for fetch games when you’re pup tires of tugging.
- Ring-style toys are usually made from plastic or rubber, but there are also fabric or rope options available.
Rings are pretty awesome, but they can get kinda gross and slick once your dog slobbers on them. But that’s just part of the pet parenthood gig. Additionally, it is important to choose one of the proper size — you don’t want your dog to get the ring stuck around her muzzle or wind up with your fingers near her mouth.
Handled Toys
Some manufacturers make tug toys into interesting or funny shapes that don’t fit neatly into one of the other categories.
These types of toys may be made of just about anything, including hard plastic, soft rubber, or fabric. The only thing they all have in common is the presence of a handle, which will allow you to get a good grip.
- Handled toys are usually the easiest type of tug toy to grip, which is especially important for those with big, strong dogs.
- You can choose from a variety of materials and designs to give your pooch the best toy for her play style.
- Many handled toys are made from very durable materials, which are strong enough to stand up to your dog’s chewing and tugging.
These types of toys can be very fun to use; just be sure that you select one that is the right size for your dog’s mouth (and your hands).
The Best Tug-of-War Toys Around
Unlike some of the other products we review, which have serious safety, health, or dog-management implications, tug toys aren’t a purchase that should cause you a ton of stress.
As long as the toy is well-built and safe (which all of these should be), you can just pick one and try it out. If it works, great! If not, just try a different one. At worst, you’ll only be out a couple of bucks, and you’ll have enjoyed spending some time trying the toy out with your pooch.
1. West Paw Zogoflex Bumi
About: The West Paw Zogoflex Bumi is a US-made, S-shaped tug toy designed to be safe and gentle on your dog’s gums and teeth while still being strong enough to hold up to countless tug-of-war games and rounds of fetch. The Bumi’s unique shape makes it easy for you and your dog to grip the toy, and it is designed to stretch up to twice its normal length during playtime.
Features:
- Made from Zogoflex – a proprietary and exclusive plastic material that’s BPA-and-Phthalate-free, non-toxic, and FDA compliant
- Lightweight for play and floats in water
- Dishwasher-safe and recyclable (Check out West Paw Design’s recycling program)
- Made in the USA
Sizes: Small (7.5″ x 5″ x 1.25″) and Large (9.5″ x 9.5″ x 1.75″)
Colors: Aqua, Granny Smith, Tangerine
Pros
- Crazy shape is a hit with pups
- Durability gets a thumb’s up from most owners
- Come with a manufacturer’s Love It Guarantee
Cons
- Not intended for use as a chew toy, so stick to tugging only
- Lack of traditional handles a bummer for some pet parents
2. Goughnuts MAXX Tug HD
A figure-8-shaped chew and tug toy made with Goughnuts' strongest and most durable rubber.
About: The Goughnuts MAXX Tug HD is a figure-eight-shaped toy specifically designed for tug games, and its unique design gives you and your pooch a comfortable place to hang on. Like many of the other toys described in this article, the Goughnuts Tug Toy is not for chewing, but it is made from the same resilient rubber that Goughnut’s chew toys are made of, making it one of the toughest options available.
Features:
- Made of heavy-duty tough rubber that’s still safe for dogs
- Material flexes and stretches for comfortable games of tug with your dog
- Covered by the Goughnuts lifetime guarantee against damage (your pup damages it, they replace it!)
- Made in the USA
Sizes: This is a relatively hefty tug toy, which measures 11 inches long and 6 inches across. It also weighs about 1.6 lbs, so, as one customer mentioned, you don’t want to drop this toy on your toes.
However, you can also get a smaller version of the toy, which is about 2” shorter and only measures 5 inches wide.
Colors: The MAXX Tug HD only comes in one color (black), but other versions of the toy come in other colors.
Pros
- This is one tough toy that can take some heavy-duty tug-of-war between big, strong dogs
- Shape works great for tug between two dogs or you and your dog
- Comes with a Goughnuts lifetime damage guarantee
Cons
- Pricer than some other options
- A tad bulky for small dogs and playing fetch
3. Charming Pet Plush Squeaky Tug Toy
A plush squeaking tug toy fashioned after an adorable critter with double-stitched seams and fused backing for added strength.
About: The Charming Pet Plush Squeaky Tug Toy is designed to look cute while still being strong enough to withstand your dog’s tugging teeth. These toys can be used in a “folded” orientation, or you can “unfold” them if that works better for you and your dog.
Features:
- Made of resilient rip-stop canvas with double-stitched seams and nylon reinforcement
- Hidden inner squeaks for satisfying your pup’s predatory instincts during play
- Can be used for tug, fetch, or cuddling
- Made in China
Sizes: The plush tug toy is available in only one size. It measures about 16 inches long when “folded” and 26 inches long when “unfolded.”
Colors: You can purchase the toy in four different versions: Pig, Cow, Giraffe, and the Bunny style pictured above. Note that the price differs slightly from one version to the next.
Pros
- Many pet parents are tickled pink with how well these plushies hold up to tug
- Great choice for dogs who prefer soft toys
- Versatile additions to your dog’s toy basket, as they can be tugs, fetchers, or cuddlers
Cons
- Made in China
- Not intended for chewing
4. ZippyPaws RopeTugz Plush Tug
A cute and squeaky plush with two handles for games of tug and toss.
About: ZippyPaws RopeTugz Plush Tug combined tug-ready rope with a soft stuffed animal, giving your dog the best of both worlds. Its dual loop handles are perfect for backyard romps of tug between dogs, while the soft middle is great for winding down and cuddling on the sofa.
Features:
- Crafted with rock-climbing rope and plush fabric filled with soft stuffing
- Inner squeaker keeps canines engaged in the fun
- Machine-washable for easy upkeep
- Made in China
Colors: Available in 19 different cute and cuddly characters, including a monkey, bear, koala, and tree frog.
Sizes: Standard offerings measure 28” x 5” x 5” and suit dogs of all sizes
Pros
- Rope construction is stronger than most plush-featuring tugs
- Puts plenty of space between tugging pups to prevent head bumps and accidental nips
- Affordably priced, letting you grab more than one to keep in toy rotation without walloping your wallet
Cons
- Not meant for chewing, so it won’t withstand aggressive chompers
- Made in China
5. LECHONG Dog Rope Toy
A durable strip of knotted rope that's great for tugging, chewing, fetching, and more.
About: The LECHONG Rope Toy is a high-quality version of the classic rope-toy design. Essentially a length of rope with a couple of knots to make it easier to grip, this is a soft, safe, and durable toy that is perfect for playing tug-of-war with your pooch.
Features:
- Crafted of 100 percent natural cotton
- Flossy ends help clean your pup’s teeth as he nibbles and tugs
- Backed by a manufacturer’s satisfaction guarantee for replacement or refund
- Made in China
Colors: Offered in a single blue, white, and black pattern.
Sizes: This rope toy is only available in one size (extra-large), as it is designed for big puppers. It measures about 3 feet long and weighs about 1.5 lbs.
Pros
- Most owners report it withstands rounds of tug with ease
- Manufacturer’s guarantee is a great bonus for peace of mind
- Great pricing considering the toy’s size
Cons
- Doesn’t last as a chew toy for aggressive chewers
- Too large for small pups to play with
- Made in China
6. Pacific Pups Products Chew and Tug Collection
An assortment of tug toys for pups still learning what they like, including a ring-style tugger, a range of ropes, and a ball-and-rope design.
About: The Pacific Pups Products Chew and Tug Collection is an 11-piece set including nine different toys that would work perfectly for tug games, including rope tug toys, a ring-style tug, a ball-and-loop tug, and a floss-and-tug toy. This is a great option for owners who aren’t yet sure what type of tug toy will best suit their pooch.
Features:
- Made in compliance with ASTM F-963 Child Toy Safety Standards and contains no plastic
- Backed by a lifetime guarantee
- Proceeds from the sales help support the Pacific Pups Rescue, a California-based non-profit that helps save dogs from high-kill shelters.
- Made in China
Colors: The set includes a multi-colored mix of bright toys.
Sizes: This toy set features tugs of a variety of different sizes. The largest measure about 2 feet long, making them suitable for pretty big dogs.
Pros
- Variety of tug toys lets you and your dog learn what works best
- Great value for the money, considering how many toys you receive
- Supporting a worthy canine cause is always a win
Cons
- Don’t hold up to powerful chewers
- Made in China
7. PlayfulSpirit Durable Natural Rubber Ring
An eye-catching orange ring tug toy made with dog-safe natural rubber.
About: The PlayfulSpirit Durable Natural Rubber Ring is a circular tug toy that you can also use for fun games of fetch. Made from pet-friendly, semi-hard natural rubber, this toy is durable yet still flexes a bit for maximum mouth comfort and safety.
Features:
- Designed to appeal to dogs who dislike rope and fabric tugs
- Shape makes it easy for two dogs or you and your dog to grip the ring at the same time
- Comes with a free eBook detailing fun games you and your dog can play with the ring
- Made in China
Colors: The ring comes in a single bright orange color.
Sizes: The PlayfulSpirit Rubber Ring is available in one size, which is ideal for medium to large dogs. It measures 6 inches in diameter, and the ring is about 1 inch thick. It weighs about 10 ounces.
Pros
- Withstands games of tug and fetch, according to owners
- Texture of the ring is appealing to most dogs
- Bright coloring is great for spotting at a glance during training
Cons
- Not meant for chewing
- Smaller pups may find the ring too heavy
- Made in China
8. SPOT Leather Dog Toy
A leather dog toy with double-stitched seams made for games of tug, fetch, and more.
About: The SPOT Leather Dog Toy is a bumper-style training toy that lets you enjoy rounds of tug with your determined doggo. Sized for medium to large breed dogs, the tan leather exterior is tough enough for playing tug but still gentler on teeth than stiff rubber.
Features:
- Made of leather and jute fabric with double-stitched seams
- Features a single loop handle for you and a biteable base for your pup
- Inner squeaker keeps your dog’s attention during play
- Made in China
Colors: This leather bumper tug toy is available in a a single tan and white combination.
Sizes: Tug comes in a one large size measuring 18″ x 2″ x 2.5″. Leather squeak toys also available.
Pros
- Bumper style is usable for tug and training alike
- Affordably priced, allowing you to try a leather tug with your pup without breaking the bank
- Loop handle keeps your hand free of the bite zone
Cons
- Made in China
- Long-term durability questionable with pet parents
- Small dogs may find the leather too tough to bite
9. KONG Tug
An easy-to-grip, US-made springy tug toy constructed from KONG's classic-line red rubber.
About: Get a grip on your dog’s tug domination with the KONG Tug, a figure-eight-shaped toy with two handles. Its lightweight construction allows for more comfortable, natural movement while still withstanding your dog’s terrific tug talents.
Features:
- Made of non-toxic, dog-safe rubber and flexible nylon
- Control-Flex technology prevents the tug from snapping back into a pup’s face
- Easily wipes or rinses clean for freshening as needed
- Made in the USA from globally sourced materials
Colors: This tug is available in a bright red color.
Sizes: The single-size offering suits dogs of all sizes and measures 12.75″ x 4.5″
Pros
- Dual handles make for a more enjoyable game of tug
- Affordably priced
- Size puts plenty of space between players to avoid accidental bites or head bumps
Cons
- Not intended for chewing, so watch around power chewers
- A padded grip would be more comfortable for human tug players
10. LOOBANI Outdoor Bungee Hanging Toy
Hang or tether this bungee contraption for hours of canine fun and enrichment.
About: LOOBANI Outdoor Bungee Hanging Toy features a long length of stretchy line with a toy at the end designed to tempt your dog into tugging, thrashing, and chomping away. Hang it from a sturdy tree branch and watch your dog leap and play, or tether it to an old stump and watch your tenacious terrier tug till the cows come home.
Features:
- Made with a springy inner bungee cord covered by a durable fabric
- Toy selections include a standard knotted rope length or knotted ball
- Toy is connected to the line without metal, keeping your canine’s mouth safe from harm
- Made in China
Colors: This toy’s color varies by the type you purchase, though all feature bright, multi-color combinations.
Sizes: The tether’s length extends up to 19.7 feet but is adjustable to your needs.
Pros
- Excellent choice for bully breeds and pups who love pulling and jumping
- Great tool for giving your arm a break while your pup entertains himself
- Bungee action drives dogs wild
Cons
- Requires supervision at all times, like all dog toys
- Made in China
11. ChuckIt! Ultra Tug Dog Toy
A pup-pleasing toy perfect for rounds of fetch, tug, or working on training.
About: Combine your dog’s love of fetch and tug with the ChuckIt! Ultra Tug Dog Toy, a bouncy plaything featuring a ball you can tug around with your dog or whirl far with its attached nylon strap. Best of all, it’s compatible with the ChuckIt! Ball Launcher for achieving maximum distance without tiring your arm.
Features:
- Made with a two-ply nylon band and durable rubber ball
- Loop-style grip gives you a decent hold during play
- Also available as the Ultra Tug Duo, featuring a ball on each side of the tug, and the Ultra Toss with rope tendrils for added enrichment
- Made in Vietnam
Colors: Each toy style is bright orange and blue.
Sizes: The toy is offered in Small, Medium, and Large.
Pros
- Great for playing tug and fetch, keeping canines guessing during play
- A solid choice for incorporating into training
- Affordable pricing lets you stock up on the fun
Cons
- Not meant as a chews toy, so don’t let your dog gnaw on it too much
- Made in Vietnam
Things to Look for in a Tug Toy
No matter what type of tug toy you choose, there are a few things you’ll want to look for when making your selection.
High-Quality Materials
Most tug toys are pretty affordable, so don’t skimp: Go ahead and spend the extra two bucks for a tug toy made from premium rope or plastic rather than those made from cheap, low-quality materials. This is especially important for plastic or rubber tug toys.
An Easy-to-Grip Shape for Your Pooch
If you want your dog to enjoy playing tug of war, you have to select a toy that she can grip easily (and safely). There are no hard-and-fast rules in this regard, and different types of dogs prefer gripping different types of objects, so you may need to experiment a little bit to determine the best style for your four-footer.
A Handle for You to Hold
You probably don’t need a toy with a great handle to out-muscle your terrier while playing tug-of-war, but if you want to keep up with your Rottie, Great Dane, or mastiff, you’ll certainly need a tug toy with a handle that fits well in your hand.
Select a Tug Toy That’s a Good Size for Your Pooch
Toys that are too small can represent a choking hazard, and large toys may not even fit in the mouths of small dogs, so be sure to choose the proper size. This is another arena in which you may need to experiment, but default to small sizes for scrappy little Shih Tzus and large sizes for pitties, Labs, shepherds, and other medium to large dogs.
Safe Tug Toy Use: Don’t Be a Doofus
Playing tug-of-war with your dog isn’t exactly rocket science. You grab one end of the toy, let your pupper grab the other, and let the fun ensue.
But there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind to ensure you and your pooch have a good time and avoid injury. Just keep the following tips in mind and everything should work out just fine:
- Don’t jerk on the chew toy. Dogs have pretty strong chompers, but they aren’t indestructible. So, you’ll want to make sure that you don’t accidentally yank one of your dog’s teeth out while playing. This means making sure your dog has a good grip on the toy and pulling in a smooth, consistent manner while playing. You may also want to lay off the tug games with your young puppy while their baby teeth are still in – you could inadvertently pull one out!
- Watch out for what’s behind you. If you or your dog “win” tug of war (or slip while playing), you could end up falling backward and suffering an injury. To keep you both safe, be sure to confine tugging games to open areas and remove any objects sitting behind you or your dog.
- Keep your canine on the ground. Some owners of small dogs like to lift their dogs completely off the ground while playing tug-of-war games, but this is a terrible idea. You could not only injure your canine’s chompers by doing so, but your dog may also suffer spinal injuries in the process. Just make sure your dog keeps all four paws on the floor during tugging games.
- Don’t let your dog chew on a tug toy. We can’t count the number of disappointed owners who’ve left complaints about tug toys not holding up for long. But here’s the thing: The vast majority of these owners are using the toy incorrectly. Tug toys are not designed to be chewed on, and they may be hazardous when used in such a fashion. So, once playtime is over, take the toy away from your dog if she’s a chewer.
The Benefits of Playing Tug-of-War with Your Dog
We noted earlier that tug of war is a great way to bond with your dog, but we never explained all of the benefits this type of play provides. A few of the most notable ways tug of war will benefit you and your dog include:
- It provides another way to bond with your dog.
- It will help your dog get some exercise.
- It keeps your doggo’s brain busy.
We should also mention that tug games are also easy to play while you’re doing other things. It’s always more fun (for you and your pooch) when you give your dog your undivided attention during playtime, but life often gets in the way of that.
I can’t tell you how many K9 of Mine articles I’ve typed with one hand because my other one is busy holding onto my Rottie’s favorite rope tug toy.
Why Dogs Like Tug-of-War
Nobody knows exactly why many dogs love playing tug of war so much. That said, you can check out our article explaining some of the most likely reasons dogs love tug games, authored by certified trainer and canine behavior expert Kayla Fratt.
The article is definitely worth checking out, but the three primary reasons Kayla points out include:
- Tug of war is a collaborative game that fosters human-dog bonding
- Tug games scratch your dog’s predatory itch
- Tug of war is sort of like ripping open a carcass – something prehistoric dogs would have done frequently
Best Dog Tug Toys: Frequently Asked Questions and Concerns
With so much conflicting advice surrounding playing games of tug with your dog, you may still have some questions about dog tug toys and the practice itself. Let’s bite into the most commonly asked questions surrounding the topic.
Are tugging toys good for dogs?
Yes, tugging toys are healthy additions to your dog’s toy collection, as they flex her natural urge to grab, hold, and shake a prey item in a safe, healthy manner. They also help strengthen her body from nose to nail, far beyond her jaw muscles.
But tug toys can also be dangerous. They aren’t intended for chewing and should never be left out with your dog unattended since they can’t withstand much gnawing, potentially leading to choking or obstruction hazards. They can also injure your dog’s teeth if you play too roughly with them.
Is it good to play tug with your dog?
Absolutely! It’s only a myth that playing tug causes aggressive behavior. Countless canines enjoy tug and other interactive games without issue.
Playing tug with you dog provides valuable physical exercise and mental stimulation, plus the chance to build your bond and work on training important commands like “drop.”
Is tug of war stimulating to dogs?
Tug games are very stimulating for your doggo and are a solid form of physical and mental exercise. They dust off natural instincts she may not practice every day, such as “catching” prey (the tug toy) and “holding” it. Added squeakers only up the excitement, rewarding her hard work with high-pitched sounds.
Is tug of war safe for dogs?
Tug-of-war is a favorite game of many dogs that can be enjoyed safely, but precautions are necessary to keep everyone happy and healthy.
Most important is to continually monitor your dog when a tug toy is present, as these playthings aren’t meant for chewing and can quickly become dangerous if torn apart, risking choking or an intestinal blockage.
Next is selecting the right toy that’s large enough and strong enough for fun times with your floof. There should be enough space between either side of the tug to prevent players (human and pupper) from inadvertently getting bit or from clunking heads. The material should also be able to withstand your dog’s power. A tough tug toy like the Goughnuts Maxx Tug HD is a good fit for the strongest pups.
Lastly, never tug or thrash a tug toy during play. You can accidentally injure your dog’s mouth or teeth, turning playtime into a vet visit.
Will tug of war hurt my dog’s teeth?
If tug games are played safely with the right equipment, tug-of-war shouldn’t damage your dog’s teeth or mouth. Never jerk the toy hard during play, as this can pull out or crack a tooth. Just hold on and let your dog do the tugging.
As far as materials, look for a tug toy made with pliable rubber material that passes the fingernail test to ensure it’s not too hard for him to bite and grip with his chompers. Skip those with ultra-hard add-ons like bones that can crack teeth.
Tugging games are a great way to bond with your dog, keep her brain busy, and get her some exercise. Just remember to select a safe toy for this kind of play, take it away from your pooch once the game is over, and don’t be afraid to try several different models or styles until you find one that works well for you and your four-footer.
Do you have a tug toy that’s held up well? Have you found a particular style that seems more fun for your pooch than others? Let us know in the comments below!
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