Finding a dog breed that is as charming, loving, and lovely as a Shih Tzu is challenging. However, this does not imply that they will be pleased to sit at your feet all day.
These dogs have a lot of playful energy, which is why they love toys. What are the best Shih Tzu toys? Different models offer various advantages to dogs. Treating your dog with a range of toys, rather than just teething bones, is critical.
10 Best Shih Tzu Toys Reviewed
I recommend high-quality toys with positive reviews for this small breed. Here are the top 10 best toys for Shih Tzu.
1. Nylabone Chew Toys: Best for Teething Puppies
Teething might be a challenging period for pups. A teething toy, such as this Nylabone Pacifier, can help your Shih Tzu puppy cope with discomfort and pain.
This model includes two chew toys of varying shapes and textures that your dog can use to alleviate pain. The nylon structure makes this chew toy safe and long-lasting, even for the most severe chewers. It satisfies your pup’s natural want to chew while encouraging non-destructive chewing tendencies. It also works like a dog’s teeth cleaner.
My friend Jennifer bought it for her pup. She bought it in a few flavors, and it looks like the pet appreciates these toys.
- Satisfies dog’s want to chew
- Encourages non-destructive chewing behavior
- Different colors, textures, and tastes are available
- Cleans dog’s teeth
- The material is made specifically for teething pups
- Not suitable for adult dogs
- Not safe once broken
2. ZippyPaws Hedgehog Den: Best Interactive Dog Toys
Shih Tzus love squeaky toys, and playing hide-and-seek is a great way to get your pet mentally active. Your dog can hone its natural hunting instinct with this puzzle toy. The product comes with three soft plush hedgehogs your dog will be hunting for in the den.
Each hedgehog has a unique noisemaker, keeping your dog more involved and intrigued once it begins playing. I bought it for my sister’s pup, and it’s a pleasure to see how much the pet enjoys the present. The toy costs this money.
- Hide-and-seek is fun
- Simple yet stimulating
- Cute-looking design
- Easy to clean
- Durable and comfortable
- Not suited for aggressive chewers
3. Multipet Lambchop: Best Plush Dog Toy With Squeaker
This adorable plush toy is a replica of the most popular lamb puppet on TV. Most Shih Tzus like interactive games, fetching, nibbling, and snuggling like this one. After a long day of active play, this plush toy can provide your pet with comfort.
It has a squeaker inside, which might make you want to hide it somewhere. My neighbor bought this toy and showed it to me when I visited him. His dog also enjoys cuddling with Lambchop after a long day of chewing and fetching. This toy has all the chances to become its favorite.
- Extremely soft
- Durable stitching
- Squeaker inside
- A loop at the top makes it easy to play, fetch, and retrieve
- Thin, sweater-type material can easily get damaged
4. Nylabone Puppy Chew Toy: Best Chicken-Flavored Bone
This chicken-bone chewing toy comes with ridges with bristles, which help to clean the dog’s teeth and refresh breath. It is made of lead-free durable nylon, which is not harmful to the environment. Frequent chewing can damage the toy, causing its bits to break off and make their way to the digestive tract, so take your eye on it while your dog is playing.
My cousin gives this toy to his dog every day. He bought it primarily to prevent the dog’s teeth issues but got one more positive effect. He’s delighted that it diverted his dog’s attention away from the shoes and furniture.
- Durable and safe nylon
- Original savory flavor
- Long-lasting bacon taste
- Can withstand aggressive chewing
- Nubs and ridges prevent plaque and tartar buildup
- The parts of this toy might break off and get into the digestive tract after frequent chewing
- Can cause the chipping of teeth
5. Bojafa Dog Puzzle: Most Easy to Clean Teething Toys
These are two rubber balls that can be used to hold treats. Your Shih Tzu might have a difficult time removing the food from the grooves, which will keep it amused for a more extended period.
These blue and green balls help prevent plaque and tartar buildup and are made of tough, non-toxic rubber. Your dog will not only be rewarded with food, but it will also receive the benefits of exercise and mental stimulation.
Two balls with a diameter of 7 cm can be purchased for a very reasonable price. My mother recommended buying it because it’s easy to disassemble for cleaning, and her dog loves it.
- Double holes for dog safety
- Benefit their dental health
- Keeps the dog engaged
- Secondary holes prevent suction
- Improves intelligence
- Plastic might smell awkward
6. Chiwava Latex Toy: Best Interactive Toys for Puppies
The toy Shih Tzu will surely like is the one it will be able to pick up, carry, and squeak at the same time. This cute toy is made from non-toxic latex, and it is the right size for the little breed.
The plush toy’s smooth surface is designed to comfort puppies. Squeaker and chew-resistant seams make this toy ideal for infant Shih Tzus. This toy is suitable for small and medium-sized dogs weighing between 8,8 and 66 pounds.
My friend’s puppy loves carrying this plush toy around the house and has not left it alone for a few months already. Emily only complains about the strong rubber smell, but she has already gotten used to it.
- No stuffing
- Soft to squeeze
- Non-toxic
- Made of latex rubber
- Strong rubber smell
7. ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz: Best No-Stuffing Plush Toys
Dogs love squeaky toys because they satisfy their natural hunting instinct. I love the ZippyPaws plush dog toys because they look cute and cuddly. You can choose one of three toys: a plush fox, a squirrel, or a raccoon. Each of them has three high-quality round squeakers for pronounced sound.
These plush toys are durable and do not have stuffing, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning up a mess afterward. My neighbor has a fox, and his dog likes to play with it.
- No stuffing and no mess
- Safe and durable
- High-quality toy
- Three-round squeakers
- A dog can tear them
8. Zenoix Food Dispensing Ball: Best Toy for Stress Relief
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This is an interactive toy that also functions as a slow feeder and teeth brusher. You can put dog food inside the ball, and the pet will do anything to get its paws on it. The suction cups and firm ropes can help you pick a specific area to play.
The suction part can be used on various surfaces, including ceramic tile, glass, and wood. My friend bought it for his Shih Tzu and reported that he had issues with the suction part. His dog is a fan of this toy, so he spent some time installing it well.
- Made from natural rubber
- Granular teeth are quite soft
- Smells good
- Easy to clean
- Suction might not work well
9. Outward Hound Invincibles: Plush Small Toy for a Shih Tzu
Invincible toys have several variations of animals. Each of them has a squeaker, no stuffing, and reinforced binding along the edge, so it’s more difficult for a dog to break the stitching.
This is a Shih Tzu mini toy for chewy puppies that aren’t interested in rubber teething toys. My friend’s pup is a fan of the snake, which comes with two textures. Unfortunately, the pet destroyed it, and Nick had to buy another one. This is still a soft toy, and it won’t stand up to chewing as a tough rubber chewing toy does. It’s important to always supervise your puppy while playing with it.
- Strong squeaker toy
- Low price
- Several variations are available
- Won’t withstand a strong chewer
10. KONG Puppy Toy: Recommended by Professionals
This durable toy was made to cover Shih Tzu’s chewing needs. The model has a hole at the bottom that you can fill with goodies to keep your dog entertained and interested.
I know several people with small-breed dogs who purchased it, and all of them say it’s a quality toy. It can last for many years if you care for it properly. Pet professionals throughout the globe recommend this toy, making it a very rare find. However, if you give the toy only when you plan to leave the house, the pet can associate it with your departure
- Perfect for stuffing treats in it
- Dog trainers and veterinarians recommend it
- Rubber materials derived from natural sources
- Excellent for reducing separation anxiety
- Requires some pet-training skills
Shih Tzu Toys Buyer’s Guide
It is important to include toys in your dog’s routine since they provide a variety of advantages. Dogs can benefit from toy usage in a variety of ways, including stress relief, cerebral stimulation, exercise, and even teeth cleaning. When it comes to keeping your Shih Tzu happy and healthy, having a wide choice of toys is essential.
What toys are best for Shih Tzu?
Despite their small stature, Shih Tzus likes new games and activities. Here are some ideas for toys to keep your Shih Tzu busy and engaged.
- Plush toys. Soft plush toys appeal to Shih Tzus’ loving nature. An anxious Shih Tzu can find comfort in its favorite plush toy, and other Shih Tzus like napping with a plush toy at their side;
- Rope toys: “Tug of war” is a fun activity for dogs and their owners to play together. If you want to play “tug of war” with your dog, invest in a sturdy rope toy;
- Puzzle toys. When left on their own, intelligent Shih Tzus might get bored. Increasing your dog’s mental and physical abilities by introducing it to new puzzles is a smart move;
- Treat-dispensing toys. Shih Tzus, like many tiny dogs, are food-motivated. A treat-dispensing toy is a great way to keep your dog engaged and entertained.
What do Shih Tzus like to chew on?
According to vets and animal behaviorists, pups use their mouths to investigate the world. When they grow up, they still like chewing and can destroy anything in the house. Chewing on a bone or other chewing toy is common when your Shih Tzu puppy grows older and develops adult teeth.
Types of toys for Shih Tzus
Since you aren’t always at home and can’t play with your dog for hours, toys can help to fill that gap. Shih Tzus love to play, so having a variety of toys at their disposal is key to keeping them happy and healthy.
Chewing toys
You can help the dog to clean its teeth and gums by introducing chewing toys, which are also a great way to satisfy your pet’s need to chew. Nylon bones, rawhide, rope toys, rubber toys, and a bunch of other materials can be used to produce them.
Interactive toys
Any toy that motivates your dog to use problem-solving abilities is an interactive toy. You can conceal goodies inside puzzle bones and treat balls for your dog to find.
Ball toys
It is a traditional item for a fetching game. Using a ball toy is a perfect way to keep your dog active throughout the day. The two of you can play a game of chasing the ball or rolling it back and forth.
Plush toys
Dogs that prefer sucking rather than chewing will appreciate several plush toys which are ideal for relieving tension and anxiety. Also, you can decrease the scents of plush toys by handling them properly. Your dog can feel the smell of you close even when you’re not.
Thinker toys
Dogs love puzzles, and thinker toys are no exception. They have to figure out how to get to the prize concealed within. Except for being entertaining, this activity helps to exercise Shih Tzu’s intellect.
Fetch toys
If dogs lack physical activity (particularly when they are young), Shih Tzus can get restless. You can help your Shih Tzu get the exercise they need by throwing a fetch toy for a few minutes each day.
Plush toys
Dogs сan get attached to their plush toys; they carry them around the house and cuddle with them on sofas. Shih Tzus are a little breed, so choose a plush toy that matches your pet’s size.
FAQ on Shih Tzu Dog Toys
Here are some common questions about Shih Tzus and their needs. Hopefully, you will find this section helpful.
What makes Shih Tzus happy?
Shih Tzus are very playful companions. Short walks and games will help to expel the excess energy and prevent separation anxiety. Shih Tzus enjoy playing with their toys, which keeps them from being bored and sad.
What size of a ball does a Shih Tzu need?
Sizing is critical when it comes to this little dog’s care and supplies. A pet might not even bother trying the toy if it can’t hold it in its mouth and carry it around. The 3-inch ball is the most common size.
How much activity should my Shih Tzu have every day?
Two short walks or a daily 45-minute playing session should be enough. Alternate between games and obedience training by scheduling three 15-minute play times throughout the day.
Choose Proven Toys for Small Breeds
A pair of toys will undoubtedly keep this breed occupied for a long time since they aren’t as destructive as other dogs. Numerous pet owners praise toys like the ones I’ve listed above. Shih Tzus love them since they are long-lasting and designed specifically for tiny breeds. They serve a distinct function, yet the manufacturers all pack a lot of value into their little size.
From my personal experience, I recommend the Nylabone toy for purchase. My dog loves it! Which toys does your dog prefer? If I’ve omitted your favorite, please let me know in the comments section!
Also Read About Shih Tzu
- Best Dog Bed for Shih Tzu
- Best Wet Dog Food for Shih Tzu
- Best Puppy Shampoo for Shih Tzu
- Best Clippers for Shih Tzu Dogs
- Best Harness for a Shih Tzu
- How to Clean Shih Tzu Eyes
- How To Bathe a Shih Tzu
- Shih Tzu VS Lhasa Apso
- Shih Poo VS Shih Tzu
Britta Thygesen
A passionate dog owner and a full-time certified dog trainer. Aspires to make DogCareHacks a go-to place for all the doggo info. Shares personal experience and professional knowledge.
