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The Best Plush Dog Toys for Happy Pups

The Pet Institute Review Team
Written By The Pet Institute Review Team
Last updated: Jan 27, 2025, 05:55 AM
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As pet owners, we strive to provide our pups with the best care, including toys that stimulate their minds, satisfy their natural instincts, and bring them comfort. Among the myriad of toys available, plush dog toys stand out as timeless favorites for their softness, durability, and ability to foster a sense of security and playfulness in our furry friends.  

Our team researched the best plush dog toys on the market and compared them based on features like durability, safety, and softness. Our personal favorite pick is the Nocciola Squeaky Plush Dog Toys – 5 PCS Set. This set captivates dogs with its squeaky sounds and crinkly textures, ensuring hours of interactive fun. Every toy in our list is a reliable choice for pet owners seeking quality and value.

best plush dog toy
View all Contents
  • 5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Plush Dog Toys
    • Durability
    • Safety
    • Size
    • Texture
    • Washability
  • Plush Dog Toy FAQs
  • Your Pet’s Best Interest, Always
  • Contributors
  • Related Reads

Our Top Picks for Plush Dog Toys

  • Nocciola Plush Dog Toys: Best Overall (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this plush dog toy ↓
  • Best Pet Supplies Plush Dog Toys: Most Durable (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this plush dog toy ↓
  • Pets Know Best Plush Dog Toys: Best for Anxious Dogs (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this plush dog toy ↓
  • Multipet Plush Dog Toys: Most Affordable (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this plush dog toy ↓
  • ZippyPaws Plush Dog Toys: Great for Squeaker Lovers (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this plush dog toy ↓

Detailing the Best Plush Dog Toys of 2025

Nocciola Plush Dog Toys

Best Overall
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Keep your dog stimulated and entertained with the Nocciola Squeaky Plush Dog Toys 5 Piece Set, featuring 2 short and 3 long squeaky chew toys with crinkle paper inside. The Nocciola Squeaky Plush Dog Toys 5 Piece Set is an amazing solution for dog owners looking to minimize mess and maximize happiness during playtime. This set of five crinkle plush dog toys stands out for its no-stuffing design, which prevents the common issue of scattered stuffing and potential choking hazards from small parts. The squeaky and crinkle features engage dogs of all sizes, from small puppies to large breeds, keeping them entertained and stimulated. These toys withstand rigorous pulling and tugging, ensuring they remain intact and functional for extended periods.

Product Pros
  • Varied sizes for extended play
  • No stuffing for minimal mess
  • Crinkle and squeaker features
Product Cons
  • Squeakers don’t last long
Key features/specs
Set includes 3 long and 2 short toysSuitable for medium to large dogs
Dual squeakers in head and tailMade with high-quality simulation fur
Crunchy paper inside for extra funDurable and eco-friendly materials
Advanced electroplating technology

Best Pet Supplies Plush Dog Toys

Most Durable
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For your small dog who loves to chew, the Best Pet Supplies Crinkle Duck Dog Toy is the perfect choice, featuring a fun squeaker and a crinkle paper inside that is both engaging and safe for your pup! We think that the Best Pet Supplies Crinkle Duck Dog Toy stands out as an excellent choice for dog owners who prioritize cleanliness and durability without sacrificing their pup’s fun. This plush dog toy, designed as a cute yellow duck, captures your dog’s attention with its crinkle noise, making it a hit among both puppies and senior dogs. Its no-stuffing design ensures a mess-free playtime experience, eliminating the hassle of cleaning up scattered stuffing. The built-in soft squeaker adds an extra layer of engagement, keeping dogs entertained for longer periods, and this plush dog toy has unmatched resilience against rough play, thanks to its durable construction.

Product Pros
  • Keeps dogs entertained with fun crinkle sounds
  • Durable for light to moderate chewers
  • Lightweight and stuffing-free
Product Cons
  • Not recommended for aggressive chewers
Key features/specs
Premium plush chew toy for dogsMess-free, no stuffing design
Adorable duck shape, 6 unique colorsReinforced fabric and stitching
Crinkle noise and squeaker for engaging playGentle on teeth and gums
Suitable for small to medium dogs

Pets Know Best Plush Dog Toys

Best for Anxious Dogs
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Reduce your pet’s anxiety and improve their overall mood with the Pets Know Best HuggiePup Behavioral Aid Toy. This plush dog toy has a voice box that stimulates a real heartbeat and a heating pad to provide max comfort. If you struggle with getting your dog to relax and reduce their anxiety, the Pets Know Best HuggiePup Behavioral Aid Toy, which stimulates motherly comfort, is the perfect solution. This plush dog toy not only features a heating pad to comfort your fur baby, it also has a life-like heartbeat module that can be hooked to the bottom pouch of the plush toy to calm their nerves. Dog owners looking to ease their pets into crate training or simply wanting to provide a calming presence while they’re away will find this product highly effective in relaxing their dog. Additionally, the toy is machine-washable, ensuring easy maintenance.

Product Pros
  • Helps reduce separation anxiety
  • Strong, calming heartbeat feature
  • Includes reusable heating pad
Product Cons
  • Some parts can be chewed off
Key features/specs
Life-like heartbeat moduleMachine-washable plush
Requires 2 AAA batteries (not included)Hook & loop bottom pouch
Non-toxic, microwavable heat packAvailable in different colors

Multipet Plush Dog Toys

Most Affordable
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The Multipet Gumby Plush Filled Dog Toy is the ultimate plush dog toy for those on a budget. This toy is not only nostalgic, it has a fun squeaker for hours of entertainment. If you’re tired of constantly replacing expensive dog toys or are simply on a budget, we recommend the Multipet Gumby Plush Filled Dog Toy. This super-affordable plush dog toy brings a wave of nostalgia for pet owners and a burst of joy for dogs with its bright green color, flexibility, and squeaker. Unlike other toys, it encourages gentle play, ensuring it remains durable for dogs who aren’t aggressive chewers. This toy caters to dogs of all sizes, making it a versatile addition to any pet’s toy collection.

Product Pros
  • Squeaker sound that dogs love
  • Flexible body and very soft
  • Provides hours of entertainment
Product Cons
  • Arms and legs can be chewed off
Key features/specs
Officially Licensed Gumby® toySqueaker and very plush material
Flexible arms and legsSuitable for all dog sizes

ZippyPaws Plush Dog Toys

Great for Squeaker Lovers
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The ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz 3 Pack is an amazing plush dog toy set for pets that love squeaky toys. They’re perfect for tugging games and stimulating your dog’s instincts to chew and play. If your dog loves tugging games and goes crazy over squeakers, the ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz are built to entertain your pup for hours. This pack includes three plush dog toys—a fox, raccoon, and squirrel—designed for small and medium breeds. Each toy features squeakers at three different zones that stimulate their natural instincts to chew and play. They are stuffing-free, eliminating potential messes, and they can withstand vigorous tugging between you and your dog, offering a robust option for playtime. The flat design allows for easy grip during interactive sessions and the soft plush material feels gentle on your dog’s teeth and gums, ensuring safe play.

Product Pros
  • Durable and withstands moderate chewing
  • Machine-washable fabric
  • Multiple squeakers for longer entertainment
Product Cons
  • Not suitable for heavy chewers
Key features/specs
Set includes 3 woodland creature dog toysEach toy has 3 squeakers
Designed without stuffingMeasures 11 inches long
Suitable for small and medium dogsCrafted from high-quality materials
Machine-washable on gentle cycle

5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Plush Dog Toys

When it comes to pampering your furry companion, plush dog toys are a great choice. From Halloween-themed dog toys to options equipped with puzzles and treat pouches, selecting the best plush dog toy can be a bit overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider so that you can make an informed and satisfying decision.

Durability

Selecting a durable plush dog toy means choosing one that withstands your dog’s enthusiastic cuddle parties and tug-of-war. Look for toys that feature reinforced stitching and high-quality fabric designed to resist tearing. Examine the seams closely to ensure they won’t unravel easily. Consider options stuffed with strong materials like dense cotton or layers of fabric that add an extra layer of toughness. Remember, no toy is entirely indestructible, but having a sturdy construction will significantly extend its longevity.

Safety

Prioritize safety by opting for plush dog toys made from non-toxic materials. Check for labels that verify the toy is free from harmful chemicals. Avoid toys with small parts or embellishments that could become choking hazards. Make sure the toy has securely attached features like eyes and noses, especially if they are made of plastic. Safety-tested plush toys may provide peace of mind and allow your dog to enjoy their toy without any risks.

Size

Choosing the correct size of a plush dog toy is crucial for your dog’s safety and enjoyment. A toy that’s too small could be swallowed, while one that’s too large might be difficult for your dog to carry or chew. Match the toy size to your dog’s breed and chewing habits. Small breeds might prefer lighter, more manageable toys, whereas larger breeds often require bigger, more robust options. A well-fitting toy can enhance your dog’s playtime experience.

Texture

Focus on the texture of the plush dog toy to match your dog’s preferences. Some dogs enjoy soft, fluffy toys they can cuddle with, while others prefer toys with a variety of textures for chewing. Look for toys that combine fabrics like fleece and corduroy or incorporate squeakers and crinkle sounds to keep your dog engaged. A varied texture can stimulate your dog’s senses and make the toy more appealing.

Washability

Frequent play can leave plush dog toys dirty and smelly. Selecting a washable toy makes maintenance easier and ensures your dog always has a clean toy. Many plush dog toys are machine-washable, which can save you time and effort. Choose toys that retain their shape and quality even after multiple washes.

Plush Dog Toy FAQs

Are plush dog toys safe for all dog breeds?

Yes, plush dog toys are safe for most dog breeds, but always supervise playtime, especially with aggressive chewers or dogs prone to tearing toys apart.

How do I clean dog toys?

Most plush dog toys are machine washable. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Allow them to air dry or tumble dry on low heat.

What should I do if my dog tears the plush toy?

If your dog tears the plush toy and it has stuffing, remove any loose stuffing to prevent ingestion. You can either sew the toy back together or dispose of it if it is beyond repair.

Can plush dog toys help with my dog's anxiety?

Yes, plush dog toys can provide comfort and a sense of security, which may help reduce anxiety in some dogs. The soft texture and familiarity can be soothing.

Can plush dog toys be used for training purposes?

Yes, plush dog toys can be used as a reward during training sessions. They can also be useful for teaching fetch, retrieve, and other interactive games.

Your Pet’s Best Interest, Always

At Pet Institute, we take pet care seriously. We're dedicated to transparency, impartiality, and the well-being of your pets in every article, review, and recommendation we provide. Our unwavering commitment to these principles ensures that you, our valued reader, always receive reliable and unbiased information. Let us be your trusted guide in the world of pet care and companionship.

Contributors

The Pet Institute Review Team
The Pet Institute Review Team
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