Best Toys for German Shepherd Dogs: Top 20 Picks (2025)

Finding the best toys for German Shepherd dogs means choosing durable, engaging playthings that match this breed’s high energy and intelligence. German Shepherds are among the most active and intelligent dogs, so they “always need engaging and durable toys to keep them mentally and physically stimulated”. Tough chew toys, sturdy fetch toys, and interactive puzzles can satisfy their urge to chew and chase while preventing boredom and destructive behavior. Key factors to consider include:

Durability: German Shepherds have powerful jaws; choose toys made of heavy-duty rubber, reinforced nylon or thick rope that won’t break into small pieces.
Purpose: Provide a mix of chew toys (for teething and dental health), fetch toys (to burn energy), tug toys (for play bonding), and puzzles or treat toys (for mental stimulation).
Safety: Pick appropriately sized toys with no small parts that could be swallowed. Avoid materials that can splinter or fray. For puppies, use softer rubber or plush to protect emerging teeth.
Engagement: Rotate toys regularly to keep your GSD interested. Puzzle and treat-dispensing toys help “keep their brains engaged and reduce boredom” when you’re away.

With these in mind, let’s explore how to choose great German Shepherd toys and review the top 20 picks for GSD-friendly play.

How to Choose the Right Toys for Your German Shepherd

German Shepherds love to play hard and think hard. When selecting toys, match the toy to your dog’s size, age, and play style. A large, energetic GSD will need larger, tougher toys than a small dog. Consider the following:

Match the Toy to the Drive: If your GSD loves to chew, go for durable chew toys (e.g. hard rubber or nylon chews). If they chase and retrieve, pick balls or frisbees. For tug games, choose reinforced rope toys. For food-motivated dogs, use treat puzzles or kongs best toys for german shepherd dogs.
Material and Construction: Look for toys made of non-toxic, heavy-duty materials. Brands like KONG (red or black rubber), Goughnuts, and West Paw use industry-grade materials designed for aggressive chewers. Avoid thin plastic or low-grade fabric best toys for german shepherd dogs.
Size Appropriateness: A German Shepherd’s mouth is big – make sure balls are large enough (at least 3–4″ diameter) to avoid choking. For balls, use dog-approved rubber balls rather than tennis balls (regular tennis balls can wear down teeth). Ropes and tug toys should be long enough for you and your dog to grip best toys for german shepherd dogs.
Puppy vs Adult Toys: Puppies have sharper, thinner teeth. Use soft rubber toys or plush toys for puppies to chew on. As your GSD matures, introduce tougher toys.
Supervision & Rotation: Even tough toys wear out. Inspect toys weekly for damage and retire any with cracks or choking hazards. Rotate a few toys at a time – new toys keep play interesting.

By understanding your German Shepherd’s habits and needs, you can choose toys that are both fun and safe. Always observe your dog with a new toy to ensure it’s working well for them best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Durable Chew and Tug Toys for German Shepherds

German Shepherds have strong chewing instincts, so durable chew toys are a must. Aim for heavy-duty rubber or nylon toys that can survive aggressive gnawing. Brands like KONG, Goughnuts, Nylabone, and Benebone make chew toys specifically for powerful chewers. For example, KONG’s classic rubber toys (made of ultra-durable formula) promote healthy chewing habits and mental stimulation. The KONG Classic and KONG Extreme (black rubber) are top picks: fill them with treats or peanut butter to keep your GSD occupied, or use them for fetch best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Goughnuts makes virtually indestructible rubber chew rings: the Goughnuts MAXX Ring is built for the toughest chewers and even comes with a lifetime guarantee. Nylon bones (like Benebone wishbone chews or Nylabone Power Chew bones) are also good for chewers – they last longer than rawhide and help clean teeth. Bulldog Chew Bones or durable rope toys (like the Ropiest Dragon Rope Toy, with reinforced seams and ultra-strong material) make excellent tug/playtime toys while satisfying chewing urges best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Training toys can serve double duty: for example, rubber dumbbell toys can be used as fetch/floats and also help train “fetch” commands. Just be sure any rubber or plastic toy is labeled non-toxic and made for dogs. Overall, prioritize toys labeled for powerful jaws and aggressive chewers – these will stand up to your German Shepherd’s bite best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Best Interactive and Puzzle Toys for German Shepherds

German Shepherds are smart and need mental stimulation. Interactive toys and puzzles channel their intelligence and prevent boredom. Treat-dispensing toys and puzzles force your GSD to work for rewards. For instance, treat-dispensing KONGs (as AKC notes) can be filled with treats or kibble so the dog “retrieves [treats] as they play with it,” keeping them engaged best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Puzzle toys like the Outward Hound Dog Tornado challenge a dog’s problem-solving skills: your GSD must rotate layers of the toy to uncover hidden treats, providing “mental stimulation that will keep your furry friend occupied for hours”. The Outward Hound Tennis Maze Craze combines a squeaky toy and treat puzzle – it dispenses tennis balls or snacks as your dog rolls it around. Other popular puzzles include Nina Ottosson treat games and snuffle mats (e.g. KONG Snuffle Dog Mat), where dogs sniff out hidden kibble among fabric flaps best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Interactive toys also include motion-activated or remote-control toys (for high-energy play) and “flirt poles” (like a long pole with a toy on a string). These give your GSD a physical and mental workout. In short, look for best interactive dog toys for German Shepherds that involve treat dispensing, problem-solving or movement. Such toys “keep their brains engaged and reduce boredom,” which can help curb anxiety or destructive behavior best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Balls and Fetch Toys for Energetic Play

A German Shepherd playing fetch with a durable ball toy. Balls and fetch toys are ideal for German Shepherds’ high energy. They love chasing and retrieving. For fetch, classic choices are Chuckit! Ultra Balls – these high-bounce rubber balls are made for tough play and float for water games. Chewy’s list of top GSD toys even ranks the Chuckit! Ultra Ball highly (best-selling for durability). When using balls, avoid regular tennis balls (they wear dogs’ teeth) and instead use dog-specific balls like KONG SqueakAir Tennis Balls (hard rubber with a squeaker inside) or Jolly Pets Jolly Ball (extra-thick vinyl ball with a handle). These withstand chomping much better than ordinary balls.

For longer-distance play, flying discs can be fun – choose soft, flexible discs (KONG Flyer or Chuckit! Flyer) that won’t damage mouths. Embed ball toys with treat pouches: e.g., Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Orbee Ball is hollow to stuff treats inside for a treat-chase game. Remember: always supervise fetch; pick a safe play area and check balls for wear. In summary, fetch toys with sturdy rubber construction and erratic bounces keep German Shepherds happily running and retrieving.

Rope and Tug Toys for Bonding

Rope and tug toys encourage interactive play and build strength. A heavy-duty tug rope (like the Ropiest Dragon or KONG’s tug rings) is great for tug-of-war, a favorite game for many GSDs. The Ropiest Dragon Rope Toy features a durable knotted rope, squeaker and crinkle fabric to add interest. Tug games let you teach your dog impulse control (“drop it” commands) while wearing them out physically. Rope toys also satisfy chewing instinct best toys for german shepherd dogs. Just pick a rope with reinforced stitching and multiple strands to prevent fraying. After play, inspect for loose strands – replace if frayed to avoid ingestion best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Tug toys also serve as training tools. For example, KONG makes tug rings and flirts, and brands like Mammoth offer braided ropes labeled “Big Dog.” For solo play, some rope toys double as chew toys. Always use tug toys responsibly (teach commands, avoid aggressive play). Proper tugging is safe and fun: it strengthens your bond and muscles while giving the dog an outlet for energy and instinct.

Plush and Squeaky Toys

Although German Shepherds can be rough with plush toys, many enjoy squeaky and cuddly toys as comfort items. Plush toys (like stuffed animals or “Lamb Chop” toys) appeal to the “comfort and carry” instinct – GSDs often love to cuddle with soft toys or carry them around. Rethink Pet notes that German Shepherds “even make stuffed toys their go-to friendly companions best toys for german shepherd dogs. When choosing plush toys for a GSD, pick high-quality ones with durable stitching (some have no-stuffing designs or reinforced seams to survive chewing). Look for toys labeled “x-large” or “durable plush” and consider personalizing (some pets bond with a specific toy).

Squeaky toys also excite GSDs, but use them judiciously: not as chew toys, but as “alert” toys (toss and squeak, then let the dog fetch). Once the squeaker is reached, a strong GSD will likely destroy the toy. Therefore, save plush/squeaky toys for supervised play or gentle retrievers, not for dogs left alone to shred. In all cases, always discard any plush toy that’s been torn open, as loose stuffing can be a choking hazard best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Puppy Toys for German Shepherd Puppies

German Shepherd puppies need special toys to accommodate their sharp “turtle-like” teeth and high energy. During the teething phase, puppies will chew obsessively. Provide puppy-specific toys made of softer, flexible rubber or softer nylon. For example, the KONG Puppy (smaller size, softer red rubber) soothes gums. Soft rubber chew rings or rubber toys (unfilled) are good – they flex under pressure. Also offer plush rope toys (unfilled, small knots) for gentle tug and chewing best toys for german shepherd dogs Puppies love some cuddle toys, but again, supervise soft toys as they will tear them up best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Shorter fetch toys (like small Kong balls or small soft frisbees) can work for puppy retrieval. Nylabone Puppy Chew bones (softer than adult versions) help with dental health. Teething puppies also enjoy frozen washcloths or ice-filled treat toys. The AKC notes “puppy toys… are safe and especially made for puppies”. Rotate toys and replace often – young GSDs grow fast, and a “too-tight” ball could hurt their developing jaws. Training dispensers and puzzle toys can be used at a later (older puppy) stage to introduce mental games best toys for german shepherd dogs.

20 Best Toys for German Shepherd Dogs

Below are 20 highly recommended toys for German Shepherds, spanning chew toys, fetch toys, puzzles, and more. These picks include breed-appropriate durable options and enrichment toys.

KONG Classic Dog Toy (Large or X-Large) – The iconic red rubber toy that can be stuffed with treats or frozen. Made of ultra-durable rubber, it “promotes healthy chewing habits” and mental stimulation. Great for gnawing, bouncing, and snuffling treats.
KONG Extreme Dog Toy (Black) – A super-tough version of the Classic, made for power chewers. It’s virtually indestructible and safely satisfies aggressive chewing instincts. Also stuffable for long-lasting fun best toys for german shepherd dogs.
Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball (Large) – A high-bounce, durable rubber ball designed for aggressive play. The Ultra Ball is thicker than a tennis ball and floats, making it perfect for fetch games on land or water. Chewy rates it #1 in fetch toys for German Shepherds (over 11,000 reviews).
KONG SqueakAir Tennis Balls (6-pack) – Rubber balls with an internal squeaker for extra excitement. Gentler than real tennis balls, they bounce erratically and squeak, which German Shepherds love. Sold in multipacks for repetitive fetch without soggy, mud-caked balls best toys for german shepherd dogs.
Benebone Wishbone Chew Toy (Medium/Regular) – A durable nylon chew toy shaped like a wishbone, impregnated with real food flavor (bacon, chicken, etc.). Its ergonomic design lets a GSD chomp on all sides. Hard for most dogs to shred, satisfying chewing urges safely best toys for german shepherd dogs.
Nylabone Power Chew (XXL) – A tough nylon chew bone designed for powerful chewers. It has ridges and nubs that massage gums and clean teeth as dogs chew. Long-lasting and non-edible, it prevents rawhide hazards. Nylabone’s biggest sizes fit the giant jaws of an adult GSD.
Jolly Pets Jolly Ball (Large 15″ or Medium 10″) – A heavy-duty, vinyl ball with handle, originally designed for horses. It’s virtually indestructible and floats. Many GSD owners swear by Jolly Balls; one iHeartDogs reviewer noted a Jolly Ball lasting 10+ years. Perfect for water fetch too.
West Paw Zogoflex Hurley – A recyclable rubber “bone” that floats and stands up to tough chewers. West Paw’s material is durable, non-toxic and made in the USA. Hurley can be stuffed with treats, or used as a bouncing fetch toy. It’s dishwasher-safe too. (Also see Zogoflex Tux, a similar ball.)
Outward Hound Dog Tornado Puzzle Toy – A multi-level treat maze that challenges a dog to spin layers to reveal hidden treats. As an intermediate-level puzzle, it engages a German Shepherd’s problem-solving skills and occupies them for long periods best toys for german shepherd dogs.
Outward Hound Tennis Maze Craze – An interactive treat puzzle that dispenses tennis balls or snacks. It’s a two-in-one toy (treat puzzle + ball launcher) that lets clever GSDs choose how to play. Great for solo play (in safe areas) or supervised fun.
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Puzzle – A stuffed puzzle tree stump with squeaky squirrels hidden inside. The dog must figure out how to pull the squeaky squirrels out. It provides sniffing and pawing entertainment for an intelligent GSD. (Note: best for light to moderate chewers, and supervised play.)
Ropiest Dragon Rope Toy – A triple-yarn rope with a dragon head (squeaker) and several knotted ends. Extremely strong and built for tug-of-war. The combination of crinkle wings, squeaker, and tough rope makes it an exciting tug-and-chew toy best toys for german shepherd dogs.
KONG Floppy Knots (Fox or Shark) – Plush toys reinforced with knotted rope inside. They have the softness of a cuddly toy plus the durability of a rope. Good for gentle fetch or tug; the internal rope gives extra strength, and most GSDs find the knotted ends fun to chew.
Nylabone DuraChew Gator – A long-lasting nylon chew shaped like an alligator. Flavored and with textured ridges, it encourages chewing and dental health. It stands up to heavy chewing and helps redirect it away from your shoes or furniture.
JW Hol-ee Roller Dog Toy (Large) – A thick rubber ball with a lattice design, also known as the “lace ball.” You can toss it like a ball or thread treats/rope through the holes. It’s flexible and strong, perfect for game of fetch or a casual chew (and it floats too) best toys for german shepherd dogs.
KONG Dog Snuffle Mat – A fabric mat with many flaps and pockets to hide treats or kibble. Using their nose to forage for food inside the mat mentally stimulates GSDs and taps into their natural sniffing instinct. It’s washable and a great boredom buster best toys for german shepherd dogs.
Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Ball – A durable, non-toxic rubber ball (often spiked) that bounces crazily. Planet Dog’s proprietary material is made to last even on hard play; it’s mint-scented for freshness. Can be stuffed with treats (like peanut butter) for extra enticement.
KONG Car Pull Buddy or Ring Tug – A sturdy poly/cotton rope attached to a rubber part (bone or ring). The Car Pull Buddy is designed for driving into a car door for solo tug fun. Both versions have reinforced weave for tough tugging sessions with your GSD.
Multipet Lamb Chop Squeaky Plush – A soft, sheep-shaped plush with multiple squeakers (head and feet). Many dogs (even big ones!) love carrying around a soft “friend” like Lamb Chop. Make sure to supervise and retire it at the first signs of tearing. For light chewers or gentle retrievers, this is a sweet comfort toy best toys for german shepherd dogs.
PetSafe Busy Buddy Twist ‘n Treat – A hard plastic treat-dispensing toy that twists open to add treats inside. As your GSD pushes it around, treats fall out. It’s adjustable for difficulty and helps slow down eating. Because German Shepherds are food-motivated, this keeps them entertained and mentally occupied.

Each of the above toys is proven or widely recommended for large, powerful dogs like German Shepherds. They cover categories from chew and fetch to puzzle and cuddly. When choosing any toy, always consider your individual dog’s preferences and supervision needs best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the best toys for German Shepherds?
A: The top toys for German Shepherds are those that combine durability with engagement. Recommended categories include heavy-duty chew toys (KONG Extreme, Goughnuts, Nylabone), fetch toys (Chuckit! Ultra Balls, KONG SqueakAir), interactive puzzles (KONG Treat Toys, Outward Hound puzzles), and tug toys (durable rope or rubber tug rings). Plush toys can be included for light play, but heavy chewers should focus on rubber/nylon.

Q: What chew toys are safe for German Shepherd puppies?
A: Puppies need softer toys to protect their developing teeth. Choose puppy-safe chew toys such as the red KONG Puppy toy or soft rubber chews. Teething toys (rubber rings or softer plush) soothe their gums. Avoid hard nylon or bone until the puppy is older, as very hard toys can crack puppy teeth. Monitor chewing to ensure safety best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Q: How do I choose the right size toy for my German Shepherd?
A: Always pick a toy large enough that it can’t be swallowed whole. A general rule is to use large breed or oversized toys for a GSD. For balls, get at least a 2.5–3″ diameter ball (some use KONG’s largest sizes). For chew toys, get the jumbo/XXL versions intended for large dogs. Check manufacturer size guides (often listing “for dogs 30-70 lbs” etc). A too-small toy is a choking risk best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Q: Are puzzle toys good for German Shepherds?
A: Yes. Puzzle toys and treat dispensers engage a German Shepherd’s high intelligence. They enjoy the challenge of figuring out puzzle toys like the Outward Hound Dog Tornado or KONG Wobbler. These “puzzle toys for German Shepherds” help relieve boredom and make meal/snack time interactive. Start with an easier puzzle and gradually increase difficulty as your dog learns best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Q: How can I prevent my German Shepherd from getting bored?
A: Rotate toys frequently and include mentally stimulating options. Use treat-dispensing toys, puzzle feeders, and long-lasting chews. Daily exercise (walks, play, training) is essential – a tired GSD is less likely to destroy things out of boredom. If you’re away, leave interactive toys (snuffle mats, treat balls) to keep them busy. German Shepherd toys for boredom often means treat puzzles or durable chew toys like KONGs that they can safely handle alone best toys for german shepherd dogs.

Each German Shepherd is unique, so observe your dog’s preferences. Safety always comes first: remove any toy once it is damaged. With the right toys and playtime, your GSD will stay happy, healthy, and mentally stimulated.