German Shepherds love their toys. And they love destroying them too! So when we asked our I Love My German Shepherd Facebook community which toys, we got hundreds of responses. Below we’ll share a handful of the most popular suggestions on best toys for german shepherds.
The 20 Top Toys for German Shepherds, According to Real German Shepherd Owners
Starmark treat balls (treats not needed) totally indestructible – my 5 shepherds all love them!
Author: Karen D.
Likes: 48
Our dogs love Jolly Balls
Author: Sharon S.
Likes: 10
Ross takes his aqua kong everywhere
Author: Rhian S.
Likes: 78
Red Kong. She’s goes through about one every two months. We always have a spare.
Author: Lisa Walding W.
Likes: 4
I have 2 Jolly Balls. I bought them back in 2007. They have outlasted both of my German Shepherds. I still have them and our neighbors German Shepherd Pup comes over to my house and plays with them.
Author: Kristina S.
Likes: 60
Sonny with the Only toy that’s survived
Author: Ian G.
Likes: 100
Large Chuck it balls Amazon has them almost a year old an$ still good as new and used daily almost non stop
Author: Patty T.
Likes: 5
He always has several of these Kong balls within reach at all times. There is always one in his food bowl and he knows them by name and age lol
Author: Connie T.
Likes: 12
Kong frisbee very durable
Author: Nelson H.
Likes: 18
Tether tug for my Dutch Shepherd… she uses it all year round!
Author: Keri P.
Likes: 19
This is the Kong brand. It has lasted a long time with him and it’s his favorite out of all his toys, also squeaks.
Author: Lizzie W.
Likes: 12
Kong is a Great toy and it can be filled with peanut butter to keep him/her occupied for hours…Glycerine bones are also very good…used them with my Shepherd and Lab
Author: Jim A.
Likes: 2
A Nylabone…they use it for chewing. Not only do they love them and play with them, but it cleans their teeth….and they last a LONG time
Author: Jeff F.
Likes: 5
Jolly pets unpopable ball, our GSD Lexie loves it
Author: Richard R.
Likes: 7
I swear by chuckit our boy used to go through toys like there was no tomorrow! I’ve only tried the balls, but have treated him to new ones that I have discovered for Christmas. See under my comment for pictures
Author: Leah K.
Likes: 2
Her favourite is the frisbee. I find these balls last her the longest they are from red dot. Her last one was orange but they changed the colour. Also they are bigger than a tennis ball so not a chocking hazard.
Author: Patricia K.
Likes: 6
Sasha’s Jolly Ball..she has this ball 10yrs now and loves it..
Author: Ronald H.
Likes: 4
Kong frisbee and Kong jumbler ball both size large I have 4 GSDs we buy them off Amazon really time is what destroys them! We’ve had last lot for a year!
Author: Linda E.
Likes: 1
My GSD is pretty gentle with all of his toys, still has stuffed bear from when he was a puppy,,, not a chewer thankfully
Author: Jeanne H.
Likes: 4
Every “indestructible ” toy I bought for our German Shepherd lasted only hours before it was in tatters. Until I found this. Lasted years and has now been passed to our new GSD
Author: Irene M.
Likes: 1
Frequently Asked Questions About Durable Toys for German Shepherds
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What type of toys are best for German Shepherds?
Durable chew toys, interactive puzzle toys, and heavy-duty tug toys are ideal for German Shepherds. Due to their strong jaws and high intelligence, these dogs benefit from toys that can withstand aggressive chewing and stimulate their minds. -
Why do German Shepherds need durable toys?
German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs with powerful bites. Flimsy toys often get destroyed quickly, which not only wastes money but can also pose choking hazards. Durable toys help keep them safely entertained and prevent destructive behaviors. -
Are there specific materials I should look for in tough dog toys?
Yes, materials like heavy-duty rubber (like in Kong toys), reinforced nylon, ballistic-grade fabrics, and rope with tightly woven fibers are recommended. These materials resist tearing and can handle prolonged chewing. -
Can durable toys help with my German Shepherd’s anxiety or boredom?
Absolutely. Toys like treat-dispensing puzzles or interactive feeders keep their brains engaged and reduce boredom, which can lower stress and prevent destructive behaviors, especially when left alone. -
How often should I replace my German Shepherd’s toys?
Even the toughest toys eventually wear down. Inspect them weekly and replace if you see cracks, frayed ropes, or missing chunks. Regular rotation also keeps your dog interested. -
Are chew toys safe for German Shepherd puppies?
Yes, but choose age-appropriate chew toys made from softer rubber for developing teeth. Avoid anything too hard that could damage their growing jaws or teeth. -
What are some top-rated durable toys for German Shepherds?
Popular and highly reviewed options include the Kong Extreme, Goughnuts Maxx Stick, West Paw Zogoflex toys, and the Jolly Ball. These brands are known for their toughness and dog safety.
Toledo, United States.