Some dogs are quite hyper, and it can be a challenge to find the time to occupy them. For example, my energetic (but completely adorable and loving) Husky has the energy of a wild toddler, but I struggle to find the time to keep him occupied because of my daily obligations. Many people have the same problem. One easy solution is outdoor dog toys.
What are the best outdoor dog toys to keep them busy? Here are our best 17 picks:
- Hero Playtime Rubber Kettlebell
- Chuckit! Ball Launcher
- Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole V2
- RRR Natural Farm Wool Pet Balls
- Chuckit! Kick Fetch Toy Ball
- Boomer Ball
- Jolly Pets Romp-n-Roll Dog Toy
- Ruffwear Hydro Plane Floating Disc
- Chuckit! Flying Squirrel
- Chuckit! Amphibious Bumper Dog Toy
- Kong Water Wubba
- Kurgo Skimming Stones
- Easy Paw Activated Drinking Dispenser
- West Paw Zogoflex Bumi Dog Toy
- Puller Dog Fitness Toy
- Nerf Squeaker Football
- Pawise Outdoor Games Agility Starter Kit
Outdoor dog toys are a must for keeping dogs happy and healthy, whether you’re playing with them or they are keeping themselves busy while you are away. We’re going to let you know why you should consider outdoor dog toys, which toys made our top 17 list, and the reasons why.
With all of this information coming from a dog owner and lover combined with ratings and reviews, you know you’re getting valuable information that you can trust.
My Top 3 Recommendations
These three dog toys are the ones that I consider to be the best on the market. I have chosen them because they are high-quality dog toys that have several benefits and will keep your dog happy and occupied for hours on end.
| Hero Playtime Rubber Kettlebell | This all-in-one dog toy keeps your dog satisfied, no matter what type of game he is wanting to play. | Check Price |
| Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole V2 | This particular toy allows your dog to indulge his instincts while also stimulating his mind and body. | Check Price |
| West Paw Zogoflex Bumi Dog Toy | The intriguing nature of this flexible toy makes for unique games of tug-of-war while also enhancing fetch and catch. | Check Price |
Why You Should Trust Us
I’ve been a dog lover and owner since I was a child. I fell in love with dogs after getting a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel at a young age. Since then, I have also owned a Pomeranian and a Husky. All dogs are so different, but they have one thing in common: they love to play!
I have had to use trial and error to find the toys that work best with each of my dogs because every dog’s personality is different. That’s why I know so much about these outdoor dog toys and can give you some quality information on which one is best.
About Outdoor Dog Toys
Why do dogs need toys?
Dogs need toys because they need to stay active.
An active dog will be healthier and happier while reducing their chances of developing obesity and other health problems.
Toys will also help to increase their mental capabilities and keep them occupied when their owner is away.
Toys can also be used as a bonding tool between dogs and their owners (as well as other dogs). Having a good relationship with your dog and spending time with them reduces the chance of them acting out and misbehaving. It will also increase their loyalty to you and make them an overall happier dog.
Toys and one on one playtime with your dog can be incredibly effective in addressing behavioral, psychological and emotional issues like depression and chewing inedible objects like rocks.
Are some dog breeds are more playful with outdoor dog toys than other breeds, or does the breed matter at all?
In reality, all dogs like to spend at least some of their time outside. Even the lazy Mastiff will enjoy a quick game of fetch in the yard, while an energetic and rambunctious Husky such as mine will spend hours outside enjoying the great outdoors.
The breed doesn’t matter. Dogs want to play with something, and they will enjoy it even more if they are outside with their owner.
Which dog toy is right for my dog?
Every dog has its own unique personality. Some may be avid chewers, in which case you will need to find a chewing toy. Others are very energetic and need many games of fetch and catch to stay happy. Find out what your dog is most interested in and go from there.
What about homemade dog toys to keep them busy?
You don’t have to spend lots of money on outdoor dog toys, either. The article “17 DIY Dog Toys You Can Make From Things in Your House” by Amy Jamieson from Care.com suggests you can make homemade dog toys to keep them busy. Some of these toys mimic the popular flirt pole and tether tug toys.
Where can I find an outdoor dog toy bin?
The best way to store outdoor dog toys is in a storage bin specifically designed for dog toys and the outdoors. Where can you find an outdoor dog toy bin? The Big Bone Storage Bin by Our Pets is an outdoor dog toy storage bin that is made in a cool bone shape that you and your dog can enjoy while offering plenty of space for all your dog’s favorite toys.
What are the different types of outdoor dog toys?
| Dog Toy Category | Needs a Human? | Dog Action | Purpose/Function |
| Ball Launchers | Yes | Fetch | It helps to increase the distance and speed while playing fetch. |
| Poles | Yes | Catch | Easy to grab during a game of catch. |
| Balls | Yes | Fetch | Balls can be used for many purposes, such as fetch, tugging, chewing, or chasing. |
| Flying Toys | Yes | Catch | Another great option for playing fetch or catch. |
| Toss Toys | Yes | Fetch | Toss toys are physically and mentally stimulating during fetch. |
| Water Sprinklers | No | Press | Allows dog to consume water without the need for a bowl. |
| Wet Toys | Yes/No | Dive | Playing in the water or learning how to swim. |
| Tug Toys | Yes/No | Pull | Tug-of-war matches or chewing. |
| Tethered Toys | No | Pull | Tug-of-war matches or chewing. |
| Chew Toys | No | Chew | It helps to increase tooth and gum health and keeps the dog from chewing other things. |
Top 17 Outdoor Dog Toys
| # | Category | Make/Model |
| 1 | Best all rounder outdoor toy (fetch, tug and chew on land or water) | Hero Playtime Rubber Kettlebell |
| 2 | Best ball launcher | Chuckit! Ball Launcher |
| 3 | Best dangle and chase pole | Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole V2 |
| 4 | Best outdoor ball | RRR Natural Farm Wool Pet Balls |
| 5 | Best outdoor ball | Chuckit Kick Fetch Toy Ball |
| 6 | Best outdoor ball | Boomer Ball |
| 7 | Best rope ball | Jolly Pets Romp-n-roll dog toy |
| 8 | Best flying toy | Ruffwear Hydro Plan Floating Disc |
| 9 | Best flying toy | Chuckit! Flying Squirrel |
| 10 | Top toss, tug and float toy for the pool or lake (small to medium dogs) | Chuckit Amphibious Bumper Dog Toy |
| 11 | Best toss, tug and float toy for the pool or lake (large dogs) | Kong Water Wubba |
| 12 | Best toy for the lake | Kurgo Skimming Stones |
| 13 | Best water sprinkler and drinking water fountain | Easy Paw Activated Drinking Dispenser |
| 14 | Best tug of war toy | West Paw Zogoflex Bumi Dog Toy |
| 15 | Best tug of war pulling toy for medium to large dogs | Puller Dog Fitness Toy |
| 16 | Best football | Nerf Squeaker Football |
| 17 | Best agility hurdle drill kit | Pawise Outdoor Games Agility Starter Kit |
Now, let’s take a look at the top 17 outdoor dog toys in greater detail. We will discuss why they are the best choices and reveal their top features. You’re sure to find one that is right for your dog!
1. Best All-Rounder Outdoor Toy
Any dog will love this outdoor dog toy that can do it all. The Hero Playtime Rubber Kettlebell is an ideal toy choice because it is a multi-functional option that meets all the needs of your dog.
With this kettlebell, your dog can chew, fetch, and tug to their heart’s content on both land and in water.
| Pros | Cons |
| So many ways to play with one toy: fetch, tug, and chew. | It isn’t incredibly sturdy and can be torn apart by a larger, rougher dog. |
| Versatile – can be used on land, but also floats for fun in the water. | |
| Dishwasher safe |
This innovative kettlebell is exactly what more energetic pups like my Husky would enjoy. When they feel like they need to chew on something, they can reach for this ball. If they’re gearing up for an intense game of tug-of-war, you can use this kettlebell. Did we mention you can use it for practically everything and it’s dishwasher safe? This kettleball is awesome.
2. Best Ball Launcher
If you are thinking about a ball launcher to keep your dog active and excited, then you should try the Chuckit! Ball Launcher.
It’s a ball launcher you use by hand (manual). But don’t let that discourage you. Sometimes technology isn’t the best option, and automatic ball launchers have received many negative reviews. That’s why we’ve excluded automatic ball launchers from our list of the best 17 outdoor dog toys to keep them busy.
So, why choose the Chuckit!? This toy is a must for anyone wanting to make their games of fetch more fun. With faster-throwing speeds and longer distances, even the most energetic dog will wear themselves out after a good game of fetch. Plus, you will keep your hands clean and free from mud, slime, and drool.
| Pros | Cons |
| Increases throwing speed and distances. | The cup that holds the ball can break. |
| Keeps your hands clean. | Some users have found difficulty using the cup that holds the ball. |
| Handle is rather stiff at the start. |
3. Best Dangle and Chase Pole (for all seasons)
Ever thought about fishing with your dog? Could you imagine a toy that lets you toss out bait and allows your dog to use his instincts to catch the lure, bring it back to you, and be fully exercised by the end of playtime? That’s what you get with the Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole V2.
| Pros | Cons |
| Uses a special bungee cord that prevents whiplash. | There have been reviews stating that both dogs and humans have been hurt by the bungee feature coming back and hitting them in the face or body. |
| Change lures with ease. | Some users have noted that the handle can snap over time. |
| Lightweight and easy to use, a great choice for people with limited mobility | |
| A great choice for wintertime play. |
This incredibly durable and fun toy lets your dog release their inner instincts and revert to ‘chase and catch’ mode while releasing a ton of energy in the process. It’s mentally invigorating for your dog, and there isn’t much expected on your end, making it a good option for anyone with disabilities.
Great for warmer and colder months. Whilst balls get lost in the snow, that won’t happen with this flirt pole. It provides you, and your dog, good exercise in a short amount of time. It’s like an express workout: 20 minutes of running around with flirt pole and you’re done!
4. Best Outdoor Ball (throw and fetch toy)
Durable, colorful, and entirely handmade, RRR Natural Farm Wool Pet Balls are a great option for any dog. They are very different than traditional balls because they are made of all-natural and safe materials, which many pet owners will agree is a plus.
Aside from being fun for all, they are also beneficial in cleaning your dog’s teeth during playtime.
| Pros | Cons |
| Safe and environmentally friendly, made of natural wool. | Not durable enough for more aggressive dogs who can rip through the material. |
| Cleans dogs’ teeth while they play. | |
| Incredibly durable. | |
| Colorful to attract your dog’s attention. |
5. Best Outdoor Ball (kick and fetch toy)
You can never have too many balls for your dog. But if you want something a bit different, the Chuckit Kick Fetch Toy Ball stands out from other balls by being uniquely constructed to be able to be punted rather than thrown. The unique, durable design also allows for random bouncing to create an even more thrilling adventure for your doggy!
| Pros | Cons |
| It comes in vibrant colors and is very durable. | Will start to wear down after many uses. |
| Unique design allows for easy pick-up and random bouncing. | |
| The ball is punted rather than thrown to change up the routine of fetch. |
With exciting colors and the ability to float in water, this outdoor ball is enough to keep your dog (and you) having fun for hours. You can even order a glow version for added fun!
6. Best Outdoor Ball (for pushing and herding)
The Boomer Ball is all about the chase. It’s not designed to be picked up by the dog whatsoever.
Its larger size is excellent for big dogs, such as my Husky, who need to be mentally stimulated as well as physically pushed.
Virtually indestructible and puncture-proof, your dog will have endless hours of play with this outdoor ball.
| Pros | Cons |
| Indestructible and puncture-proof. | The ball can end up with teeth gouges and marks. |
| It allows for mental and physical stimulation. | |
| Versatile – floats in water for added fun. |
7. Best Rope Ball (for big chewers and winter chases)
If your dog seems to chew on everything, then you need a ball that can withstand those wicked dog teeth! Luckily, I haven’t had a dog that was an excessive chewer, but if I did, I would choose this Jolly Pets Romp-n-Roll Dog Toy since it won’t be damaged from teeth punctures and can be kicked, tugged, carried, launched, thrown, or chewed on for hours without an issue.
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy-grip and tons of functionality for endless playtime. | Larger dogs can shred it. |
| Perfect for chewers since it stays inflated even if punctured. |
During winter, the Jolly rope ball is a great alternative to a tennis ball: much easier to throw, find and fetch. This keep everybody happy!
8. Top Flying Toy (all seasons)
Are you ready for some high flying fun? For any dog that loves to play catch, you shouldn’t go another day without considering the Ruffwear Hydro Plan Floating Disc.
It can be used just about anywhere in any season and can float on top of the water with ease. There is plenty of fun to be had with this soft, easy to grip toy.
One downside is that it’s only available in one size.
| Pros | Cons |
| It can be used in all seasons and environments. | Some users have reported that their flying toy falls apart after heavy use. |
| Floats on top of the water. | One size only |
| Oversized, brightly colored, and made with foam for easy spotting and fetching |
9. Best Flying Toy
Soaring high in the sky and ready for action is the Chuckit! Flying Squirrel. What we love about this particular flying toy are the bright colors and the glow-in-the-dark features that allow for play during day and night. With curved sides and multiple sizes available, you can find exactly the right size for your dog.
| Pros | Cons |
| Bright colors and glow-in-the-dark features. | Not intended for dogs who want a chew toy since it can be ruined by excessive chewing. |
| Curved sides for easy pickup. | |
| Multiple layers for added durability. | |
| Multiple sizes to suit all types of dog breeds. |
10. Best Toss, Tug and Float Toy for the Pool or Lake
Looking for some water play? The Chuckit! Amphibious Bumper Dog Toy is an excellent option. The toy is capable of floating high on the water with a bright, easy-to-see color that can easily be spotted by your dog. It’s a great interactive toy specifically designed for small to medium breeds.
| Pros | Cons |
| Brightly colored. | The rope is not as durable and can be frayed with chewing and tugging. |
| Soft yet durable. | Best suited to small to medium dogs only. |
| Floats high on the water. |
11. Best Toss, Tug and Float Toy for the Pool or Lake – Large Dogs
For your large-and-in-charge dogs, you need a bigger water toy that can handle their big mouths and intensity. That’s where the Kong Water Wubba comes into play. This uniquely designed water toy floats high on the water and dries fast. You will love that the toy can also be used outside of the water as a durable tug-and-toss option.
| Pros | Cons |
| Covered in neoprene for endless play in water or snow. | It can be shredded fairly quickly. Not recommended for big chewers. |
| It can be used for tugging and fetch. | Best suited to large dogs. |
| No squeaker. | |
| Dries fast, so you don’t have to worry about a wet mess. |
12. Best Toy for the Lake
It’s time to play skipping stones again, like when we were kids – but this time, we have a furry best friend to catch the stones for us! Kurgo Skimming Stones are a floatable dog toy that skids effortlessly across the water, making it a fun option for both dog and owner. They come in bright, neon colors to make it easier for your pup to see them.
Kurgo Skimming Stones are great for swim training, which could come in handy if I ever decide to get my Husky used to the water!
| Pros | Cons |
| Stones skid seamlessly over the water. | Stones sometimes sit too low in the water and can’t be found. |
| Your pup easily sees bright, neon colors. | Purple color is not very visible in the water. |
| Great for playing fetch in the lake or teaching your dog how to swim. | Small size may pose a choking hazard with larger breeds. |
13. Best Water Sprinkler and Drinking Water Fountain
When your dog is outside and being active, they need to stay hydrated. Unfortunately, if you’re not around for the entire day, they might end up running low on water. An automatic water dispenser that never runs out sounds like a great idea. That’s why I’m highly considering purchasing the Easy Paw Activated Drinking Dispenser, and I think you should, too.
| Pros | Cons |
| Unlimited clean water on demand – no more fill-ups. | The step pad can become sticky over time. |
| Easily installed. | The step pad can begin to rust in certain areas. |
| Easy activation for your dog. |
14. Best Tug of War Toy
This toy flexes to enhance your gameplay, especially during tug-of-war standoffs with your larger-than-life dog. Dogs who love tug-of-war will want this added to their toy collection. The Zogoflex Bumi also flexes while playing fetch, which allows for two times your normal throwing length!
Being dishwasher safe and 100% recyclable, this is an easy-to-clean, easy-to-use, and environmentally friendly toy that your playful dog is sure to enjoy. It stretches and has an unstoppable bounce that works on land and water.
| Pros | Cons |
| Flexes during gameplay for added fun. | Not very durable and can be chewed up easily. |
| It can be used in the water or on land. | |
| Perfect for tug-of-war, but also great for fetch and chewing. | |
| Recyclable and eco-friendly. | |
| Dishwasher safe. |
15. Best Tug of War Pulling Toy for Medium to Large Dogs
If you have a large dog, then you need a bigger toy to handle all of his tug-of-warring needs. The Puller Dog Fitness Toy acts as an all-around trainer for your dog in a lightweight, soft manner that trains your dog with ease.
You can use it for all types of training, but your pup’s favorite is sure to be tug-of-war.
| Pros | Cons |
| The fitness tool is versatile but excellent for tug-of-war. | It can break apart. |
| Lightweight and soft for chewing. |
16. Best Football
If your dog is anything like mine, then he loves a good game of football. But not just any football will do.
If you want quality and durability, then you should try this Nerf Squeaker Football. It’s made to last with high-quality materials and comes in a highly visible shade for easy games of catch.
| Pros | Cons |
| High-quality materials are durable yet lightweight. | Don’t allow dogs to chew the toy since it can break and easily be consumed. |
| Bright colors for easy viewing. | |
| Weather and water-resistant. |
17. Best Agility Drill Kit
If you are teaching your dog agility, then you need to have special equipment. Pawise Outdoor Games Agility Starter Kit is a wonderful choice for agility training. This starter kit provides you with an outdoor hurdle bar that is perfect for any dog trying to increase their agility. It is very easy to set up and is lightweight so that you can easily switch the bar higher or lower.
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to put together and lightweight. | Not suitable for all dogs because some may find it boring. |
| Switch the bar higher or lower with ease. | |
| Great for training agility. |
Notable Dog Toy Brands
ChuckIt!
ChuckIt has been around since the 1990s, creating dog toys that are better-constructed, more versatile, and more engaging than other dog toys on the market. Their products are popular among dog owners because they consistently provide dog toys that are innovative, high-quality, and durable, offering endless playtime for dogs around the world.
Hero
Hero has been around since 1992 and has prided itself on offering pet owners with a wide selection of high-quality yet affordable pet products. They have several reliable and fun dog toys on the market. Customers keep coming back because this US-based company knows that satisfaction is the key to success.
Squishy Face Studio
Squishy Face Studio is a company in Florida that started in 2009. Their goal is to create innovative and fun toys that are mentally and physically challenging for dogs of all shapes and sizes. They provide a variety of different unique dog toys as well as accessories to keep your strong and active dog happy.
How many toys should a dog have?
There isn’t a limit on how many toys your dog should have. However, you should make sure that the toys are being used and are things that your dog thoroughly enjoys.
Find the toys that your dog enjoys and get rid of the others.
Always make sure that the dog toys you purchase are safe for your pup, as well.
Conclusion
There are many fantastic dog toys on the market. Some of them are perfect for an athletic, water-loving big dog, while others are ideal for an energetic smaller pup who wants to have a little bit of fun.
Our personal favorite is the Hero Playtime Rubber Kettlebell because of its incredible versatility. From tugging to chewing to playing fetch to enjoying a game of catch, every dog can benefit from this top-quality outdoor dog toy.
If you are looking for fun and safe toys for your dog to enjoy inside your home, visit our recommendations here.