Best Toys For Shih Tzu Puppies - Ultimate Guide
Did you ever think how it would be like to own at least one out of five best toys for Shih Tzu puppies?
If you are a lucky dog owner that owns this breed, chances are that you probably have. With the growing popularity of the given dog breed, owners are starting to pay attention to the toys they purchase for their furry friends.
More investments are being made into the research on toys that can benefit both the playtime and the developing process (usually related to teeth and jaw of a dog). It is of utmost importance to get proper toys, especially for Shih Tzu puppies, so that they can socialize and develop in proper ways.
Unfortunately, the internet doesn’t offer too many useful and comprehensive buying guides in this regard. With that idea in mind, I have decided to create a buying guide to help fellow dog lovers easily purchase the best toys for their beloved friends. Keep reading to check the list of the five best toys I consider to be the most suitable for Shih Tzu puppies.
Table of Contents
1. KONG Classic Toy
| Pet toy type | Chew Toy |
| Target Species | Dog |
| Theme | Animals |
| Breed Recommendation | Large Breeds |
| Brand | KONG |
The Kong’s product could be labeled as a true classic dog toy since it has twofold aims: it is both fetches toy and chewable gear that is excellent for developing and correcting dog’s behavior and emotional patterns. When used properly, it can enable owners to encourage dogs to behave in a good manner, while helping them to fulfill their instinctual needs for chewing, biting, and strengthening their teeth.
Another reason why I included it on the best five toys for Shih Tzu puppies is the fact that is easy to maintain in the dishwasher, and it can be stuffed as well! I recommend using snacks that your dog loves, especially the ones that give out a strong scent since it will help them bond with the toy much faster. One thing I noticed is the practical use of the Kong’s toy. If you use a key (especially if you frequently lose them), tie it to the Kong’s toy and your dog will help you retrieve it much faster.
It can also be used to challenge your dog, to keep them entertained while getting the food. Fill the Kong with the food, and add a small dose of peanut butter over the hole. Dogs will love it, and it can keep them entertained for a long time. Moreover, it is safe to use for a long time, because it is made out of durable materials.
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Multifunctional
Cons
- Only one in the pack
2. KONG Air
| Pet toy type | Ball |
| Target Species | Dog |
| Theme | Sports |
| Breed Recommendation | Small Breeds |
| Brand | KONG |
The second contender is also Kong’s product that comes in multiple sizes, from XS to XL, and you get three in the pack. They can be used by dogs of various sizes and biting forces. The main goal of the given product is to improve the game of fetch. Tennis balls fly quite fast and you can easily throw them far away and your dog will spend a lot of energy retrieving them back. I love the fact that balls are relatively durable, and they don’t have any unwanted smell that can be left as a residue of the package.
It is one of the reasons why I included it on the five best toys for Shih Tzu puppies list. The smallest of the balls can easily be used by the smallest dog breeds, or even cats if they love them (since it is a normal phenomenon that I often see). However, I mainly tested these balls with a Shih Tzu puppy and the results are great. It can keep the dog entertained for hours.
Balls bounce in various directions, and dogs can play with them even if they don’t feel like playing the fetch. The relative durability of the balls means that some dog breeds like Pug who lack the biting force can destroy the ball with the potency of their saliva, especially over a longer period. On the other hand, dogs with strong biting forces won’t get their teeth inside of it easily.
Pros
- Easy to maintain
- Three in the pack
- Various sizes
- Lightweight
Cons
- Durability is questionable
3. Multipet Plush
| Pet toy type | Plush |
| Target Species | Dog |
| Theme | Animals |
| Breed Recommendation | All Breed Sizes |
| Brand | Multipet |
Lambchop is a classic dog toy that puppies love to chew. Furthermore, it has an extras fort plush exterior that is super comfortable for cuddling and sleeping. I also like the fact that it comes with a squeaker that signals the playtime has started, which is one of the reasons why I put it on the best five toys for Shih Tzu puppies. One thing I must say right off the bat is that dogs shouldn’t use the toy while unsupervised.
It has a couple of plastic squeakers inside the plush body, and almost any dog can easily remove them. There is a small (but present) risk of swallowing it, so the best course of action is to watch the puppy while they play. On the other hand, they are extra fun to use, and dogs love them. It is easy to sew the head, or limbs back on the body if the dog tears it.
My Shih Tzu puppy loved playing with the lambchop, and he didn’t shred it to pieces. On the contrary, simple acts of squeaking were enough for him to keep playing with the toy for a long time. Thanks to its plush exterior structure, many dogs will prefer to cuddle and snuggle with it, rather than maul it with their teeth, which is something I don’t regularly notice with toys, and it is a good refreshment.
Pros
- Plush design
- Squeaky features
- Easy to maintain
Cons
- Dogs should be supervised when playing
4. ZippyPaws Zippy
| Pet toy type | Plush |
| Target Species | Dog cat |
| Theme | Animals |
| Breed Recommendation | Medium Breeds, Small Breeds |
| Brand | ZippyPaws |
The fourth choice is an interactive toy (or set of toys) with awesome noisemakers that can keep puppies entertained for hours. The key reason why I put it on the best five toys for Shih Tzu puppies list is its interactive feature. It can keep the dog stimulated and entertained for a long time, and they come in a size that is suitable for dogs of any size. I am also quite content with the overall design of the toy.
It is plushy and soft, making it another great toy for dogs who have gentle nature. For that reason, it is vital to emphasize that dogs who are extra strong biters shouldn’t use this specific toy. The holes inside the toy are large enough to store food, but not large enough that a dog can fit their heads. It makes it a perfect candidate for using it as a feeder that keeps dogs playing for hours.
The outer layer is soft and feels good to the teeth and dog’s fur. The additional bonus is the squeaky feature that allows dogs to play with it, chew it while hearing the sound that makes them play even more. The toy is quite durable, so it can withstand multiple playing sessions without getting destroyed. The only objection I have is the presence of two holes only because the third one would make the process of food insertion easier.
Pros
- Great design
- Softness
- Squeaky features
Cons
- Third opening would be useful
5. Puppy Rope Toys
| Pet toy type | Chew Toy |
| Target Species | Dog |
| Theme | Animals |
| Breed Recommendation | Medium Breeds, Small Breeds |
| Brand | Depets |
The last name of the list offers a natural cotton-based design that is completely washable and friendly to use. The size is perfect for puppies and smaller dogs, which is the main reason why it made the best five toys for Shih Tzu puppies. The product offers multiple purposes, ranging from tossing, playing, chewing, and dental health maintenance.
I love the design of vibrant coloring. It is easy to spot the toy, and dogs love tugging and chewing toys all around the day. They come in four different varieties, and it is possible to play a variety of games. Furthermore, it is quite easy to maintain the hygiene and cleanliness of the product itself. The package includes four ropes, that have, so far, proven to be extremely durable. My Shih Tzu chewed it in and out, and it is still intact.
Moreover, the rope has gone through multiple washing cycles, without losing its texture and structure, proving the high-quality design. The rope itself is cotton-made and quite soft. Since it is easy to wash, when you get it through the washing machine, it appears like new. I find it great that it offers both playtime and practical utility of strengthening dogs’ teeth and helping them maintain their hygiene.
Pros
- Durable
- Great design
- Easy to maintain
- Multipurpose
Cons
- Only for small dogs and puppies
Questions & Answers
How can I keep my Shih Tzu entertained?
There is a myriad of ways owners can keep their Shih Tzu canines entertained. One of the best ways is to play an indoor game with a couple of cups.Take the treat and place it on the floor and cover it with the cup. Take the two additional cups and place them in line with the first one (they should be empty).
Mix them around and make your dog guess where the cup is. You should reward the correct answer! Next, use a sprinkler when the time permits and sprinkle them with the water. Make sure to use a sprinkler, not a powered hose because it will be a better choice.
You can also try to make a bubble and let your Shih Tzu chase it. They are natural explorers so they will love the activity. If you have more time, you can also try to teach them a new trick, and it can be a great bonding time, especially if you use their favorite treats.
Does Shih Tzu like to play with toys?
Shih Tzu dogs are natural human companions. Generally, their favorite activities include bonding with humans (and following them around). However, they also like to indulge in various dog activities, such as chewing and pulling. To keep them fully entertained, I highly recommend using rope toys for them to pull.
You can even play tug & war with them. Another cool indoor activity relates to chewing toys. Fill them with their favorite treats and let the fun begins. It is one of the easiest ways to keep their minds occupied for hours. Additionally, they will also enjoy the taste of their favorite sweets. It is also wise to employ different puzzle toys for them to play with, as well as different air squeaking toys, such as balls.
How do I stimulate my Shih Tzu puppy?
Shih Tzu stimulation can be divided into two main categories: mental and physical stimulation. To stimulate their brains, it is advisable to use chewing toys that have small obstacles (such as KONG toys). You place their favorite snacks and treats inside, preferably those that have peanut butter to them, and let them play.
It is the best and most time-efficient way to keep their minds stimulated for hours.
The other part relates to their physical stimulation. It includes, but is not limited to outdoor games, like sprinkles and dog walks. Additionally, you can use a throwing ball or a rope to play a fetch or tug game with them.
What do Shih Tzus like to chew on?
Overall, rope toys are the best choice when it comes to chewing items. Shih Tzu develop their teeth, like and other dog breed, by chewing through things. One of the easiest ways to achieve it is by allowing them to chew ropes. It is wise to use ropes because they are sturdy and durable, and Shih Tzus can strengthen their teeth that way quite easily.
On the other hand, using chewing toys that allow one to place food inside can be an excellent activity. It provides both physical and mental stimulation, while strengthening dog’s teeth. You should also employ nylon-based chewing toys, or even better – dogwood chewing toys. They will reduce the amount of unwanted chewing around home, while simultaneously making your canine’s teeth super-strong.
Conclusion
Getting one of the best five toys for Shih Tzu puppies is paramount if you want to help your dog to grow, develop and socialize properly. There are many positive uses of toys for young dogs, and the given three are exemplary, with many more being covered by medical research.
Although there is a variety of choices on the market, and it can be easy to become confused, it is good when you can pinpoint the top products you should consider. Therefore, if you choose any of the five toys the article has outlined, you are on a good road to having a happy bonding time with your furry friend.
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