You can rest assured, because in this post I won't give you an endless list of toys that will leave you thinking all day long which one to choose.
In this short, practical and above all visual post, I will recommend the toys that work best by category (balls, stuffed animals, bones) and I even made the effort to divide them by breed, especially with emphasis on small dogs or puppies.
The toys I am going to recommend below have many benefits, but let me mention only the 4 most important ones.
They are perfect for them to unload all the energy they have accumulated and calm their anxiety.
Stimulate their intelligence and motor skills (when their limb movements are coordinated).
Keep them distracted for a few hours while you go about your business outside the house.
They help improve your social behavior with other dogs and humans. And of course, the bond between you.
Believe me, dog toys are the best option if you want to keep them entertained and happy, but above all, active and learning.
They love to interact with other dogs -at least most of them- and with you, but when they have no one to interact with, you must have a contingency plan to keep them busy.
In this section I will show you the most important advantages of the different types of toys for puppies, so you will know which one suits your puppy best.
Stimulates their physical and mental intelligence, and you can graduate the difficulty depending on the ability of your dog.
Breeds
Dwarf Poodle
Fox Terrier
Pomeranian
Shih Tzu
Labrador and Golden Retriever
German Shepherd
Ideal to prevent puppies from chewing on household objects and furniture. Also reduces teething pain.
Breeds
Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier
Cavalier King Charles
Bichon (Frisé or Maltese)
Dachsund (Dachshund or Dachshund)
Fox Terrier
Jack Russell
Chihuahua
Plush toys are perfect for your dog if he is quiet and passive, as it is an easy toy to break compared to others.
Breeds
French Bulldog
Pomeranian
Shih Tzu
Boxer
Beagle
There are several designs: with leather straps, made of fabric or complete rubber pieces. I recommend especially the last ones.
Breeds
Bichon (Frisé or Maltese)
Fox Terrier
Jack Russell
Chihuahua
Boxer
Ideally, your puppy should have three to four toys (the perfect amount so that he doesn't have too much or too little fun). Even so, it is very important that you know the differences between the different types of toys.
With all that said, there are some activities that offer better advantages than all the previous toys: taking him for a walk, running with him and interacting with other dogs.
In summary
ADVANTAGES:
Puzzles: Make your puppy more intelligent and attentive.
Balls (preferably with string): Prevent them from chewing on the wrong things.
Stuffed animals (preferably of other animals): They are soft and serve as companions and pillows for your puppy.
Bones: Serve as a good reward treat for your best friend.
BENEFITS:
Calm their anxieties
Improve their physical and mental qualities
Keep them entertained
Help to educate them