Small breed dogs may be little in size, but many of them have surprisingly strong jaws and a powerful urge to chew. Whether it’s a teething puppy, an anxious adult, or a naturally playful companion, chewing is a normal and healthy behavior. However, if you don’t provide the right toys, your pup may turn to shoes, furniture, or other household items. That’s why finding the best chew toys for small breed dogs is essential for both their happiness and your peace of mind.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the 10 best chew toys for small breed dogs, focusing on durability, safety, and fun. Interestingly, many of these toys also overlap with the best dog toys for aggressive chewers, since small breeds can be surprisingly determined when it comes to gnawing.
Why Small Breed Dogs Need Special Chew Toys
Choosing chew toys for small dogs isn’t as simple as picking the toughest option available. While durability matters, the size, weight, and design of the toy are just as important. Small breeds like Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, and Yorkies often struggle with toys meant for larger breeds, as they can be too heavy or difficult to grip.
The best chew toys for small breed dogs strike a balance between strength and usability. They should be light enough for small jaws to handle but sturdy enough to withstand constant chewing. Many small breeds also suffer from dental issues, so toys that promote oral health are especially beneficial.
What to Look for in the Best Chew Toys for Small Breeds
When selecting the right toy, it helps to keep a few key features in mind.
Size and Shape
A toy that’s too large can frustrate a small dog, while one that’s too small may become a choking hazard. Look for toys specifically designed for smaller mouths.
Durability
While not all small dogs are aggressive chewers, many have surprising strength. For these pups, the best dog toys for aggressive chewers often double as great choices for small breeds too.
Texture and Safety
Soft but durable textures help massage gums and clean teeth. Always avoid toys with detachable parts that could be swallowed.
Engagement
The best toys do more than just provide something to chew on—they stimulate the mind, reduce boredom, and encourage healthy play habits.
1. KONG Puppy Toy – A Gentle but Durable Classic
The KONG Puppy Toy has been a favorite among small breed owners for decades. Made from gentle rubber designed for developing teeth, it provides a safe outlet for chewing without being too hard. Its hollow design allows you to stuff it with kibble, treats, or peanut butter, keeping your pup engaged for longer play sessions.
For small breeds, this toy is particularly useful during teething. It soothes sore gums while also teaching appropriate chewing behavior. Though designed for puppies, many adult small dogs continue to enjoy it well into adulthood.
2. Nylabone Petite Chew Toys – Flavor and Function Combined
Nylabone has a reputation for making some of the best dog toys for aggressive chewers, and their petite line is tailored for small dogs. These toys are made from tough nylon and come in fun flavors like chicken and bacon. The texture not only satisfies the urge to chew but also helps scrape away plaque, promoting better dental health.
Small breeds with strong chewing habits will find these toys both flavorful and long-lasting, making them a worthwhile investment for pet parents.
3. Benebone Tiny Wishbone – Ergonomic and Flavorful
Benebone’s Wishbone design is one of the most recognizable chew toys on the market. The tiny version is specifically built for small breed dogs. Infused with real flavors such as peanut butter or chicken, it encourages even the pickiest dogs to chew.
Its ergonomic shape makes it easy for little paws to hold, giving small dogs independence in their playtime. Despite being small, it’s built from durable nylon, meaning it stands up well to determined chewers. This makes it an excellent option that bridges the gap between the best dog toys for aggressive chewers and those designed for petite pups.
4. West Paw Zogoflex Hurley – Lightweight but Strong
The West Paw Zogoflex Hurley is a chew toy made from durable, non-toxic material that’s surprisingly lightweight. For small breed dogs, this balance of strength and usability makes it one of the best chew toys available.
The Hurley can be chewed, fetched, or even tossed in the water since it floats. It’s dishwasher-safe, which makes cleaning simple for pet parents. With its gentle yet sturdy design, it caters well to smaller jaws while still holding up to aggressive chewing habits.
5. JW Pet Small Hol-ee Roller – Fun and Interactive
Small breed dogs often need more mental stimulation than larger breeds, and the JW Pet Hol-ee Roller delivers just that. Its honeycomb design makes it easy for small mouths to grip, while the durable rubber stands up to chewing.
What makes this toy special is its versatility. You can stuff it with treats, use it as a fetch toy, or simply let your dog enjoy chewing on its textured surface. For small breeds that love puzzle-like challenges, this toy is a perfect choice.
6. Outward Hound Mini Invincibles – Plush but Tough
It’s rare to find a plush toy that holds up to determined chewers, but the Outward Hound Mini Invincibles is an exception. Designed with reinforced seams and multiple squeakers, it provides the soft, cuddly play experience small dogs often crave without falling apart in minutes.
While not as indestructible as rubber or nylon, this toy bridges the gap for small breeds that want something plush yet durable. It’s especially engaging for dogs that enjoy shaking or tugging their toys.
7. Chuckit! Ultra Ball Small – Fetch Meets Chew
For small dogs that love fetch, the Chuckit! Ultra Ball in small sizes is ideal. Unlike traditional tennis balls, which can wear down teeth and break apart, this ball is made from durable rubber that withstands chewing.
Its high bounce keeps playtime exciting, and its sturdy design ensures it doubles as a chew toy between games. This makes it a favorite for active small breeds that demand both durability and fun.
8. Mammoth Mini Flossy Chews – Rope Fun for Small Dogs
Rope toys are classic, and the Mammoth Mini Flossy Chews is perfectly sized for small dogs. Made from natural cotton fibers, this toy is great for tug-of-war, chewing, and even dental cleaning.
As your dog chews, the fibers act like floss, gently cleaning teeth and gums. While no rope toy is completely indestructible, this one provides durability suited for smaller jaws. It’s a practical and fun way to keep playtime interactive while also supporting dental health.
9. Hartz DuraPlay Bacon Scented Toy – Soft Yet Durable
The Hartz DuraPlay line is designed with smaller breeds in mind. These toys are lightweight, bouncy, and infused with a bacon scent that keeps dogs engaged. The durable latex shell surrounds a foam-filled interior, creating a unique texture that’s soft but resilient.
Small dogs often prefer toys that are easier to compress, and the DuraPlay provides exactly that. Despite being soft, it withstands enthusiastic chewing, making it an excellent choice for toy breeds and other small companions.
10. KONG Goodie Bone Small – A Classic for Small Chewers
The KONG Goodie Bone is another standout option. Available in small sizes, it’s made from tough rubber and features hollow ends where you can hide treats or spread peanut butter. This keeps your pup engaged for longer play sessions.
The shape of the bone makes it easy for small mouths to grip, while the durable material ensures it holds up to frequent chewing. For small breeds that need both entertainment and durability, the Goodie Bone is a tried-and-true favorite.
How the Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers Compare
It’s worth noting that many of the toys recommended for small dogs also appear on lists of the best dog toys for aggressive chewers. That’s because durability is a universal need when it comes to canine play. While small breeds may not have the jaw strength of larger dogs, their persistence and sharp teeth can still destroy weaker toys in no time.
By choosing toys that combine durability with size-appropriate designs, you’re giving your small breed the best of both worlds. Not only will they enjoy hours of safe chewing, but you’ll also save money by not constantly replacing destroyed toys.
Tips for Extending the Life of Small Breed Chew Toys
Even the most durable toys eventually wear down, but there are steps you can take to maximize their lifespan. Rotate your dog’s toys regularly to keep them interesting, supervise playtime with new toys, and clean them often to prevent buildup of dirt and bacteria.
Freezing treat-stuffed toys can also slow down chewing, providing a longer-lasting challenge. For teething puppies, chilled toys can soothe sore gums while also extending durability.
Final Thoughts
Small dogs may be compact, but their chewing needs are just as important as those of larger breeds. By choosing the best chew toys for small breed dogs, you can provide hours of entertainment, promote dental health, and protect your home from unwanted chewing.
From classics like the KONG Puppy Toy to innovative designs like the West Paw Zogoflex Hurley, the toys in this list have been tested and loved by countless small breed owners. And with many also ranking among the best dog toys for aggressive chewers, you can be confident that these options combine strength, safety, and fun.
In the end, the right chew toy not only makes your small breed happy but also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. Chewing is a natural instinct, and when directed toward the right toys, it creates a stress-free, playful, and healthy life for your pet.