Best Toys For German Shepherds Puppy, Adult, Senior

Welcome to the “Best Toys For German Shepherds!” This in depth guide will cover the absolute best toys that you can buy for your young, adult or senior German Shepherd. Toys play such an important role in your dogs life. We want your dog to thrive! Hopefully our list will introduce you to some new and exciting toys that your pup will enjoy for many years to come!

Dog toys are extremely beneficial to your dogs health in more ways than one. They provide physical exercise, sharpen mental acuity and a number of other benefits such as stress relief and training.

We researched to find the best toys possible for your German Shepherd based on consumer reviews and other resources to bring you this amazing list of proven winners.

Safety First:
We made sure to only include the safest toys on the market, leaving out any potentially dangerous toys.

Why are toys so critical in the development of German Shepherds?

Dog toys are one of the most important aspects of a dogs life. They will bring your dog happiness and joy while simultaneously giving them lots of exercise. Here is a breakdown of the most important reasons to give your dog quality toys on a regular basis!

Physical Exercise:

This is number one on the list and for obvious reason. German Shepherds are highly energetic dogs that need a ton of exercise and stimulation. They are highly trainable and love to learn. Getting creative with toys and games is a great way to keep their minds sharp and their body in action.

German Shepherds need a minimum of two hours exercise a day to stay fit and healthy. They will need walks for stamina and off leash playtime which is the perfect opportunity to introduce new and innovative toys into their lives.

A simple game of fetch can keep your dog active and busy long enough to burn some serious calories.

My neighbor has a dog named Gypsy. She is an Australian Shepherd / Border Collie Mix who lives to play fetch! She cannot get enough and will settle for a pine cone or a stick if she doesn’t have a toy. This dog would play fetch for hours straight if you let her!

Mental Acuity:

German Shepherds are some of the smartest dogs out there and need to stay mentally active. When boredom strikes they may start to partake in destructive habits such as barking, biting, chewing or digging.

Research has shown that dogs are on par with the intelligence of a two year old child. German Shepherds are on the upper end of the intelligence scale and are most likely closer to a two and a half year old child.

As a result, German Shepherds are good at problem solving and locating items. This is why they make such good police and military dogs. Their mental focus allows them to perform difficult and daunting tasks.

Giving your dog the right toys will keep their mental acuity on point. The last thing you want is a bored doggo destroying the house.

Training:

Training your German Shepherd should be a top priority. Shepherds make great family pets but they need proper training to keep them from getting too aggressive and from acting out in unwanted ways.

Training should start when they are young with socialization and should build from there. Toys are a great way to start teaching your pup basic commands.

Toys are a much better way to reward your Shepherd than too many treats which can lead to obesity. Keep the treats to a minimum and use play toys instead to keep them happy and content when they accomplish their goal. It will pay off in the long run and your dog will be much more active and healthy.

In the highly competitive world of Schutzhund Training, they use toys such as a bite pillow or tug toy to train dogs at an elite level.

Stress Relief:

Toys can be a great form of stress relief for dogs who need to unwind and relax after a long day of exercise and training. It can calm their nerves and give them a sense of tranquility.

This is especially true of German Shepherds who are extremely active. Toys provide the perfect outlet for your dog to let out some aggresion and chewing something will definitely do the trick.

In addition, play toys are a great way to get your new puppy through the teething stage.

Just For Fun:

This is one of the most important reasons to give your dog toys. It allows you to spend time with your dog and to form a strong relationship that can last for many years to come.

German Shepherds are extremely loyal and loving animals that love to spend quality time with their owners. Toys provide endless opportunities for you and your canine friend to connect. You can inspire and receive inspiration during the wonderful times you get to play with your furry friend.

How Do I Pick The Best Toys For My German Shepherd?

Not sure what type of toy to pick for your German Shepherd. This list should make it easy for you but here are some important factors to consider when looking for that perfect toy.

Choking Hazard:

Some toys are more prone to be a choking hazard than others. Stay away from any toys small enough to get stuck in your dogs throat.

Squeaky toys are notorious for this as dogs will sometimes attempt to destroy the toy in order to find the squeaking mechanism. This mechanism can get stuck in their throat and cause them to choke. Make sure keep a close eye on them if they are using one of these toys.

Safe Materials:

Make sure to give your German Shepherd toys made out of safe materials. Some materials can be toxic and harmful to your dog.

Qualities To Look For In A Dog Toy:

Chew Resistant

Your German Shepherd will make quick work of certain toys on the market. Make sure to buy toys that are strong enough to last more than a day. Toys such as tennis balls are a walk in the park for a Shepherds teeth.

Pet Safe

Look for toys made out of pet safe materials such as cotton which is a completely natural plant based material. Some other safe materials include nontoxic rubbers such as Zogoflex rubber.

Non Toxic

You need to make sure that your precious pup’s toys don’t contain any harmful toxic materials.

List of Potentially Toxic Materials In Dog Toys:

1. Arsenic:
   A highly toxic heavy metal that can have devastating effects on a dogs health. Elevated levels of this toxin can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, salivation, vomiting and even death.
2. BPA:
   Bisphenol A is a chemical used in industrial plastics and resins. It is an endocrine disrupter that can change an animal’s estrogen levels.
3. Bromine:
   This chemical is a less harmful alternative to chlorine in pools. That being said it can still cause irritation to a dog’s digestive system.
4. Chromium:
   While veterinarians use low levels to supplement insulin, high levels can be very toxic.
5. Formaldehyde:
   This chemical is highly toxic if inhaled or absorbed through your dog’s skin. It is often used as a preservative in rawhide chews. It can cause cancer in animals.
6. Lead:
   A toxic dose of lead can damage the cells and change normal biological processes. Symptoms include abdominal pain, blindness, diarrhea, vomiting and seizures.
7. Melamine:
   Back in 2007, multiple cat and dog food brands were recalled due to this chemical causing animals to get sick. It has since been banned by the FDA.
8. Phthalates:
   This toxic additive is many times used in the production of PVC products and can eventually leach out of the toy and into your dog’s skin causing damage to their kidneys and liver.
9. PVC:
   Polyvinyl chloride alone is not toxic to dogs but some manufacturers use toxic additives to make the PVC more pliable.

Now that you know which chemicals to look out for when choosing your next dog toy, let’s move on to the lists.

Top Five Best Toys For German Shepherds Puppies:

Here are our picks for the Top Five Best Toys For German Shepherds Puppies. These toys are pet safe and very popular!

#1 KONG Puppy Toy

Click Here To Purchase The KONG Puppy Toy!

Topping the list at number one is the ultra hot KONG Puppy Toy! This healthy chew toy is perfect for your new German Shepherd puppy and can withstand the most forceful of chews. It is made with a custom soft KONG rubber that won’t damage your puppies teeth or gums. It has a hollow inside allowing you to fill it with your doggie’s favorite treats. Watch them go crazy trying to dig it out! This toy is great for playing fetch because it has an unpredictable bounce so your dog never knows which way it is going to go. It is made in the USA using globally sourced materials that are safe for your German Shepherd!

#2 EASTBLUE Dog Chew Toy

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Number two on the list of “Best Toys For German Shepherds” Puppies is the EASTBLUE Blue Tornado Rubber Ring. This nearly indestructible toy for young pups of medium to large size is perfect for your German Shepherd Puppy! The “Tornado” is made from 100% high density ultra-tough natural rubber that is completely pet safe and non-toxic. It’s innovative torodial design, measuring 5.2″ in diameter and 1.6″ thick, makes it easy for your dog to grab and play fetch with. Bumps and grooves on the toy’s surface help clean and massage your pup’s teeth! Slap some peanut butter in the grooves to prolong playtime. If you are looking for a durable dog toy that will stand the test of time, look no further! The EASTBLUE Dog Chew Toy is “Aggressive Chewer Approved.”

#3 Durable Dog Bite Pillow

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Coming in at number three on our list of the “Best Toys For German Shepherds” Puppies is this Durable Dog Bite Pillow! This astonishingly durable bite pillow is double stitched and made of high quality jute to prevent tearing. This rugged tug toy is recommended by Dog Trainers and can be used for the following: 1. Building your German Shepherds Prey Drive. 2. Good old fashioned Tug of War 3. K9 Police and Military Training 4. Normal interactive playtime with your dog. 5. German Shepherd Schutzhund Training. It features three heavy duty handles and measures 10″ x 7″ giving your German Shepherd Puppy enough room to bite down while leaving enough room to avoid any inadvertent bites. Note: Some dogs can have an allergic reaction to jute. This is not a chew toy and cannot be left alone with your dog.

#4 Bojafa Best Dog Teething Toys Balls

Click Here To Purchase This Two Pack Of Bojafa Best Dog Teething Toys Balls!

Number four on the list is a unique version of the classic dog toy balls. This two pack of Bojafa Balls will easily keep your dog on its toes while simultaneously cleaning its teeth. These durable mint scented balls are made of a natural rubber and are non-toxic providing hours of fun for your German Shepherd Puppy. Sharpen your dog’s IQ while at the same time giving it tons of physical exercise. Pack the grooves of the balls with your doggie’s favorite treats and let the games begin! Say goodbye to boredom as your dog attempts to unlock the mystery of that wonderful smell! These balls are 2.8″ in diameter and perfect for your medium to large size German Shepherd Puppy!

#5 Benebone Puppy Dog Chew Toy

Click Here To Purchase The Puppy Pack Benebone!

Coming in at number five is the classic bone. What dog doesn’t love a good bone to chew on? The Puppy Pack Benebone comes in three sizes and is bursting with 100% Real Bacon Flavor! Benebone’s line of durable bones are firm to the human touch but have enough give that your puppy doesn’t hurt its teeth. The two pack seen here to the left features their Wishbone and Dental Chew Shapes making them easy for your German Shepherd Puppy to pick up and chew! As the makers of Benebone say: “Puppies don’t have thumbs!” Every material used in the making of these nylon bones is sourced right here in the USA! Happiness is guaranteed when you give one of these amazing bones to your new pup!

Top Five Best Toys For German Shepherds Adults:

Now that we have taken care of the young pups, lets move on to the Top Five “Best Toys For German Shepherds” Grown Ups!

#1 KONG Wobbler Food Dispensing Dog Toy

Click Here To Purchase The KONG Wobbler Food Dispensing Dog Toy!

It’s no surprise that number one on our list of “Best Toys For German Shepherds” Grown Ups is made by KONG! This KONG Wobbler is an amazing toy for large dogs measuring 10.5″ tall by 7″ wide and 6″ thick. This unique toy will keep your German Shepherd busy for days with its innovative treat dispensing feature! Simply unscrew the toy and fill with your dog’s favorite treats. Then watch him squirm as he tries to maneuver them out through the small hole. The neat thing about this toy is that it can double as a dog bowl at meal time providing a slow release of your dogs favorite dinner time meal. The toy’s random and sporadic movement makes it a challenge for even the smartest of dogs. This toy will bring lots of joy and happiness to your German Shepherd while simultaneously giving it exercise!

#2 Grenade Indestructible Dog Chew Toy

Click Here To Purchase The Grenade Indestructible Dog Chew Toy!

Number two on the list is the Grenade Indestructible Dog Chew Toy by FAYOGOO! This ultra-tough tear resistant dog toy has been tested with the most aggressive dog breeds including the German Shepherd. It measures 4.2″ high and 3″ long. It is made out of 100% food grade non-toxic natural rubber making it totally safe for your dog. It’s recently upgraded materials increased its tear resistance by 40%. It has a rope hole and a food hole to give your dog the added incentive! This toy will help keep your adult dogs teeth clean and healthy along with the reward of a hidden treat! It comes with a Lifetime Replacement Guarantee consisting of a full refund in the event that you have any issues with the toy.

#3 Benebone Real Bacon Wishbone Dog Chew Toy

Click Here To Purchase The Benebone Real Bacon Wishbone Dog Chew Toy!

Number three on the list is the classic doggie bone. This Benebone Wishbone Dog Chew Toy is a best seller and for good reason! Dogs love bacon! This durable toy also comes in Real Chicken Flavor and Real Peanut Flavor. Benebones are stronger than real bones and can last for multiple weeks. The curved wishbone shape makes them easy for your pup to grab. The bone is made with Nylon and Real Bacon Flavor right here in the USA! This super flavorful dog chew toy will keep your dog busy on the go or at home. Make sure to replace every few weeks when it starts to wear out.

#4 ChewRing Ultra Durable Rubber Dog Toy

Click Here To Purchase The ChewRing Ultra Durable Rubber Dog Toy!

Coming in at number four on our list of the “Best Toys For German Shepherds” Adults is this tough and rugged ChewRing for large size dogs! This virtually indestructible dog toy measures 1.25″ in diameter and 6.5″ wide. The ChewRing has went through rigorous testing in labs to develop the strongest dog toy possible. It will hold up to even the most aggressive chewers including German Shepherds. It is made with a completely unique all natural rubber compound that is verified safe by a 3rd party lab and non-toxic. This toy can be used to chew, play fetch and tug of war. It comes with a Lifetime Replacement Guarantee!

#5 Nero Ball Ultra TM

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The last dog toy on the list for grown dogs is the Nero Ball Ultra TM. This classic ball on a rope is a great training / reward tool for your German Shepherd! Its new design is perfect for large active dogs. The rope allows you to throw the ball a much greater distance than your average standard ball without the assistance of a launcher. The Nero Ball is used by the Military and Police K9 units for training all over the world. This dog toy is a great way to spend quality time bonding with your dog while simultaneously giving them tons of exercise. This combination of the ball and rope is made for training and not suppose to be a chew toy. Make sure to remove the rope if allowing your dog to chew!

Top Five Best Toys For German Shepherds Seniors:

Older dogs deserve just as much attention and love as the younger pups so check out this list of the Top Five “Best Toys For German Shepherds” Seniors!

#1 KONG Senior KONG Dog Toy, Purple

Click Here To Purchase The KONG Senior KONG Dog Toy, Purple!

KONG make some of the most durable and lasting dog toys on the planet. That is why this KONG Senior KONG Dog Toy, Purple is number one on the list for Senior German Shepherds! Senior dogs still need mental and physical stimulation to stay healthy and fit. KONG will keep their senses sharp! This dog toy features a senior rubber formula that is geared towards an aging dog’s gums and teeth! It is great for fetch and keeps your dog on its toes with its unpredictable bounce. Fill it with your dog’s favorite treats and watch them go crazy! You can even freeze it for a more of a challenge. Throw it right into the dishwasher when your dog is done for a quick cleaning! This amazing food puzzle comes in five different sizes and is Vet Recommended!

#2 Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle Plush Dog Toy

Click Here To Purchase The Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle Plush Dog Toy!

Number two on the senior list for “Best Toys For German Shepherds” is this wonderful interactive Hide-A-Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle Plush Dog Toy From Outward Hound! Simply fill the tree trunk with the squirrels and watch your dog go to work trying to hunt them down and pull them out! This dog toy sparks their natural instincts to hunt rewarding them with a cute squeaky squirrel for all of their efforts. Best of all the soft plush nature of the dog toy is easy on an aging dog’s gums and teeth. Be safe and make sure not to leave your dog alone with Hide-A-Squirrel as with all toys, it can be damaged. Replace when necessary to avoid any potential hazards.

#3 Playology Silver Dental Chew Dog Toy Designed For Seniors

Click Here To Purchase The Playology Silver Dental Chew Dog Toy!

Number three on the list for senior dogs is the innovative Silver Dental Chew Dog Toy from Playology! This ergonomically designed chew toy was created specifically for senior dogs who’s aging teeth made need something a bit softer and easier to chew. This toy features “Encapsiscent” technology that infuses all-natural scents into the material of the toy. The more your dog chews, the more scent molecules are discharged from the toy driving your dog crazy. The chew is made from child safe materials and adheres to all U.S. government human child safety standards for toxic chemicals. It is very easy to clean and the scent won’t wash away due to the infusion. This is a great toy to keep older pups happy and content!

#4 ZippyPaws Skinny Pelts No Stuffing Squeaky Plush Dog Toy

Click Here To Purchase The ZippyPaws Skinny Pelts No Stuffing Squeaky Plush Dog Toy!

Coming in at number four on our list is the three set of ZippyPaws Skinny Pelts No Stuffing Plush Dog Toy! Featuring a fox, racoon, and squirrel, this adorable set of forest animals will make your senior dog salivate at the mouth! Each plush toy features a high quality round squeaker to keep your dog amused and satisfied. They measure 18″ long perfect for dogs of all sizes and have NO Stuffing on the inside for your dog to pull out. That being said, they do contain squeakers and your dog should be monitored when using this toy. Overall this a great toy soft enough for dogs getting up there in age!

#5 RexSoul Crocodile Dog Toothbrush & Squeaker Chew Toy

Click Here To Purchase The RexSoul Crocodile Dog Toothbrush & Squeaker Chew Toy!

Number five on the list for older dogs is this RexSoul Crocodile shaped Chew Toy that doubles as a toothbrush and a squeaky toy! This innovative toy is made of environmentally safe non-toxic food grade rubber and is very durable. The RexSoul Chew Toy will keep your senior dog’s teeth nice and clean while giving them the satisfaction of gnawing on their new favorite toy! It will help prevent plaque and oral diseases of the mouth. You can even apply some toothpaste in the gap to help with the brushing. The crocodile shape and squeakiness of the toy will definitely fuel their curiosity and keep them busy for hours!

Top Five Best Toys For German Shepherds Mental Acuity:

Our last top five list will feature the Top Five “Best Toys For German Shepherds” Mental Acuity! These innovative puzzle based games will sharpen your German Shepherds mental state keeping them satisfied and on top of their A-game.

#1. Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound – Interactive Puzzle Game Dog Toys

Click Here To Purchase The Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound – Interactive Puzzle Game Dog Toys!

Number one on the list and one of the most popular puzzle games out there is this interactive dog toy game from Nina Ottosson by Outward Bound! This best seller is the perfect answer to your highly energetic and intelligent German Shepherd’s need for stimulation. It is considered level two in dog puzzles and features three separate compartments that hide your doggie’s treats. To find them your dog must flip, lift or slide open the compartments. This amazing toy can quell any anxiety or stress that your dog is facing keeping their mind active and stimulated! Nina Ottosson toys are pet safe and free of any harmful chemicals such as BPA, Phthalate or PVC! This toy is not meant to be left alone with your dog unsupervised so make sure that you keep a sharp eye on them during game play. They can chew the parts.

#2. Nina Ottosson DogTwister Interactive game

Click Here To Purchase The Nina Ottosson DogTwister Interactive Game!

Number two is this cool Nina Ottosson DogTwister Interactive game! This exciting and unique toy makes it easy to keep your dogs mind sharp! Simply insert your dog’s favorite treats inside the compartments and let your dog figure out how to get them out. Benefits Include: 1. Exercise and stimulation of your dogs mind. 2. Reduction in destructive behavior due to boredom. 3. Stronger bond between you and your dog. It is also a great training aid to teach your dog basic commands such as go, find, sit, wait etc. The toy is easy to clean and dishwasher proof! Caution: This toy is made of plastic and features small parts. Supervision is a must!

#3. AWOOF Pet Snuffle Mat for Dogs

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Number three on the list is this cute and fun interactive puzzle toy from AWOOF! This dual-use training mat is a great way to keep your dog’s mind acute. This one of a kind toy trains your dog’s sense of smell by encouraging your dog to sniff out the snacks or treats hidden in the mat. It is non-slip, portable and small enough to be folded into a storage bag that can be carried or traveled with. The mat is easy to clean and features environmentally safe felt cloth scent pads. Hand washing is best twice a week. This toy is mean to be given under supervision and is not a chew toy!

#4 Hyper Pet IQ Treat Mat

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Coming in at number four on our list of the Top Five “Best Toys For German Shepherds” Mental Acuity is the Hyper Pet IQ Treat Mat! This slow feeder mat is a great alternative to the standard food bowl and a good way to give your dog a timely release of its favorite tasty treat. Studies have shown that continuous licking increases the endorphins in your dog which subsequently makes your dog more calm and relieves anxiety. It is good for dental care and freshens your dog’s breath due to the scraping of the tongue. It will also improve their overall digestion because of the slow nature of their eating. The IQ Treat Mat comes in two bright colors, orange and green and two individual raised patterns for changing things up! It is made in the USA from FDA Grade TPE that is high quality and non-toxic!

#5 WEST PAW Zogoflex Qwizl Dog Puzzle Treat Toy

Click Here To Purchase The WEST PAW Zogoflex Qwizl Dog Puzzle Toy!

The fifth and final toy on our Top Five “Best Toys For German Shepherds” Mental Acuity list is the WEST PAW Zogoflex Qwizl Dog Puzzle Treat Toy! This durable dog toy features a hidden compartment for your dog’s favorite treat. Keep him busy for hours with this mentally stimulating toy. It has a curved shape that makes it easier for your dog to pick up. This West Paw toy comes in three bright colors, blue, yellow and orange. It is made in the USA from non-toxic material and is recyclable and dishwasher safe!

Best Toys for German Shepherds In Closing:

We hope this list helped you find the perfect toy for your German Shepherd! Having the right toys will improve your dog’s overall mental and physical health along with strengthening the bond between you and your animal.

The toys listed are made of safe materials but use your own discretion and play it safe. Make sure you supervise the puzzle style toys and always replace old, worn out or damaged toys to prevent any harm to your pup’s gums or teeth.

Stay tuned for more exciting reviews! Our blog features weekly articles on all things German Shepherds and other Shepherd Dog Breeds!

Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think!